In many counties throughout Iowa, and throughout many states, the proliferation of CAFOs and the lack of adequate governmental regulations is causing a serious environmental problem, injuring air quality, water quality, and the quality of life for those who live in the vicinity. If this is OK with you, do nothing. However, if you would like to help insure the quality of your environment and your ability to enjoy life in Iowa, there are some simple steps you can take that will help make a difference.

 

1. Educate Yourself

 

Read articles on this site and articles linked on the many pages of this site. The 30 minutes plus you spend reading will make you an informed citizen and voter. You will understand the issues, the threat to your quality of life, and what needs to happen to protect your quality of life. Sitting on the sidelines is not an option, unless you're comfortable living next to a CAFO and not caring how your community may be affected over time.

 

2. Contact Elected Officials

 

Although they are supposed to be representing the interests of their constituents, they are clearly influenced by agri-business campaign contributions and agribusiness-funded political action committees (PACs). If they don't hear from you, they assume you're happy with the job they are doing and the way they vote. If you DO make the effort to contact them, your voice is amplified many times, as so few people make the effort. This page has all of the contact information, the rest is up to you!

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3. Talk to Your Neighbors

 

Many people are either not informed or are ill-informed. Make the effort to visit with your neighbors; find out their position, and help them find the information they need to develop informed positions.

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4. Report Suspicious Activity

 

Call JFAN immediately at 641-209-6600 if you see what might be a CAFO being constructed or if you see what might be an illegal manure dumping.

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5. Support JFAN

 

There are two primary ways you can support JFAN-- tax-deductible donations, and volunteer work. Donations are needed to assist with the high cost of litigation through financial assistance grants. Click here to donate.

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6. Volunteer

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There are also a wide variety of volunteer projects, from water quality monitoring, to office support, to working to change legislation. If you are interested in volunteering, we'll work with you to find volunteer work that matches your interests and skills. Click here to email us about volunteer opportunities. Or call JFAN at 641-209-6600.

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