Is there anyone out there? Any friends among public servants that have an agenda more important than my Constitutional Rights?
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Considering all the conflict of interest from self serving public servants within the Boardman River Dams Committee constantly reminding the few opposing them that the beauty of the process is, it’s ok for a self serving agenda driven group of public servants to Lie, Misinform and Mislead the public they are suppose to be serving and knowingly abuse their job titles and authority to do so.  Sure a good public servant would much rather consider it, a timely and clever misdirection of the populous considered to be for the greater good.  BUT !!!
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After witnessing the clans attack on Mr. Peterson at the last BRDC meeting any questions about the clans agenda have now been answered.  His offer was honest and genuine, trying to help the community, offering a share of the revenue from power generation back to the County.  The clans claim to be neutral while force feeding us their opinion, preaching their agenda and offering bias studies, untruths, compromised conclusions and rubber stamping surveys to back up thier clams.  This is unacceptable business practice and would be shot down at a glance in the private sector.
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At every meeting you can hear these words “How can we get the public more involved” yet someone comes forward under the guidelines within the committees own parameters to form a new sub committee, and you ignore your very own rules and regulations pushing them away. The very public told to get involved, told to volunteer, told “If you don’t like something then join a committee” Yet someone comes forward volunteering their expertise and they are pushed away with Bias . Told no other team members are needed.  The BRDC has rejected with Bias formal public attempts for additional team members and/or a new sub committee.  Understanding a newly formed sub committee to inform anyone contrary to the clans agenda would be undermining their very own existence it is no wonder the clan acted like they have.
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To all you people that know so much about the Boardman River, offering fabricating studies.  To all you people praying on confabulated technicalities, To all you people knowingly offering compromised studies and rubber stamping data previously compiled for completely different surveys, To all you people spreading half truths and misleading the public, To those wearing blinders or turning your heads, looking away from the atrocities regarding the fishery, the wildlife, the public trust, the public riparian rights, private riparian rights, private property rights, CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS.  There is only one thing left to say.  I hope the truth is exposed.  I hope the Commissioners of Grand Traverse County see through the smoke screen of confabulated technicalities half truths and lies and really do something good for the community

.Andy I would love to send you pictures, I have taken pictures nearly every other day until the Snow covered the valley during the rain and melt off, every day as the water rose 7 ft.  after that we had another rise of 2 ft.  the water has been going up and down at outrageous amounts and the other day there were people fishing out there right now it is open water again even as cold as it has been. I don’t know if anyone really knows how dangerous it is out there.  When I seen them I dialed 911 and waited.  It is my unprofessional opinion that the water could be regulated 100 percent better if they would raise the level 17 ft Because in 12 yrs. that I have live on the pond the TC Light and Power Co. kept the level plus or minus 3 inches now that the County has their hands on it they can’t keep it regulated within plus or minus 7 feet.  That is the sad truth.  With the fluctuation the erosion is unbelievable private property and Co. owned property as well washing away into the river.  Filling in the original depths of the pond, if the water level does come back the fishing holes will be gone.  Filled in and good luck finding one person cares.  Certianly not anyone from the D.E.Q. or D.N.R.  G.O.D. what a joke. But if some poor unsuspecting soul were to rake a few weeds up in front of their house on the Bay Look out Every DEQ officer in the state would make sure that they were prosecuted to the full extent of the law.  But not out here it took the DEQ almost 6 months to conceed that there were even any wetlands destroyed out here and on top of that the transportation of sand and sediment has surely exceeded 1000’s of cubic tons.  The river is a relentless conveyor belt takeing the high banks and filling in the low.  It could have all been easily avoideed and instead of over looked. Back to your original question Andy I have a lot of photos I’m willing to share with you or for that matter but I’m not sure how to forward them to you.  I will be at the Property Owners-
Bottomfeeders Meeting and the BRDC monthy theatrical too… you may inquire there if you like.

Are there any more recent photos?  How often and who updates them?

