URGENT COMMUNITY ALERT – PROTECT THE RAINBOW RIVER!
*** CALL TO ACTION ***
Contact your local elected representatives with your concerns about this proposed 24x7 creosote tie shredding operation.
Express your opposition!
See the 11/18/25 Toxic Ties Update for contact info and a new sample email
Thank you for helping to protect our cherished Rainbow River!
A major project is underway to grind hundreds of thousands of retired, creosote-soaked railroad ties into pulp right here in the Dunnellon/Chatmire area — just half a mile from the Rainbow River, Blue Cove, and Blue Cove Lake.
These toxic, creosote-laden ties are already sitting unprotected on the ground, threatening to leach harmful chemicals into our aquifer, environment, and community. If FDEP approves the company's Air Permit (as early as 12/2/25), the shredding/grinding of the ties will release toxic chemicals and particulate matter in to the air, that will then be washed in to the ground water.
The project runs north/south along Hwy 41 and borders residential areas in Chatmire and the City of Dunnellon, and businesses along the east side of Hwy 41. This is a potential environmental disaster in the making. The Rainbow, Dunnellon, and Chatmire communities stand united in opposition to this project, and have mobilized to protect our river, our town, our homes, and our health.
Dunnellon City Council held a special meeting 10/27, attended by Kathy Bryant, Marion County Commissioner and a standing room only crowd of concerned citizens. Find a new CALL TO ACTION and the most recent updates on the situation, including actions taken by Marion County, the City of Dunnellon, Concerned Citizens of Chatmire, and RRC in partnership with the Sierra Club on our Advocacy page:
*Video and aerial photos courtesy of Flying High In Florida; No Ties to Toxins graphic courtesy of Linda W Photography
Do Your Part to Protect the River
The Rainbow River is more than a natural wonder, it’s a living, breathing sanctuary. A place where crystal-clear waters flow over eelgrass beds and ancient cypress trees whisper stories of the past. We share this video to remind everyone: How we enjoy the river matters! Every tube floated, every kayak launched, every anchor cast leaves an impact. This river gives us so much. Let’s give something back. Watch the Responsible Recreation video below. Share the message. And next time you’re on the water, float gently, knowing YOU play a part in its protection.