Des Moines, Iowa (RadioIowa) — Scientists say the largest-ever dead zone in the Gulf of Mexico is now about the size of New Jersey. They blame nutrient pollution coming primarily from farms, as well as urban and suburban runoff.
Iowa Soybean Association President Rolland Schnell says he’s concerned agriculture is being unfairly blamed for a large part of that oxygen-starved watery graveyard.
Schnell says his group is working with a coalition to come up with legislation to address water quality and runoff issues.
Schnell says farmers have been — and are continuing to be — environmentally-responsible because they use water just like urban residents.
The runoff affecting the dead zone is what’s known as non-point source pollution and is not federally regulated. It’s also difficult to control.
