Dear Sir,

I am writing to you regarding the development project proposed to be placed on the banks of the Wisconsin River’s Lower Dells (Docket Number IP-SC-2007-11-2032LW and IP-SC-2007-11-2033LW). I believe the proposed development would be a bad idea for a number of reasons, and I urge your agency to deny the permit for this development.

As a strong supporter of the DNR’s efforts with state natural areas, I am deeply concerned about the habitat of protected plants and animals such as those that can be found in the Lower Dells. Building such a large resort complex adjacent to this beautiful natural area would severely threaten that habitat, and only lead to the area’s downfall.

Accounts in the local news have quoted developers as saying their project wouldn’t encroach on the natural area, that they have promised to post signs along the resort’s border advising people that the adjacent property is a state natural area. It’s absurd to believe advisory signs would do anything to protect that area. I believe the negative impact on that natural area would be inevitable, and would eventually lead to the destruction of protected species, as well as the scenic beauty of the area.

Erosion from the 62 acre site (including parking lot runoff), as well as increased boat traffic can only harm the Wisconsin River and that natural area. The proposed six-story-high structure would be a severe detriment to the scenic beauty of that unique part of the river.

As one who has contributed to Wisconsin’s Endangered Resources Fund for a long time (through the license place which I’ve had for years, and through regular contributions on my income tax form), I am so very proud of the D.N.R.’s efforts with regard to the state natural areas. It is my hope the State continues to protect those areas, especially from sprawling development. Please don’t put the Wisconsin River State Natural Area in jeopardy. Deny the permit for this development project.

Sincerely,
Jonathan Bloy

I very much enjoy the change of seasons in Wisconsin. I like the balmy summer weather, the cool crisp air of the fall, the promise of warm weather the spring brings, and yes, I like the bitter cold, snowy weather as well.

About five years ago I got into snowshoeing, and with the amount of snowfall we’ve had during the past several winters I’ve only had the chance to snowshoe once or twice each year.

There’s something very comforting about being inside during a big blizzard. The wind is howling, the snow is coming down so hard you can’t see across the street, and you are snuggled in on the couch with a blanket, a book, and steaming cup of hot chocolate.

Maybe I’m just getting nostalgic in my old age, but I remember a lot more big winter storms when I was a kid. Back then we had plenty of opportunities to sled, build snow forts, and have the obligatory snowball fights. I don’t remember the last time I saw children playing in the snow. Last year, there was only one big storm (that I can recall) here in Madison.

The only good thing in this trend I can see is a reduction of heating costs. With fuel demands so low this winter, the price of crude oil has dropped to it’s lowest point in almost two years.

Given the choice however, I would much rather pay “normal” heating costs if I could only have some beautiful winter weather to enjoy.

One of the things I like about where I’m now working, is how close the college campus is to the “great outdoors.” There is good sized wooded area right behind the library there, which also has a nice view of Lake Wingra.

With the sun shining today (and very little wind blowing) I decided to spend part of my lunch break on a short walk along that wooded area. Taking just that short walk with the sun on my shoulders and the birds singing in my ears did quite a bit for me today.

Come on Spring. I’m ready for you.

John Muir once wrote:

“How interesting everything is! Every rock, mountain, stream, plant, lake, lawn, forest, garden, bird, beast, insect seems to call and invite us to come and learn something of its history and relationship… No other place has ever so overwhelmingly attracted me as this hospitable, Godful wilderness.”

I couldn’t agree more. I only hope those we elect to lead us agree as well.

Those sites are definitely worth a visit if the wilderness and conservation are as important to you as they are to me.

“We don’t inherit the Earth from our ancestors,
we borrow it from our children.”

This situation makes me more convinced that our dependence on fossil fuels is indeed causing global warming. The warmer weather and lack of snow is also likely to cause the Upper Midwest to experience drought this summer. Water levels on the Great Lakes are already low.