Iowa Farmers Say Voluntary Runoff Programs Aren't Working. Is Regulation the Answer?

Three Iowa farmers are raising tough questions about the state's approach to water quality. After more than a decade of voluntary conservation programs, nitrogen and phosphorus runoff continues to pollute Iowa's waterways. Now, some farmers say regulation may be the only path forward, a suggestion that challenges Iowa's long-standing preference for voluntary solutions over government mandates.

Who Are the Lobe Rangers?

The conversation is being driven by a group calling themselves the Lobe Rangers, three corn and soybean farmers from northern Iowa. James Hepp, 36, Matthew Bormann, and Zack Smith have been posting Facebook videos that push for stronger action on agricultural pollution and water quality. Their message has spread across Iowa as concern grows over polluted waterways and drinking water.

Hepp says Iowa farmers have spent over a decade being encouraged by state agencies and agricultural groups to voluntarily adopt conservation practices under the Nutrient Reduction Strategy. Despite those efforts, nitrogen and phosphorus runoff continues to degrade the state's rivers, lakes, and drinking water supplies.