Major Development

On November 18, 2018, the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality sent notice of its final decision to deny a permit to C&H Hog Farm which is currently operating in the Buffalo River watershed.

Further, the Department gave notice that C&H must cease operations within 30 days (from Nov 19) and must provide a complete closure plan within 60 days.

This is a major positive step in our six yearlong effort to protect and preserve the Buffalo National River, but it is not the end. Stick with us and Stay Tuned!

Further Information and news reports.

ADEQ Press Release
https://buffaloriveralliance.org/resources/Documents/notice-of-final-decision-20181119.pdf

A Statement of Basis for the decision and ADEQ’s Response to Comments are available on ADEQ’s website at: https://www.adeq.state.ar.us/home/pdssql/p-response-20181116.aspx

Arkansas Democrat Gazette Article
https://buffaloriveralliance.org/page-1545631/6926898

Arkansas Times
https://buffaloriveralliance.org/page-1545631/6926756

National Parks and Conservation
https://www.npca.org/articles/2003-state-denies-industrial-hog-facility-s-permit-protecting-buffalo-national

Be Aware

While the Hutchinson Administration’s decision is termed “final”, it will be appealed. We will need your help defending against a lengthy legal appeal.

On what basis has ADEQ made this denial decision?

The permit application was deemed incomplete
Data collected from the Big Creek Research and Extension Team (BCRET)
Independent studies and opinions by qualified scientists and experts in the field
Thousands of substantive public comments

What’s next?
C&H has already filed a contempt of court proceeding in Newton County Circuit Court. A key date in resolving the legal issues may be December 4, in Judge Putman’s court.

What Can You Do?

Consider attending the December 7, 9 a.m. Arkansas Pollution Control and Ecology Commission meeting at Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality in Little Rock. Matters crucial to the Buffalo River may be addressed.

Take a moment before January and call your Arkansas senator and House representative. Let them know legislation that might affect the Buffalo River is something you want to know about. Tell them why the river is important to you?

The following links will help you find your Representative (Though they may not be up to date following the election):

For Arkansas House: http://www.arkansashouse.org

For Arkansas Senate: http://www.arkansas.gov./senate/senatorSearch.html

Please stay tuned for more legislative matters that may arise.

Your support IS making a difference. Thank-you.

Comment from our Facebook page

Please no hog farms near this majestic piece of paradise.

If you look at the damage being done in other states, particularly to the rivers, you will understand why this issue is so important. Degradation is slow and stealthy. Easy to regulate factories who were piping pollution into waterways. But non-point source pollution is the leading reason American waterways are in decline. 1200 people in the watershed depend on the tourists who come. How many people are benefitting from C&H?

Please go to DONATE NOW to contribute and become a part of our campaign.

If you would rather send a check, please make it payable to “Buffalo River Watershed Alliance” and mail to:

Buffalo River Watershed Alliance
Box 101
Jasper, AR 72641.

Thank you for your continued support.

Buffalo River Watershed Alliance
buffalowatershed@gmail.com