(LISTEN): Missouri DNR director Schaefer discusses Columbia's homeless camps on "Wake Up Missouri"

Missouri's Department of Natural Resources (DNR) director says needles, human waste and trash from Columbia's homeless camps can significantly contribute to pollution and water quality issues in the Hinkson creek. Director Kurt Schaefer joined us live on 939 the Eagle's "Wake Up Missouri" to discuss the concerns. He says DNR has received around 30 water quality complaints about Columbia homeless encampments since late 2022. DNR has written a letter to city officials, saying trash and human waste from the homeless camps can significantly contribute to pollution and water quality issues. Director Schaefer tells "Wake Up" that while there are multiple homeless camps in Columbia, the big one he's referring to is near I-70 and Highway 63. He notes some of that camp is on state Department of Transportation (MoDOT) property, telling listeners that MoDOT will be receiving a letter today that is similar to the one Columbia received in late February. Director Schaefer wants detailed plans from the city of Columbia and MoDOT on what they plan to do to address the concerns. Columbia spokeswoman Sydney Olsen has told 939 the Eagle that the city will continue to work with DNR to address the concerns. Olsen says the city has procedures in place involving illegal camping, adding that the city has made it easier for residents to report it. She also emphasizes the importance of keeping streams and waterways as clean as possible: