Our own beautiful, driftless corner of Iowa is Yellow River State Forest. This valuable economic resource is home to spectacular views, hiking, backpacking, equestrian trails and camping, fishing, birding, mountain bike riding, and other outdoor activities. Allamakee County is a hidden gem that attracts visitors from all over the nation. They bring in much-needed business to our towns.
With all these people and activities there will be accidents, mishaps and possibly some illegal activities. Then there is the risk of flash flooding from spring/summer storms that can threaten campers along rivers. Unfortunately, there is not a ranger in the forest to address these issues.
The Governor appointed Kayla Lyon, the director of the Department of Natural Resources. Kim Reynolds determined that this forest does not need a ranger. This is despite the forest being a major attraction. The campsites and equestrian camps are always full.
Lyon is not a former director of DNR. She has no experience in Forestry, wildlife management or biology and she also does not have any education or training in conservation or environmental studies. She holds a degree in agricultural communications. She was Reynolds’ past legislative liaison and policy advisor on agriculture and natural resource. She was previously a lobbyist for big agriculture.
Think about how important it is to preserve our forest when you vote. The majority party in our state government seems less interested in standing with our citizens in protecting our rivers and streams and forests than they do in pleasing their big contributors.
Ann Klees
Waterville