Deepfakes are everywhere, but Iowa farmers are the real deal

Recently, I visited my dad and discovered that he’s started talking to the Gemini app on his phone to look up the weather, stock markets, trivia and more.

Let me tell you, I didn’t understand how widespread artificial intelligence use was until a 70-year-old who struggles with Microsoft Word tried to school me in chatbots.

And now with all the scary-convincing AI content online, I’m repeatedly reminding my young daughter that not everything she sees is real.

Of course, she gives me the typical preteen response - “I know that, Mom,” plus an eye roll. Honestly, she can probably spot fake content better than I can. She’s growing up with it.

While I don’t believe everything I see online, I do trust the real Iowa farm families who work hard every day to grow safe, nutritious food.

Iowa farmers are committed to environmental responsibility. And just like us, they want to make sure the water our families drink is safe. Because this isn’t optional - it’s absolutely necessary.

That’s why farmers are taking action. For example, Iowa farmers have helped restore over 140 water quality wetlands, with another 94 wetland projects planned for 2026 and beyond, according to the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.

Wetlands work as natural filters that can reduce nitrate runoff from farms by up to 90%.

But there’s more work to do. As communities grow and businesses thrive, water usage increases. Upgraded treatment plants, improved storm water management and the latest technology on the farm and in our city infrastructure is essential to continue to safeguard water quality for generations.

But in this world of A.I. and deep fakes, it’s good to know that Iowa farm families are taking real, on-the-ground action to protect water quality.

Because like my dad and his new AI expertise, we should never stop learning or trying to improve.

Until next time, think warm thoughts. And remember, spring is almost here! And you don’t have to ask an app if it’s true.

Take care,

Teresa Bjork
Editor, The Iowa Dish

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Learn more about author Teresa Bjork here.