We hear a lot about the destruction of the rainforests . . .
. . . but Iowa is losing something precious, too:
The Most Productive Land In The World!
THE FACTS:
Corn production is nearly 40% higher in Iowa than anywhere else in the world. In the mid-1990s, the U.S. Midwest produced 19.75 metric ton of corn per acre compared to 13.25 metric ton produced by the next best corn-producing region of the world in China. (World Watch Institute)
Each year, Iowa loses 26,000 acres of farmland to development. (ISU Extension) Nationally, about 1.2 million acres of farmland are lost each year, and the global annual loss is between 15 and 30 million acres. (American Farmland Trust)
WHY SHOULD WE BE CONCERNED?
Global population continues to grow by around 80 million people each year. While at six billion today, the world’Äôs population is projected to reach 10 billion in 2050.
Between 1950 and 1990 rice, wheat and corn yields increased 2.1% annually. Yet between 1990 and 2000, that increase was only 1.2% annually. (USDA)
Consider these three factors -- loss of farmland, increasing population, and crop yields that are reaching a plateau -- and some experts predict a major food shortage this century. Unlike current world hunger, this crisis won’Äôt be across the ocean. It will be far-reaching, catastrophic and very close to home.
YET, THE PROBLEM IS ONE THAT WE CAN PREVENT!
Responsible land use today means greater food security tomorrow! 1000 Friends of Iowa is working with other state and national groups to advance the debate on farmland protection. Join the fight to save one of the world’Äôs greatest resources:
IOWA FARMLAND!