City of Cedar Rapids Receives Leadership in Conservation Award for Outstanding Contributions to Iowa Agriculture

City of Cedar Rapids Receives Leadership in Conservation Award for Outstanding Contributions to Iowa Agriculture

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig recently recognized organizations and entities making exceptional contributions to the state’s agriculture community. Naig presented the awards to the City of Cedar Rapids and others during the 10th annual Iowa Agriculture Leaders dinner held at the FFA Enrichment Center in Ankeny on March 8. Cedar Rapids received the Leadership in Conservation Award.

“Over the 10 years of the Iowa Agriculture Leader Awards, we have recognized people and organizations that are making a difference for our farmers and rural communities,” said Secretary Naig. “I am proud to continue that tradition this year by recognizing outstanding leaders who champion conservation, build new markets for Iowa products and engage the next generation of agriculture leaders.”

The City of Cedar Rapids has been working alongside the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, farmers and county and local officials to implement conservation practices since 2015 when the Middle Cedar Partnership Projected was launched. These successful partnerships have grown to include the Cedar River Source Water Regional Conservation Partnership Project, the Midwest Ag Water Quality Regional Conservation Project and the recently announced Cedar River Clean Water Partnership. These conservation efforts help prevent soil and nutrient losses to improve water quality for the city and their neighbors downstream.

“When landowners implement conservation practices, not only does their soil health benefit, but our water quality benefits as well,” said Cedar Rapids Mayor Tiffany O’Donnell. “Because agriculture fuels a significant portion of our economy, we are proud to focus on partnership efforts that benefit farmers, local industries and Cedar Rapids residents, all at the same time.”

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About the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship

Led by Secretary Mike Naig, the Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship serves the rural and urban residents that call Iowa home. Through its 14 diverse bureaus, the Department ensures animal health, food safety and consumer protection. It also promotes conservation efforts to preserve our land and enhance water quality for the next generation. Learn more at iowaagriculture.gov.

Media Contact:
Chloe Carson
Communications Director
515-326-1616
chloe.carson@iowaagriculture.gov