DNR needs to reconsider Knik River plan

It is common knowledge that Knik River Valley has been sacrificed to unbridled abuse for almost 30 years despite long-term attempts by residents to stop the chaos and destruction. Now it’s official. Our surroundings, whose waters form the northern-most birthplace of the Pacific Ocean, are condemned to motor park status with Alaska Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Tom Irwin’s signature on the Management Plan for the Knik River Public Use Area (KRPUA).

While new, non-motorized trails may be created in the future after DNR’s Trail Management Planning, at this time there is not even one trail for the use of quiet recreation that doesn’t have to be shared with motorized users. Not one trail where a horseback rider can be assured of not having to jump out of the way of an ATV. Not one trail without ruts, dust or noise, and not one where a family can walk through the woods pushing baby in a stroller or Grandpa in a wheel chair.

Numerous comments were sent in requesting that some separation of uses occur in the area. Why were these not considered in the plan? ADNR has gone overboard with motorized uses and compromise is lacking.

In addition, new regulations will allow disturbance of vegetation, an activity that is prohibited statewide because it is destructive to the environment. What will continue to happen in the Knik River Valley: no one gets charged, unless they get caught digging their “excavator tires” 6 inches or more into the vegetation. In the high-use area of Upper/Lower Knik Flats (from Knik River to beyond Jim Creek ), unlimited rutting is allowed, taking away all hopes of restoring vegetation and land already destroyed in the forests, wetlands and dunes.

Requests by many residents for buffers from the motorized chaos on beaches and forests adjoining their properties were rejected in this plan. DNR intends to locate a shooting area within earshot of most residents and an elementary school! Unrestricted camping on the beach and in the forests adjoining private properties will continue to expose residents to fires and vandalism. No assurance of quiet picnics or walks on the beach without being accompanied by four-wheeler nuisance. Ever.

The stated purpose in legislation that created the KRPUA (HB 307) regarding non-motorized activities was ignored in the management plan. The legislation states: “ … provide an area for the public to enjoy the full spectrum of public uses, including maintenance and enhancement of off-road motorized vehicle and nonmotorized recreational opportunities …”

Enhancement of non-motorized recreational opportunities does not mean the taking for motorized use those trails on land and water that, for decades, were built, improved, used and cared for by groups and individuals. These horseback riders, mushers, birdwatchers and others enhanced the recreational opportunities for all borough residents. The concept of multi-use 30 years ago was to allow users to get from point A to B on a three-wheeler or a truck for fishing and hunting, but we don’t believe it means a rutted moto-cross venue.

Many residents of Knik River Valley, along with former users who are afraid to visit the area, trusted that the planning process would finally restore sanity to the area. They also trusted that this process would not cater to those who shouted the loudest at public meetings. Individuals and families of all recreational persuasions would like to return and enjoy this beautiful area without conflict.

We suggest that disenfranchised users and residents of the Knik River Valley contact Commissioner Irwin by Sept. 24 and request that he reconsider his decision on the basis that the KRPUA Management Plan does not comply with the stated purpose of HB 307 and does not address mitigation measures that protect the adjoining community and residents from adverse effects and spillovers of the KRPUA.

Other issues with the plan can be appealed as well through this reconsideration process. The public really has not been listened to. You can view the documents and regulations at www.knikriver.alaska.gov. You can e-mail Mr. Irwin at tom.irwin@alaska.gov ; 269-8431.

Gregory Nilsson & Brit Lively write on behalf of Butte Area Residents Civic Organization, www.buttealaska.org.