Not all suburbanites are familiar with watersheds, even though it affects all the people of Iowa.
Farmers know watersheds are a saving grace to crop yields.
However, water quality and erosion are just as dangerous to the city dweller as they are to the farmer. When precipitation occurs, water runs to the lowest point, usually a stream, river or lake. On its way to the lowest point, the water crosses over surfaces of forestland, suburban land and urbanized areas, or it may simply seep into the soil. According to Rick Robinson, director of local and environmental affairs for the Iowa Farm Bureau, the biggest challenge for watershed monitors is to watch for erosion and nutrients. There are about 70 new projects funded by the state to affect water quality.