Moving the fight for clean water forward

The water crisis in Iowa will be on full display as summer approaches. Massive amounts of pig manure dumped on fields during the harsh winter will result in closed beaches, high nitrates in drinking water sources, algae blooms and boil orders.

We lost a water champion with the passing of Bill Stowe, general manager of the Des Moines Water Works. He didn't leave us with just his example of integrity and public service. He left us with a mission he fearlessly focused on every day: To fight tooth and nail to restore water quality.

Water quality affects all Iowans. We know if we don't fight the industrial pork producers, they will continue expanding across the state, causing degradation of our water quality. And the Legislature will continue to allow corporate profits to come before everyday people. That's why Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement (CCI) filed a lawsuit against the state, to move the fight for clean water forward.

As we move ahead, Bill's voice is reassuring, and I can hear his familiar refrain, 'Lean into the wind.”

Cherie Mortice

Iowa CCI Board President

Des Moines