Letter: Water quality programs already exist

I read an article in The Gazette regarding legislation on water quality ('Quick action expected on water quality,” Jan. 4). It appeared from the article that there may be several expensive programs proposed. With the budget crunch I'm not sure how we afford new programs, especially when we can't afford a forestry bureau as some would have us believe.

There already exists federal programs that if properly utilized and implemented would do a great job of improving our water quality and improving air quality as well. These programs include the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQUIP), Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), and Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). Also, there is the Iowa Resource Enhancement and Protection program (REAP).

We do not need to reinvent the wheel. We need a bureau to seek out and promote the proper utilization of these funded programs to support the water quality goals. Cut the bureaucracy involved with establishing new programs.

We need to make sure legislative bodies are aware of these existing programs and push for funds and an organization to promote and properly use these programs.

Larry Wiley

Palo