It's Not Easy Being Green:

What's on Iowa's Impaired Waters List?

Dan Haug— Water Quality Specialist, Prairie Rivers of Iowa

On St. Patrick’s Day, a bright green river may be part of the celebration—a splash of harmless dye marking the holiday spirit. But when Iowa’s lakes and rivers turn green at other times of the year, it can signal something far more concerning.

On Tuesday, March 17, 2026, we hosted a Watershed Talks program featuring Dan Haug, Water Quality Specialist with Prairie Rivers of Iowa.

Under the Clean Water Act, states are required to assess and report on the health of their waters—determining whether they are safe for fishing, swimming, and drinking. During this conversation, we explored what Iowa’s 2026 Impaired Waters List revealed, why so many waterways remain on the list year after year, and what causes the troubling green tint sometimes seen in our lakes and rivers.

In this engaging and accessible discussion, participants learned about:

-The current condition of Iowa’s lakes and rivers

-Why waters become “impaired”

-The role of nutrient pollution and algal blooms

-Which waters are safe to enjoy

-How concerned citizens can make a meaningful difference

Dan Haug shared insights from nearly a decade of hands-on experience in watershed projects, environmental education, and water monitoring efforts across Iowa. His clear and practical communication style helped connect science, policy, and community action in ways that empower everyday Iowans.

For those who care about clean water, healthy communities, and informed action, this St. Patrick’s Day conversation offered valuable perspective and inspiration.