May Proclaimed as Methamphetamine Prevention Month

Public Heath, Heartland Family Service members, and Board of Supervisors recognize Meth Prevention Month Proclamation

Posted May 1, 2026
Posted by Public Health and Public Relations

The Pottawattamie County Board of Supervisors has officially proclaimed May 2026 as Methamphetamine Prevention Month, highlighting the ongoing impact of methamphetamine use and the importance of prevention efforts across the community.

The proclamation was approved during the Board’s April 28 meeting, with presentations from prevention and public health professionals representing Heartland Family Services and Pottawattamie County Public Health.

Methamphetamine continues to pose a serious threat throughout Iowa and locally within Pottawattamie County. According to recent data shared during the meeting, stimulant-related overdoses are increasing, with psychostimulants like methamphetamine now surpassing opioids as the leading cause of overdose deaths in the state.

In 2025 alone, Iowa reported 198 psychostimulant-related deaths.

Prevention specialists also noted that methamphetamine today is significantly more potent than in the past, increasing the risk of addiction and overdose.

“Meth is so highly addictive—even after first use—that prevention and early intervention are critical,” said Jordan Ranta, Infection Preventionist with Pottawattamie County Public Health.

Local context further underscores the challenge. Due to its proximity to Omaha—identified as a major drug distribution hub—Southwest Iowa experiences increased exposure to drug trafficking activity, placing additional pressure on local law enforcement and prevention efforts.

Despite these challenges, community partners emphasized the strength of local collaboration.

Heartland Family Services prevention staff highlighted the importance of equipping community members with actionable resources, noting that prevention efforts must go beyond awareness and empower individuals, families, and organizations to take meaningful steps.

“Our goal is to not just share data, but to help people take action,” Christy Hagen, Prevention Specialist with Heartland Family Service, shared during the meeting.

Prevention efforts in Pottawattamie County focus heavily on youth education, community partnerships, and increasing awareness of the risks associated with methamphetamine use, including the growing presence of fentanyl in combination with other substances.

The Board of Supervisors also recognized the ongoing work of local organizations and first responders, including Heartland Family Service, Pottawattamie County Public Health, and area law enforcement agencies, for their role in prevention, education, and response efforts.

Through this proclamation, Pottawattamie County encourages residents, organizations, and community partners to take part in Methamphetamine Prevention Month by: