Let state manage Riverways

Wednesday, February 5, 2014

Along with Sen. Mike Cunningham, I co-sponsored Senate Concurrent Resolution 22, which urges the National Park Service to not take action on the Ozark National Scenic Riverways (ONSR) draft general management plan. It also calls for the Department of Interior to negotiate the return and management of the ONSR to our state. While our legislative delegation agrees we need to protect the ONSR, we must not overlook our citizens' heritage and livelihood. Tourism is one of the most critical components of our rural economy and the ONSR is the primary attraction. Thousands of out-of-state as well as in-state hikers, campers, boaters, hunters, fishermen and horseback riders visit this area annually and bring many irreplaceable dollars when they come. Any further limitations or federal encroachment on the access to these assets would severely impact this local economy. The public comment period for the proposed GMP will continue through Feb. 7. I strongly support the "No-Action Alternative," because the other proposals will have devastating consequences on our local economies and way of life. We need to be promoting this beautiful and wonderful resource, not restricting access to it!

To Read More
Subscribe Sign In
Continue reading with a subscription

Thank you for visiting our website. If you would like to continue reading Butler County news and sports written by Butler County people, please click here to learn how you can support community journalism.

Subscribe now