|
Arson is a problem all over the U.S., but it is a serious problem in the
state of Missouri. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reports
that arsonists start an average of 2,100 forest fires annually in our state.
The cost to detect and fight this number of fires is a burden on all taxpayers.
Operation Forest Arson (OFA) was initiated by CFM's Forestry Committee. The program
is a cooperative effort among CFM, MDC, and the U.S. Forest Service. OFA offers a
reliable method for citizens to call and report an arson violation, and citizens will
also collect a reward without anyone knowing who reported the crime. Rewards range from
$200 to $1,000 for the arrest and conviction of an arsonist with there being a minimum
reward of $100 for information leading to the apprehension of a violator.
If you are unable to contact your local conservation agent, please dial toll-free
1-800-392-1111 to report forest arson. For a brochure on this program, email us.
|
