Iowa Drought Preparations As we have been clearing snow from the recent snow storms there is a silver lining, much needed moisture! Clean water is a precious commodity throughout the world and Iowa is fortunate to have an ample supply in most years. Iowans recognize the vital role that water plays in growing the economy and feeding the world. That is why the 2012 drought was particularly hard to stomach, as it affected everything from business and agriculture to municipal water supplies. Droughts have adverse effects on our state, and the Iowa Department of Agriculture and the Department of Natural Resources work diligently each year to provide accurate precipitation predictions. Last year statewide precipitation was about nine inches below normal and the state experienced one of the worst droughts in half a century. The DNR is predicting that in 2013 Iowa will have another situation during which demand for water exceeds supply, hopefully the recent storm and rains will continue; however it is important for Iowa to be appropriately prepared for a natural disaster of this sort.

Nutrient Reduction Strategy in Iowa We all should be thankful for the fruitful land that we live on here in Iowa. Agriculture is the backbone of our economy and has kept our economy strong. The livelihood of Iowa farmers depends on responsible land stewardship, and Iowa has excellent practices in place to ensure we retain soil nutrients and protect waterways. These practices allow Iowans greater control over land issues like nutrient reduction, and discourage the federal government from coming into the state and overregulating our businesses and agricultural practices. Iowa’s agriculture-driven economy will continue to thrive as we develop innovative solutions to deal with our problems.

GOOD NEWS FOR TAX SEASON  I have gotten some emails saying I get too partisan in my weekly columns. I always try to communicate the facts and as I was taught by my father to call a spade a spade. Well the good news is that senate democrats and republicans did some good work together this last week. The Iowa Senate unanimously voted in favor of SF 106, a bill […]