A fond farewell to the water community

It was June 25, 2012 – my first day on the job at the Iowa Water Center. Rick was in Canada on a fishing trip, so I went to get lunch on my own. I ran to an old standby, Hy-Vee Chinese, and when I got to the fortune cookie, what did I see? You… Read More A fond farewell to the water community

The #IowaWater2020 Welcome Speech That Will Never Be Given

Post written by Melissa Miller, Associate Director for the Iowa Water Center Today, at 10 a.m., I was supposed to greet 500+ of my closest friends and colleagues and say (with gusto), “Welcome to the 2020 Iowa Water Conference!” If you’ve been our conference (or any conference, really), you know how that speech goes. I… Read More The #IowaWater2020 Welcome Speech That Will Never Be Given

Community Water Fluoridation: Nature’s Way to Fight Tooth Decay

By: Sara Carmichael Water Fluoridation Coordinator Iowa Department of Public Health Tooth decay is the most common, chronic disease among children and the elderly. One in 5 people has untreated decay, also known as cavities,[1] which severely impacts social development, self-esteem, and overall quality of life. But cavities are preventable! Besides practicing good oral hygiene… Read More Community Water Fluoridation: Nature’s Way to Fight Tooth Decay

In a word: overwhelming.

Post written by Melissa Miller, Associate Director for the Iowa Water Center As I reflect on the 2019 Iowa Water Conference, the first word that comes to mind is overwhelming. Overwhelming numbers – of people attending, sponsors and exhibitors, and speakers. Overwhelming breadth of topics and information presented. Overwhelming energy, optimism, new ideas. Overwhelming support… Read More In a word: overwhelming.

Iowa Water Center City Spotlight: Des Moines

By Joe Otto, Communications Specialist at the Iowa Water Center The City Spotlight series highlights ongoing efforts by Iowans living in cities to address water issues impacting their neighborhoods. Des Moines residents and officials working on watershed approach The City of Des Moines is taking steps to improve emergency planning ahead of major flood events.… Read More Iowa Water Center City Spotlight: Des Moines

Iowa Water Center City Spotlight: Mason City

By Joe Otto, Communications Specialist at the Iowa Water Center The City Spotlight series highlights ongoing efforts by Iowans living in cities to address water issues impacting their neighborhoods. Suburbanization in Iowa’s cities and towns has been well underway since the 1990s and beyond. Homeowners in the suburbs enjoy closer-knit neighborhoods and quieter streets, but… Read More Iowa Water Center City Spotlight: Mason City

What is the Iowa 4R Plus Program?

by Greg Wandrey, Iowa agriculture program director, The Nature Conservancy and 4R Plus program coordinator The 4R Plus program is a science-based framework designed to increase awareness and provide information about 4R nutrient stewardship and conservation practices to crop advisers and farmers.  These 4R Plus practices can improve soil health, crop yields and water quality.… Read More What is the Iowa 4R Plus Program?