Iowa jobs, economy and way of life are rooted in our abundant natural resources. Our rich soils, plentiful water and other natural assets make Iowa a great place for agriculture and energy production, while offering a good quality of life and recreational opportunities.
Perhaps that is why 96 percent of Iowans agree that it is important to maintain a clean environment, according to a recent survey by Keep Iowa Beautiful.
We’ve had a couple of banner years when it comes to our state’s natural resources. The Legislature voted last year to invest in programs and partnerships with farmers, landowners and communities, which are now implementing science-based and technology-based practices to clean up Iowa’s lakes and streams.
This year, Governor Branstad vetoed more than $20 million for water quality and natural resources initiatives approved by the Legislature. Despite that veto, the remaining funding will be used to educate Iowans about ways to improve our soil and water, and will enable more urban and rural landowners to join the clean-up efforts.
Other successes this year include:
• Helping farmers quickly and cost-effectively implement soil and water improvements by allowing the equipment to install conservation practices on Iowa roads.
• Increasing funding for forestry health to help communities prepare for the impact of the Emerald Ash Borer on Iowa’s woodlands.
• Investing in innovative technologies that reduce pollution and increase the efficiency of Iowa’s renewable fuels industry.
• Leveraging private, local and federal money to improve our environment through REAP, Iowa’s popular Resource Enhancement and Protection Program.
• Revitalizing our lakes through local community projects that offer Iowans a good return on investment with improved water quality, a healthy aquatic community and sustained public-use benefits.
• A strong commitment to the Environment First Fund, which supports operations at our state parks, conservation help for farmers and landowners, community beautification and development plans, and more.