Knik River basin hearing a step

in right direction

The tougher the problem, the tougher the solution. But just because a problem defies easy solution, does not mean that a solution should not be attempted.

The first step toward resolution of the growing controversy over access to and use of the Knik River basin was taken Thursday night when close to 200 people gathered at Butte Elementary School to debate the future of the recreation wonderland. Mat-Su legislators Charlie Huggins and Bill Stoltze hosted a public hearing about legislation they have jointly proposed to enact a management plan, of sorts, for the popular area.

We applaud the efforts of Huggins and Stoltze to mediate this contentious issue. Likewise, we applaud the manner in which a vast majority of those in attendance conducted themselves. Debate may have been lively at times, but it was, for the most part, respectful.

About 40 people gave testimony on the pros and cons of the various uses of the area, and the line of disagreement that separates user groups was clear. But even in their disagreement, the seed of resolution was equally clear - everyone agrees that the Knik River basin is a great place to recreate.

If this single point can be kept in sharp focus by everyone who wants to retain their right to visit the area, then a good and lasting resolution to the problems plaguing the area can be reached.

Pointing out that not everyone uses the area responsibly is not a blanket indictment of all like users. Because riverbank salmon habitat is being destroyed by ATV riders does not mean all riders are irresponsible. Because some people have felt endangered by reckless shooting in the area does not mean that all target-shooting aficionados are reckless.

Conversely, though, just because 99 percent of riders or shooters may be responsible and respectful, does not mean that dangerous, unlawful or irresponsible users should be ignored.

Problems do exist there. And they are very real. Selfishly demanding open access without addressing these problems is most definitely not a solution.

People are quick to call for additional law enforcement, and that may be part of the solution. But making the basin a safe place to recreate is the responsibility, first and foremost, of individual users. Proper stewardship of the resource means using it in a way that is respectful of other users. It also means being proactive in reporting misuse of the area.

Land management plans are not popular in Alaska. Someone always feels picked on or left out. But the time to act is now, not after careless use results in a tragedy.

We hope that Thursday night's hearing becomes a foundation for averting such a tragedy - and for preserving all the natural wonders of the Knik River basin.