Natalia Welzenbach-Marcu | July 31st, 2019

Nitrates are an ongoing issue in Iowa. Nitrate pollution is a topic we’ve covered extensively, and we’ve often mentioned that there are a few natural ways to reduce this issue, a land feature plentiful in Iowa–wetlands.

The vegetation on wetlands can help absorb nitrates from polluted waters.

Roughly a month ago, the EPA granted Iowa 1.5 million dollars to install wetlands in specific areas.

The grant will go towards the implementation of six watersheds around the Middle Cedar watershed. The project will include efforts to grow pollinators-friendly vegetation.

Each proposed wetland would encompass a relatively small area of land–10 to 12 acres–but the impact of natural nitrate-reducing measures is undeniable.