At Wings2Water, we believe that protecting Iowa’s waterways starts with recognizing the individuals and organizations making a real difference. Our Water Warrior series celebrates those who are leading the charge in sustainable farming, conservation, and education — the people and projects working to reduce nutrient pollution, restore water quality, and help eliminate the Gulf’s Dead Zone.
Meet Our Water Warrior: Karen Wilke
This month, we’re shining the spotlight on Karen Wilke, Associate Director of Freshwater at The Nature Conservancy in Iowa. Karen is making a lasting impact by restoring oxbow wetlands — former bends in rivers that have become disconnected from the main channel over time. Through careful restoration, she and her team remove sediment buildup and reconnect these wetlands to nearby waterways.
Why does this matter? Restored oxbow wetlands act like nature’s filtration systems. They trap and filter pollutants before they enter rivers, store excess water to reduce flooding, and create essential habitats for fish, birds, and other wildlife. Karen’s work is proof that conservation and agriculture can work hand in hand, supporting both healthy communities and thriving ecosystems.
Why Oxbows Are a Game-Changer
• Cleaner Water – Natural filtration helps remove excess nutrients and sediment.
• Flood Protection – Extra water storage reduces downstream flood risks.
• Wildlife Habitat – Restored wetlands provide safe havens for diverse species.
Karen’s dedication to revitalizing Iowa’s waterways demonstrates how practical, science-based solutions can improve our environment for generations to come.
Check out the Oxbow Restoration Toolkit here.
Powered by Partnership
We’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to GreenState Credit Union for sponsoring our Water Warrior initiative. Their support makes it possible to share these inspiring stories and encourage others to take action. Together, we’re building a sustainable future for Iowa’s water.