ANKENY, Iowa — Earlier this summer, Agriculture’s Clean Water Alliance (ACWA) announced its plans to take its clean water initiative statewide. Now, ACWA is pleased to announce that Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) has signed on as an associate member.
Roger Wolf, ACWA Executive Director, said because ISA and ACWA have had a successful working relationship since 2000, that it just made sense for them to join as an associate member.
“ISA’s associate membership provides ACWA with a farmer voice on their Board of Directors,” he said.
Wolf added that ag retail provides an important role while working with farmers to be successful on their acres. He noted that it’s more important now than ever to improve water quality and soil health by working with farmers and landowners to use performing products and practices.
ISA CEO, Kirk Leeds echoed Wolf’s thoughts.
“ISA has a long-term demonstrated record of supporting efforts to improve water quality in this state and the work of ACWA is a logical extension of these efforts, particularly as ACWA extends its efforts statewide,” Leeds said. “We know that ag retailers have the most direct and consistent interaction with farmers and getting a chance to work alongside leading ag companies will significantly expand our efforts to support Iowa’s Nutrient Reduction Strategy.”
ACWA members are comprised of agricultural retailers who are in direct competition but have been united since 1999 in the goal of improving and protecting water quality in the Des Moines and Raccoon River watersheds, and now, statewide.
ACWA Associate members have representation at ACWA board meetings but are not voting members. Associate member representatives provide valuable input and ideas to board decisions and priorities. ACWA members regard their associate members as an integral part of the organization.
The importance of farmers working directly with ag retailers is clear among both the ACWA and ISA.
“By working with leading ag retailers across the state, we will be able to increase the awareness of practices that enhance water quality, improve management of nutrients and help farmers connect with various cost-share programs,” Leeds said. “Being at the table with members of ACWA will help make sure our efforts are even more impactful.”
— Agriculture’s Clean Water Alliance
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