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Iowa Ag Secretary And CEO Of ISA Disappointed With Lack Of Long-Term Conservation Planning By State Legislators

State lawmakers worked late into Friday night and were back at it Saturday morning to finalize the nearly $7.2 billion state budget before adjourning the 86th General Assembly, but they failed to come together on a more concrete, long-term water quality funding plan. Iowa Secretary of Agriculture, Bill Northey, said he is proud of the fact that Iowa is routinely recognized as a national leader for the collaborative, research-based efforts enacted to improve water quality. He is grateful for the $10.5 million that was approved for fiscal year 2018 initiatives and soil conservation efforts, but says he is disappointed the Legislature was not able to reach an agreement on long-term goals. “We will continue the important work of reaching out and working with all Iowans to achieve the water quality goals we share,” Northey said. Kirk Leeds, CEO of the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) says, “This year’s legislative session was a missed opportunity to act boldly on improving Iowa’s water.” He joins Northey is voicing his dissatisfaction with any real long-term solutions from Iowa’s leaders. This, however, Leeds says, will not hinder his organizations conservation efforts. “ISA will continue to be a leader in advancing farmer-led efforts throughout the state that benefit soil, water and ag productivity,” he said. “And ISA will seek continued partnerships with farmers and cities to make real progress on conservation to the benefit of all Iowans.”

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