Landform Regions in Iowa

This map delineates the major landform regions across the state of Iowa, each representing distinct geologic histories, soil parent materials, topography, and drainage characteristics. These regions play a critical role in determining soil properties, agricultural potential, and natural resource management strategies.

Regions Shown:

Northwest Iowa Plains – Gently rolling landscape developed on older glacial deposits

Des Moines Lobe – Young, poorly drained terrain formed by recent glaciation

Iowan Surface – Gently undulating area with eroded uplands and thin loess cover

Paleozoic Plateau – Rugged, deeply dissected landscape with exposed bedrock

East-Central Iowa Drift Plain – Rolling terrain with loess over glacial till

Southern Iowa Drift Plain – Strongly rolling hills, dissected by streams

Mississippi Alluvial Plain – Flat, flood-prone bottomlands along the Mississippi

Missouri River Alluvial Plain – Alluvial lowlands along the Missouri River

Loess Hills – Steep, wind-deposited loess bluffs along western Iowa

Use Tip:

This map is best used to provide geologic and geomorphic context for soil survey data, land capability assessments, and spatial analysis of ecological processes. It pairs well with raster data showing soil texture, organic matter, or water content.

Source/Credit:

Created by Catherine DeLong and Jenny Richter