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DNR directed to identify projects to be funded with ASARCO funds

BONNE TERRE, Mo. – Gov. Jay Nixon was in St. Francois County Tuesday touring former lead mining areas. The tour comes with a directive toward the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to identify local projects that would benefit from ASARCO settlement funds.

“My administration is committed to moving forward on restoration projects that will benefit the people and communities of southeast Missouri,” Nixon said. “I appreciate the work of local leaders and citizens to bring attention to this important issue, and I am directing the Department of Natural Resources to identify and expedite efforts to restore land damaged by our nation’s legacy of lead.”

Over the past couple months, the Governor has received multiple calls from lawmakers from the St. Francois and Madison County area after hearing that funds from a lead smelter lawsuit would be utilized on a new state park in Oregon County – over 100 miles away from the lead belt.

“This settlement is multi-faceted,” said Rep. Kevin Engler, R-Farmington. “People need to know that. The EPA drags their feet, but [Gov. Nixon] has let people know that these projects are moving forward. These projects are being funded. There are other projects in line. Today, he committed to two of those projects and that is a good thing.”

DNR comprises half of the Missouri Trustee Council for the settlement – the other half is comprised of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Targeted restoration projects may include the “Bone Hole” in St. Francois County, the Fredericktown City Lake area, and the Little St. Francis River Pile.

“This is exactly what we wanted – for the Governor to recognize that there are projects that we want done in the areas affected,” said Rep. Linda Black, R-Bonne Terre. “The fact that he came was all we asked. Him traveling to the area, giving the commitment – that is a good thing.”

Black highlighted the tour and directive as an excellent example of levels of government effectively working together.

Over $61 million is available in funding by a 2009 settlement agreement with the American Smelting and Refining Company (ASARCO). Another $80 million is required in payment to the Environmental Protection Agency for environmental cleanup.