Iowa ag secretary candidates differ on water quality, fertilizer rules
By Isabella Warren
Published: Oct. 23, 2026 at 1:38 AM GMT+2 | Updated: 2 hours ago
Share Add Us On Google Add as a preferred source on Google
DES MOINES, Iowa (Gray Media Iowa State Capitol Bureau) — The candidates for Iowa secretary of agriculture have differing views on how to enhance the state’s water quality, particularly regarding farmer fertilizer usage.
Chris Jones proposes a fall fertilizer tax, arguing that fall application poses a higher risk of nitrate runoff. He believes a tax on fall-applied anhydrous ammonia, similar to spring application costs, would encourage farmers to adopt better practices.
Mike Naig, on the other hand, emphasizes education over taxation. He advocates for promoting overall nutrient management, ensuring farmers apply the right amount of fertilizer at the optimal times, which benefits both their wallets and the environment. Naig points to N-Fact, a state tool that guides farmers on when to fertilize.
These discussions come as Iowa farmers grapple with high fertilizer costs and the pressing need to protect both their economic interests and the state’s water quality.