The Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) did not take proper action to prevent the landfill fire that is burning near Moody, AL, after knowing for several years that there were potential fire hazards and unauthorized materials on the site. ADEM has failed Alabamians for years. ADEM has displayed consistent inaction to properly enforce laws that are in place to protect Alabamians when permits are violated and our waterways or air are polluted. Conservation workers in Alabama witness the failure of ADEM on a regular basis. Now citizens in St. Clair and Jefferson Counties are seeing the results of ADEM's neglectful practices. As smoke from the burning landfill is filling our air, we are smelling the stench of Lance LeFleur's failure to lead his department to achieve their mission, "to assure for all citizens of the State a safe, healthful and productive environment."

For many years conservation groups from around the state have called for the director of ADEM, Lance LeFleur to be fired or resign.  Those calls for change have been ignored . Now citizens in Jefferson and St Clair counties are suffering from ADEM's failure. Alabama deserves better!

We are calling on Governor Kay Ivey to implement change. Our Department of Environmental Management needs new leadership. Our state is blessed with natural beauty and amazing biodiversity that needs to be cherished and protected. ADEM is failing us.