The University of Iowa’s network of real-time water monitoring sensors in Iowa rivers received no direct funding from the state in the 2025-26 legislative session, but it is still operating.
The 70 river sensors and testing of river water samples complement the Iowa Department of Natural Resources’ ambient stream monitoring program to create a fuller picture of how pollutants — like nitrate, phosphate and forever chemicals, or PFAS — impact Iowa’s water quality.
Since losing its state funding in 2024, the sensor network has limped along with bridge funds from the Walton Family Foundation, which ended June. Although the program cobbled together enough funds to continue this year, its future — and the future of water quality monitoring in Iowa — remains in question…