.It has been made quite clear many times that a certain person affiliated with the BRDC has a job, and among the job description is to search and apply for grants. I dare ask......
Has there been one request for a grant to State or Federal agencies regarding upgrades to bring these facilities into DEQ or FERC specifications? If so it certainly has not been part of this so called open process.  Understand there is a lot of money available for upgrading hydro electric facilities, to keep them on line and to keep them Generating Power in a time when the Supply is not keeping up with the Demand.  The direction of the grant searches have certainly exposed the agenda and the wishes of these community driven people on these committees and leave no doubt to the objective behind their wishes.

More new information comes to light at the BRDC Meeting.  It seems a Deed of right of way between the County Road Commission and the County Agreed upon back when the road was built (through the spillway) that the county is released from any and all claims to damages in any way arising from or incident to the opening and maintaining of such road across said premise,and from any damage to said road caused by flood or failure of the dam that the Road commission would construct and maintain a culvert to drain all seepage from the dam and natural drainage in such a way that it does not interfere with the operation of the present or a similar weir. Failure to conform to this indenture could lead to land once conveyed for highway or road purposes and in case they shall cease to be used for purposes the title to the above described premises shall revert back to the County.  In other words the County let the road commission put the road through the Emergency Spillway under the pretence that a maintained culvert under the road would be part of the road construction and that it would not interfere with the opperation of the this Dam.  This agreement is signed the 26th of April 1934.  73 yrs later the culvert is completely buried due to lack of maintance and the DEQ has stepped in asking for the spillway to be repaired at a cost of 750,000?  Is this something that that Road Commission is responsible for?  Could it be as easy as clearing out the drain under the road.  The County has lead the people under false pretence that they will have to pay this outlandish cost to repair the Emergency spillway.  Turns out they are not even responsible.

Well said Bruce, well said!!!!

First of all, Christina your absolutely correct with the description of your observations.  I hope Mr. Concerned restrains herself from lashing out accusing you of being delusional in statement as to what you have seen.  Including accusations as to you being a Bias Disrespectful Armchair Expert Unscientifically Estimating Horrible and Judgmental Observations with No Credible Sources.  More importantly for those who missed the bottomlands meeting last night 1/16/08 here is a little up date.  Please remember this is my unprofessional rendering your about to read. 
1.) The water level issue.  I witnessed a county worker with a bolt tied to a length of string tied to a tape measure and lowered from the top of dam to the water then documenting the rise.
That was our scientific expert.
How were you measurments obtained at the Boardman Dam Don?
2.) There was a gentleman that came into view at the Bottomlands Meeting last week.  Ends up he was highest bidder, making him the new owner of apparently all of the generating equipment at Sabin and Boardman Dams.  My question is with this being the Nations biggest public process. Did any of you know there were three companies bidding for the equipment and negotiating with the county for a long term lease concerning reactivation of power generation at the Boardman Dam and Sabin Dam sites?  Then a brilliant question arose, Why continue wasting money on these studies? After thinking about it for awhile, a possibly more intriguing questions would be!  During the past year and a half knowing there were three companies possibly willing to commit to long term leases to generate electricity at these facilities, I ask in the middle of the “Nations Biggest Public Process” How was it this topic of conversation was overlooked? and how much Tax money was wasted on this project during this period of time? what are the remaining costs projected to complete this needless study? where precisely is the money coming from?

I apologize for some incorrect information I posted earlier.  The location of the monitoring station is 200 feet upstream from Brown Bridge Road on the Boardman River, 5.1 miles from Mayfield Michigan.

There are several sources of information for water levels on the Boardman.  The USGS and the MDEQ record water level and discharge at a location near Mayfield Road on the Boardman.  That station is a real-time station which means you can retrieve data using your computer.  The address is http://waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/uv?04126970.  The information from this monitoring station shows that the Boardman River rose about a foot at Mayfield Road.  The peak discharge was 260 cubic feet per second (cfs).  The previous high discharge for January over the last ten years was 150 cfs.  In the spring the river tends to have more discharge but over the last ten years the highest spring water discharge was approx. 190cfs

The water level at Brown Bridge and Boardman Pond is monitored by the City and County.

The water levels in Boardman Pond were reported by the County as follows:
Jan. 7 640.15 feet
Jan. 8 645.23 feet
Jan. 9 646.82 feet
Jan. 10 645.65 feet
Jan. 16 642.98 feet
This information shows that the water level rose about 6.7 feet during the rain/thaw event and then slowly dropped.

