Pure Bred English Bulldog Puppies from a trusted breeder. We fly them with a pet nanny anywhere in the USA.

English Bulldog Puppies for Sale in Des Moines, IA

When it comes to buying purebred puppies, there are a lot of breeds and questions to consider. Do you want an outdoor pup or one that spends its time indoors? Are you looking for a tiny dog you can take with you everywhere or a larger breed you can lay with on the couch? Of all the purebred puppies to choose from, none are quite like the English bulldog. Their sourmug face might not be for everyone, but if your ideal version of man's best friend is a snorty, stocky ball of wrinkles that loves to lounge, a bulldog could be perfect for you.

Bulldogs are beloved for their unique looks and charming personalities. They have strong reputations for being loyal companions, making them incredibly popular for families and individuals alike. There's just something about their squishy face and bowling ball body that makes you want to love and cuddle them forever. Unfortunately, finding a purebred English bulldog from your local shelter is like searching for a needle in a haystack. When you factor in the fact that many English bulldog breeders are less-than-reputable, finding the right bulldog puppies for adoption in Des Moines, IA can be challenging.

If you've been searching high and low for purebred English bulldog puppies from a responsible breeder, don't give up hope. Your search may be coming to an end sooner than you think with the help of IrresistiBulls.

English Bulldog Puppies Des Moines, IA

Bulldog Puppies for Sale in Des Moines, IA from an Ethical Breeder You Can Trust

IrresistiBulls was born out of love for the English bulldog who first graced our world, Bruiser. It became our mission to spread the joy he afforded us to families around the nation. We pride ourselves on being more than just breeders; we're a lifelong support system for our families. Unlike many competitors, we stay in touch with each family that purchases from us. We make it a point to offer expert tips and tricks for any challenges that may arise, which can help save you time, money, and a trip to the vet.

The IrresistiBulls Difference

At IrresistiBulls, breeding English bulldogs isn't just a career choice. It's a passion. When you welcome a bulldog pup from our program into your home, you're not just getting any dog - you're gaining a remarkable English bulldog with a documented lineage of health, intelligence, and obedience - as well as all the hallmark traits that make English bulldogs beloved. While our dogs come from champion lines, they're perfect for families, provide unconditional love, and will probably be your new dinner bell, too.

Trial

It's Science, Not Trial and Error

Our cherished bulldog, Bruiser, was a unique boy. He stood out from other dogs. Like Bruiser, IrresistiBulls stands out from other breeders because we base our breeding practices on science and careful consideration.

Our goal isn't just about selling English bulldog puppies. It's to ensure that every puppy we breed excels in health, temperament, intelligence, and obedience. We don't rely on trial and error, which often yields more errors than successes. Extensive research underpins our methods to guarantee the best possible outcomes. Our dedication extends not only to the families welcoming our puppies into their homes but also to the well-being and quality of life of the puppies themselves. That's the IrresistiBulls difference.

Sire

Sire and Dams Bred for Excellence

When it comes to longevity, health, temperament, and intelligence, it all starts with the dam and sire. That's why our English bulldog sires and dams are carefully selected for their excellence, champion bloodlines, and genetic traits. We're not your run-of-the-mill English bulldog breeders in South Carolina; we've perfected our method. We genuinely care and view every puppy we bring into the world as a part of our extended family. Each one of our dogs is truly the "cream of the crop," guaranteed to pass on greatness to their offspring.

Why Do So Many Bulldog Lovers Choose IrresistiBulls?

Simply put, we truly care about our bulldogs and the families that build cherished memories with them. We're incredibly thankful to have worked with so many amazing clients who trust our process and value our commitment to the health and wellness of our bulldog pups. Our wonderful clients recommend their friends and family members to IrresistiBulls because we prioritize:

Lineage

World-Class Bulldog Lineage from Around the World

When you buy from IrresistiBulls, you can rest easy knowing you're getting the best of the best. We take pride in ethically breeding our puppies by using champion bloodlines from different parts of the world. By doing this, we reduce the chances of our puppies inheriting common health issues that can affect English bulldogs. Our puppies come from well-regarded show dog ancestry from countries like Ukraine, Spain, and Russia, to name a few.

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World-Class Bulldog Lineage from Around the World

We meticulously breed for highly coveted traits and take proactive measures to limit traits that can lead to health conditions in your puppy. Our efforts have successfully eliminated issues such as corkscrew tails and narrow nares, ensuring a worry-free experience for our puppies and their new families.

