06/30/2006

Forum

The other side of Mullett trail issue

BY BILL MANSON

The Record-Eagle's June 27 editorial decrying action taken by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Trust Fund board to reverse the ban on motorized traffic near Mullett Lake was flawed and incomplete on a number of points.

First, this position represents the view of a handful of mostly second homeowners and is in direct conflict with thousands of residents who support re-opening the trail. Second, we were also promised something — an alternative route around Mullett Lake. The Michigan Snowmobile Association would have never agreed to close the trail had the DNR not made this promise.

Finally, the coalition of bipartisan legislators and Gov. Granholm's administration acted appropriately by looking out for the public's best interest, and not bowing to repeated legal threats from a few wealthy homeowners near Mullett Lake.

The paper ignored important facts that support snowmobile use near Mullett Lake. After buying the Cheboygan-to-Gaylord trail in 1998 the state cited safety concerns in banning motorized traffic on the 12-mile tract. Since then a handful of lakefront homeowners have had carte blanche with the trail, using it to store boat docks and lawn furniture.

As a compromise for siding with these homeowners, the state promised an alternative snowmobiling route for contiguous access for thousands of snowmobilers and hundreds of business owners. This promise hasn't been fulfilled. Some, as the Record-Eagle might suggest, would call that, too, a lie. Now, the state is simply following through on this promise, which benefits the overwhelming majority.

Michigan has over 380,000 registered riders and thousands more from out of state that combine to contribute over $1 billion annually to Michigan's beleaguered economy.

Community leaders from a diverse segment of the population have asked for a remedy on this issue. Legislators such as Sens. Jason Allen, R-Traverse City, Tony Stamas, R-Midland, and Reps. Kevin Elsenheimer, R-Bellaire, Matt Gillard, D-Alpena, and Gary McDowell, D-Rudyard, are serving their constituents well.

Gov. Granholm understands the importance of snowmobiling and the support it has from business and recreational enthusiasts alike.

These folks are looking at the big picture, and what's best for the State of Michigan. Instead of being ridiculed they should all be commended for finally providing the leadership necessary to fulfill the DNR's promise made a decade ago.

The Record-Eagle should try to strike a better balance between the peace and quiet of the north and the welfare of an economy buoyed by tourism.

Giving a little more credence to sporting enthusiasts and business owners that know recreational spending is a needed breath of fresh air.

About the author
Bill Manson of Grand Rapids is executive director of the Michigan Snowmobile Association.