WEST BRANCH, Iowa — I know it’s strange to hear land speaking for itself, but I need you to hear my story.
Joe has loved me ever since he played with the pigs under my oak savanna as a child. Later, he rented me out for cash and eventually he had to let me go. He could’ve sold me to someone from the big city who’d turn me into a huge front lawn, but then he found something called the Sustainable Iowa Land Trust.
By next Spring, I had a new farmer named Ed. He didn’t rake off my skin every year. He planted hay whose roots stayed in me all the time. And he didn’t pour anything on me that hurt. Sweet! My worms came back and all the little life forms humans can’t see started to thrive. It makes me tingle!
Ed’s whole family loves me, and I return their love with good healthy food for their animals. I’m so glad Joe found SILT so I can indulge my wild side while also supporting a farm family and my community.
I feel better these days. My health is improving. I think I can get along with these new humans quite well. Thank you to those who helped make it happen.
— L.H.
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