Dyersville Hosting Open House for Watershed Vision Plan

The City of Dyersville has been working on several water improvement projects throughout the community as part of their “One Water” Watershed Vision Plan.

In 2021, the City received a $250,000 grant through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program to complete a Project Scoping Study. The goal of the study is to evaluate the feasibility of green storm water infrastructure measures that would reduce the risk of flooding. Over the past two years, consultants have worked to study natural hazard patterns and impacts, creek and river behavior, and model different improvement strategies, specifically along Bear Creek, Hewett
Creek, and the North Fork Maquoketa River. The study will conclude with developing a long-term strategy on how to mitigate flooding and manage development in these areas.

As Dyersville works towards improving the safety and quality of these natural water features, the City is committed to reconnecting the community with the water and enhancing recreational and economic opportunities. In 2023, Dyersville was named “River Town of the Year” by Iowa Rivers Revival for its efforts in restoring Bear Creek, the Beltline Road Stormwater Wetland Water Quality Improvement project, and their community-wide emphasis on connecting people to rivers and water.

Introducing smart economic and recreational development will once again provide a way for the community to safely interact with the creeks and rivers. Previously promoted at two community events, River Town of the Year and Natural Resource Conservation Service Day, is a proposed float park along the North Fork of the Maquoketa River, flowing through the heart of the community.

An open house event will be held in Dyersville on Thursday, June 13 from 5-8PM at the Social Center located at 625 3rd Avenue SE. The open house will highlight past and present watershed projects, current BRIC study methods and results, and future infrastructure improvement features.

The public is invited and encouraged to attend the open house to help shape the future of “One Water” Vision in Dyersville. Light food refreshments will be served.

photo courtesy of Janelle Tucker/KMCH