The Chickasaw County Board of Supervisors meeting on January 6, 2025, highlighted significant contributions and ongoing projects from a local organization serving seven counties in Northeast Iowa. The organization reported a remarkable return on investment, stating that for every dollar received from county supervisors, they generated $14.50 in funding through various regional initiatives.

During the meeting, the organization’s representative detailed their operations, which include nine full-time and one part-time employee, primarily funded through grants and service contracts. The funds received from the county help cover essential costs such as insurance, utilities, and financial audits, which totaled nearly $20,000 last year.

Key projects discussed included successful grant applications for agricultural producers and small businesses, focusing on improvements like grain dryer updates and solar energy systems. The organization is also collaborating with the American Flood Coalition to explore flood reduction through regenerative agricultural practices, including multi-cropping and relay cropping.

A notable achievement mentioned was the introduction of a mobile juicing press, one of only two in the nation, which processed over 2,500 bushels of otherwise unmarketable apples from 18 local orchards. This initiative not only reduces waste but also supports local businesses, with plans to expand its reach beyond Northeast Iowa.

Additionally, the organization announced a substantial $25 million grant aimed at reducing flooding in the Tree River Watershed, which includes parts of Chickasaw County. They are also working with the city of Fredericksburg on a $250,000 grant to construct a retention basin to manage stormwater runoff.

The meeting underscored the organization’s commitment to enhancing community resources and addressing local challenges through collaboration and innovative projects. The board expressed support for these initiatives, recognizing their importance in fostering economic growth and environmental sustainability in the region.