At Brown Bridge the water level was dropped about 6 inches as a precaution and the rain/thaw raised the water level about a foot after the drawdown.

The USGS site is an interesting site.  If you are interested in rivers besides the Boardman, there are numerous rivers in Michigan that are monitored and it is interesting to “watch” the water levels as precipitation events occur.  Some stations provide temperature and dissolved oxygen data, too.

Dear Concerned,
You would like a factual statement?? Here’s one. I recently went down along the trails at Lone Pine Landing. Been down there lately?? If you havent, i say go. See for your self. When you start walking in, go to the left, down to the stairs that are about to fall in the river. See what a mess all this has made. Last fall, the DNR and Kayak Club, bless their hearts, got together and went down there and removed the log jamb and such that has caught many of us kayakers, NOT NEWBIES. Their intent was wonderful, but has caused the hill on the side of the river to fall. The stairs are literally 2 feet away from falling in the river. So, because of the removal of the water, the river is going crazy. From Beitner Road, all the way to the pond, the sides are caving in. The stairs i mentioned are no longer safe. There are 7 foot drop off banks. So, who is going to warn the public about this and explain why its doing it?? The site will no doubt be deemed hazardous and unsafe and we will then lose another part of nature for my children and others to see. What do you suggest about this one??

I’ll speak up agian.  Just think, this is the year of the decision.  Should they stay or should they go?  Will they all go or will they all stay?  Will it be an all or some decision?  I’m so excited to see what will become of the river.  I will be content to live with whatever it turns out to be.  I wonder what keeping the dam in place will do to taxes.  Will we feel an increase to cover the cost of maintenance and liabilty coverage if they stay?  Will the property owners see and increase/decrease due to the waterfront loss or an increase due to increased land mass?  How will it affect insurance premiums on the surrounding properies.  I’m glad that I’m not making the decision!  The discussion is getting very heated.  Its a hot winter in Michigan!

Dear Mr.Concerned or is it Mrs.Concerned?
Would you like the Photos? or would they not be credible enough for you? I have pictures of Brown Bridge and the Boardman Pond. taken on 1-5 -08 thru 1-14-08 that’s Before and after the rain event in question.  Could you get me the numbers from the USGS gauge? Because you see I don’t have access to USGS Gauges which definitely make me a novice, I know.  Although if you did, it would show you that I’m give or take inches not feet. More importantly thou please Everyone understand sometimes common since and good judgment coupled with a camera and emotion can produce unprofessional observations accepted and used as fact. 
Unlike some of the science experts data the BRDC has compiled. That can be a big problem for someone only acting concerned.  Dear BRDC please understand the real concern here is that someone is trying to discredit another by asking for proof made available, yet having none of their own to actually prove otherwise.
and all the while talking about respecting other horrible opinions, courage and self-discipline.  I respectfully ask you to show me the courage in your signature and self-discipline in your words.
Thank you BRDC for giving everyone a forum to offer their unprofessional and sometime obvious observations as well as horrible anonymous opinions.

Dear BRDC,

Please consider posting factual statements on this blog site from accredited sources.  I understand that one of the main purposes of a blog is to give everybody an opportunity to vent.  However, it seems like there are a lot of armchair experts attempting to validify their particular dam disposition bias by posting statements that are not based in sound science.  For example, did Boardman Pond raise by 10 feet, or was that an “estimate.” Did the blog author reference a USGS gauge, the DEQ, the USGS, the dam owners, the DNR, or the BRDC?  Readers of these blogs please beware and use your best judgement to discern between opinions based in actual science versus emotion.  I think it is great that people are voicing their opinions, but I think it is horrible that people aren’t respecting others opinions.  If bloggers don’t have the courage and self-discipline to at least acknowledge and respect opposing opinions, how can they ever expect anybody to respect theirs.  A case in point will be a response to this blog that negates my opinion that the Boardman Pond did not raise ten feet, and Brown Bridge Pond did not go down during the heavy rainfall we had.  Please note that is my personal, unprofessional observation, I will leave the actual science to the experts!

