Bond will help address flooding

Thanks to Marion and Rich Patterson for their excellent column on the need for natural floodwater storage (”Flood offers us an opportunity to lead,” Oct. 5). As they correctly point out, it is time to quit talking and studying and begin doing something.

Fortunately, the Linn County Conservation Board has taken steps to do just that. Before the recent flood, the conservation board had decided it was past time to start investing in natural floodwater storage, clean water, wetlands and more natural areas. This foresight and leadership is needed now more than ever. Together, we can make investments that help protect and improve our community and its environment.

The proposed Linn County Water and Land Legacy Bond is perfectly positioned to do precisely what the Pattersons correctly recommend - stop talking and start taking action. Thanks to the Pattersons for their thoughtful words and to the conservation board for taking the much-needed first step.

The money from this proposal gives other conservation groups, local, state and federal, the opportunity to contribute money toward projects, which will greatly increase the value of the dollars available. As a former conservation board member, I have seen firsthand how the board and its staff work together to maximize dollars to realize the maximum impact.

Please join me on Nov. 8 by voting yes on Public Measure 'E” on the back of the ballot - the Linn County Water and Land Legacy Bond.

John Lindstrom

Past Linn County Conservation Board member

Cedar Rapids