By Mari Radtke
Conservation had placed several items on its January 12 agenda about camping rates, extended camping rates and rules as well as extending the camping season. Each item came up individually. Each discussion brought out more questions. Each item was tabled for more information.
The final agenda item was to discuss the response from IDNR from the county’s request to include limited horse riding at Hannibal Waterman Wildlife Area.
Scott explained his recommendation is not to pursue an exemption of the ground after a lot of thought and discussion based on the county’s goals, future, what’s best for the majority of the county or potential repercussions. He doesn’t feel it is fiscally responsible to pay for land they already manage. (Conservation owns the property.) Scott also informed the board that moving the stamp fund to a comparable piece was an option.
Konz suggested that he would like to “step back a year or year and a half ago and use the land as it had always been used until all this started.” He feels that the incidental use at certain programs wouldn’t be a problem. Jack Wallinga reacted to the comment by saying he would go out there with his ATV. Konz shot back that ATVs were never used out there.
The classification and a guess at price was discussed.
John Farrell said, “If I understand this, you’re okay with breaking the law!” Konz responded by saying, “I’m okay with using the ground.” There was more discussion of if the land was acquired with taxpayer money and that taxpayer money is what maintains the land. Konz reinforced the idea that he wants to use the land.
Walking trails and handicap accessibility were big talking points. Farrell said, “I wish it never changed,” all while Konz was advocating exactly that. In the end Konz and Farrell agreed that there is nothing wrong with using it the way it had been used for 30 years.
Scott informed that exceptions for ADA requirements could be made. Field trips and other special event use does not seem to be a violation. One of the biggest issues is mowing before July 15 is a big violation.
The video of the entire meeting can be seen on our YouTube channel and on our website, www.belltimescourier.com.