Caucus for wind, soil and water

On Monday Iowans head to the caucuses to meet and discuss important issues and then cast their votes in the first presidential contest of 2016. And while there is a long list of topics to consider, it's crucial that protecting Iowa's natural resources is among them.

Over the next few years, states will focus more and more on reducing their carbon emissions and using more renewable energy. A big goal of this effort is to reduce pollution, and protect natural resources like air and water.

Rural Iowans know the importance of being good stewards of the land, and how decisions made now about natural resources will greatly impact the future. For Iowa to continue being a leader in agriculture, as well as preserve the land for future generations, it's key to use this opportunity to make certain protecting our natural resources is part of the 2016 electoral conversation.

Moreover, Iowa continues to be a leader in the wind energy industry, and reap the benefits of renewable energy development, while other states work to reduce pollution and bring new renewable energy online. As candidates wrap up their numerous trips across the state, there is an opportunity to pose these topics to them, see where they stand on these crucial issues, and find out what their administrations would do to ensure that the citizens of Iowa have clean air and water. Candidates should also explain what they would do to keep the renewable energy industry booming, and what they will do to help Iowans pass on the tradition of good stewardship of Iowa's land, soil and water.

Continuing the great work that Iowans have already accomplished will require them to speak up. Candidates need to hear the voices of Iowans on these issues.

' Lu Nelsen is an energy and climate program associate for the Center for Rural Affairs. Comments: lucasn@cfra.org