Borough should preserve Crevasse Moraine area

A Spectrum, by Michelle Church

The Matanuska-Susitna Borough has received an application to trade some private acreage along the Matanuska River for a large parcel of borough land located just south of the central landfill.

Friends of Mat-Su submitted comment on the proposed exchange. We do not support this proposal. The nearly 200-acre parcel proposed to be swapped is the last large parcel of borough-owned property in the core area. The Crevasse Moraine trail runs through a portion of it.

In our public comment, Friends of Mat-Su requested that the land exchange be denied and that the parcel be reclassified as public recreation lands. Further, we requested that the parcel be designated a special land use management area for nonmotorized uses.

This will allow for future expansion of skiing and running trails within the core area. The public asset represented by the Crevasse Moraine trail system should be maintained for future borough residents to enjoy.

We received numerous requests from both members and nonmembers to speak against this land sale/exchange. The Crevasse Moraine trail is the reason for the opposition. This trail system is an important asset not only to the core area but also to the entire borough.

Residents and nonresidents alike use this recreation area. The Mat-Su Borough must take a futuristic approach to its land disposal program. While the applicant has indicated willingness to grant an easement to reserve the existing trail, opportunity for further trail development in the area would be lost.

Density from development in the core area will undoubtedly continue to increase. Reserving public land for open space and recreational opportunities will benefit the community now and in the future. Property values increase when such community assets exist.

Trail development is a clear priority for many current borough residents, as evidenced by our recent visual preference survey. Last year, a substantial bond package for development and dedication of trails was approved by the voters. The Mat-Su Borough Trail Plan, passed earlier this year, identified the need for parks and recreational areas. Utilizing the bond funds, the Land Management Department is now working on implementing the plan.

The proposed land sale will come before the assembly in the next few months. It will be important for the public to let the assembly members know their feelings regarding this proposal. We encourage you to make your wishes known to your elected officials.

Michelle Church is the executive director of Friends of Mat-Su, a local, tax-exempt community-planning organization.