Protecting the Driftless: Luther College hosts forum to explore issues related to karst geography

(Photo courtesy of Northeast Iowa RC & D)

Northeast Iowa's geography is unlike anything else in the state. The rolling hills, caves, streams, and springs are common sights in the Driftless Region - the region that was untouched by glaciers.  
 
The Driftless region consists of karst geology - highly fractured and easily dissolved bedrock of limestone and dolomite that allows for the formation of caves, sink holes, and disappearing creeks. Karst landscapes are often spectacularly scenic areas, as is the case in Decorah.
 
Karst regions have many direct conduits to underground aquifers which means there is an underlying threat to the beauty of the area and the health of people who live there.
 
In order to address this issue and others related to karst geography, Luther College hosted a forum titled "Karst, Water Quality & Livestock: Finding Balance for a Sensitive Geology."
 
Research shows the region's shallow groundwater aquifers and springs are at risk because of  increasing amounts of pollution from agricultural animal waste. The aquifers and springs are the systems that provide public drinking water and supply the area's cold water trout streams. According to the Iowa Geologicla Survey, the karst region is the source of drinking water for approximately 15% of Iowa's municipal water systems and many private wells.
 
Numerous counties in NE Iowa are passing resolutions and calling for stronger state laws to protect the Driftless region's valuable natural resources, drinking water and public health.