Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield CEO John Forsyth and Healthways Inc. President and CEO Ben Leedle Jr. today joined with Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad and Blue Zones LLC founder Dan Buettner to introduce the Blue Zones Project.

The project is part of the Iowa Healthiest State Initiative, with the goal of improving health in the state through tools and programs for employers and residents. Blue Zones uses third- party research to direct studies and develop lifestyle management tools.

The initiative will start off with 10 demonstration communities, which will be chosen based on an application process. For a related Business Record story, click here.