An Improved Process of Breeding Purebred English Bulldog Puppies for Sale in Des Moines, IA

Breeding any dog, especially English bulldogs, poses health concerns. We make every effort to breed English bulldogs with the desirable genetic traits while working to eliminate those that could result in health problems. The key is to avoid breeding puppies that are closely related and could potentially have genetic abnormalities.

Unfortunately, some breeders are either irresponsible or lack an understanding of the complexities involved in producing healthy English bulldog lines. We only breed dogs with the best-quality lineages and never take unnecessary risks by breeding dogs with overly similar ancestry. This approach safeguards not only our business but also the well-being of the puppies and the families who welcome them into their homes.

You're Not Just Our Client. You're Our Family.

When you bring one of our puppies for sale into your home, you become a permanent part of our extended family.

I'm Looking for Bulldog Puppies Near Me in Des Moines, IA. How Do I Get Started with IrresistiBulls?

Our IrresistiBulls are usually reserved before the litter is even born. Securing a spot on our reservation list is essential once we confirm a pregnancy. While we strive to honor all reservations, sometimes we have to leave it to nature, so there are no guarantees regarding litter arrivals and viability. However, once you've reserved your new English bulldog puppy, we'll keep you informed every step of the way. As English bulldog lovers, we understand your excitement about welcoming a new addition to your family. That's why we do our best to minimize the uncertainties and challenges that can arise during the breeding process.

 Des Moines Bulldogs Des Moines, IA
Puppy

Availabull Puppy Pricing

All English bulldog puppies for sale are priced at $4,500.00. Deposits are $500.00. Please visit our website to learn more and see our selection of upcoming Availabulls. When you're ready to put down a deposit on the bulldog pup of your choice, all you have to do is email, call, or text us, and we'll follow up from there.

An English Bulldog Breeders' Guide to Bringing Home Your Furry Friend

Buying English bulldog puppies for sale in Des Moines, IA is a joyful and exciting experience. Whether you're a single pup parent or have a family with children, you'll love your new bulldogs' affectionate, loyal nature and will laugh out loud at their quirky attitude. However, bringing a bulldog puppy home necessitates careful forethought and organization to guarantee a seamless adjustment for both you and your new furry pal. Keep these essential tips in mind when it's time to bring your bulldog puppy to your den.

Safe Space

Create a Safe Space

Choose a cozy and secure spot in your home for your bulldog puppy to relax and feel at ease. You might want to opt for a crate or a puppy playpen to create a snug and den-like space for them.

Supplies

Stock Up on Supplies

Gather essential supplies such as water and food, nutritious and high-quality puppy food, a leash and a collar, bedding, chew toys, and grooming items. If you're worried about overdoing it, don't fret. It's better to be overprepared and have extra than to be underprepared and need more supplies.

Puppy-Proof

Puppy-Proof Your Property

It's important to get your home ready for your new bulldog puppies before they arrive. English bulldog pups are inquisitive by nature and love to play, so expect some high-energy bonding early on. Clear away any small objects that could be swallowed, hide electrical cords, and remove any toxic plants to keep them safe.

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Schedule a Follow-Up Visit at Your Vet

Bulldog puppies for adoption in Des Moines, IA from IrresistiBulls arrive at your home having had all the proper shots and worming medicines required. However, you should already have a follow-up visit scheduled with your vet before your new family member arrives. Doing so will help you and your vet get on the same page regarding deworming, vaccinations, and preventative healthcare plans.

 Cute Puppies For Sale Des Moines, IA

Make the Most Out of Our Puppy Starter Kits

In the first few days, weeks, and sometimes months, it can be challenging to adjust to having a new puppy at home. Puppies are quite complex, and just like with any newborn, having reliable guidance and essential tools isn't just a luxury - it alleviates stress and makes the process of welcoming and training the puppy much smoother. At IrresistiBulls, we offer a puppy starter kit to provide you with the necessary information on puppy care, the resources you may require along the way, and, of course, an assortment of toys to enrich the bonding experience with your new furry friend.

 Healthy Bulldog Pups Des Moines, IA
Settling

Settling In After the First Few Days

During the initial days following the arrival of your bulldog puppy, it's essential to focus on establishing a nurturing environment and a consistent routine to build a strong bond. Here are some helpful tips to help your puppy settle in smoothly.

