Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

Bettendorf native Chris Andersen, an experienced aerial firefighter, died when his helicopter crashed while battling the Widemouth 2 Fire in Utah over the weekend and his co-pilot Miles Elliott also lost his life.

Sugarland is set to perform in Cedar Rapids this fall for 'The Ride or Die' Tour with a concert at Alliant Energy Powerhouse on Oct.

22 — tickets go on sale Aug. 14 and a free ticket contest runs until Sept. 27.

The USDA report shows 78% of Iowa's corn crop is in good to excellent condition as the 2026 season winds down.

Lance Lillobridge, a farmer near Vinton, said timely rains boosted soil moisture and maintained healthy crop conditions.

NASA has partnered with the University of Iowa and water utilities including Des Moines Water Works to forecast nitrate levels using satellite data and AI (advanced computing).

The three-year project led by IIHR-Hydroscience will give operators of the Raccoon River treatment plant extra days to prepare for nitrate surges.

The city will host an informational meeting on the 8th Ave Bridge project to explain plans to demolish the 89-year-old bridge and build a new cable-supported structure.

The meeting is set for Aug. 26 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the City Services Center at 500 15th Ave SW.

Campers will be able to reserve Linn County Conservation campgrounds up to one year in advance in 2027, with campsites open from April 15 to October 15.

The change will end cash and check payments to help plan ahead for busy camping seasons at campgrounds (Pinicon Ridge, Wanatee, Morgan Creek, Buffalo Creek).