Let's talk about dirt, John.Iowa has a lot of dirt, and it brought settlers to Iowa in the early 1800s who were looking for rich, dark soil that was perfect for growing all sorts of crops. It's the same soil that farmers use today.

But something has changed. Iowa's soil is disappearing.

You can see it when you drive across Iowa — the fence posts that cut through farmland are always higher than the surrounding fields, but when those posts were placed, they were at the same level. The difference is not that the posts are built up, it's that soil is eroding.

It's estimated that in 1850 Iowa's topsoil was around 14 inches in depth, but today the soil is estimated to be less than seven inches deep. The topsoil is vital to our state, and half of it is missing. This vital layer of dirt traps water, making our state more drought resilient; it provides nutrients for crops, reducing the amount of nitrogen-based fertilizers we need; and, it is home to trillions and trillions of microorganisms, all of which make farming possible.

Through over-tilling and erosion from water and wind, Iowans are losing one of their most important natural resources. Our state has programs to help revitalize and preserve our soil, but more needs to be done. Federal Farm Bill programs need to prioritize soil health and we need to match that at the state level.

We rely on a healthy environment — on healthy soil — and it is our responsibility to ensure that those who come after us can rely on it as well. So, on this Earth Day, let's work together to protect our environment and to protect the soil that each of us benefits from.

Stand Tall for All,

J.D.

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