Tracking the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy
Interactive Data Dashboards
The process of reporting Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy efforts transitioned in 2021 to a revised approach by publishing data and findings in a set of web-based dashboards. This revised reporting structure aims to increase the timeliness, frequency, and transparency of updates on Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy efforts and nutrient loss in Iowa. Access topic-specific dashboards below.
Dashboards are structured so that each pane within a dashboard may be expanded to full-screen by selecting the ‘expand’ button in the top-right corner to view the content at the extent of the browser window (toggle the button to minimize if maximized). To further explore data, use sliders where available (both ends can be manipulated) to explore a subset of the data in the figure. A category can be excluded from the figure by selecting the colored circle next to the program in the legend.
Tracking Funding and Resources
This dashboard presents data on the extent of funding and human resources dedicated to Iowa’s nutrient reduction efforts and water quality improvement.
This dashboard provides data information on outreach to stakeholders and findings on farmer perspectives assessed by the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy Farmer Survey.
Tracking Permits Issued to Wastewater and Industrial Facilities
This dashboard displays the status of permits issued by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources to facilities identified in the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy. Facilities include major publicly owned treatment works, minor domestic facilities, and industrial facilities.
Tracking Land Use and In-Field Practices
This dashboard presents data and findings on the use of land use and in-field nutrient reduction practices in Iowa agriculture. These practices have the potential to reduce nitrogen and phosphorus loss from agricultural fields to surface water bodies.
Tracking Edge of Field and Erosion Control Practices
This dashboard presents data and findings on the use of edge-of-field and structural erosion control practices in Iowa agriculture. These practices have the potential to reduce nitrogen and phosphorus loss from agricultural fields to surface water bodies.
Tracking Water Quality and Nutrient Export
This dashboard provides data and findings on water quality monitoring. Information on water quality monitoring efforts for state agencies, federal agencies, and other organizations is summarized. Monitored water quality from 2000 – 2022 calendar years for nitrogen and phosphorus are summarized and modeled benefits of specific conservation practices.
The Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy is a science- and technology-based approach to assess and reduce nutrients delivered to Iowa waterways and the Gulf of Mexico. The strategy outlines opportunities for reducing nutrients in surface water from both point sources, such as municipal wastewater treatment plants and industrial facilities, and nonpoint sources, including agricultural operations and urban areas, in a scientific, reasonable, and cost-effective manner. The Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy was developed in response to recommendations provided by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in its March 16, 2011, memo, “Working in Partnership with States to Address Phosphorus and Nitrogen Pollution through Use of a Framework for State Nutrient Reduction.” Ongoing action for nutrient load reductions is further supported by the recent EPA recommendations, “Renewed Call to Action to Reduce Nutrient Pollution and Support for Incremental Actions to Protect Water Quality and Public Health,” released September 22, 2016, and “Accelerating Nutrient Pollution Reductions in the Nation’s Waters,” released April 5, 2022.