Vandals damage Crevasse-Moraine trail system

To the editor:

Over the last two years, numerous volunteers and several land owners\managers have come together to improve the Matanuska Greenbelt trail system for public use. This network of trails, extending from the Parks and Glenn highways to the Palmer-Wasilla Highway, has seen a tremendous increase in usage by diverse trail users. It provides healthy, outdoor recreation for young and old, including skiers, hikers, cyclists, horse riders, runners, youth programs and school athletes.

Spring breakup is a period when trails are most susceptible to damage due to wet, muddy conditions. Most conscientious trail users will stay off wet trails for the few weeks it takes for them to dry up. However, a few selfish individuals recently decided to drive highway vehicles throughout the Crevasse-Moraine portion of the trail system, leaving extensive ruts and holes along all the main trails. This leaves the trails unsafe for many uses and impacts everyone in the Valley who uses the trails. The damage will remain unless volunteers again step in.

The trail system and the volunteers help maintain the quality of life we all enjoy in the Valley. Please stay off the trails until they dry and help discourage inappropriate trail activities.

Joe Moore

Palmer