Ozark Fly Fishers Sample Letters Opposing Senate Bill 360

Sample Letters!
Opposing Senate Bill 360

Dear Senator________:

I feel it is very important to the state of Missouri that Senate Bill 360 should be removed from consideration. In a time of economic crisis it makes no sense to exempt 74% of the current permitted gravel mining operations from the regulations and fee structure. More importantly, we should not be sacrificing the future resources of the state.

Missouri is one of the leading producers of gravel in the nation. I have no problem with gravel mining but it must be done in a reasonable manner. The streams of Missouri are also a huge resource. Allowing any size operator to continue removing resources without complying with the accepted practices that protect those resources is negligent.

Numerous scientific studies have indicated that gravel mining actually is a negative economic influence when all aspects are considered. The U.S. Department of Interior reported stream fishing accounted for $170 million in direct expenditures in 1996. Just think what kind of revenue was produced from the other tourism resulting from use of Missouri streams.

The streams are a renewable resource. They exist forever without cost IF left in their own environment. Destroying the integrity of the resource with one uncontrolled gravel mine has a negative impact on the entire area for years, not just the small area with the scar of the mining operation.

As a fisherman I use but contribute to the resource by releasing most of the fish I catch. I respect the landowners rights and carry out litter whenever possible. I fish according to the applicable regulations. There is no exemption to fishing license for me because I remove less than a specified number of fish annually. I spend money on equipment, lodging, food, an occasional guide, gasoline and other local expenses. If the streams of Missouri are defiled I will spend my fishing dollars in another state.

Missouri has one of the best conservation departments in the nation but it is at the mercy of others that control the land and streams. Recent improvements in fishing regulations have already started to attract anglers across the nation because of the improved smallmouth bass populations and size in Missouri streams. Don't let such a successful program be undermined by an unregulated industry. Mining and stream use can coexist if there are rules in place that are enforced.

The negative effects of gravel mining do not have to continue. Realistic rules and enforcement will provide for economic stability of the gravel mining industry and protection of water quality and stream resources for future generations. Please kill Senate Bill 360 before it kills a state resource.

Thank you for the opportunity to address this issue.

Name
Address
Phone Number

Dear Senator ______:

Missouri is rich with clear streams and rivers that enhance the states natural beauty. The current unregulated state of the sand and gravel mining industry poses a serious threat to our streams and rivers. That is why I am writing to you today in opposition of Senate Bill 360 exempting the majority of gravel mine operators from regulation, and urge you to support of the development of strong regulations to protect Missouri's streams from the gravel mining industry.

I'm an avid fisherman, and I have seen the damage that gravel mining can do and it sickens me. Streams that once had lush streamside vegetation, abundant fish, and clear water are now treeless, fishless, and devoid of recreational potential.

I've been following the work of the gravel mining work group at the Department of Natural Resources, and I've read several scientific studies on gravel mining. Every scientific study indicates that in-stream sand and gravel mining has a detrimental effect on streamside wildlife and fisheries resources. Additionally, gravel mining can cause serious land erosion, cause damage to roads and bridges expose underground utilities. My eyes tell me that, and so does the science.

That is why I urge you to vote against Senate Bill 360 and support strong sand and gravel mining regulations. The future of Missouri's streams depends on it.

Sincerely,

Senator ______,

Senator Sandra Steelman has introduced Senate Bill 360, which eases restrictions on some 74% of all gravel mining operations in the state. I must strongly protest!

Many of our rivers and streams are ALREADY suffering as a direct result of gravel mining. I'm a fisherman, and I'll admit that my greatest concern is the negative effect there, but the damage is far greater than just fishing. Erosion of valuable land, increased repair costs to our bridges and roadways, water purification costs, not to mention the aesthetics of streams that once flowed clear and cold, now are heavily silted and warm. This damage takes many, many years to self-correct naturally if it ever does at all.

Please look at DNR's website for some of the destruction firsthand: http://www.dnr.state.mo.us/alpd/lrp/s&gattachmentb.htm

I think you'll agree that the value of clean rivers and streams in terms of tourism dollars via recreation, fishing, and other related benefits FAR outweighs the benefits of gravel mining. Our state prides itself on our rivers and streams, so much so that it is a theme on our vehicle license plates! In a few years we may have to change that and put a motto, "Missouri - producers of cheap gravel, and home of muddy creeks!"

If given the choice a paying a few cents more for a sack of gravel at Home Depot or having a favorite stream that is ruined permanently, I think the choice is obvious!

The easing of these gravel mining restrictions is a HUGE mistake.

Thank you for your careful consideration of this matter.

Sincerely,

Last revised:2/16/03

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