Bear Lake Comments
Name: Kathy White
Address: Withheld by Request
Date: 2/24/2009
I am pleased to be learning of the scope of the Bear Lake Management Plan and the commitment of all concerned to improve and maintain the inherent value of this area.
I would hope that going forward there be no "extraction" type endeavors of any kind be allowed on or near the lake. No oil drilling, water powered electrical plants, mining of minerals etc.
I strongly encourage public access where proper facilities can be provided such as bathrooms and camping areas with a garbage disposal area. Idaho has Utah totally beaten Utah in this area. Idaho has provided many clean and attractive picnic areas with flush toilets and BBQ's and TREES!! for much needed shade.
Also, very important, please do not prevent deer and other native animals from accessing the same beaches we love and having access to the water. There is no reason we cannot share this habitat with all the birds and what have you.
I have no objection to the continued agricultural pursuits around the lake particularly on the south end area. I would only expect that consideration and perhaps regulation be used to keep any poluting chemicals out of the ground water and hence, out of the lake.
PLEASE continue to patrol the shore for SUV, dirt bikes and 4wheeler traffic. I would support a ban of these types of vehicles on the shore. I watched the Sov. Lands Officer chase a vehicle at 60 mph for over 2 miles in order to catch two 4 wheelers racing along the beach.
Another concern is noise. Please prevent any future activities around the lake from destroying the peace and quiet most of us crave, escpecially after sunset. Serenity has no price.
Also, I would not welcome public access to areas that are now primarily privately owned. Day campers and traffic lead to vandalism and trespassing and Bear Lake should develop viable areas for public access. Areas with individual boundaries that provide for a family and somewhat separated from the next campsite would be ideal.
Lastly, continued enforcement of the regulations already implemented is vital. Last year's enforcement was better than the year before and, hopefully, next year will be better yet. We need more officers to patrol the beach and educate the homeowners and visitors to the lake that the laws will be enforced 7 days a week.
Thank you,
Kathy White
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