Routine

Get a Routine Going ASAP

If there's one thing bulldogs thrive on (besides nutritious, yummy food), it's a routine. After you've been with your new bulldog puppy for a few days, try creating a schedule. Plan out time for eating, bathroom breaks, training, and playing. We should note that it's important to create a schedule that can be incorporated into your family's routine. You don't need to rearrange your life, but you will need to cater to your new doggo to an extent.

Remain Calm

Try to Remain Calm and Patient

If you had to move to a new home when you were very young, you probably have an idea how a bulldog puppy would feel, too. It can be overwhelming - not just for your bulldog, but for you too. That's why you should try to be as patient and calm as possible while your new addition gets acclimated to their new surroundings.

Whether you're an experienced dog owner or a newcomer, bringing your puppy into their new home should be nothing but a joyful occasion. At IrresistiBulls, we're happy to help make sure you don't go home in a tizzy. That way, you can focus on spending time with your bulldog puppy and creating a loving home from day one.

Top 5 Reasons to Consider English Bulldog Puppies for Sale in Des Moines, IA

Bulldogs are undeniably one of the most adored dog breeds in the world. Their wrinkled faces, stocky bods, and fun personalities have endeared them to dog lovers everywhere. Have you ever met an English bulldog owner who didn't love their pup? We haven't. If you're still on the fence about buying a bulldog puppy for you or your family, you may want to re-think that stance after reading these reasons.

Like, seriously adorable. The wrinkles. The jowls. The saggy eyes. Bulldogs epitomize "Aww, how cute!" especially when they're young. There's just something about grabbing a big wrinkly head and planting a huge kiss right in the middle.

 Playful Bulldog Images Des Moines, IA

Generally speaking, bulldogs are great pets for kids. That's because they're incredibly calm, fiercely devoted, and, well, lazy. A screaming, tugging child doesn't faze them. They'll even let little ones dress them in cowboy hats and tutus without batting an eye.

 Family-friendly Bulldogs Des Moines, IA

Owning a bulldog means there's rarely a dull moment in your home. Whether they're snoring so loud it puts your sleep apnea to shame or interrupting your thoughts with a little flatulence, English bulldogs will make you smile even if you're in a bad mood.

 Bulldog Puppies In Des Moines Des Moines, IA

Make no mistake - bulldogs must get exercise to remain healthy. However, when given the choice, many bulldogs would rather curl up on the couch with you than go for a multi-mile run.

English Bulldog Puppies Des Moines, IA

If you think breeds like border collies get all the credit for being smart, think again. Have you ever seen a border collie ride a skateboard or surf a wave? Probably not - but bulldogs are known for such feats. That's due in part to their low center of gravity, but it's mostly because bulldogs are so cool.

 Des Moines Bulldogs Des Moines, IA

The Ethical, Easy Choice for Bulldog Puppies for Sale in Des Moines, IA

When you trust IrresistiBulls as your bulldog puppy breeder, we believe it's our privilege and duty to provide you with a healthy, happy dog. Every English bulldog we ship in the U.S. is both a part of our beloved Bruiser and also a new part of your family's heart. At the end of the day, our goal is for you to discover your new companion, family mascot, or hot mess without having to worry about shady practices or inconvenient logistics.

We know you'll fall in love as soon as you lay eyes on your new IrresistiBull, just like we did when Bruiser blessed our lives. Contact our office today to learn more about what separates us from other breeders and how we can make your English bulldog ownership dreams come true.

What Our Clients Are Saying

Interested in Joining Our Family, Reserve Your Puppy Today

Latest News in Des Moines, IA

Friday Night Hype: Highlights, scores and more from Week 8 of Iowa high school football

A rainy Week 8 wrapped up late Friday night. Here's what happened across central Iowa.Iowa high school football: Week 8 final scoresAnkeny 34, West Des Moines Valley 26Johnston 38, Southeast Polk 37 (OT)Norwalk 20, Urbandale 13Dowling Catholic 27, Ankeny Centennial 10Waukee 31, Waukee Northwest 28Nevada 21, Des Moines Christian 14Des Moines Lincoln 43, Des Moines East 36Audubon 80, Exira-EHK 16Ballard 30, Bondurant-Farrar 14Bishop Garrigan 56, West Bend-Mallard 0...

A rainy Week 8 wrapped up late Friday night. Here's what happened across central Iowa.

