This issue is important for the whole nation but especially to those of us in the Southeast. The blasting fills up the streams and destroys old, growth forests, creates erosion and eyesores. The article explains further the destruction it causes. The Great Smokey Mountains are the most visited of all National Parks.
Much of this private contractor mismanagement has been under the radar for far too long. NYT often brings things to light that have been largely ignored.
The story was a bit lengthy but seems accurate. My son was in Medical sales and left the field because of dubious contracting practices - he saw a lot of that. I wish there had been other examples given - a broader look, in other words. Now, I want to know when someone will check out the war-profiteering in the non-bid contracts, particularly Halliburton, Blackwater and the whole war industry.
I do not kow this publication but do know of the work of David Brooks. It seems to cross party lines and be a fair article.
When my family was attached to an Embassy in an Islamic country we had Marine Guards. They performed exceptionally well and were valued members of the 'Embassy Family". Many of the duties formerly performed by the military have been "privatized" to the detriment of the US mission abroad and are a fiscal disaster. There is little control exercised over these companies and the profit motive has been the driving factor. There is no accountability.