Family Shares Worry with Governor Parson

Dear Governor Parson:

We are writing to ask for your support in taking action to protect agriculture in Missouri from Grain Belt Express-Clean Line. The proposal to take wind energy from Kansas through Missouri to PJM Grid is only a speculative venture and is for private gain for a company that is not a utility but a merchant transmission line. Our Missouri PSC has denied this project two times, and we are now at a point of decision on the third application which involves the sale of GBE to lnvenergy, who did not have to make an application to PSC.

Growing up on a family farm in the 1930's, we can tell you about adversity and how we have
seen agriculture change from horse drawn equipment to the development of auto-steer and technology that has greatly enhanced production. Our University Extension Century Farm was settled in 1873. We currently have 5th generation grandchildren involved in the family operation, and are fortunate to be able to continue living on the homestead even though we are in our late 80's.

The GBE proposed line will run through the middle of our farm, tearing up farm ground that has been cared for since 1873.  In fact, the dangerously high voltage line will be within 600 feet of our home and machine shed, a nice view from our patio. Until recently, like you, we took much pride in my cow herd. Our pastures near our home would be affected by the proposed GBE line as well.

In all our years of farming, we have never faced a troubling situation like GBE. And, to think our state government could possibly approve such a project by giving authority of eminent domain adds to our worries.

With all due respect, please protect the future of farming and agriculture in Missouri. If a project like GBE is approved, what is next? We have included a picture of us with some of the
other generations involved in our century farm.

Our regards,
Dale & June Morgan
Madison, MO

L to R: Vickie Morgan Ross, June Morgan, Jay O'Bannon, Dale Morgan, Alan Morgan, Marilyn, Kevin, Jeff & Lisa O'Bannon. Front row: Kade, Grey and Isla Kate

Want to send your own letter to the Governor?  Missouri Rep. Jim Hansen is collecting them and promises to hand-deliver your letters to the Governor. 

Send yours here:

Rep. Hansen’s e-mail address: jim.hansen@house.mo.gov
Mailing address: State Capitol, 201 W. Capitol Ave., Room 111, Jefferson City, MO 65101-6806