ROLFE, Iowa (KCAU) — Stormy weather didn't stop Chris Jones from starting his "Paddle for Clean Water" tour on the Des Moines River in Rolfe, IA, on Wednesday.

"We know that the Des Moines River is one of our problem streams. It's impaired for nitrates; it's used as a drinking water source not only in Des Moines, but in Boone. Just doing this trip, I think, highlights the struggles that we have here and the problems we need to overcome with our agricultural system and our natural resources," said Chris Jones, Democratic candidate for Iowa Secretary of Agriculture.

Top Story: 2 dead in suspected murder-suicide near Osmond, Nebraska, officials say

Lights & Sirens: Sioux City fire officials extinguish boat on fire in garage

Sports: Iowa leads way in high school sports participation, full NFHS High School Athletics Participation Survey details

Weather: Get the latest weather forecast here

Chris Jones is the Democratic candidate for Iowa Secretary of Agriculture. He decided to run because of Iowa's water quality.

"Like many Iowans, I've been frustrated with the condition of our streams and our lakes, and I thought ultimately if I wanted change I was going to have to run for something and so here I am," added Jones.

About 24 people joined Jones to start the trip down the Des Moines River.

One of those fellow paddlers is Seth Watkins, a farmer from Clarinda, IA.

"We know there is runoff from nitrogen, we know there's runoff from phosphorus, and we know how to solve those problems, and what I've learned on my own farm is the practices we can do to solve those problems have helped keep more money in my pocket and money in my community," said Watkins.

The tour will make four stops along the route before finishing in Des Moines on Sunday. While water quality is the focus, water recreation will also be on the bill.

"I'm going to fish a little bit, so I brought some fishing tackle and just sitting on a sandbar and eating a sandwich and relaxing," said Jones.

Jones will take on republican incumbent Mike Naig in November's election.

Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KCAU 9 News | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports.