Shallow aquifers, however, are more susceptible to man-made contamination than are deeper aquifers. Naturally occurring levels of dissolved minerals and radioactive materials limit use of some groundwater, especially in deeper aquifers. Concerns with the quality of Iowa's groundwater led to the passage of the Iowa Groundwater Protection Act of 1987. This legislation established demonstration programs, well protection programs, and education initiatives, as well as initiated planning for a statewide groundwater monitoring program. The level of funding for these programs, however, has declined over the last 10 years, and some of the initiatives were not completed.
Major concerns regarding groundwater involve human activities that can contaminate groundwater.