Too often we try to simplify a complicated issue by thinking of it in terms of black and white, right and wrong, and by characterizing the opposition as the enemy. Proponents of the boat launch proposed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources on Deer Lake in Shelter Bay believe that its construction is simply a matter of fairness, of granting public access to a public resource, while those who oppose the boat launch are characterized as selfish and elitist.

Who benefits from construction of a boat ramp? Boaters, obviously, but not all boaters need a special launch. Kayaks, canoes, inflatables and other small craft are easily launched from the beach without interfering with or endangering swimmers and other users of the roadside park. So really, only users of larger craft who trailer their boats and need a deeper water launch site would benefit. Should this segement of the public have access to a public lake? Yes, definitely, if access were the only issue. But in order to give access in the way the DNR has proposed, in order that this segment of the boating public benefit, another group is harmed.

The proposal the DNR currently has on the table would bulldoze a road from M-28 to a parking lot at the launch site, in the process destroying a beautiful old stand of timber as well as wildlife habitat. Anyone who enjoys walking in those woods, skiing and snowshoeing amidst towering trees and animal tracks would be harmed by its destruction. Also harmed would be the many locals and visitors who enjoy Deer Lake from the roadside park because it is undeniable that the character of the lake will be changed by increased access of larger boats regardless of restrictions imposed on boat speed or motor size.

Deer Lake is more than a beautiful body of water it is one of the increasingly rare quiet places, a spot for contemplation and communion. It has value beyond fishing and water sports. For those of us who live on Deer Lake, it is our home and our neighborhood. If wanting to protect it makes us selfish, then it is a label we wear proudly.

Construct a boat ramp and a small segment of the boating public gains while another segment of the public loses. Deny the ramp and the reverse is true. Broker a compromise, save the land and the lake? Still not everyone will be happy. If this is about fairness, then shouldn't we try to be fair to all parties?

We must be clear about what is to be gained and what is to be lost. Because, what is to be lost cannot be reclaimed.

Roberta Lang