Waterloo Times

Congresswoman Ashley Hinson and Congressman Eric Sorensen have reintroduced the bipartisan Flood Resiliency and Land Stewardship Act. This legislation aims to enhance flood and drought mitigation through existing USDA conservation programs.

"Covering the devastating Flood of 2008 was one of the primary reasons I decided to get involved in public service," stated Congresswoman Hinson. She emphasized the importance of proactive solutions at the federal level, focusing on commonsense mitigation and flood prevention efforts to protect lives and livelihoods during severe weather events. "While we can’t predict the weather, we can ensure we are prepared," she added.

Congressman Sorensen recalled his experience reporting on the Quad Cities flood in 2019. "I’ll never forget the concern I felt for my neighbors while reporting on the massive Quad Cities flood," he said. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to introduce legislation that will aid farming communities in improving flood resiliency by enhancing soil health and water quality.

Julie Seger, Director of Policy & Government Relations at American Flood Coalition Action, commended Representatives Hinson and Sorensen for their leadership. "By making flood and drought prevention a core purpose of USDA’s Regional Conservation Partnership Program, this bill will help farmers, local communities, and other stakeholders deliver locally led flood solutions that protect both farmlands and downstream communities," she remarked.

The full text of the bill is available online.