The field of hydrogeology (hydro- meaning water, and -geology meaning the study of the earth) is the area of geology that deals with the distribution and movement of groundwater in the subsurface. Groundwater can be an abstract idea to folks because it is occurs below ground and cannot be directly observed.

Anyone who has driven across Iowa knows that the state is dominated by agriculture. But among the fields lined with corn, soybean, and livestock, a new feature is becoming more common: wetlands.

Evidence of how Iowa has evolved over Earth’s 4.6-billion-year history is preserved in the rocks. The job of an IGS geologist is to study these rocks using a variety of tools and methods and from the data collected continue to reveal and refine our understanding of that history.

The IGS monitors groundwater levels in 48 wells scattered across Iowa that are completed in most of the major bedrock aquifers. These wells provide a historical record of groundwater levels and help evaluate aquifer sustainability.

Since 2019, the Iowa Geological Survey led by Matthew Streeter has been quantifying reductions in nitrate, phosphorus, and sediment concentrations at multiple sites in Keokuk, Scott, and Wapello counties in Iowa.

For the past 20 years Iowa Project AWARE (A Watershed Awareness River Expedition) has been cleaning up Iowa’s rivers with the help of hordes of volunteers and a few dedicated staff members. The Iowa Geological Survey (IGS) has participated just about every year, from helping haul trash to giving educational programs.

Iowa relies on groundwater, especially unconfined aquifers, for drinking water and agriculture. Climate change affects recharge and sustainability. Alluvial aquifers face risks from drought and demand. Strategies like floodplain features and better pumping management enhance sustainability.

Central Iowa was glaciated by the Des Moines Lobe, which advanced quickly and lacked features like drumlins, eskers, and kames. Scientists determine the timing of ice advance by radiocarbon dating organic materials in glacial sediment. The calibrated ages show that the Des Moines Lobe reached Des Moines around 15,700 to 16,000 years ago and advanced rapidly at a rate of 1-2 km per year.

Iowa has approximately 700 miles of levees protecting towns, agricultural land, and other infrastructure. Assessing the condition of levees is a critical component to ensure they remain strong during flood events. The IGS recently established methods to use geophysics to image levees via a pilot investigation with the Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management

Geologic maps have tremendous societal, economic, and educational value. Bedrock and surficial geologic maps may be used to assist in aggregate resource evaluations, flood protection, hazard identification (sinkholes and karst), and water resource assessments.

For better and more accurate source water delineations, IGS is available to assist communities with their well head protection planning, especially in the crucial delineation of the well head protection area.

The Iowa Geological Survey (IGS) has significantly assisted in creating the drought plan by providing scientific expertise on the state’s regional characteristics and available hydrologic data.

Check out IGS GeoCore if you have questions about what a certain type of rock looks like. You may be able to find your answer.

Waking up early or working into the early evening allows us to see some great sunrises and sunsets, and some field sites are located off the beaten track, enabling us to see wildflowers and native aquatic or bird species up close.

The key component needed for water farming is thinking about how water moves across your field and then designing a water management system that meets your goals.

If Iowa wants to get serious about doing its part to combat climate change then investments will need to be made to better understand the potential for geologic storage of CO2 in Iowa. . . . The IGS stands ready to lead this charge while collaborating with industry partners and lawmakers to make sure that Iowans do not miss the opportunity to play an integral role in securing a better climate future for our state.

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.

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.