Several studies have detected low levels of common agricultural pesticides and synthetic organic compounds in both untreated and treated ground water. In most cases, the small concentrations are thought to pose no immediate threat to public health, but little is known about the health effects of long-term exposure to low concentrations of these chemicals. Programs to Restore Water Quality a A subset of Iowa's designated uses appear in this figure. Pollution from municipal and industrial point sources is controlled primarily through the Clean Water Act's National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System through permits, development and enforcement of water quality standards, and legal action. The program also includes control of stormwater runoff from urban and industrial areas.
Sediment is the greatest pollutant, by volume, in Iowa.
The state adopted a nonpoint control strategy of education projects and cost-share programs. Later, it adopted rules requiring that land disposal of animal wastes not contaminate surface and ground waters. Landfill rules require annual inspections and permit renewals every 3 years. Iowa regulates construction in floodplains to limit erosion and impacts on aquatic life. In 1990, a Nonpoint Source Program was developed whereby state and federal agencies cooperate to implement water quality projects, including education, demonstrations, and implementation of best management practices.