The Nitrate Watch program, which provides free nitrate test kits to the public, has been named this summer’s “Water Warrior” by Wings2Water and GreenState Credit Union, the organizations have announced.
The Nitrate Watch Program, developed by the Izaak Walton League of America, offers easy-to-use test kits to individuals interested in monitoring nitrate levels in drinking water and local waterways. Participants are encouraged to submit their results to the Clean Water Hub, an online database that maps and tracks nitrate data from across the country.
“We think the Nitrate Watch Program perfectly exemplifies what the Water Warrior recognition is all about,” said Marty Lenss, board president of Wings2Water. “It invites the public to learn about water quality while actively taking part in monitoring it.”
The award comes at a time when nitrate levels in Iowa’s rivers have drawn increased scrutiny, with public health warnings and temporary water use restrictions issued in some areas. Nitrates, often linked to fertilizer runoff and agricultural activity, are a growing concern for both drinking water safety and ecosystem health.
Heather Wilson, Midwest Save Our Streams coordinator at the Izaak Walton League of America, said interest in the program continues to grow. “Hundreds of people across Iowa have already requested a free nitrate test kit just this year—this is a powerful sign that people are interested in getting more involved in understanding and measuring water quality,” she said. “We’re excited to continue to grow this community science effort.”
As part of the Water Warrior recognition, the Nitrate Watch Program will be featured on signage throughout the Eastern Iowa Airport, where it will be visible to thousands of travelers over the summer. The initiative is also being promoted online, on social media platforms, and through email outreach.
Representatives from the Izaak Walton League’s local chapter will be present at the airport on Aug. 18 to distribute test kits and speak with the public as part of National Water Quality Month activities.
“We’re honored to recognize the Nitrate Watch Program and the Izaak Walton League for advancing clean water efforts,” said Tara Wachendorf, Vice President and Director of Public Relations at GreenState Credit Union. “GreenState hopes that by recognizing those making a difference in water quality, others will follow suit and duplicate their transformational efforts.”