Iowa high school football: Week 8 final scores

Ankeny 34, West Des Moines Valley 26

Johnston 38, Southeast Polk 37 (OT)

Norwalk 20, Urbandale 13

Dowling Catholic 27, Ankeny Centennial 10

Waukee 31, Waukee Northwest 28

Nevada 21, Des Moines Christian 14

Des Moines Lincoln 43, Des Moines East 36

Audubon 80, Exira-EHK 16

Ballard 30, Bondurant-Farrar 14

Bishop Garrigan 56, West Bend-Mallard 0

Williamsburg 48, Knoxville 15

Waterloo West 45, Marshalltown 13

Marion 21, Oskaloosa 13

North Polk 38, Carlisle 36

Newton 35, Grinnell 7

West Marshall 44, West Central Valley 7

Martensdale St. Marys 44, Nodaway Valley 14

Coon Rapids-Bayard 60, Glidden-Ralston 18

ADM 31, Lewis Central 28

Winterset 41, Saydel 14

Fort Dodge 9, Le Mars 3

Interstate 35 20, Ogden 19

Clarinda 47, Woodward-Granger 0

Durant 27, EBF 24

Gilbert 55, Des Moines North 6

South Central Calhoun 26, Pocahontas 15

East Marshall 48, North Cedar 0

West Hancock 38, Belmond-Klemme 24

South Hardin 35, Central Springs 6

Seymour 37, Murray 36

Atlantic 35, Harlan 30

South Tama 52, Davis County 21

BGM 40, North Mahaska 0

Madrid 59, Colfax-Mingo 0

Lenox 55, Mormon Trail 0

AHSTW 6, Central Decatur 0

Newman Catholic 48, AGWSR 14

Grundy Center 49, Eagle Grove 0

St. Edmond 24, Kingsley-Pierson 20

English Valleys 80, Meskwaki 20

West Fork 55, Lake Mills 12

Riceville 62, Newell-Fonda 39

Colo-NESCO 44, GMG 6

Webster City 35, Algona 21

ACGC 55, Riverside 22

Clarksville 50, Collins-Maxwell 47

Bedford 73, Lamoni 0

Mount Ayr 43, Southwest Valley 0

Manson-NW Webster 41, South Hamilton 12

Carroll 63, Perry 7

Creston 42, Greene County 35

Lynnville-Sully 20, Earlham 14

Kuemper Catholic 35, Okoboji 0

Grand View Christian 12, Chariton 7

Montezuma 63, Baxter 28

Ar-We-Va 66, CAM 6

Pleasantville 56, Panorama 7

BCLUW 48, Postville 0

Roland-Story 62, Oelwein 6

Wayne 40, Southeast Warren 22

Pella Christian 50, Albia 8

Van Meter 49, Clarke 7

Iowa high school football score updates, highlights, stats and more from Week 8

Audubon on 100-point watch again

A week after dropping 86 points — 46 in the first quarter alone — Audubon has 60 at halftime against Exira-EHK.

Roland-Story blows open big lead with long touchdown run

Touchdown Norsemen! Cody Long hits a 54 yard run for the score. Faber PAT is good. 21-0 RS with 3:42 left in the first quarter. #iahsfb pic.twitter.com/ut6yT3x8Rn

— Roland Story Sports Scores (@RSNorseScores) October 18, 2025

Here's what else you need to know.

Game of the week

Our game of the week is another Top 10 matchup in Class 5A, with No. 3 West Des Moines Valley at No. 5 Ankeny.

The Tigers are 6-1 this season, with their only loss coming in Week 2 at No. 1-ranked Waukee Northwest, which is the only unbeaten team left in 5A. The Hawks are 4-2, with losses in Week 1 to Waukee Northwest and Week 6 at No. 7 Johnston.

If Ankeny can force a key turnover tonight against Valley, you might see this belt make an appearance. @SEhrhardtKCCI #iahsfb pic.twitter.com/cgQxr62Nah

— KCCI News (@KCCINews) October 17, 2025

We'll have a crew in Ankeny, where kickoff is at 7 p.m. at Northview Middle School in Ankeny.

Wild Card game

More than 1,500 people voted in this week's Wild Card contest on our Facebook page, with Earlham at Lynnville-Sully getting the most support.

We'll have a crew in Sully for the game between the 4-3 Cardinals and the 6-1 Hawks. Kickoff is at 7 p.m.

