Dear Editor:

For decades, Roaring River had been a clean stream, enjoyed by trout and anglers who come from throughout the nation to fish. It is devastating to Roaring River that a concentrated animal feed operation now sits above the river, poised to lose animal waste into the very stream where trout feed and people fish and swim. Indeed already there is pollution from chicken litter in Roaring River recharge area, and the entire White River Basin, according to the Department of Natural Resources, and the Department of Conservation.

Each spring, during the rainy season, when the operators clean out the chicken houses, 386 tons of chicken litter can sit unprotected atop a hill above Roaring River. What’s wrong with this picture? Missouri’s DNR – the statutory protector of our parks AND our water supply  -- appears to look the other way, which reminds us of the fox guarding the hen house. Up to now, many trout fishermen were unaware. But that has changed. The Springfield chapter of Missouri Trout Fishermen’s Association has joined in the chorus of concerned citizens who want to save Roaring River and the Park it’s self.

Meanwhile, as more and more people find out that the White River Basin is threatened with even more pollution, who could blame tourists if they stay away? If this scenario is upsetting to you, go online to the Missouri State Parks website at: www.mostateparks.com/visioning.htm to voice your concern.

Sincerely,
Beverly Sweeney Roaring River Parks Alliance
Eagle Rock, Mo.