Boone's Water Infrastructure Overhaul Ahead of Dairy Plant Launch
The city of Boone in central Iowa is preparing to upgrade its water infrastructure in anticipation of increased demand from a new dairy processing facility by Daisy Brand. The facility, set to open in 2028, has prompted Boone to plan for the construction of a new well and a water tower to ensure compliance with federal drinking water nitrate limits.
An environmental impact report, released as part of the city's loan application with the State Revolving Fund, indicates that the addition of the Daisy Brand facility will significantly challenge Boone's ability to manage nitrate levels. Currently, Boone sources its water from shallow wells along the Des Moines River, rotating them to maintain acceptable nitrate levels. However, with the upward trend of nitrate concentrations, this management strategy is under pressure.
Daisy Brand's new facility will cover 750,000 square feet and employ over 250 people. The company has received $7 million in financial assistance and tax benefits from the Iowa Economic Development Authority. The new infrastructure required includes upsizing existing service pumps and expanding the sodium hypochlorite feed system in the city's water treatment facility.
The city plans to increase its water storage capacity from the current 4.3 million gallons to at least 5.1 million gallons by 2044, with the average demand projected to reach 4.8 million gallons per day. To meet these needs, Boone's fiscal year 2026 capital improvements program includes $4.14 million for a new water tower and $3.8 million for the new well. These projects will be funded through a water revenue bond and a grant.
The new well is planned for an area with historically low nitrate concentrations, which will help Boone maintain federal limits. The city is also considering nitrate treatment alternatives, though cost remains a significant barrier.
Despite the planned upgrades, some residents express concerns over the city's capacity to implement a nitrate removal system, which could further improve water quality and address health concerns linked to high nitrate levels, such as cancer rates.
