I will say that I hardly ever do this, but I had a conversation and received an email this weekend and it got me thinking that someone must take the lead on this. I believe that a weekly email message is about all most people can stand and so two times a week is pushing it, and I appreciate those who really like my messages and apologize for pushing the limits with 2 this week.
As your State Representative, I’ve seen firsthand the toll that flooding takes on our communities. Over the past 30 years, every single Iowa county has faced at least one FEMA-declared flooding event, with over half of our 99 counties enduring 10 or more. Nationally, the numbers are staggering—between 1980 and 2025, the U.S. has racked up $206 billion in flood damages, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Floods are part of Iowa’s story, just as they’ve been part of our nation’s history. But what troubles me is how quickly we move on after the waters recede, acting as if the problem’s gone. Folks, it’s not. As a lifelong conservation advocate and your representative, I’m convinced we can’t keep ignoring this. Over the next 30 years, every county will face flooding again—many multiple times. We’ve got to act now.
Reducing flood damage isn’t just a good idea; it’s a necessity. The good news? We know what works. It’ll take investment and commitment, but the payoff is worth it. Better yet, the steps we take to curb flooding also clean up our water, making our rivers and lakes healthier for everyone.
Let’s cut through a common misconception: conservation doesn’t mean sacrificing farmland. Practices like wetland restoration, cover crops, prairie strips, no-till farming, relay cropping, and filter strips can reduce runoff and flooding while keeping our farms productive. Take wetlands, for instance. They act like natural sponges, soaking up water and releasing it slowly. We’ve lost 95% of Iowa’s wetlands, draining away nature’s flood protection. Studies show that 10% of most properties lose money when farmed—often the wet, low-yielding spots. Restoring wetlands on that ground isn’t just smart for flood control; it’s good business.
Then there’s cover crops, like rye or clover, planted in the off-season. They hold soil in place, boost its health, and let more water soak in, cutting runoff. Prairie strips—narrow bands of native grasses and wildflowers—can slash runoff by up to 40% while supporting pollinators and wildlife. No-till farming and relay cropping further protect soil and reduce erosion, keeping water where it belongs. These aren’t pie-in-the-sky ideas; they’re proven tools that work on Iowa’s farms today.
Now, I know what you’re thinking: this sounds expensive. You’re not wrong—there’s an upfront cost. But programs like the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) and Iowa’s Water Quality Initiative offer cost-sharing and technical support to make it doable. Plus, the long-term savings from less flood damage and healthier soil often tip the scales. This isn’t just about spending money; it’s about investing in our future.
We can’t do this alone. It’ll take farmers, landowners, local leaders, and everyday Iowans working together. Counties can update zoning to protect flood-prone areas and invest in things like permeable pavements that soak up rainwater. We need to spread the word about these practices and get communities involved in watershed projects. This is about all of us—rural and urban—pulling together for Iowa.
We can’t wait for the next flood to hit. The solutions are here, backed by science, and they bring benefits beyond flood control—cleaner water, stronger farms, and thriving wildlife. As your representative, I’m fighting for policies and funding to make this happen, but I need you with me. Talk to your neighbors, try these practices on your land, support local conservation efforts, and let your elected officials know you want action.
Together, we can reduce flooding, protect our communities, and build an Iowa that’s ready for whatever comes next. I’m all in—will you join me?
