Two environmental groups, Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement and Food & Water Watch, filed a lawsuit yesterday suing the state of Iowa claiming the state has violated its obligation to protect the Raccoon River for the use and benefits of Iowans . This lawsuit comes as a disappointment to Iowa farmers as it will be costly and cause scarce resources to be reallocated from current water quality projects without any guarantee of improving our waters.
“Iowa farmers are aware of the role we play in our state’s quality of life, this includes the water we share. By implementing Iowa’s nutrient reduction strategy, we embrace the best science and rely on years of experience to collaborate in results that better our water,” stated Iowa Corn Growers Association® President Curt Mether, a farmer from Logan. “Farmers will continue to work together to achieve the best long-term solutions for our soil and water while feeding the world.”
“At a time when farmers are struggling financially and also from historic flooding, this lawsuit is a low blow to farmers” continued Mether. “It will divert resources from implementing conservation practices and helping our farmers recover from the latest natural disaster.”
The Iowa Corn Growers Association has partnered with farmers and agricultural stakeholder in projects targeted at improving water quality for all Iowans such as the National Corn Growers Association’s Soil Health Partnership and Iowa Agriculture Water Alliance.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Brandi Snyder, Public Relations Manager, bsnyder@iowacorn.org, 515-225-9242