Join us for Making Waves for Clean Water, a free, family-friendly afternoon of music, food, conversation, and community at Swiss Valley Park on Sunday, August 16.
We’re excited to welcome Chris Jones, Democratic candidate for Iowa Secretary of Agriculture, for an afternoon focused on clean water, healthy communities, and Iowa’s future. Whether you’re passionate about protecting our natural resources or simply looking for a fun event with family and friends, we’d love to see you there.
Why Clean Water Matters
Clean water is something every Iowa family depends on. It fills our drinking glasses, supports our farms and businesses, and gives us places to fish, paddle, hike, and enjoy the outdoors.
In recent years, Iowa has faced growing challenges with nitrate pollution in rivers and streams. Heavy spring rains can wash nutrients into waterways, making it more difficult and more expensive for communities to produce safe drinking water. In 2025, near-record nitrate levels prompted Central Iowa Water Works to issue its first-ever mandatory lawn watering ban so treatment facilities could continue providing safe drinking water for more than 600,000 Iowans.
While public water systems work hard to keep drinking water within federal safety standards, high nitrate levels are a particular concern for infants because they can cause a serious condition known as methemoglobinemia, or “blue baby syndrome.” Scientists also continue to study the long-term health effects of nitrate exposure, underscoring the importance of protecting Iowa’s water at its source.
These challenges remind us that clean water isn’t just an environmental issue—it’s a public health issue, an economic issue, and a community issue. Finding practical solutions that protect both Iowa’s natural resources and its agricultural heritage will require collaboration, innovation, and good conversations.
Featuring Chris Jones
As a research engineer, educator, and nationally recognized water quality expert, Chris Jones has spent decades studying Iowa’s rivers, farmland, and conservation practices.
Throughout his career, he has worked to help Iowans better understand the challenges facing our water and explore practical, science-based solutions that support both agriculture and clean water. At Making Waves for Clean Water, Chris will share his vision for Iowa and discuss the important role the Secretary of Agriculture can play in protecting our natural resources while strengthening rural communities.
More Than a Candidate Event
Making Waves for Clean Water is about more than politics—it’s about bringing Dubuquers together.
Families can enjoy live music from The Mississippi Duo, games and activities for all ages, water balloons, face painting, and tasty food available from the Hangry Hobo food truck. We’ll also be collecting school supplies to help local students start the school year strong.
Whether you come to learn more about Chris Jones, spend time with family, or simply enjoy an afternoon in the park, you’ll be welcomed by folks who care about building a stronger Dubuque County.
Event Details
Making Waves for Clean Water
Sunday, August 16
2:00–6:00 p.m.
Swiss Valley Park – Sycamore Pavilion
13606 Swiss Valley Road
Peosta, IA
Featuring:
- Chris Jones, Democratic candidate for Iowa Secretary of Agriculture
- Live music by The Mississippi Duo
- Games and activities for all ages
- Hangry Hobo Food Truck
- School supply drive
Bring the family, invite a neighbor, and spend an afternoon enjoying music, conversation, and community. We hope you’ll join us at Swiss Valley Park.