‘Citizen scientists take to Iowa’s waters to monitor nitrate levels’
This reporting from the Iowa Capital Dispatch follows Nitrate Watch volunteer, Richard Gradoville, as he monitors nitrate levels in the Des Moines river and explains his connection to water quality monitoring. The article also shares findings from the 2024 Nitrate Watch Annual Report and highlights the importance of citizen science water monitoring.


Your kit will include a bottle containing 25 nitrate test strips which you can use to test your water source(s) throughout the year. You’ll also receive postcards explaining how to use your nitrate test strips and how to share your Nitrate Watch results on the Clean Water Hub.
Your kit will include four test strips so you can test your waterway throughout the season. You’ll also receive a chart to help you interpret your results and a postcard with instructions for completing a Salt Watch test and reporting your findings.