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All humans and animals are part of the same global water cycle. Our quality of life revolves around our access to fresh, clean drinking water. We believe everyone should be familiar with the condition of their local water and the infrastructure through which it is delivered to homes and buildings, as well as which type and amounts of different substances are used for treatment, and from where it's sourced.
This link provides up to date water quality information from Des Moines Water Works.
Poor air quality creates a whole plethora of negative effects, including directly impacting human health. Breathing is essential and as a global community we all must share the same air. Clean air is a human right!
This link provides up to date air quality information for Polk County.
Iowa has some of the best soil anywhere, and the crops we grow in it are hugely important to our local, national, and global economy. Protecting our soil starts with monitoring soil quality and is a top priority not just for farmers, ranchers, gardeners, and politicians, but for us all - whether we realize it or not!
This link provides information on nationwide soil quality via the USDA.
Homes constructed prior to 1940 may be served by lead water service lines. Why does this matter? Lead in drinking water can have long term health impacts including damage to the liver, kidneys, and even the brain. This database allows you to search if your home is at an elevated risk.
Have you heard about the city of Des Moines' Improving our Neighborhood (ION) program? This program is city-funded and focuses on property repair assistance for foundation repairs, roof repairs/replacement, safety issues with driveways, siding repairs/replacement, windows/door replacements, etc. Repairs are for the exterior and not interior. To see if you're eligible click the link!
Grant funds are available to Iowa landowners for soil and water conservation and enhancement projects. Projects money is directed towards protection of highly erodible soils and water quality protection along with several other focuses. Click link for more info from IOWA DNR.
Do you have wet areas or drainage issues at your property? Want an easy, green way to water plants without wasting valuable potable water? Consider a rain catchment system or other rainscaping project! Apply for reimbursement for 50% of project costs, up to $2000, for improvements that meet program requirements. Click link for more info!
Have an inadequate or failing septic tank system? Onsite Wastewater Assistance Program (OSWAP) offers low interest loans to homeowners and can fund up to 100% of actual costs. Check link to go to the State Revolving Fund website!
Radon is one of the leading causes of lung cancer. Unfortunately, Iowa has a high percentage of homes with radon levels above the EPA'S suggested guidelines. This link will send you directly to the order form.
Get a discounted radon test kit for just $7 from Polk County Environmental Health.
Does your home or business have solar panels, or would you like it to? The link below will send you to the IA department of Revenue's webpage about the tax credit program for solar panel projects.
Iowa credit rate can be up to $5000.
Click link for more info!
Invest DSM has 4 special investment districts in Des Moines where they offer grant programs to homeowners and residential and commercial landlords - Highland Park, Drake Neighborhood, Franklin Area and Columbus Park. They offer several different grant and loan programs and even fund public art in these districts.
There are several down payment assistance programs for first time homebuyers. The Iowa Finance Authority offers a $2500 grant to assist with down payment and closing costs. They will also have a minority down payment program soon! Click link to check out the IFA Website.
Check out NFC's lending area to see if your home qualifies for their home improvement loan! In addition to the home improvement loan, NFC also offers down payment assistance programs, refinance loans, and many other great home ownership programs and tools.
The IEDA offers a housing sustainability energy efficiency improvements program! Projects include upgrading to a smart thermostat, air sealing, insulation, upgrading lighting to LED, upgrading water heaters, water conserving fixtures and windows. Click the link for more information on how to qualify!
The Iowa Waste Exchange offers a materials exchange program and database for Iowans looking to keep waste out of the landfill and save millions of dollars by diverting it from the waste stream back into use. This link provides more info on the program and a link to the database.
The Journey to HomeOwnership program conducted by Neighborhood Finance Corporation focuses on increasing minority homeownership through education and downpayment assistance. This link provides more information on the program.
Home Inc offers programs ehome online homebuyer courses through eHome America. They also offers counselors to help with resources and pre-purchase counseling and program referrals. This link shows all the information in regards to homeownership at the Home Inc website.