Thursday night scores

Indianola 38, Sioux City North 0

Ottumwa 20, Des Moines Roosevelt 18

Friday night football forecast

We'll see a high of 80 degrees in Des Moines Friday, with temps dipping to around 70 by the time high school football games kick off at 7 p.m. Grab a rain jacket, because there's a chance for showers most of the evening.

KCCI's latest weather forecast.

Iowa high school football livestreams for Week 8

Can't get out to the stadium Friday night? Check here to see if we have a livestream for your game.

Iowa high school football rankings

Below is a list of the top-ranked teams in all seven classes. Click here for full rankings.

A reminder: Class 5A, 4A and 3A all use RPI ratings based on the team's record, their opponents' combined record, and their opponents' opponents' record. The rest of the classes are determined by a rankings committee.

Stat leaders after Week 7

Here's a look at statistical leaders by class after Week 7 of the season.

Unbeaten teams after Week 7

Check out this list of Iowa high school football teams that have unblemished records after Week 7.

Homecoming season coming to an end

The busiest weeks for homecoming games are behind us, but there are still a few on the statewide schedule Friday, including:

Watch college football on KCCI

KCCI will carry CBS' Big Ten game every Saturday through November, plus the Iowa game at Nebraska on Friday, Nov. 28. See the games you can watch on KCCI this season.

Stream KCCI's 'Big College Kickoff' football show every Saturday morning on Very Local

You can watch KCCI's college football show, "Big College Kickoff," live on at 10:30 a.m. every Saturday through Nov. 29.

Very Local is a streaming channel that offers 24/7 access to KCCI news, weather, original series and more. Download the Very Local App for free on your Roku, Amazon Fire TV, or smartphone.

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Iowa high school football scores, IHSAA recap from Week 8

Week 8 of the Iowa high school football season is in the books.The Register had reporters and photographers scattered at stadiums across Iowa to bring fans the stories and photos from the games.Check out all that coverage and be sure to scroll below to see our full highlights and recap of the night.Iowa high school football scores, updates from Week 8 of the IHSAA seasonJohnston hangs on for a 2OT win over Southeast Polk.Rams went for two and the win after scoring a TD in the second overtime, but the pa...

Week 8 of the Iowa high school football season is in the books.

The Register had reporters and photographers scattered at stadiums across Iowa to bring fans the stories and photos from the games.

Check out all that coverage and be sure to scroll below to see our full highlights and recap of the night.

Iowa high school football scores, updates from Week 8 of the IHSAA season

Johnston hangs on for a 2OT win over Southeast Polk.

Rams went for two and the win after scoring a TD in the second overtime, but the pass fell incomplete to give Johnston the 38-37 victory on the road.

Check out our photos of Ankeny's win over Valley

Going to be a long night at PCM.

Big night for upsets in 5A.

Iowa City Liberty completes the season sweep over crosstown rivals.

A 44-31 win over Iowa City West a few weeks ago, now a dominant night vs. the Little Hawks.

Ankeny closing out a big win over Valley

Hawks with a 34-19 lead late in the fourth quarter.

First wave of final scores can be found here.

Check out the final scores here.

Read more about Roland-Story's first district title since 2008

Our Joe Randleman has more on the Norsemen's incredible season.

Linn-Mar pulls a 5A stunner

Linn-Mar halts Cedar Falls' six-game winning streak with a 21-13 win. Tigers came in ranked 8th and hadn't loss since Week 1 vs. Iowa City Liberty.

Incredible ending as Waukee upsets Waukee Northwest.

Warriors block a field goal in the final seconds to complete the upset. Our Alyssa Hertel will have plenty more coverage from this thriller.

Incredibe catch by Iowa State commit Jeffrey Roberts

Maroons with a 17-3 late in the third quarter.

Who doesn't love a good defensive battle?

Fort Dodge does as the Dodgers move to 7-1.

Wapsie Valley ends North Linn's unbeaten run with authority.

Both should still be tough outs in the playoffs.

A dominant night from Roland-Story clinches a district title.

Kuemper Catholic has its on eyes on the UNI-Dome after a perfect regular season

Second half underway in Ankeny

Hawks still have their 20-19 lead as both teams do nothing on their opening drives of the second half. Defense will likely be the key in who emerges victorious.

All even as the fourth quarter begins in Waukee.

Waukee surges ahead on this Jai White TD run.

Warrors have a 28-21 lead with nine minutes to go in the third.

Check out our photos from Roland-Story vs. Oelwein

More halftime scores rolling in.

