EPA’s stream decision is a step backward

The EPA’s decision to remove seven stream segments from the Iowa impaired waters list is a leap backward for public health and environmental quality (and which experts agree is “clearly misguided.”) Experts condemn EPA’s decision to rescind the expansion of Iowa’s impaired water list). These segments, including parts of the Des Moines, Raccoon, Cedar, Iowa, and South Skunk Rivers, are known to have nitrate levels well above the drinking water threshold of 10 mg/L. When nitrate flows unchecked into surface water, an undue and expensive burden is placed on water utilities or homeowners to ensure drinking water is safe.

In a time when Iowans are more concerned than ever about water issues, EPA’s tone-deaf decision rings hollow. This summer, Central Iowa Water Works imposed a first-ever lawn watering ban because of high nitrate levels. Almost 900 Iowans showed up to learn from the scientists behind the Central Iowa Source Water Research Assessment. Over 700 Iowans requested Nitrate Watch monitoring kits just this summer. Iowans are paying attention. Our waterways need more protection, not less.

Removing waterways from the impaired list doesn’t make water quality issues disappear — it only hides them. Iowans must stay vigilant and continue to hold leaders and polluters accountable. Based on the concern we’ve seen this summer, it’s clear that Iowans will continue demanding clean water.

Terence Turnovsky

Cedar Rapids