Plan would ruin pristine area

To the editor:

There is a public recreation area on the north side of the Knik River Valley, accessible by an unimproved dirt road at the end of Maud Road in the Mat-Su Borough. This is a pristine area where people can go and enjoy camping in the summer, adjacent to several lakes where for years swans have nested and raised their young. Moose come down to feed in the shallow waters of the swamps. Sheep come down in the spring to have their young at the base of the cliffs, adjacent to a proposed firing range. Then as the snows recede, they migrate to the grassy slopes on the mountain to feed.

This is all going to change since the Department of Natural Resources has opted to build an open shooting range at the base of Jim Creek Canyon, where the sheep are prevalent.

So folks, don’t plan on camping in this beautiful area and expect to see any wildlife — including the swans and their young, the sheep, the bears, the moose etc. What a shame, to lose such an area for all except the ones who want to go and fire their weapons, at anytime without any monitoring by anyone. This will surely ruin camping and wildlife viewing for anyone who wishes to enjoy it. This area is also used for wintertime sports by the public.

You will be able to hear echoing of rifle fire through the Knik River Valley as far out as the Old Glenn Highway. Residents and outdoor lovers, enjoy.

George Hermon

Palmer