Official State of Iowa Website Here is how you know

Lake Restoration and Water Quality Improvement

Iowans value clean water and desire safe, healthy lakes that offer many aesthetic, natural and recreational opportunities. Clean lakes improve the quality of life for Iowans and help bring economic growth to communities.

2006 was a milestone year of increased focus on Iowa's lakes. This emphasis was encouraged by the 2006 Infrastructure Bill (HF2782), which provides additional funding and requires the DNR to use a science-based approach to achieve lake water quality improvements. The program was continued in 2007 as a result of status quo funding from (HF911) through the Restore Iowa Infrastructure Fund (RIFF ).

127 of Iowa's major public lakes were ranked for lake restoration consideration based upon a number of socio-economic, water quality, and watershed factors. Thirty-five lakes were chosen as places for possible lake restoration projects.

A local commitment to protect lakes and watersheds is important for successful lake restoration projects. The DNR actively works to build partnerships with local stakeholders, private landowners and natural resource professionals to make sure restoration projects are successful.

Lake Restoration Program - Annual Report
Each year a report is compiled to document lake restoration progress and outlines future lake and watershed restoration projects. Successful lake restoration projects improve lake water quality and recreational opportunities, contribute to community development efforts and make Iowa a better place to live and work.

Contact Information

George Antoniou
515-201-6775
George.Antoniou@dnr.iowa.gov

Michelle Balmer
515-238-2458
Michelle.balmer@dnr.iowa.gov


Lake Sugema, Van Buren County