Please enjoy an online copy of our magazine, The IGS Geode, showcasing some of the Iowa Geological Survey’s activities during the past year.

Water is a critical for life and prosperity, and the investment in protecting and managing Iowa’s water resources is essential.

The Iowa Geological Survey (IGS) has a long and illustrious history in the state, beginning in 1855, when legislation proposed by Governor James W. Grimes provided for a geological survey of the state, which was led by State Geologist James Hall. It was the start of great things for the state of Iowa, with its many geological resources. Iowa established a permanent geological survey as a separate agency of state government in 1892

Iowa’s landscape has been reshaped throughout geologic history, most recently due to the advancement of continental ice sheets. Since the ice retreated, the landscape has undergone fluvial incision and the glacial deposits have experienced weathering and soil development.

State Geologist Keith Schilling is co-PI on a new four-year project funded by the US National Science Foundation through its Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research.

Who hasn’t taken a trip to a national, international, or state park, wilderness area, beach, or local fishing hole looking to come back refreshed and rejuvenated? Natural areas are vital for our health, providing cognitive and physical benefits.

Clearly, drought is an issue that affects all Iowans and understanding the consequences of drought on groundwater recharge will be important during an uncertain climate future.

Eroding streambanks contribute a third or more of the phosphorus export from the state, according to estimates from ground-breaking research led by Keith Schilling and Matthew Streeter from the Iowa Geological Survey at the University of Iowa, along with co-investigators from Iowa DNR, Iowa State University and USDA.

The Iowa Geological Survey at the University of Iowa invites the public to a discussion regarding plans to map the geological features of the Outlet Creek Watershed and the area surrounding Storm Lake.

The IGS partnered with more than a dozen other state surveys on two projects to assess the geochemistry of selected Pennsylvanian and Devonian bedrock formations.