01/19/2026
The latest BRWA newsletter is out!
“Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It's not." Dr. Suess
A sincere thanks to all the supporters of the Buffalo River Watershed Alliance. It’s been a long journey that started in 2013 when “Save the Buffalo-Again” campaign became necessary when an industrial scale hog facility was built five miles from the Buffalo National River.
BRWA was created with two goals: 1) closure of the C&H swine CAFO, and 2) establishing a permanent moratorium to prevent any future CAFO permits in the watershed.
Goal 1) was reached in 2019 after six years of strong public opposition, when Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson announced a $6.2 million buyout and CLOSURE of the facility.
Goal 2) was achieved in 2025 through continued public support with the Legislature finally approving the moratorium.
Thanks to ALL of you the Buffalo National River is now PERMANENTLY PROTECTED. (As permanently as possible. Eternal vigilance required) Your ongoing support for the past 12 years made this possible.
Many of you were diligent in contacting the governors, agency heads, and your legislators through letters, emails, texts, phone calls and letters to the editor. Dedicated volunteers organized letter writing, phone banks, and educational outreach events. Countless trips were made by volunteers to local meetings, hearings and to the Capitol.
There were multiple fundraisers during the past 12 years. Extraordinary musicians and artists donated their time and art to help raise the funds. Generous businesses donated the use of their facilities for fundraisers.
Scientists, consultants and legal experts shared their expertise. Individuals helped (and still do) monitor the water quality of the Buffalo through on-going water testing.
In addition, there have been financial donations that have allowed the BRWA board to continue their work. Many of you made small frequent donations and some were able to contribute larger amounts. Many donations have been made in memory of loved ones who cared for the Buffalo River.
Donations have come from all over Arkansas, neighboring states and from those who used to live in the area. Grants from different groups and organizations helped support our efforts.
We would also like to thank those who helped with the original organization of BRWA in 2013 and those who volunteered as Board Members through the years.
BRWA’s efforts to preserve and protect the Buffalo National River were assisted by participating in a Buffalo River Coalition consisting of Arkansas Canoe Club, Arkansas Ozark Waterkeepers, National Park Conservation Association and the Ozark Society.
Many, many thanks to all,
BRWA Board
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” Margaret Mead
To read the rest of this BRWA newsletter, click on this link:
https://mailchi.mp/buffaloriveralliance/brwa-newsletter-november-10148773?e=ee468f5f6f
photo by Kurt Jones Photography
