Our state picks corporations over people

The Iowa Department of Natural Resource's mission statement is 'to conserve and enhance our natural resources in cooperation with individuals and organizations to improve the quality of life in Iowa and ensure a legacy for future generations.” Mission failed. Miserably.

On June 10, the Iowa DNR steamrollered small-town Grinnell and approved another unwanted hog confinement in Poweshiek County without consulting the Board of Supervisors, the neighboring family century farms, or the public. They didn't even visit the site, which is less than 2,300 feet from Cecil Rivers Timber, a public conservation area. On June 11, the County Supervisors sent out letters to neighboring farms. Local leaders want to hear our voices, but the state never listens. One man alone decides for us.

What's even worse: it's completely legal. As Iowans, we've had our entire state - our voice, democracy, and natural resources - bought out by corporations. J.B. Grinnell and other pioneers settled on this sacred heartland for the clean rivers and clear sky. But 150 years later, we cough with the stench of manure and can't cool off in a pond after a summer day. Our state should protect us. This place could be like Heaven … today, it is just hog-stinking Iowa.

Tommy Hexter

Grinnell