JEFFERSON CITY - With the majority of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways (ONSR) located in his 25th Senatorial District, Sen. Doug Libla, R-Poplar Bluff, commends the recent advancement of Senate Concurrent Resolution 22 in the General Assembly.  This resolution urges the National Park Service (NPS) to take one of three options in regard to the ONSR: 1) Choose the "no-action alternative" option of the general management plan, 2) Enter into negotiations with the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) for the return of the ONSR to the State of Missouri, or 3) Enter into a contract with the MDC for the management, operation, and maintenance of the ONSR.

“The proposed draft management plans by the NPS would affect thousands of  in- and out-of-state citizens who use these riverways and the areas around them to hike, camp, boat, hunt, fish, and ride horses,” said Sen. Libla.  “Along with Sen. Mike Cunningham, R-Rogersville, we proudly sponsored Senate Concurrent Resolution 22 to show the collective concern of those who depend on the ONSR to run their businesses and spend their recreational time.” 

NPS proposes a “Preferred Alternative” plan option that would shut down public access points to riverways, eliminate motorized boat traffic from certain areas, further restrict boat motor horsepower in other areas, close several gravel bars, and propose additional areas for designation as federal wilderness.

“Tourism is one of the most critical components of our rural economy, bringing many irreplaceable dollars when visitors come, and the ONSR is the primary attraction,” continued Sen. Libla.  “If the ‘Preferred Alternative’ plan is implemented in these areas, limitation of the recreational activities of visitors would have a devastating effect on this industry.  These riverways are already over-managed by burdensome federal regulations. We need to be promoting this beautiful and wonderful resource, not restricting access to it! It’s time we put control back into the hands of our state and the people who know this area best to ensure visitors keep coming back to enjoy what the ONSR have to offer, while business owners continue to provide their services to our state’s tourism industry.”

Senate Concurrent Resolution 22 was adopted by the Senate on Feb. 20 and now moves to the House for its consideration.  To see a complete list of bills sponsored and co-sponsored by Sen. Libla, visit www.senate.mo.gov/libla.