Did any look up Reserve?  As in Natural Education RESERVE? 
Here is a quick up date on the pond.
Over night between the 9th and 10th after a substancial rain and melt off of nearly all of the snow the level of the Boardman Pond rose 10 feet.  It was explained, “this is just normal run off” Normal Run off?  If it was normal run off then why didn’t Brown Bridge pond raise an inch?  It went down believe it or not.  Why didn’t Sabin Pond or Boardman Lake and the River all the way thru town rise?  I’ll tell you, the dam was lowered to lessen the effects on the Dam at Brown Bridge and raised on Boardman Pond to lesson the effects on Sabin Dam and the rest of the wat thru town.  So if Boardman Dam is structually sound enough to close up and let the water raise 10 feet over night then WOW what a great asset!!!!!!  Just think if we could Produce Power from the facillity too
Wow.  and lessen the effect on my bill.

Dave look up Reserved.  And what species the pond was to be reserved for.  We are all missing this point.
!.) I’m not sure but I don’t think I would be willing to take the risk and let classrooms of children pass fences and warning signs put up to keep everyone out because of the dangers that have been created and recognized our very own danger assessment team. 
2.)The only Photography is the documentation of destruction.  There are no birds in comparison to years past.
3.)Natural?  I’m sorry but this hole area was covered in Beautiful Giant White Pines and under every S curve in that river you can find hidden in the sediment stacked like pencils the remanents of your natural Flora left from the Loggers.  You are seriously confused if you think the valley your looking at when you float down it is natural.
It is natural as you know it.  I’ll give you that much.
So Dave Keep your dollars and doughnuts because your right you will never convince me. But!  I will take your best wishes. 
Thank you and enjoy that river valley ya all

Bless your heart too Bruce.  You asked if someone could please tell you how this is in the least bit natural, educational or reserved. Well, I doubt I can change your mind, but I’m willing to make an attempt.

Is the process we see natural? Well I suppose that depends on what the definition of “natural” is. So, I looked it up and here are the definitions that seem to apply:

1.  existing in or formed by nature (opposed to artificial): a natural bridge. 

2. based on the state of things in nature; constituted by nature: Growth is a natural process. 

3. in a state of nature; uncultivated, as land. 

4. growing spontaneously, without being planted or tended by human hand, as vegetation. 

So, the question is: “Is the action of the Boardman River as it erodes its way through the sediment that has been deposited in the upstream end of Boardman Pond natural?” From the definitions above one can easily make the case that this is a natural process. I know that doesn’t make it a likeable or attractive process to some observers but it certainly fits the definitions of natural (given that the pond was created by a man-made and therefore an entirely unnatural process). Also, the sediment that the river is cutting though and moving was deposited as a result of building the dam in the first place.

Now for the question of “Is it educational?” Education is process of learning something you don’t already know. It doesn’t have to be something you want to know in order to be educational. We all want to learn from our mistakes, but we don’t really want to make mistakes in the first place. Every new situation presents opportunities for education if one is open to them. The problem is, that sometimes we can all be too emotionally involved to recognize the available opportunities and learn from them. For example, when I studied zoology I had to perform a number of dissections on everything from worms to cats and dogs.  And, although I can say that the experience wasn’t entirely pleasant, it was certainly educational. On the other hand, I wouldn’t learn anything from dissecting MY OWN dog. There wouldn’t be anyway I could get myself to do it and I certainly couldn’t watch someone else do it. I would be horrified by the prospect.  My mind would be totally closed to any educational value that it might contain. When we’re really emotionally close to something, we’re not going to have the requisite open mind. And, I don’t think anybody can blame us for it. So, I can accept that people that love the pond and its wildlife won’t see anything educational in what’s happening but I hope that they can recognize and admit that others very well might.

Finally, you asked about “reserved”. Well, I wasn’t certain what the creators of the reserve had in mind so I did some quick checking. On the website of the Grand Traverse Conservation District website I found the following information:

“The Boardman River is the central feature of the Nature Reserve, running for approximately two miles through the area. In contrast to the impounded waters in the north section of the Reserve, the river in the south is free flowing and in its natural condition. It is here that the river is most dramatic as it falls in a series of rapids in part of its course through this part of the Reserve. Remnants of the old Keystone Dam that went out a number of years ago are still visible. The old berm wall and spillway are now being reclaimed by the forest ,as the river banks have reverted to their natural and original flora.

