Place encompasses ideas of identity, environment, and community. These are topics that are important to gaining a better understanding of society. In researching sustainability in the Iowa River watershed focus was given to theories of place and ideas about sustainability of community and place; taking into account the many factors that affect place construction and identity including context within a larger geographical area, integration of new immigrants, and outside influences. A foundation was created that included knowledge on the agricultural landscape, general information on the Iowa River Watershed and an overview of identities within the Cedar Rapids and Iowa City area and surrounding cities and towns. Columbus Junction, IA is used as an example within the watershed of a town that can be explored by looking at place within a web of relationships. Changes that have occurred within Columbus Junction over the last twenty years and their impacts on the town are considered. Ultimately, it seems that the town has been able to adapt and incorporate change into their community and identity. More research must be done on ideas of place and sustainability in other towns within the watershed, but this may still serve to inform plans for sustainability.