Download this in PDF form, here. Commenting on Permits Government agencies evaluate permit applications and make regulations. As part of the evaluation process, government agencies often seek public input through holding “public comment periods.” A public comment period is a length of time during which a government agency will accept feedback and input from…
Read MoreFreedom of Information Act (FOIA) Request Template
Download this in PDF form, here. Below you will see a FOIA request template that we often modify and use at MCE. This is a pretty formal request template: you may choose to utilize an electronic FOIA request form or use a simpler template like the one provided in Part 2: Accessing Public Records…
Read MoreMissouri Sunshine Law Request Template
Download this in PDF form, here. Below you will see a DNR Sunshine request template that we often modify and use at MCE. This is a pretty formal request template and some sections apply specifically to nonprofit organizations and/or public interest groups. You may see a simpler Sunshine request template here and an example…
Read MorePublic Record Requests
Download this in PDF form, here. As a member of the public, you have a right to review government documents under both state and federal law. At the state level, the law is referred to as the Sunshine Law (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 610.010 of the Missouri Revised Statutes). At the federal level, the…
Read MoreAdditional Reporting Resources
Download this in PDF form, here. For algal blooms: Submit a Suspected Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) notification form to the Department of Natural Resources here. “The [D]epartment urges people to notify staff of blooms” since they are a serious public health, environmental, and economic issue. Fill out the form to the best of your abilities,…
Read MoreAdditional Concerns
Download this in PDF form, here. Unregulated Concerns Missouri CAFOs are permitted and regulated under the Clean Water Act (CWA) and must meet regulatory requirements based on the conditions of this permit. Depending on the size of the facility – which is determined by the number and type of animals – CAFOs must maintain certain buffer and…
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