2026 advisories hit 20 Iowa beaches

Twenty state park beaches in Iowa have had swimming not recommended notices posted at least once since the Iowa Department of Natural Resources began monitoring the beaches for bacteria and harmful algal blooms at the end of May.

That’s about half of the 41 state beaches monitored by DNR throughout the summer.

An array of merchandise and influence is on sale for the 250th birthday of the United States. An America250 $275 Liberty Lux American Prosperity decorative throw pillow, anyone? How about a $25 Freedom 250 youth tee?

 But it’s not clear how much money the sales are raising, or where the proceeds are going.

As America marks 250 years, Iowans highlight an inclusive view of history

As Americans celebrate U.S.’s 250th anniversary, Iowa museums, archives and community organizations are working to ensure that the stories of historically underrepresented communities are being remembered.

Here’s how Iowans can celebrate America’s 250th anniversary

Iowans are celebrating the Independence Day holiday this weekend with fireworks, festivals and carnivals as communities mark the U.S.’s 250th anniversary.

Summer cookouts cost nearly $3 more this holiday than last year

At a 4% increase from last summer, the cost of backyard barbecue has grown in price at about the same pace as inflation, according to the annual American Farm Bureau Federation survey. 

Report: Iowa lost 17% of USDA staff in 2025, impact felt at farmer-facing offices

U.S. Department of Agriculture staffing cuts in 2025 have left county-level service offices understaffed, according to an analysis of federal data from the National Sustainable

Nursing home cited for violations tied to three deaths and alleged abuse and neglect

A West Des Moines nursing home could be facing more than $60,000 in fines after being cited for dozens of violations tied to allegations of neglect, physical abuse and three resident deaths.

Iowa judges take ICE to task over ‘astonishing conduct’ and violations of court orders

Two federal judges in Iowa have sharply criticized government officials for repeatedly violating the law in immigration cases, with one Iowa ICE enforcement officer held in contempt for “astonishing conduct” and willfully violating a court order.

These new laws are taking effect in Iowa July 1

Many of the laws advanced during the 2026 legislative session take effect Wednesday, including measures restricting access to abortion-inducing medication, increasing the speed limit on two-lane highways and limiting future governors’ powers during public health and disaster emergencies.

USDA’s finalized rule could boost adoption of regenerative farming practices

Farmers growing corn and soybeans for biofuels can now quantify the carbon intensity of crops grown with certain regenerative agriculture practices, due to a recently finalized federal rule. 

After an Iowa inmate’s death, state prison nurse’s license is suspended for 90 days

Iowa regulators have suspended the license of a state-employed nurse accused of providing inadequate care for a prison inmate who died hours later.

Experts see potential for Iowa hydrogen, but need funding and data sharing

Hidden in Iowa’s bedrock could be resources with the potential to launch a lucrative, clean energy economy in the state, but researchers say state actions and corporate interests are burying the ability of others to explore further.

Civility advocates look for ways to restore ‘Iowa Nice’ to campaigns, public discourse

As the 2026 general election nears, Iowa’s airwaves have been consumed by political attack advertisements, while concerns of physical attacks have come up in campaigns and the Iowa Statehouse.

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