BREAKING: The Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office has just announced a historic settlement with Tyson Foods and Cargill, resolving a decades-long poultry pollution case that has impacted the Illinois River Watershed. Attorney General Gentner Drummond revealed the details of the agreement on July 27, 2023, calling it a significant step forward for environmental protection in Oklahoma.
“This settlement is a clear message: corporate accountability is essential,” Drummond stated emphatically. “For over two decades, we have fought to safeguard the natural resources that sustain our communities.”
The state will release all claims against Tyson Foods, Cargill Inc., and Cargill Turkey Productions in exchange for a total of $25.5 million—with Tyson contributing $19 million for watershed remediation and Cargill responsible for $6.5 million. This agreement aims to foster a sustainable balance between agricultural industry growth and environmental preservation.
Tyson’s President of Poultry, Nathan McKay, expressed support for the resolution, stating, “We believe this is in the best interest of our growers and their communities.” He emphasized the company’s historical connection to the agricultural community in the region and its commitment to responsibly feeding families.
Echoing McKay’s sentiments, a spokesperson from Cargill stated, “Cargill appreciates the engagement of the Oklahoma Attorney General and local stakeholders in reaching a fair resolution. We look forward to continuing our investment in Oklahoma.”
The lawsuit, originally filed by former Attorney General Drew Edmondson, accused Tyson, Cargill, and other poultry companies of polluting the Illinois River watershed with poultry waste. The case has been one of the longest-running environmental lawsuits in Oklahoma history, highlighting significant concerns over water quality and environmental health.
This settlement comes at a critical time. Oklahoma’s poultry industry is a vital economic driver, but the ongoing pollution concerns have raised alarms among local farmers. Gov. Kevin Stitt has previously warned that continued pressure on poultry companies could lead them to withdraw from the state, potentially harming family farms.
“If companies like Tyson pull out, family farms could collapse,” said Megan Langley, a local chicken farmer, highlighting the human impact of these corporate decisions. Another farmer, Sean Clark, added, “This affects all of us,” noting that the repercussions of the case extend beyond poultry to broader agriculture.
As the settlement unfolds, the Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office is urging a collaborative approach moving forward. “Clean water and a thriving poultry industry can and should both exist for the benefit of every Oklahoman,” Drummond reiterated.
Next steps involve the allocation of funds for environmental restoration projects aimed at revitalizing the Illinois River Watershed. Local communities will be closely monitoring how this settlement shapes the future of agriculture in Oklahoma.
Stay updated as this story develops, and join the conversation about the potential impacts on local farmers, the agricultural industry, and Oklahoma’s environment.
