SPEAK FOR THE RIVER!

We see what others can’t, and can use our voices to protect our rivers and drinking water 

As paddlers, we notice what’s most visible: flow, clarity, wildlife, plant communities, and (hopefully) obstructions. But the things we can’t see often matter just as much.

We see:

Those sudden swings in streamflow aren’t completely natural. Our agricultural and urban landscapes have been engineered for “efficient” drainage, which accelerates erosion and leaves rivers wider, shallower, and flashier.

We don’t see: 

Some of these invisible contaminants fuel the algae blooms and other changes that we do notice, and many of them matter most when they reach our drinking water, where they can have health impacts that aren't fully understood.

Paddlers notice what others often don’t — the subtle shifts, sudden swings, and hidden signs of river health that others don't see from a bridge or riverbank. That perspective makes our voices important in protecting and restoring our waterways.

From Observation to Action

Meaningful water quality improvements can happen when citizens’ voices become louder than those of corporate interests. Water quality is a public health issue, and protecting it requires engagement.

This page began as a personal collection of webinars I've watched (or intend to watch) while trudging on our treadmill. But in this form I hope it can equip others to become effective advocates.

Corporate interests (e.g. industrial ag) often speak louder than people, especially here in Iowa, and elected officials respond accordingly. But democracy literally means “rule by the people.” Our voices can matter.

As Gus Speth said:

“I used to think the top global environmental problems were biodiversity loss, ecosystem collapse, and climate change… But I was wrong. The top environmental problems are selfishness, greed, and apathy — and to deal with these, we need a spiritual and cultural transformation.”

Former Iowa Representative Chuck Isenhart puts it simply:

“Where can you start if you want more parks and trails, clean water, clean air, soil health, wildlife? Stop being a wallflower. Pick up your smartphone and connect with those elected officials who might be willing to dance with you now. Don’t wait for threatening legislation to drop and then jump out of your skin.”

And Senator Art Staed reminded us in March 2025:

“Gotta have trust. It’s clear that Iowans deeply value their natural resources and outdoor recreational spaces, as demonstrated by the overwhelming opposition to the Defund the Natural Resources & Outdoor Recreational Trust Fund bill. After receiving hundreds of emails from concerned citizens, lawmakers took notice — and the pressure led Republicans to pull SJR6. This victory shows the power of civic engagement. When communities come together to protect what matters most, real change is possible. Now, let’s keep up the pressure to finally fund the Trust — a promise made to voters back in 2010.” 

If you’re not satisfied with the direction of water quality in Iowa, you have both a right and a responsibility to speak up. The Iowa Environmental Council’s Legislative Portal offers tools to connect with policymakers, track bills, and make your voice heard.