Iowa is overflowing with Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs). The state's factory farms cause massive environmental destruction, spewing waste and chemical run-off into local waterways. More than 400 of Iowa's streams, rivers, and lakes are polluted, largely because of CAFOs.

Not only are CAFOs environmentally degrading, but they decrease the quality of life for communities living near them. Residents living near CAFOs endure foul odors, flies, pollution, and decreased property values. Plus, keeping animals locked up indoors is cruel and inhumane.

Democrat Francis Thicke and Republican Bill Northey are running for the position of Iowa's Secretary of Agriculture. Tell both candidates to take measures to clean up the state's CAFOs.