Support HF 2029 for water quality

I am writing this letter in support of House File 2029 which has been introduced to the Iowa House Environmental Protection Committee. This bill is critical to the improvement of Iowa’s water quality by requiring the establishment of riparian protection and funding. Iowa’s rivers, creeks and lakes are degraded. One of the best measures for the prevention of soil, farm chemicals and animal waste runoff into our streams and lakes is the establishment of buffer strips 30 to 50 feet wide between the farm fields and bodies of water.

Living on the bank of the Wapsipinicon River, I was amazed at the abundance of wildlife in and around the water. I cannot envision living in a state devoid of wildlife! The river was a source of recreation with boating, children playing in the water, kayaking and fishing popular pastimes. The campground, located on the riverbank, was always full in the spring, summer and fall.

The University of Minnesota and University of Iowa are collaborating on a women’s study evaluating nitrate intake from drinking water and cancer risk. They found women with higher average nitrate levels in their water supplies had an increased risk for several types of cancers.

Due to the importance of clean water as a vital resource for human consumption, recreation and wildlife sustainability, I have requested the Environmental Protection Committee assign this bill to a subcommittee to begin the process of moving the bill forward. Public support is necessary for the advancement of this bill.

Elaine Hughes

Independence