Levin, Stabenow Introduce Bill to Protect Beaver Basin Area of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
WASHINGTON – Senators Carl Levin and Debbie Stabenow, both D-Mich., today introduced the Beaver Basin Wilderness Act to permanently protect 11,740 acres within the Beaver Basin area of Pictured Rocks National Park. Located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula along the south shore of Lake Superior, this area comprises about 16% of the picturesque national lakeshore. The Wilderness designation would not change the fundamental way this land has been managed since 1981, ensuring continued public access, use, and enjoyment of the land, but would ensure that the pristine state of this area remains undisturbed for future generations.
“It is critical that the pristine natural features of the Beaver Basin area remain the treasure they are today,” said Levin. “This area is a unique and distinct landscape that highlights one of the most beautiful backdrops of the Great Lakes, and it is vital that we do all we can to protect it. With this wilderness designation, nature enthusiasts and visitors will be able to enjoy this beautiful piece of Michigan for generations to come.”
“Making sure our beautiful lakes, waterways, lands and wildlife are preserved and protected is vital to the very identity of our state and our nation,” said Stabenow. “This designation will help ensure this exceptional display of nature remains untouched for Michigan residents and tourists alike.”
The Beaver Basin Wilderness Act responds to concerns expressed during the five years of development of the General Management Plan for Pictured Rocks, which included a wilderness study and included extensive public involvement. Under the bill, public access would be largely preserved: Boats powered by electric motors would be allowed on Little Beaver and Beaver Lakes within the Wilderness area; All motor boats would be allowed to access the miles of the Lake Superior shoreline, as the wilderness area does not include the Lake Superior surface water; and the access road to Beaver Lakes and Little Beaver campground is not included in the wilderness area, so vehicles would still have access to this popular area.
Significantly, several miles of the North Country National Scenic Trail, also known as the Lakeshore Trail, run through this wilderness area.
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