1. ID the problem by assessing all potential risks to determine the problem(s) (i.e. nitrate, bacteria, etc.).
   
   
2. Determine the objective (is it to decrease the contamination risk to drinking water, plan for future community needs, etc.).
   
   
3. Inventory technical resources to provide assistance/information (IDNR Field Office staff, Geologists, GIS staff, Water Monitoring staff, PLB staff, Watershed Improvement staff, Community Water Supply Operators, citizens knowledgeable of the wellhead areas, USDA-NRCS/FSA, local Soil and Water Conservation Districts, landowners in the well field, University staff, etc.).
   
   
4. Analyze the available data (utilize GIS maps, water monitoring data, etc.).
   
   
5. Formulate alternative solutions (are possible solutions to purchase land around the wellheads, develop ordinances, enroll land in the capture zone into CRP, drill a new well, or determine additional Best Management Practices, etc.).
   
   
6. Evaluate the solutions (what are the costs and benefits to each solution, what are the barriers to implementation, are solutions environmentally or economically feasible, etc.).
   
   
7. Determine the course of action (develop a two-page work plan/GIS map).
   
   
8. Implement the plan (document the activities on the work plan template).
   
   
9. Evaluate the results of the plan as they relate to the objective.

DNR Contact
Rebecca Ohrtman
Source Water Protection Coordinator
(515) 281-0932
Rebecca.Ohrtman@dnr.iowa.gov