In 2025, the IGS led a pilot study of the Iowa River valley alluvial aquifer between Marshall and Johnson counties. The goal was to better understand the quantity, distribution, and sustainability of the water in the aquifer.

It’s no secret that Iowa is home to large geological formations that are rich in hydrogen-producing rocks, but the question in recent years has turned to whether or not that hydrogen can be extracted in meaningful quantities.

IIHR‘s Fred Stern is among the winners of the Regents Award for Faculty Excellence. Stern is the George D. Ashton Professor of Hydroscience and Engineering and professor of mechanical engineering in the College of Engineering. He is one of six University of Iowa faculty members honored for their extraordinary contributions and sustained record of excellence in teaching, scholarship, and service.

A University of Iowa research engineer has invented a custom physics-based approach for measuring the flow in rivers and streams, which could benefit applications ranging from design of structures to flood warnings to resource management.

JOHNSON CO., Iowa (KCRG) - Growth in North Liberty, Solon, and Tiffin is draining an aquifer faster than it’s being replenished, according to U.S. Geological Survey data presented to concerned residents.

DES MOINES, Iowa — The nitrate removal facility at Central Iowa Water Works has now been running for a full month. The readings for nitrates in the Des Moines and Raccoon Rivers were as high as 17 milligrams per liter in January.