Emerson: Sinking Creek Access Reduced By NPS Action
U.S. Rep. Jo Ann Emerson (MO-08) today criticized the National Park Service for limiting access to camping facilities at the Sinking Creek Area of the Ozarks National Scenic Riverways.
"For generations, Missouri families have been able to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the ONSR by camping at Sinking Creek. The new restrictions on sites and access at the park really limit those recreational activities, and I hope the National Park Service will reconsider their plan," Emerson said.
Most disturbing to the Eighth District Member of Congress is the failure of the NPS to include local stakeholders in the decisions to make changes at Sinking Creek.
"No one heard from the Park Service. They didn't work with the community to make sure Sinking Creek remained open to the people who use it most frequently. They didn't even share the work with people who were camping on site when it started. As a result, their plan has put part of the ONSR off-limits at great inconvenience to many of the visitors who know it best and who most appreciate the opportunity to spend time there. I think that out-of-touch approach really punishes those Americans who want to get the most enjoyment out of their recreational area in a safe, responsible way."