Published Letters and Op-Eds from
COK’s Writers Group

No Surprise

It should come as no surprise that a group of area residents is planning to challenge the Missouri Department of Natural Resources' decision to grant Moark expansion permits (Globe, Nov. 6, "Group plans to appeal Moark decision"). It's shameful that their concerns for the environment and their quality of life were overlooked in favor of a pollution-spewing egg factory farm owned by a company that was recently charged with animal abuse.

The video footage taken by a Neosho-area resident in July showing Moark subcontractors discarding live chickens into dumpsters prompted the animal cruelty charges. Just recently, Moark had to shell out $100,000 to get these charges dropped.

It's no wonder the citizens of Neosho are so concerned. Moark blatantly exhibits the No. 1 priority of agribusiness - profit. Factory farms like these show little to no regard for our environment or for the animals in their care. Like the many citizens of Neosho, I too would have qualms with a company that lacks in taking ethical responsibility.

Erika Acosta
Takoma Park, Md.