There are real benefits to the by-product. For some, water quality concerns are impossible to separate from other considerations about the future of rural life in Iowa. A diversified family farmer who uses manure for fertilizer will always be better than an industrial producer that sees it as a waste to be gotten rid of as cheaply as possible. The debate over livestock operations will continue, and the Iowa Environmental Council will play a critical role in that discussion with its commitment to protect and improve water quality in the state. Much is at stake.
Water quality is vital for human and ecological health as well as economic prosperity.
Continued research, education, and technical assistance are keys. We also need adequate funding, monitoring, and enforcement as well as citizen involvement.