We have organized for the purpose of preventing pollution to environmentally sensitive areas in the Ozarks and the state of Missouri, specifically to state parks such as Roaring River. We are one of several groups involved in protecting our parks and natural resources for the benefit of future generations.
The Department of Natural Resources of the State of Missouri has failed to “preserve, defend and protect Missouri’s historical sites, state parks and natural resources.” Our state is listed as one of the most at risk for pollution of land, air and water.
Many of you are aware of the concentrated animal feeding operation (CAFO) currently operating in the area near Roaring River State Park. This facility is in operation in spite of pending appeals. There are legitimate concerns regarding the location of this CAFO, and, we believe, discrepancies in the issuance of the construction and operating permits. This is what the appeal, will address.
We are now a corporation in the state of Missouri and have a non –profit status from the IRS. For the first time we are actively seeking contributions to support our efforts. Our immediate plan is to retain an attorney. We believe this is a necessary step as our opposition has nearly unlimited legal representation with direct ties to the governor of Missouri and U.S. representative Roy Blunt. The National Chicken Council alone gave more than $750,000 to federal candidates and national parties since 2000. That definitely puts us at a disadvantage.
With your help we can use our resources and energy to prevent the continued escalation of these CAFO’s being located in sensitive areas. It has become very evident we can not depend on the Department of Natural Resources and our local and state politicians to protect our environment.