Friday, November 3, 2006
Contact: Brian Hauswirth, 573-751-0290
Blunt Proclaims 70 Years of Conservation Day
BLUE SPRINGS–Noting Missouri’s commitment to its conservation heritage, Governor Matt Blunt today proclaimed 70 Years of Conservation Day. The proclamation was presented this morning during the Conservation Commission meeting at Burr Oak Woods Conservation Nature Center.
“Missouri is at the forefront in conservation efforts,” Blunt said. “The vision shown by voters 70 years ago has reduced erosion, protected wildlife, preserved our forests and has created many opportunities for Missourians to enjoy the outdoors.”
Missouri conservation efforts have brought national acclaim over the last 70 years in areas like species management, scientific research and conservation education.
In 1936, 71 percent of Missouri voters passed Amendment 4 creating a unique conservation system based upon constitutional authority, not politics. The amendment vested sole authority for the management of Missouri’s forests, fish and wildlife in a bipartisan, four-member commission appointed by the governor. Voters in 1976 passed a one-eighth of one percent sales tax for conservation, which helped fish, forest and wildlife resources.
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