Don't blame DNR for enforcing environment laws

To the editor:

In response to the article "Permit for Holcim cement plant is good news":

I was troubled by your recent editorial alleging that the Missouri Department of Natural Resources has engaged in "delay tactics" on some projects in Southeast Missouri. Since when did following the law become a tactic? The DNR is charged with protecting the environment for all Missourians. I hardly consider it unreasonable for DNR to deny a permit for the New Madrid Floodway project, which would destroy 18,000 acres of wetlands, not provide much in the way of flood protection to towns and enrich a handful of landowners at the taxpayers' expense. Don't you think we can find a solution for those towns that actually works, is a lot cheaper than $85 million and doesn't destroy thousands of acres of wetlands? Similarly, it doesn't seem unreasonable to deny a permit to Kinder Morgan Power Co. when the company flatly refused to comply with the law.

If you think the environment is too clean the way it is, then advocate abolishing environmental laws. But don't pick on the agencies required to enforce them.

EDWARD J. HEISEL

Senior Law and Policy Coordinator

Missouri Coalition for the Environment

St. Louis