Dear Editor:

Twenty-four Missouri state senators signed on to a letter recently delivered to National Park Service Director Jonathan Jarvis. This letter expresses the concerns of these lawmakers regarding the proposed General Management Plan presented by the National Park Service (NPS) and its impact on the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. My colleagues and I agree the NPS has not considered the effect of its plan on the citizens who live, use and work along these national riverways. 

On Tuesday, Dec. 10, public comment will be taken by members of the NPS at the Van Buren Youth and Community Center (1204 County Rd. D, Van Buren, MO 63965) from 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Discussion will include the General Management Plan of the Ozark Scenic Riverways, which include the Current and Jacks Fork rivers. NPS staff will be available to answer citizens’ questions. Immediately following the public comment portion, the NPS will give a presentation from 8 p.m.-9 p.m. detailing its pursuit to turn over 3,430 acres for designation as wilderness territory. 

Another public comment session is scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 11, at the Salem City Hall Auditorium (located on the corners of Washington and Second streets, main floor) in Salem from 10 a.m.-noon.

It is extremely important for Missourians who will be greatly impacted by this plan to attend these meetings and express their comments and concerns. Computers will be available at the meetings for citizens to share their thoughts online. Attendance at these events will also give Missourians in the area the opportunity to personally network with other concerned citizens regarding the future use of these rivers. 

Citizens may contact my Capitol office (573-751-4843) for more information regarding these two important events that will affect citizens’ access to public lands. To view the letter sent to the National Park Service, visit www.senate.mo.gov/libla and click on the News Releases link under my Media tab. I hope you are able to attend these upcoming meetings.