Group critical of Iowa floodplain development

Local and state laws in Iowa are “not effective” in curbing developmenton floodplains according to an environmental group. The Sierra Club’sreport on development or “urban sprawl” on sensitive or agricultural landwas released nationwide today. Tom Carsner of Iowa City is a Sierra Clubmember who sees the problem first-hand.Carsner says while land in the floodplains may be cheap, homeowners andbusinesses should consider the other costs related to building in an areawhich is prone to flooding.Carsner says city and county governments need to discourage development infloodplains. Carsner spoke at a 12:30 news conference in Iowa City.