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(Des Moines, IA) -- Higher levels of nitrates found in the Raccoon and Des Moines Rivers led to a lawn watering ban last summer and questions about public health.
That's why Polk County has launched a public education campaign that addresses the safety of drinking water.
"How our drinking water is tested, for example. We have a section about nitrates in our FAQ because we know that as science emerges, more questions emerge about nitrates and their safety," said Addie Olson of the Polk County Department of Public Health.
Olson says there is a section on water recreation precautions and risks if you want to kayak, boat or swim in the rivers or lakes.
And there is information confirming that contaminated water can make your pets sick.
Iowa has the second-highest cancer rate in the country and environmental risk factors compiled by the Harkin Institute are included in the education campaign.
The information is online at yourwateryourhealth.dot.org.