Renewable fuels are everyone’s business

To the editor:

Iowans understand the responsibility of hosting the Iowa caucuses. It's a privilege to ask those who run for the presidency questions about their vision for America. The conversation between candidates and Iowans is beginning to broaden. We agree the economy, national security and health care play significant roles in our lives. Still unclear are other issues that impact the future of our state.

Let's talk about wind and solar energy and conservation and land stewardship and preserving our natural resources. Iowans feed the world. We do not stop there. With the advent of new technologies, we're helping to power the world. Iowa is a national leader in wind production. More than 25 percent of electricity generated in the state comes from wind turbines. The economic impact of wind energy benefits land owners, energy companies, consumers and the workforce. More than 6,000 Iowa jobs are tied to wind energy and wind yields more than $16 million annually in lease payments to landowners. What's more, wind energy cuts water waste, saving an estimated 3.2 billion gallons of Iowans water annually.

We are poised to see growth in Iowa's solar power industry, bringing greater energy security, job opportunities and savings. It is important presidential candidates understand the significance these energy sources play in powering Iowa's lights and economy, while conserving our water, soil and the air we breathe. We encourage you to share the positive things happening in Iowa and ask the candidates if they share our vision.

Adam Pitts

Iowa Stewardship Alliance

Cherokee