Greene County knows the value of agriculture. Our farmers work hard, doing the best they can for their land and their communities while the industry demands that they produce more and more. Farmer stress is real as input prices rise but prices for the crops do not keep up. At the same time, water quality, especially nitrates in drinking water, has become a top issue for voters. Diversifying our farms, gaining access to land, and bringing in a next generation of farmers are often cited as necessary goals for the future of Iowa’s agriculture.
Chris Jones, Democratic candidate for Iowa Secretary of Agriculture, has a vision and a plan for that future. It is one in which the work of prosperous farmers enhances the quality of life for all Iowans, rural life is rekindled, and the migration of young people to big cities and distant states is reversed.
The Secretaries of Agriculture we have had in the past decades claimed they were working for the farmers when in fact they were working for the multinational corporations. Chris Jones’ opponent and agribusiness will claim that he blames all our problems on farmers. Listen to him, and you will hear that this is not the case. Chris recognizes that the interests, needs, and goals of farmers are not the same as the industry that wants farmers to increase supply which in turn lowers prices and damages the health of people and the environment.
I have met Chris several times. He is a caring, sincere person who only wants the best for Iowa – our farmers and citizens, our rivers and lakes, our fields and woodlands. You can meet Chris at the Greene County Fair on Friday, July 10 at 5pm.
Patti Naylor, Churdan
