Iowa Leaders Must Act to Ensure Clean, Safe Water

Nitrate levels in drinking water are rising, putting pressure on treatment facilities

Apr. 17, 2026 at 10:25pm

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A serene, photorealistic painting of a lone water treatment facility surrounded by lush greenery, with the building's facade bathed in warm, golden light and deep shadows, conveying a sense of quiet contemplation about the challenges facing Iowa's water infrastructure.As nitrate levels in Iowa's water supply continue to rise, the state's treatment facilities face increasing strain to keep drinking water safe and clean.Des Moines Today

This editorial from KCCI calls on Iowa leaders to take meaningful action to address the state's ongoing water quality issues. Despite frequent and intense nitrate challenges that are straining Des Moines Water Works' treatment systems, the 2026 legislative session has seen little progress on long-term solutions. The editorial acknowledges the complexity of the problem given Iowa's reliance on agriculture, but argues that doing nothing or not doing enough is unacceptable when it comes to providing clean, safe water for all Iowans.

Why it matters

Access to clean, safe drinking water is a fundamental right and necessity for all Iowans. The increasing frequency and intensity of nitrate issues in the state's water supply is putting a strain on treatment facilities and raising concerns about the long-term sustainability of Iowa's water resources.

The details

Des Moines Water Works has had to run its nitrate removal facility for extended periods since January 2026 to keep up with rising nitrate levels, an uncommon and costly occurrence. Heavy rains have pushed nitrate levels even higher, forcing the facility to increase treatment. While the water works team deserves praise for their around-the-clock efforts, the editorial argues that more needs to be done at the state level to address the root causes of the water quality problems.

  • Since January 2026, Des Moines Water Works has run its nitrate removal facility for extended stretches.
  • In March 2026, heavy rains pushed nitrate levels even higher, forcing increased treatment.

The players

Des Moines Water Works

The utility responsible for treating and supplying drinking water to the Des Moines metropolitan area, which has had to work overtime to keep up with rising nitrate levels in the water supply.

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What’s next

The editorial calls on Iowa leaders to take action, whether through investments in better water treatment, supporting conservation practices, or bringing together rural and urban stakeholders, in order to find long-term solutions to the state's water quality issues.

The takeaway

Access to clean, safe drinking water is a fundamental right for all Iowans, but the state's leaders have not done enough to address the growing challenges to the water supply. Meaningful action and leadership is needed to ensure a sustainable water future for the state.