Ottawa expanding

By PAMELA JANSSON

[email protected]

Bessemer — The Gogebic County Board of Commissioners on Aug. 14 learned that the Ottawa National Forest is seeking to acquire nearly 11 additional acres that are adjacent to the west-side campground of the Black River Harbor Recreation Area.

In a letter received by the board on Aug. 6, county forest supervisor Darla Lenz said that the Nature Conservancy now owns the land.

“Acquiring the property would secure the land adjacent to the campground, ensuring the parcel would not be developed, providing the unique camping experiences for future generations,” said Lenz in the letter.

Lenz said the pending acquisition is consistent with ONF’s Land and Resource Management goals for land adjustments, as follows:

“Adjust land ownership to facilitate restoration, protection and management of resources, and to provide recreation opportunities.”

Lenz said the purchase also meets the county’s recreation goals, as follows: “provide outstanding recreation opportunities for people to achieve solitude or primitive and unconfined recreation” while also facilitating the viewing of wildlife and nature at large.

She added of the desired land, which is on the southern shore of Lake Superior: “The Harbor offers one of the few access points to Lake Superior, with boating being a major summertime activity. The boat ramp can accommodate almost any craft tailored in.”

According to Lenz, “The land is to be acquired under the authority of the Weeks Act of March 1, 1911 (36 Stat. 962), as amended, using Critical Inholding 2023 appropriated dollars.”

Commissioners voted to receive and place the letter on file.

Commissioners also:

— Learned from county administrator Juliane Giackino that exterior restoration work on the county courthouse is now complete.

— Heard Lorenson express appreciation for Heidi DeRosso, coordinator of the county’s EMS/911 services, in relation to her efforts to share communication throughout the county regarding the successfully passed millage renewal for ambulance/EMS services.

— Tabled action on a June 30 letter from Marenisco Township Supervisor Bruce Mahler, who asked help from Gogebic-Ontonagon Community Action Agency funding for expenses relating to the township’s senior meals program, which it maintains on its own.

All votes were unanimous with George R. Peterson III absent.