Attorney General's News Release

June 2, 1999

Statement from Attorney General Jay Nixon regarding May 28 hog waste spill in Gentry County reported by PSF

While we acknowledge that Premium Standard Farms self-reported this spill in a timely manner and that it appears there was an appropriate response, it is becoming increasingly clear that problems will continue until there is a fundamental re-examination of the process that allows these spills to happen. PSF needs to move beyond the technology of yesterday in the treatment of hog waste. It may be that the current lawsuit the state of Missouri is pursuing will be the fulcrum to compel PSF to implement the next generation of waste treatment technology that will greatly minimize the risk of future spills.

Inquiries from consumers should be directed to consumer@ago.mo.gov or 1-800-392-8222 (from within Missouri) or 573-751-3321 (outside Missouri).

All media inquiries should be directed to Press Secretary John Fougere.

E-mail      Phone: 573-751-8844         Fax: 573-751-5818