There is evidence that a finger of a glacier terminated on the property offering an excellent opportunity to teach and learn of the earth’s history as found in the Boardman River Valley.

While the Grand Traverse Natural Education Reserve was set aside as a “natural environmental classroom for area youth”, all visitors are welcome to enjoy the nearly 7 miles of improved trails that wind along the Boardman River and includes over 1200 feet of boardwalks, bridges, canoe portage sites, boat launch and picnic area for such activities as hiking, photography, canoeing, nature study, bird watching, and other forms of quiet recreation.”

I don’t find anything in this description of the reserve that indicates that allowing the Boardman River to return to a more natural state is incompatible with what the reserve is intended to be.  I do find it interesting that it specifically mentions the return of the natural and original flora to the area that used to be covered by Keystone dam 40 some years ago. It also points out that the impoundments are not in a natural condition. So, as I read the description, I think it is supportive of allowing the Boardman to return to a more natural condition.

So Bruce, I’m just as convinced as ever that what I’m observing is educational, natural, and compatible with the reserve and I’m willing to bet dollars to doughnuts that I’ve still failed to convice you. But, I wish you the best anyway.

I know they’ve started construction of the Nature Center for the Grand Traverse Natural Education Reserve which is located at the trailhead at Sabin Dam. The footings were in when I checked it out last weekend. Could the container you saw be related to the construction?

For more info see:
http://www.gtcd.org/conservation-center.shtml

Bruce, There is a container set up at Sabin dam for who knows what.  Do you have any ideas?  I was just curious to see if you knew what is going on downstream from you.

For my college English final I decided to write about the drawdown and removal of the Boardman dam.  From this website, its articles, and comments that all of you have provided, I have tried to keep an open mind about both sides.  Sadly enough, I can find no legit reason to remove the dams or drawdown the bodies of water.  I have kayaked on the river and encountered the dangers that have previously been talked about here.  My girlfriend almost drowned because of downed trees and logs in the river.  The pond can barely be accessed now and offers very little to the public as a mud pit.  Through all of the research for my paper, I see no support from the public, and no reason at all to drain the lakes and remove the dams.  And for those of you who claim that all of this would return the river to its natural state, I would like to suggest that the way it is now may be its new natural state.

bless your little heart dave.
bottom line still remains the same.  we have a nature education reserve that once we were able to let children enjoy it’s beauty chaperoned by one adult with no worries.  now we have signs and fences keeping adults out warning them to proceed at there own risk? could someone please tell me how this is in the least bit natural, educational or reserved?

Andy L.  I thought you what you said made a lot of sense and I am in total agreement with you. I also reread your posting and I couldn’t find anything that anyone should have found offensive. Although I suppose you are free to be a silent observer, I would encourage you to continue to participate as I think others could benefit from seeing alternative viewpoints (besides I’d like some company).

Also, I (and I assume Andy L.) did not intend to imply stupidity on the part of anyone that has tipped over on any river (as I have done so more times than I care to remember). I attribute my mishaps to my own lack of knowledge, experience, skill, and occasionaly my equipment. I have learned from each mishap and I try to avoid making the same mistake twice. I don’t know of any really experienced paddler that has never tipped over. Tipping over is one of the ways paddlers become “experienced”. Good instruction and practice are others that I highly recommend to those interested in becoming better and safer paddlers.

An update on the section:
I paddled from Beitner Park to Boardman Pond on Sun. 11/4.  The river continues to search out a new channel. As others have reported it has cut its way through a sizeable sand bar recently. It now makes an extremely fast and sharp turn which terminates in a couple of large stumps. This drop was sufficiently difficult that I would suggest paddlers without any whitewater or significant moving water avoid it by taking out at the landing on the Lone Pine walking trail.

Also note that the river is dynamic and the changes can happen at any time in any place. I suggest people heed the signs that are posted but DON"T assume that there aren’t additional hazards as well.

