To the editor:
As a return visitor to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, we appreciate the rare beauty of this pristine wilderness area. We are grateful to be able to experience this unique ecosystem in its natural state, unhindered by urbanization.
We are saddened to learn of the proposed Segment 9 expansion, which is different from the previous 21 miles. It seems contrary to the primary mission of the National Park Service to protect unique ecosystems. Why would our national park service initiate or allow anyone to cut 25’ swaths through mature forests? Building massive urban-like retaining walls through critical dunes or constructing concrete boardwalks through rare wetlands is not necessary!
The existing Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail offers a unique recreational opportunity along M-22. It is a great asset to the area and enjoyed by many visitors to the Glen Arbor area. It makes perfect sense to access Good Harbor Bay in the eastern end of the Lakeshore. A trail extension down CR 669 to Bohemian Beach would be a terrifi c ending. What a reward it would be to take a dip in refreshing Lake Michigan at the end of a bike ride. Using existing infrastructure along Lake Michigan Drive would be a brilliant alternative to existing proposals to extend the Heritage Trail.
Please sustain and keep this area “America’s Most Beautiful Place.”
Wayne Headley Canoga Park, California
