Maura Curran
News FellowMaura Curran is IPR's 2026-2027 News Fellow. Curran has experience reporting, producing and photographing stories in Springfield, Mo. She has reported on education, business, the environment and culture for news outlets in Iowa and Missouri. Curran has a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Missouri State University.
Expertise: Culture, education, business and environment
Education: Missouri State University
Favorite Iowa Destination: Des Moines Art Center
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Researchers presented their findings from the Central Iowa Basic Income Pilot in Des Moines. Their study looked at how participants used monthly $500 payments, and how it affected their well-being and goals.
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Changes to the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) will start on June 14. The bus system currently has 27 routes that are being consolidated into 10 main ones.
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The Iowa Wildlife Federation promotes the national program, which helps people certify their yards and other outdoor spaces as healthy habitats for local wildlife.
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Broadlawns Medical Center's new mobile clinic aims to increase access to dementia care and testing for underserved populations in Polk County.
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Nine Des Moines metro communities are participating in the Ride Safe n’ Smart campaign to promote safe riding practices in public spaces. E-bikes and other electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular, which is raising concerns about public safety on trails and sidewalks.
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The newly built homes are located within two areas being redeveloped in Des Moines. A buyer has been identified for one of the homes, and applications are open until May 25 for the other two.
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For the last century, Roosevelt High School’s synchronized swimming team has fostered a community for women both in and out of the water. This year marks the Sharks’ 100th anniversary, making them the oldest club of their kind.
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A study by Iowa State University researchers found that using industrial soap to clean plastic in recycling transferred chemicals from the plastic to the water. The findings could help processors remove harmful chemicals from the final recycled product.
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The Iowa departments that oversee emergency management and insurance are urging people to prepare for natural disasters before they hit during Severe Weather Awareness Week. The statewide initiative encourages Iowans to “prepare now, recover faster.”
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The Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge in Prairie City shared plans to reopen its visitor center, which has been closed for nearly two years due to major damage caused by a severe hailstorm. It's also seeking public input as it reevaluates what educational opportunities it can offer.