Water quality deserves attention

To the editor:

Iowa's water quality is an important issue that should be properly addressed for the safety of our water supply and the impact on the environment. The nutrient reduction strategy in place since 2013 is insufficient due to lack of regulation of agriculture.

Ninety-five percent of Iowa is covered in farmland, which is the No. 1 source of nitrates and nutrient runoff. With proper education and funding, farmers will be better able to address the negative impact nutrient runoff is having on the water supply and environment.

Subsidizing farmers to plant low-cost cover crops such as alfalfa or winter wheat will greatly reduce nutrient runoff, thus improving water quality and lowering nitrate levels. The quality of water impacts Iowans, agriculture and the environment.

When nutrient runoff is properly addressed, we can all benefit from a cleaner water supply.

Benjamin Beem

Cedar Rapids