I own property in Round Lake Township that has been part of my family for 38 years. My concerns are valid, legitimate, and should be given serious consideration.
I was offended by some of the things I heard at the last ATV Trail Planning Meeting. For it to be suggested that most off-trail ATV use is prior to big game hunting to construct stands is ridiculous. I've been deer hunting up here for 30-some years and this is not the case. Also the innuendo that people on foot in the woods have to be looked at with some suspicion is insulting.
The justification to expand opportunities for ATVs is completely illogical, considering the "sport" is uncontrollable, destructive, and a disturbance. How in the world can bringing more ATV activity into an area solve a problem that is out of control, yet will somehow result in more control, less destruction and better relations with landowners, hunters, resorts, the tribe, and everyone else with a deep connection to this region?
The DNR has indicated that ATVs are not allowed in state parks, because their use conflicts with the park's mission. The park's mission was defined long before snowmobiles or ATVs; nevertheless, snowmobiles are allowed in Itasca and other state parks. I am not advocating opening the parks for ATVs, however from a logical standpoint, these areas are the best locations. Controls, enforcement, boundaries and monitoring are well established in state parks. However, I am more inclined to believe that persons with foresight and concerns for the parks, the visitors, the wildlife, the forests, the waters, and the surrounding areas, basically stood up and said no to ATVs because of their propensity to destroy and disturb. "We have seen what this activity does, and we refuse to see it happen." And I applaud them for it.
Much is heard today from Washington concerning the corrupt lobbyists and pork barrel spending. Just recently Senator John McCain stated, "We have to come to our senses." Similarly, those of us Becker County taxpayers (many without voting rights) whose lives will be increasingly affected by such a trail should have substantially more influence than an ATV rider from the Twin Cities or Fargo (whom are possibly solicited by the ATV's web site). We, the taxpaying property owners, pay twice: once in taxes and again in diminished property values when ruined roads, muddy trails, and the steady scream of engines reduce economic interests in this region.
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I sincerely hope that the county will not be influenced by a vocal minority who speak only for ATVers, but instead consider the hunters, fisherman, the tribe, seasonal visitors, tourists, retirees, property owners, birdwatchers, camps, and resorts. Protect the long-term economic vitality of this region.
I urge the county to reconsider and re-evaluate the "real" effect of this proposal on the region, it's citizens, and it's future. -- Lanny Waalen, Dassel
