The City of Kalona is seeking financial help to improve the West Drainage Ditch. In the hopes of reducing erosion, improving water quality and stabilizing the banks, the city is looking to put buffer strips on the west side of the drainage ditch north of Highway 22. City Administrator Ryan Schlabaugh says they also plan to reinforce the east side in the future, and depending on its effectiveness, extend the buffer strip north.

The total cost of the project is unknown, but Schlabaugh says they should have an estimate soon. At their last meeting, the city council approved an application for a $112,000 grant through a state program. He adds if they’re awarded the grant, they would need to have the project done by next summer.