IOWA CITY, Iowa (KCRG) – A group of scientists is advocating for more Iowa counties to conduct their own water studies after research showed pollutants in major rivers have increased by nearly 100 percent over the last 50 years.
Sixteen scientists compiled 50 years of data on the Des Moines and Raccoon rivers, two of the largest sources of drinking water for Des Moines and Polk County. The study found that pollutants have increased by nearly 100 percent in the last 50 years, and researchers say not enough is being done to address the issue.
The findings were presented to hundreds of people who attended a discussion on the recent water study conducted in Polk County. The research focused on decades of data from the Des Moines and Raccoon rivers and found increased nitrates in the water supply.
Dr. Larry Weber from the University of Iowa Center for Hydrologic Development said residents felt the impact of increased pollution this summer.
“This summer, the nitrate levels were above 20 milligrams per liter, more than double the safe water drinking levels,” Weber said. “When we go back 50 years, the nitrate levels were one to 3 milligrams per liter.”
Weber and his team believe the state is not doing enough to test water quality and address problems they find.
“We should be doing this statewide,” Weber said. “The state of Iowa could decide to update its water plan, which, again, hasn’t been updated in 50 years.”
Doug Boothroy of Iowa City, who uses Ralston Creek and the Iowa River for recreation, said he has noticed changes in water quality over the years.
“Mostly recreation, boating, water skiing, those types of sports,” Boothroy said about his use of local waterways.
But Boothroy said he has growing concerns about pollutants below the surface that cannot be seen.
“I was noticing we were having more algae issues, and we’re getting dirtier, and some of the beaches were being closed,” Boothroy said.
Boothroy supports the plan for expanded water testing.
“I would like to know what’s going on, and I would like the opportunity to have input, and I would like to see what changes are made,” Boothroy said.