Cedar Rapids Xavier showing why it's one of 4A's fiercest squads.

Saints have rolled to a 20-0 halftime advantage over Decorah in what is a high-end Class 4A showdown. Xavier drilled a 39-yard field goal on the final play of the half.

Low-scoring affair out at Valley Stadium so far.

Another significant 5A battle as Ankeny Centennial travels to Dowling Catholic. Jaguars have the early lead on a 34-yard field goal.

A bunch of halftime scores with Week 8 in full swing.

We've reached halftime in Waukee.

And we're right back where we started with things knotted 21-21 at the break. Crazy ending to the half as it looked like Waukee Northwest scored a TD off a fake field goal, but the Wolves were hit with an illegal formation to negate the play. Unsportsmanlike on the Waukee Northwest coach backed the Wolves up so much that a punt was needed.

Iowa Valley completes a dominant regular season and will be an 8-player force in the playoffs.

A 60-20 win over WACO keeps the Tigers unbeaten heading into the postseason.

Iowa commit Julian Manson making plays early for Iowa City West

A 70-yard TD reception that clanked off a Cedar Rapids Prairie defender's hands before Manson grabbed it. Trojans have a 21-14 advantage as halftime approaches.

An eventful first quarter in Ankeny after the lightning delay

Tigers still ahead early.

Iowa City Liberty taking control of its crosstown matchup.

Zeus trophy on the line in North Liberty as the Lightning look to continue ascending near the top of Class 5A. Reece Rettig's 26-yard TD run has Liberty up 17-7 over City High early in the second quarter. Follow our Marc Ray for updates all throughout that one.

Valley up early on Ankeny thanks to a botched snap

Certainly not the most conventional way to grab a 7-0 lad, but the Tigers will take it on the road.

Ankeny vs. Valley now underway.

Game of the night in Class 5A. Follow our Eli McKown for updates all throughout that one.

Good one brewing in Waukee.

Back and forth these neighborly rivals go. After Ben Case Haub put Waukee up early, Mack Heitland answers for the Wolves. It’s a 7-7 deadlock midway through the first quarter. Follow our Alyssa Hertel for updates the rest of the way.

Some early 1Q score updates

Lots of big plays early right out of the gates in Week 8

Week 8 of IHSAA football is underway

It's 7 p.m., which means Week 8 of Iowa high school football is underway.

Let's have some fun.

Valley-Ankeny kickoff pushed back to 7:15.

Imagine we’ll have a few delays with rain all over the Des Moines area.

Here's how to stream, listen to Week 8 high school football games in central Iowa

Week 8 of the 2025 Iowa high school football season is here, and some of the state's best matchups are in central Iowa.

If you can't make it out to a stadium this week, there are ways to watch and listen to many of central Iowa's top games. Here's a rundown of several viewing and listening options for Week 8 in central Iowa.

Iowa high school football Week 8 predictions

Who doesn't love predictions? The Register's lead high school sports writer, Alyssa Hertel, takes it upon herself to pick the winners from 10 of the most interesting games in the state each week. So far this season, she's gone 48-22 in her selections.

Click here to check out all 10 of her predictions for Week 8.

Check out our Iowa high school football rankings

Each Monday, we release a top-10 for all eight classes. Before the action gets rolling tonight, click here to see who makes our list in every class, from 5A to 8-player in Week 8.

Check out our Senior Superlative series

These stories are part of a series on the Des Moines Register’s top 10 Iowa high school football seniors. Each week until the end of the season, we will feature a different senior, showing readers a side of them that goes beyond the Friday night lights.

Check out our Week 8 preview coverage

Iowa high school football Week 8 schedule

There's a whole lot of action across the state tonight. Click here to check out the full statewide Week 6 schedule.

Iowa Geological Survey takes stock of Iowa levees to prevent future flooding events

Drive across the top of the levee; come back along the levee’s “toe” slope; pause when a flood wall or obstruction crosses the levee; move to the next section.This has been the methodology for the Iowa Geological Survey team members the past several fall seasons as they survey the geological integrity of Iowa’s 900 miles of levees.The crew is on year three of a five-year, legislatively directed initiative to assess levees across the state to help the state Office of Levee Safety to prioritize funding for...

Drive across the top of the levee; come back along the levee’s “toe” slope; pause when a flood wall or obstruction crosses the levee; move to the next section.

This has been the methodology for the Iowa Geological Survey team members the past several fall seasons as they survey the geological integrity of Iowa’s 900 miles of levees.

