Empowering Watershed Communities

The Iowa Flood Center (IFC) is committed to advancing science-based solutions to reduce flood risks and build more resilient communities across Iowa. Through innovative modeling, real-time monitoring, and data-driven watershed assessments, we support local decision-making and long-term planning for watershed health and sustainability.

We proudly collaborate with Watershed Management Authorities (WMAs) across the state to provide technical expertise and tailored tools that empower communities to address local challenges. WMAs are intergovernmental organizations made up of cities, counties, soil and water conservation districts, and other stakeholders within a hydrologic watershed. These voluntary partnerships work together to identify shared priorities, implement conservation practices, and pursue funding opportunities for flood mitigation and water quality improvement projects.

The Iowa Flood Center offers a range of services designed to support WMAs, local governments, and watershed groups, including:

• Hydrologic and hydraulic modeling to evaluate flood risk and the benefits of nature-based solutions
• Monitoring tools such as stream sensors, hydrostations, and practice specific monitoring networks
• Watershed assessments and planning support to inform and prioritize conservation and infrastructure investments
• Interactive web tools and visualizations to help communities understand local water challenges and solutions

Our collaborative, research-based approach helps translate data into action—supporting the future of Iowa’s watersheds through equitable, forward-thinking, and resilient practices.