Driftless Water Defenders

Driftless Water Defenders is a non-profit environmental law and advocacy organization based in Iowa. Founded in May 2024, the organization focuses primarily on reducing farm-related water pollution in the region.

Mission and Activities

Driftless Water Defenders advocates, educates, and litigates to protect Iowans' rights to clean water. Their work involves addressing environmental impacts related to agriculture, such as runoff and pollution from agricultural practices like tile drainage and fertilizer use. The organization is particularly concerned with preserving the water quality in areas like the Driftless region, known for its karst geology and trout streams.

Legal and Advocacy Efforts

One of their notable actions includes filing a motion to intervene in a legal appeal challenging the Iowa Utilities Commission's approval of the Summit Carbon Solutions pipeline. This appeal focuses on the potential water impacts of the pipeline, particularly how the process of capturing and compressing carbon dioxide for transportation might affect Iowa's surface and groundwater sources. Driftless Water Defenders argue that these impacts were not adequately considered during the commission's decision-making process.

Additionally, the organization has issued notices of intent to sue entities like Agri Star Meat and Poultry for alleged violations of the Clean Water Act, highlighting ongoing pollution issues in water bodies such as Hecker Creek and the Yellow River.

Leadership

The organization is led by a board of directors that includes Dr. Christopher S. Jones, who serves as President. Dr. Jones is an author and researcher known for his work on environmental issues.

Role in the Community

Driftless Water Defenders engage local communities by organizing events and meetings to raise awareness about environmental challenges in the Driftless region. Their efforts involve collaborating with residents and other environmental groups to push for policies and practices that promote clean water and sustainable agriculture.

External Identification

The organization is identified by the Employer Identification Number (EIN) 384320551.