The crew is on year three of a five-year, legislatively directed initiative to assess levees across the state to help the state Office of Levee Safety to prioritize funding for repairs on the structures that help prevent flood damage.

Jason Vogelgesang, a geophysicist with Iowa Geological Survey, said the data collected with the survey helps to point out specific areas of a levee in need of repair, which can help to lower the cost to fix a levee.

“What we’re trying to do out here is find anomalous areas, or different areas, in the levees that could be a potential area of weakness,” Vogelgesang said.

He said this way, rather than tearing out an entire levee, a levee system can instead focus repairs to the areas that, based on geological data, could be more susceptible to failure in a flood event.

Vogelgesang and his colleague Thomas Doyle, also with the Iowa Geological Survey based at the University of Iowa, head out a couple of times a week during the fall, when the levees are usually mowed and accessible, to drive along the systems.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers defines a levee as “an earthen embankment, floodwall, or structure along a water course whose purpose is flood risk reduction or water conveyance.”

To start the surveying day, the crew rig up a set of PVC pipes on a side-by-side utility vehicle. A ground conductivity meter is then strapped to the PVC, which keeps the vehicle a safe distance from the meter and prevents it from interfering with the meter’s metal readings.

Vogelgesang said the meter is actually meant to be strapped over a shoulder and carried, but the Iowa Geological Survey team created the rig on the vehicle to more efficiently survey the hundreds of miles of levee systems across the state.

“It’s kind of an innovative method of collecting these data,” Vogelgesang said.

As he drives along the top of the levee, the meter sends an electrical current that penetrates the subsurface before it comes back up to the meter’s receiver. The current changes as it pass through the ground, which is how the geological team is able to determine the makeup of the subsurface.

The meter sends five readings per second, which are automatically collected via Bluetooth on a tablet inside the side-by-side.

The current travels 20 feet down, which Vogelgesang said shows his team “pretty much the whole swath of the levee.”

After driving along the top of the levee, the crew turns around and drives back along the levee’s “toe slope” or base of the embankment in the floodplain.

Vogelgesang said driving along the toe slope collects data on the geology below the levee, which can reveal things like a deposit of coarse sand, or a forgotten metal culvert, both of which could allow water to flow through if there were enough hydrological pressure.

When it comes to levee structures, and geological features below the levee, compact materials like clay are more secure. Sand- and gravel-based levees — which Vogelgesang said he has come across while doing the survey project — could be more likely to fail in the event of a flood.

Vogelgesang’s and Doyle’s Friday trip to Des Moines was the second time they had surveyed levees in the capital city. While they spent their day surveying about 10 miles of levees along the Raccoon River, Vogelgesang said two years ago, they surveyed levees along the eastern side of the Des Moines river.

Each year, the team aims to survey about 200 miles of levees. Vogelgesang said it takes a significant amount of legwork, before he shows up on site with the side-by-side to map the levees, figure out where obstructions could be and get permission from the cities and levee districts.

After the levees have been driven, Vogelgesang and his team spend the winter and spring processing and analyzing the thousands of generated data points. Each levee system, which encompasses the levees in the a given region or city, will receive a report from the geological survey about their levees.

Vogelgesang said these reports are also due to the Iowa Office of Levee Safety.

The office uses the geological findings to rate the levees on a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 meaning the levee has a “critical need for repair” and 1 meaning the levee is “optimal,” according to the office.

The geological survey of the levees, the Office of Levee Safety and a Levee Improvement Fund, which has an annual appropriation of $5 million from 2024 through 2028, were created in 2023 with the enactment of House File 711.

These programs comprise the Iowa Levee Improvement Program, which according to the 2024 Iowa Levee Safety report, has a goal of reducing and managing the risks associated with “a hazardous event caused by inadequate levee design, structural performance, or operational control.”

Under the program, levee districts can apply for cost-share funding to improve their levee systems. The levee ratings, issued by the Office of Levee Safety and informed by Vogelgesang’s surveys, are considered when the Iowa Flood Mitigation Board issues the funds.

Levee improvement program was established after a 2022 study found that “the current approach of managing and financing levee districts within the state of Iowa is unsustainable.”

The Iowa Levee Improvement Program is a step toward improving the state of Iowa’s levee structures, which help to control flooding events.

So far, the Iowa Geological Survey has driven and collected data on more than 300 miles of Iowa levees and will be over halfway done surveying at the end of the season.

