June 7, 2007
O'Fallon proposes to annex Busch Wildlife Conservation Area
Press Release Contact: Becky Denney, Missouri Sierra
Club Conservation Chair, 314-645-3394
The Missouri Sierra Club is vehemently opposed to any change in ownership or change in management from the Missouri Dept of Conservation for the
6,987 acre, 37 lake Busch Wildlife Conservation Area. It must not be annexed by the City of O’Fallon. Busch Wildlife Area is critical to St. Charles County and the whole of the metropolitan St. Louis area as a haven for fish, wildlife, people and especially kids. For outdoor enthusiasts in the
St. Louis region, it ranks right behind Forest Park and Tower Grove Park in importance.
There seems to be confusion as to whether Weldon Spring Wildlife Area and Howell Island are included in this poorly thought out land grab which does include Busch Wildlife Area. An increase in land area of this size for O’Fallon would require massive amounts of planning for infrastructure and massive amounts of money for sewers and other public works. According to the Post-Dispatch report the plan to acquire Busch Wildlife Area was not discussed in an open session of an O’Fallon City Council meeting before letters were sent to landowners. Mayor Donna Morrow had no knowledge of this plan. Such lack of openness is irresponsible and should be illegal.
The Missouri Dept of Conservation has put many man-hours and much tax money into managing Busch Wildlife as have many groups that use it such as the Sierra Club. Despite overuse from individual and group activity, despite arguments about how it should be managed by MDC, it remains a critical breeding habitat for birds, and other wildlife and a source of enjoyment for users such as fisherman, hunters, bird watchers, hikers, picnickers, and dog trainers.
We, the citizens of Missouri, expect the Dept of Conservation to manage this legacy so future generations can enjoy and learn about their role in and reliance on our complex natural world.
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