Protect Iowa’s natural beauty

To the editor:

One of the greatest advantages to living in Iowa is the ability to enjoy four distinct seasons and partake in a variety of outdoor sporting and recreation opportunities. Whether it is fishing and boating in the spring and summer, hunting in the fall, or snowmobiling in the winter, Iowa has a lot to offer. Iowans understand the need to protect our natural resources. That is why 63 percent of voters supported the creation of the Natural Resources and Outdoor Recreation Trust Fund in 2010. The intent of the ballot initiative was to provide a constant source of funding for the management of Iowa's natural resources.

In 2015, the Iowa Legislature will have the opportunity to fully fund the trust. Once it has passed, the fund's revenue will be permanent and constitutionally protected, and not subject to the whims or budget challenges of any particular year. It is expected to raise $150 million annually and all dollars will be subject to strict accountability and transparency measures.

Iowa's landscape is too important to ignore. Waiting is no longer an option, and we owe it to our children and grandchildren to protect Iowa's natural beauty. As a sportsman and conservationist who has volunteered with Jones County Ducks Unlimited for 35 years, I say the need is great and the time is now. Let's get to work!

Bob Shimanek

Monticello