PERCEIVED RISK AND THE SITING OF A CONTROVERSIAL ...

Hide plant, this fact was never shared with the Warren’s. The family was furious when it
was discovered they had been deceived into donating land that they felt would have a
negative impact on their family farm. They attempted to cancel the donation, but
ownership of the land had already been transferred to the county (Bull Hide Creek Clear
Water Alliance, 2008).
The creek is a second order stream in the vicinity of the proposed plant with
springs providing pools in most conditions except extreme drought. At the Cooksey
Lane crossing, Austin Chalk limestone is exposed. About a mile downstream the creek
narrows just below the proposed plant site in response to changing geology and at this
point there is a low water dam that has created a swimming and fishing hole with heavy
riparian vegetation. Below the dam, the creek bed narrows, becomes deeper and supports
an extensive ecosystem that contains what the state considers to be “a highly rated
aquatic life” (James Miertschin and Associates & Paul Price Aquatic Ecology, 2007).
The creek’s ecosystem supports cougars, bobcats, fox, Great Horned owls, bass, perch,
vultures, blue birds, and numerous migrating species in the fall and spring.
The creek is easily accessible in the stretch between Cooksey Lane and
Rosenthal Parkway from a narrow, paved, creek side road. Easy access due to limited
fencing, an iron bridge with a historical marker and well, maintained, 19 th century
cemetery make this stretch a popular destination and gathering spot in the summer for
cycling enthusiasts, hikers, picnickers, and waders (Garrett, 2003). The quiet, heavily
wooded, rural environment attracts bird-watchers, individuals seeking solitude, and
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