WASHINGTON   –  U.S. Rep. Jo Ann Emerson (MO-08) responded to the National Park Service announced closure of 50 trails and roads within the Ozark National Scenic Riverways by telling the agency it needs to work closer with local stakeholders and to observe regulations requiring them to hear public comments.

“The ONSR is a vital resource that brings people from all over the state and region to Southern Missouri. Not only are the Current River and the Jack’s Fork River important to tourism, but they also contain access roads and trails that are well-used by the residents of Dent, Texas and Shannon Counties for their enjoyment of the natural beauty right in our own back yards,” Emerson said.  “The National Park Service has a duty to everyone who uses the Ozark National Scenic Riverways to hear public concerns about the closures.  That’s a requirement of federal law, and the public notice and comment period is necessary to meet that obligation.”

Emerson also noted that, while some of the trails are rough, none of them are impassable.  She questioned why local residents have been prohibited by the National Park Service from voluntarily clearing roads from storm debris, and she has asked for an explanation of why the roads plan is being implemented before a new General Management Plan for the ONSR is released.

“All this amounts to the Missouri public, which cares deeply about this resource and its management, being shut out of the process on important questions of use and access to the ONSR. These are crucial questions for me and for everyone who enjoys this natural wonder of Southern Missouri,” Emerson said.

The roads are used by local residents and visitors to ride horses and all terrain vehicles as well as to gain access to fishing, camping and canoeing.  Historic sites and family cemeteries are also located within the ONSR.