The Indy Star has an article reporting that 30% of water in state streams is too dirty for fishing or swimming. That number has tripled since 2002, though the drastic increase could be attributable to better reporting. Nevertheless, that is a ridiculous number. We are fairly literally crapping in our own nest, as the saying goes.
Some are fouled with bacteria from sewer overflows, manure runoff and failing septic systems. Some cannot support aquatic life at all because too much sediment and fertilizer have washed into them. And others are contaminated with mercury and PCBs, prompting health officials to advise against eating too many fish caught in the waters.
Meanwhile, the Louisville Courier Journal has an article on DNR chief Kyle Hupfer, citing his focus on firing top level DNR officials, banning fenced deer hunting, increased cutting of the state’s forests, and using prison labor in the state parks.
Pretty scary. I have a law degree myself–not practicing–so I mean no insult to you, Doug, or anyone else who has one. But I have to ask: what the heck is that guy doing running the DNR? What about the “good people” who were fired? The article as much as says that his main qualification for the job was being a supporter of Mitch Daniels. Sure, that is nothing new, but isn’t it taking patronage to an extreme?
Wonder what Hupfer is going to do about the water? With CAFO’s proliferating throughout the state, I wouldn’t expect the water situation to get better anytime soon.
Doug: I’m trying to remember but my memory is failing me. What’s the name of the company that was primarily blamed for the foam in the White River back in 2000 or so, which caused many fish to die?
The Guide Corporation is the one who caused the problems in the White River. That money is now being used to fund conservation programs aimed at remediating and protecting that area of the White River.
Thanks, Chad.