Letter: Work together to solve water quality issues

We are all aware of the water quality and flooding issue that Iowa faces and know that steps are being implemented to reduce the impact that is sustained when we get hammered with the big rainstorms that are occurring too often. I am a former farmer (42 years), but now renting to my nephew. I have been a strong believer and supporter of sound conservation practices (27-year member, Buchanan County Conservation Board) and can see the conflicting issues involving both sides of this problem.

One of the efforts to help control the flooding issue is to keep as much water as possible high on the watershed areas of our streams. I understand the need to do that and know in the process tile systems are going to be impacted. Many acres that are highly productive will become swamps and large areas beyond that will be impacted by tile outlets that can no longer function properly. The resulting impact on productivity and land values in these areas will be overwhelming.

I feel that our government, both state and federal, must be prepared to properly compensate the people who have made huge investments in the land and residences that are adversely affected. This should be considered as a good insurance investment by people who live in and the businesses operating in the flood areas downstream.

Funding the Conservation Trust Fund would be a big step in the right direction. We all need to work together to solve problems which affect everybody.

Max Grover

Rowley