To the Editor:

In spite of the unbelievable hoopla surrounding the opening of the Sleeping Bear Heritage “Trail” between the Dune Climb and Glen Arbor, the fact is that a 20 to 30 foot wide swath of protected national parklands consisting of mature forest, dune scrublands and wooded wetlands was bulldozed, graded and leveled.

Thousands of trees were uprooted and chopped into mulch, animal habitat destroyed. Huge road-building equipment rolled in, laying asphalt for an unnecessary bike “trail” — really a road.

The Lakeshore has failed to adhere to its mission — to preserve and protect the unique features of this magnificent part of the Lake Michigan shoreline. With the world’s largest moving sand dunes, the vastness of Lake Michigan, the cool dark forests, the peaceful streams and lakes, this national park can stand on its own beauty. It doesn’t need an urban-type bike “trail” to attract visitors.

Paved, straight, level, wide bike “trails” are common in urban/suburban areas and are not necessary in this national park. There are many great biking opportunities here on the miles of seasonal and lightly used county roads that wind through the Lakeshore.

No more extensions of the Sleeping Bear Heritage “Trail” should be built. This boondoggle is destroying the very environment that people come to the Lakeshore for.

Visit the Sleeping Bear Naturally page on Facebook or go to www.sleepingbearnaturally.org for more information. Sign the Don’t Pave the Forest Petition at www.thepetitionsite.com/1/ dont-pave-the-forest-petition.

Marilyn Miller

P.O. Box 187

Glen Arbor