Chronicle Editorial

Finding hope after tragedy
 
     Last week’s unthinkable tragedy in Charleston was undoubtedly one of the most heartbreaking events in recent memory. Though endless media coverage has detailed the killer’s life and hateful ideologies, the most dominating message out of South Carolina has been one of hope, forgiveness and unity.
     This crime was meant to divide people based on ill-conceived notions of racial superiority. However, the only thing the killer accomplished was showing how unwanted and outdated his intolerant beliefs truly are. Our differences are far less important than our similarities, and Charleston showed us that in the aftermath of the shooting. The rest of America should realize that sentiment more often.
     This senseless tragedy ended up teaching America a valuable lesson about the power of love and respect. The victims’ families and the people of Charleston could have lashed out in vengeful anger following the shooting, but they opted to cast hate aside and come together under unthinkable circumstances.
     Their actions are what we all hope we’re capable of. What we’ve seen in Charleston in the aftermath of the shooting is humanity at its best.
 
Evading the invaders
 
     They come, they kill, they conquer.
     That six-word sentence might as well be the slogan for the many invasive species threatening our state's natural wildlife. June is Invasive Species Awareness Month, and though it's almost over, we must continue practicing preventative measures to keep these unwanted pests at bay now and in the future.
     There are multiple invasive species attacking our natural resources at this very moment. From the emerald ash borer (EAB) to the big head carp, Iowa's habitat is under constant barrage. These invasive species often show up unnoticed by hitching a ride via firewood, boats or other vessels. In any case, these pests can unleash an assault on local ecosystems that kills off native species at near unstoppable rates.
     Invasive species make headlines almost every week. On June 9, Minnesota shut down the St. Anthony lock on the Mississippi River in an effort to slow the spread of bighead and silver carp. Minnesota, which is known for its superb sport fishing lakes, stands to lose big bucks if these invasive pests move in and take over native waterbodies. Bighead and silver carp are capable of eating between 20-120 percent of their body weight each day and they outcompete native fish with their gluttonous appetites. Closing the St. Anthony lock was no small move by any stretch, and it just goes to show how serious the situation is.
     We've been battling a smaller but equally destructive pest here in Iowa. EAB has been confirmed in 25 counties since 2010. The invasive green beetle's larvae bore tunnels under native ash trees' bark and disrupt the flow of nutrients, killing the tree over time. Experts expect the pest to make its way to each county across the state as it continues its westward march. This will lead to costly removal fees, felled trees and significant bare spots in communities across the state.
     It might seem like our battle against invasive species is a futile endeavor, but we still need to fight back. Refraining from transporting firewood across state lines can slow EAB. Likewise, you can halt the spread of invasive water species by inspecting your equipment and removing any visible plants, animals or mud before leaving a waterbody. You should also drain all water from your boat, and it never hurts to spray it down with a hose.
     We need to do everything in our power to stop unwanted invaders from gaining more ground. June might be Invasive Species Awareness Month, but these pests aren't going to take the other 11 months off. Please take the time and practice these simple preventative measures. It will go a long ways in protecting our natural resources for future generations to enjoy.