The Iowa Water Quality Initiative (WQI) began in 2013 by the Iowa Legislature to begin implementation efforts of the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy (NRS). The Iowa WQI is taking a multi-faceted approach to deliver programming to advance the Iowa NRS into the implementation phase: -Targeted demonstration watershed projects that leverage local investments to showcase practices and technologies that reduce nutrient losses. -Statewide practice funding to deliver new and greater practice adoption. -Collaborative outreach and education efforts alongside multiple partners and stakeholders -Developing new and improved methods of tracking and accountability.

Project Results

Currently are 16 WQI Targeted Watershed Projects distributed within 9 designated priority HUC 8 watersheds. These projects are led by local Soil & Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs) or other NGOs, partnering with local farmers/landowners, cooperatives, ag retailers, commodity groups, conservation organizations, etc. Statewide efforts have focused on delivering financial assistance to first time users of management practices (no-till, strip-till, cover crops, N inhibitor). 90%+ of applications have gone to cover crop establishment w/ farmers matching at least dollar for dollar with state investment.