I am writing about the proposed Michigan Trotter Timber sale of five units along the beautiful Hantwick Trail in north Clark County. This cut would hinder the aesthetics of the path along the East Fork of the Lewis River. This area is a gem for the local community and enables people to connect with nature as well as provides opportunities for fitness in an area which is devoid of long hiking trails. This sale would also release the carbon stored in the forest only to be replaced with a plantation/tree farm. Dick Dyrland, retired U.S. Forest Service hydrologist, also reported the potential for erosion and landslides along this steep slope.
My further concerns are the short 15-day public comment period, as well as the fact that the state Department of Natural Resources would only be getting a small portion of the money for local schools.
I am a resident of north Clark County and I regularly walk this path, enjoying the recreational opportunities it provides. I strongly oppose this Michigan Trotter Timber harvest. I urge you to please put the remaining 25 acres of Unit 1 of the Michigan Trotter sale into the State Trust Land Transfer program.
