Like many farmers, I understand how important clean water is to our state and the people who call it home.

Like many of my peers, I also understand that our citizens depend on me for more than just the beef I produce on Pinhook Farm. I’m not only responsible for the cattle that leave my farm, but I’m responsible for the water that leaves my land as well. 

I was disappointed to see the data highlighted in a recent analysis of the Nutrient Reduction Strategy by the Iowa Environmental Council, which shows that with the current voluntary approach, the NRS won’t achieve its goals in my lifetime or even my children’s. It’s even more disheartening when you consider that it’s farmers and rural communities who will be hurt most from this slow pace.