I did find that the vegetation on the banks is continuing to grow with surprising speed (at least surprising to me) and I could detect no odor whatsoever. The more level areas that were exposed earlier in the summer are actually getting a “green” appearence that I think bodes well for next year if the water level remains down. Some of the steeper areas that were exposed early in the summer also show significant signs of vegetative colonization. I’ll be interested to see what they do next year.

Amen ....Julie.... Amen

I would love to see it, if anyone took a VCR and recorded what it looks like on both sides of the river from the mouth (by the bay) to this Dam.
(the Boardman Dam) After watching it we could all laugh at those who could still say the word natural in the same sentence when talking about these parts of the Boardman River.

I do know that time will return the river to it’s natural state.  Why does it have to happen in our lifetime?  It has been determined that the damn is not in danger.  Why then did this drawdown have to happen now?  I do not know alot about ecology and things of that nature but I do see the wildlife that was thriving there before and is not now!

The pond, whether it be natural or manmade was a beautiful spot.  Mount Rushmore, Hoover Dam, Mackinac Bridge, and how many other spots can people think of that were made for the general public to use and enjoy?  I really feel for the people that lived on this very nice peice of Northern Michigan.  I hope that their taxes go down as far as the water level has gone down!

I’m sorry to have offended anyone.  I’m sorry that my opinion is not as valid as the next!  I guess that I will just be a silent observer from now on.  Thanks for listening.

All I would like to say at this point is I thank god that there has been no serious accidents leading to permanent injury or death. And everyone esle should too
For 13 yrs I’ve lived here, I have loved to photograph the areas wildlife and incorporate indigenous animals in my art. When photographing the valley, everytime I go out I feel like I’m taking pictures for the next seconds from disaster segment.

No one can tell me what is happening is natural, safe or healthy for the people living, visiting, passing through or just out to see it for themselves. Ladies and Gentleman there is a lake that is being filled in with sand and sediment fishing holes 25 to 30 feet deep before the drawdown now about 6 inches.  Do the math what was natural is being filled in?  There is no excuse for what is happening.  One mans opinion should never have been able to ignite the fuse to what has happened out here.  I would also like to tell everyone the river has redirected it’s self and will be sending more sand and sediment down river.  More important the direction at this point now slams the river streight into a bank jeopardizing 6 to 8 more beautiful maple trees and a few more tons of sand and sediment.....

My Dear Christina it is horrible but not just at Lone Pine or the aborted handicapped fishing platform or in front of every property.  If you would like to see ugly take a trip past the Loons nest for those of you who care about them, think about it people if you change the type of fish from pond or lake species to a faster cooler species the abundance of the Bait fish will surly just go away as well. Friends what will become of the Loons?

Ladies and gentleman it is obvious what the intentions of the County Commissioners, Audubon, Consumers Power and the People of Traverse City had in mind when this tiny streach of river was set aside to be a natural education reserve in 1976 complementing the smaller streach between sabin and Boardman Dams.  There are miles and miles of blue ribbon trout fishing on the river already, There are over a hundred miles of river unrestricted to float for days.  Can someone tell me why it is so important that this 4 mile streach be added to trout fisherman or kayakers dream location status and just forget about all of the species that have thrived for a hundred years, species our forefathers intended to help flourish.  like the Loons.  Like the trumpeter swans that were here before the drawdown but sadly have just went away.  Friends at the end of the day I will pray for safe passage for those whom venture in at their own risk to witness this tiny part of the valley in all its grandeur, risking their lives to see what no man has seen for a hundred years.  Sadly it will take a disaster before we wake up...... sadly...............

ALRIGHT ANDY L.  Why dont you go for a kayak trip or canoe trip buddy.  After the drawdown, the river became unsafe just before the lake. Did anyone mention this ahead of time?? Did anyone bother to write about it? To bother to put the signs up or make it public of the logjamb just before Lone Pine? NO!!!  We didnt know it was unsafe until it was too late!! How dare those of you who say it was our own fault for getting into that situation. There were no signs at the time of our incidents or for 3 weeks after. When a few of us finally let the DNR know of it, they went and did something about it. My complaint is the unsafety of the river before the lake and the lack of signs or mentioning ANYWHERE to warn people of the danger. And if you havent been down to Lone Pine Landing, i suggest you go and look before you say another word!!! IT IS HORRIBLE!! The DNR and kayak club took out the very unsafe log jamb, and it turn it has washed out the riverside and half of the hill the walkway is on. SO, go down there and look people, before you say another thing about how, in not soo many words, stupid you think we are!!!

