The first comprehensive study on the health of the Iowa “Great Lakes” is underway in northwest Iowa. Arnold Vander Valk runs the Iowa Lakeside Laboratory along West Okoboji Lake. Vander Valk says the first part of the study involves volunteers taking samples in the 10 lakes.He says the second part of the study examines the impact of conservation measures already taken around the lake to reduce the inflow of nutrients.Vander Valk says there’s only been sporadic studies of the quality of the lakes in the past. He says the study has philosophical and economic implications. He calls the lakes one of the most important natural resources in the state and says they underline the economy of all of northwest Iowa.He says they’re trying to pull together a database of information on the lakes.Vander Valk says the study should help them plan action for improving and preserving the lakes.