Michigan's Pine and Upper Manistee Rivers Going "Natural"

HOME | News | Articles | Article Archives | Lunkers & Laughs | Sportfishing Forum | Self Upload Albums | Galleries | Free Classified Ads | Guestbook | Jim's Bargain Shack | Recommended Sites | Tackle Shopping | Marine Shopping | Free-For-All Links | Tell Friends About Us | Online Shopping Marketplace | Media | Feedback | Contact Us | Newsletter | Newsletter Archives | Tips & Tricks | Awards | Link to Us | Freebies | Outdoor Art Shop | Recipes | DNR Links

Article Archives/Michigan's Pine and Upper Manistee Rivers Going Natural

Michigan's Pine and Upper Manistee Rivers Going "Natural"
USSFN: 9/30/03 - Michigan Department of Natural Resources Director K.L.Cool recently approved a proposal to add the Pine and Upper Manistee rivers to the state’s list of Natural Rivers.

The Natural Rivers Program, initiated in Michigan in 1970, preserves rivers by carefully managing development on and immediately near the water. Each of the state’s Natural Rivers has its own unique plan, articulating development requirements. The program allows local government units to partner with the state by adopting zoning language that reflects Natural Rivers plans.

DNR conservation experts worked since 1994 to produce the proposals signed by Cool today. More than 100 meetings were held to craft the proposals. The proposals were presented at nearly two dozen informational and public comment meetings statewide. More than 1,000 public comments were recorded, and the plans were amended early this summer following the final round of public comment to reflect concerns expressed by landowners and conservation groups. Overall, testimony favored the proposals by a 3-1 margin.

“The philosophy of this program speaks to the heart of the DNR’s mission, to protect and preserve Michigan’s natural resources for present and future generations,” Cool said. “These proposals were forged through one of the most deliberative, open and inclusive processes I’ve ever been involved with.”

The Pine and Upper Manistee rank among the most popular rivers in the state for angling, canoeing, and other outdoor recreation. They are located in one of the most rapidly developing areas in the state.

“I am convinced it is wiser and less expensive to preserve these rivers today than to ask our grandchildren to repair them tomorrow,” Cool said. “I commend our department professionals on a job well done, and I am confident this action will pay dividends for future generations of outdoor enthusiasts.”

Source: Michigan Department of Natural Resources