Iowa Watershed Resource Library

At the Center for Rural Affairs, we believe that rural Iowans should be involved in the decisions that impact their futures. We also believe the state’s most effective path to cleaner water includes a strong emphasis on a watershed approach led by local leaders. As such, we work to support Iowa’s Watershed Management Authorities (WMA) at all stages of their development and project implementation. Because of these beliefs, we hope to facilitate the strengthening of existing watershed management authorities in the state, while providing resources to communities who are considering the formation of a new one.

This webpage is intended to serve as a resource library for watersheds across Iowa to inform, assist, and empower those who live within their boundaries. We believe that strong local action, paired with robust stakeholder input, provides a realistic, long-term opportunity for improved water quality in Iowa.

In 2022 and 2023, we surveyed Iowa’s WMAs to learn more about their successes, needs, and current standing. Our findings can be found in the report, “From the source: a Look at Iowa’s Watershed Management Authorities.”