A Watershed Management Authority (WMA) is an opportunity for cities, counties, Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs), a benefitted lake district, our partners, and stakeholders to cooperatively engage in watershed planning and management.
 
The State of Iowa passed legislation authorizing the creation of Watershed Management Authorities in 2010.

The Maquoketa River WMA formed in 2017.

The Maquoketa River WMA was formed by resident grassroots efforts. Interested residents wanted to focus on improving water quality, reduce flooding, and protecting local drinking water.