The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship has partnered in 16 urban water quality projects across the state, investing nearly $2.8 million. These projects will include bioretention cells, bioswales, native plantings, permeable pavers, rain gardens, soil quality restoration and wetlands, among many other proven practices. The Iowa Department of Agriculture, using the state’s Water Quality Initiative and funding from the Conservation Infrastructure Program, will provide cost-share grants that cover up to 50% of the total cost of each project. The overall cost of the 16 projects is expected to be about $14.6 million, which includes $2.8 million from the department and $11.8 million from local sources. The department provides financial and technical assistance to the communities and organizations implementing these urban water quality practices. The community-based projects raise awareness about new stormwater management methods and encourage others to adopt similar infrastructure-based practices to improve water quality.