I have lived in Johnson County for nearly 50 years, and I have seen how it has changed over the years. Our urban communities continue to grow, while our rural populations have dwindled. Small to medium-sized farms have been replaced by factory hog farms and row crops polluting our waters and contributing to many health issues, including skyrocketing cancer rates in Iowa.

As a member of Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement, I’m glad to be part of an organization focusing on water quality and the health outcomes of Iowans. Everyday Iowans know we should be able to enjoy our lakes and streams and be able to turn on the tap without fear of contamination.

One solution we want front and center is support for a mandatory nutrient reduction strategy. We know all too well that voluntary doesn’t work.

Iowa adopted a voluntary nutrient reduction program in 2013 allowing farmers to opt in to conservation practices through their local Farm Service Agency. In the 13 years since we have only seen our water quality worsen along with our health outcomes. Putting more money into these programs is like pouring water into a bucket with a hole in the bottom. Iowans are ready for clear common sense mandatory programs that protect our health and water and reign in the reckless practices of extractive industrial agriculture.

If we want to correct our course to a better Iowa for future generations, we have to start in our communities by talking to friends and neighbors about leaving behind what hasn’t served us and advocating real solutions to city and county officials.

Helene Hembreiker

Iowa City, Iowa

Iowa CCI