Ask candidates about filling the trust fund

As Iowa's landscape comes alive this Summer with so much abundant life everywhere, I find myself thinking about just how beautiful our state is - and how important it is we keep it that way.

From the Missouri River Valley to the Mississippi, Iowa is rich in natural resources and areas ripe for outdoor recreation. We must be good stewards of the land, water and wildlife they support.

In 2010, 63 percent of Iowans voted to create the Natural Resources and Outdoor Recreation Trust Fund. Nine years later, it still sits empty due to a lack of action on the part of our elected officials to pass the legislation necessary to fill it.

This election cycle, Iowans have an opportunity to help make this state a better place to live, work and enjoy. I have a favor to ask of each of you.

Ask all candidates and elected officials what they will do to protect Iowa's natural resources. Ask them what they intend to do to measurably restore our lakes and waterways. Ask them if they support funding the Natural Resources and Outdoor Recreation Trust Fund. Ask them what they are going to do about climate change.

Then, only vote for candidates who believe in long term solutions- and those who understand that a healthy Iowa is the most important thing that we can leave for our children and grandchildren.

Mike Wyrick

Cedar Rapids