Letter: Fight for cleaner water in Iowa

The public needs to be aware of the health risks from nitrate contamination in our water.

It has been linked to thyroid cancer, hair loss and rashes. Blue green algae, a byproduct of nitrate fertilizer runoff, produces toxins that can cause throat and sinus damage and liver failure. Wetlands used by farmers help prohibit nitrates from getting in our water.

The Obama administration finalized a Clean Water Rule to protect our waterways and provide clean water which is necessary for public health, our economy, and wildlife but our governor has joined a lawsuit opposing this rule, putting Iowans and our natural habitat at risk.

Please act by letting our governor know that he should not fight for dirty water, but for clean water instead.

Diane Dougherty

Marion