(Radio Iowa) – Governor Kim Reynolds has announced changes in the distribution of state funds that support water quality projects.
(as said) “In short, it shifts money to fund the most urgent needs and the most effective programs,” Reynolds said.
The current funding formula was established in 2018, by the first bill Reynolds signed as governor. It has supported the state’s Nutrient Reduction Strategy — a voluntary effort to reduce contamination in Iowa waterways. Reynolds says the goal then and now is to improve Iowa’s water quality.
(as said) “By adjusting the funding formula, new programs that better meet today’s needs will be created,” Reynolds said, “and effective existing programs will get a boost.“
25 MILLION dollars is being redirected to the Central Iowa Water Works. The utility provides drinking water to one out of five Iowans. The money will be used to double the capacity of its nitrate removal system over the next three years.
(as said) “Des Moines is growing fast metro area in the Midwest, increasing nearly 7% since 2020,” Reynolds said. “and so as the population grows, demand for water grows and so much the infrastructure at Central Iowa Water Works.”
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources will be getting half a million dollars to maintain a statewide water monitoring system. Democrats say the state should also continue supporting a University of Iowa program that monitors surface water.
Republican Lawmakers say the legislature will include the recommendations in their state budget plans. An environmental group called Food and Water Action says the package it too little, too late and does not address the root causes of water pollution.