The Office of Levee Safety has held several town halls, established the levee rating system and generated partnerships across levee districts to develop a “unified approach to flood risk management” according to the annual report.

“We are committed to continuous improvement, leveraging data-driven insights to enhance our initiatives and reinforce our response to flood events,” the annual report read.

Iowa superintendent detained by ICE falsely claimed he was a US citizen, indictment says

Des Moines, Iowa (AP) — The former superintendent of Iowa’s largest school district has been indicted by a federal grand jury after authorities said he falsely claimed to be a US citizen who was eligible to work.A two-count indictment returned Thursday evening by a federal grand jury in Des Moines charges Ian Roberts with one count of making a false statement for employment and one count of being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm.Roberts, who is originally from Guyana and worked for two de...

Des Moines, Iowa (AP) — The former superintendent of Iowa’s largest school district has been indicted by a federal grand jury after authorities said he falsely claimed to be a US citizen who was eligible to work.

A two-count indictment returned Thursday evening by a federal grand jury in Des Moines charges Ian Roberts with one count of making a false statement for employment and one count of being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm.

Roberts, who is originally from Guyana and worked for two decades in school districts across the country, was detained September 26 by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in a targeted operation.

Authorities said Roberts fled from agents in his district-issued Jeep Cherokee before being found in a wooded area. Roberts had a handgun wrapped in a towel inside the car, investigators said.

Des Moines Public Schools hired Roberts in 2023 to lead its district of about 30,000 students.

The indictment alleges that he made a “false attestation” on a US Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Eligibility Verification form, known as an I-9, claiming he was a US citizen when he knew he was not.

Roberts’ attorney, Alfredo Parrish, didn’t immediately return a phone message.

Federal authorities said an immigration judge issued a final removal order last year, and an appeal to reopen immigration proceedings was rejected earlier this year.

After his detention by ICE, Roberts was transferred to federal custody October 2 on an arrest warrant and charged with unlawfully possessing firearms while being in the US illegally. In addition to the one in his vehicle when he was arrested, three other weapons were found during a search of Roberts’ home, authorities said. The indictment mentions all four weapons, including two pistols, a rifle and a shotgun.

The district continues to face the fallout, filing a lawsuit against the consulting firm it used to facilitate the superintendent search in 2023.

After an AP investigation identified a history of Roberts’ school districts hiring a firm that marketed him as a consultant, Jackie Norris, school board chair, proposed a review of his expenditures in Des Moines. Norris also ended her campaign for US Senate on Thursday.

Paul McCartney makes Iowa fan’s birthday unforgettable during Des Moines stop

DES MOINES, Iowa —Hours before Paul McCartney's Des Moines stop in his Got Back Tour, the Beatles legend made one fan's birthday wish come true.Doors for the show opened at 6:30 p.m., but fans had already begun lining up outside the loading deck by 3 p.m. They ranged from younger fans to seasoned supporters."I woke up at 3 a.m. yesterday, traveled all day, and here I am now," said Megan Gray, who traveled from Utah for the show."He's the top of my Mount Rushmore," Jeremy ...

DES MOINES, Iowa —

Hours before Paul McCartney's Des Moines stop in his Got Back Tour, the Beatles legend made one fan's birthday wish come true.

Doors for the show opened at 6:30 p.m., but fans had already begun lining up outside the loading deck by 3 p.m. They ranged from younger fans to seasoned supporters.

"I woke up at 3 a.m. yesterday, traveled all day, and here I am now," said Megan Gray, who traveled from Utah for the show.

"He's the top of my Mount Rushmore," Jeremy Potirala of Beach Park, Illinois, said. "The music means a lot."

All of the roughly 40 fans gathered with the hope of catching a glimpse of the music legend as he arrived at the venue.

But no one wanted it more than Dan Myers, a lifelong fan from Sioux City who happened to be celebrating his 65th birthday.

"Every song has a personal meaning for me and every song is different," he said. "I sing along like I did 40 years ago to all these songs."

Tuesday's show marks the third time Myers has seen him in Des Moines — and the 19th time total.

He waited almost three hours in the cold and rain for a chance to see McCartney, and by some stroke of luck, he got his birthday wish:

Paul McCartney wished him a happy birthday as he rolled into the venue — and it might have been one of the best birthday gifts he could have asked for.

"It's just really cool to be that close to a living legend," Myers said.

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