I don’t normally get involved in this sort of thing but I think it’s time to say a few things…

Although none of us were around to experience the transition from the original river valley to the lakes that were created after the dams.  I too have enjoyed the waters we know as the Boardman River.  It has always been a beautiful landscape.  It would be nice to think that it should stay the way it is but we know that the time has come for the river to change.  I would like you to think of the destruction that was done to the beauty of the region during construction and the resulting flooding.

1. excavation and construction was devastating to the land
2. the timber cutting to clear the land for the water to cover
3. the smell from the decay during the flooding
4. the dangers to the unstable ground while the water soaked in to it
5. the deprivation of the down stream water flow

Thinking that this is the end of the river’s natural beauty is the wrong approach.  The fish will survive.  The birds will survive.  We created an artificial environment for species that were not native to that section of the river.  If allowed to return to the natural state, we will see the same beauty as before, minus a few concrete, brick and steel structures.  The difference will be a river instead of a lake.  I too will miss the lakes but welcome a new place to visit in the same old location.
If people think the area is unsafe, they should stay away.  As for blaming the results of the drawdown for ending up in an unsafe situation, think again!  If individuals end up in a situation that their knowledge and skills are not commensurate with, they are unsafe.
The baron landscape and smell will soon change in to lush green landscapes.  It will take less time for the landscape to recover than it did to flood and turn in to the valley that we have grown to know.  This should offer a better environment to teach about the evolution of landscape than a stable body of water that offers no change.
We all should allow a little time to pass to witness the changes to come.

I would like to offer a different opinion than that expressed by some of the people that have contributed above. I have paddled the Boardman River including the Beitner Park to Boardman Dam section many times over the last 15 years. I’ve paddled it at least 10 times this past summer and 5 or 6 times since the drawdown began and at least 3 time since the drawdown was completed.

I find it fascinating to see how the vegetation is colonizing the newly exposed areas. Much like areas that are swept by forest fires, it takes a little time for recovery to take place. As I walk the exposed banks in front of my house on the pond, I see lots of small plants staking their claim to the area. It looks bad from a distance, but the signs of recovery are there if you look more closely. It is a big environmental change, but I don’t consider it DEVASTATION. The pond was a very pretty but artificial impoundment of the Boardman River. The creation of that pond DESTROYED what was undoubtedly once a beautiful section of forested river valley. It might take a long time to restore it to a semblance of its original beauty, but is our lack of patience a sufficient reason not to do so?

All natural rivers erode their banks. And, since the impoundments have been there for about a century, there is a century of sediment that has been unnaturally deposited in the old river channel. Given time, the river will find and cut a channel through the sediment, vegetation will colonize and stabilize the banks, and it will undoubtedly be much more attractive. In the meantime it may be considered ugly by some. And, if the dams are removed, it will never look the way it did when it was a pond. But, if I have to choose between a beautiful natural river and a pretty but artificial impoundment, I’ll choose the free flowing river just about every time.

I’ve read where a number of contributors have referred to the smell of the pond. Having paddled it numerous times this summer, I’d have to say that I noticed only a slight smell of decaying vegetation. Perhaps it was worse at some times than others and I missed it at its worst but to characterize it as a stinking mess would be a gross exaggeration. Quite frankly, the pond has ALWAYS had a slight “pond like” odor that I didn’t care for. On the other hand, the free flowing Boardman above the pond is virtually odor free (at least to my nose). If you really want a nice smelling river, go for cold, fast and free flowing every time.

I’d have to agree that there are probably fewer fish in the pond than before. My brother and my nephew fished it for an afternoon about a month ago and only caught four small to medium Northern Pike and one gigantic Smallmouth Bass. If the river becomes free flowing again, the species composition and quantity will undoubtedly change. So what? I’m not inclined to base decisions on the future of the area and the river based on which species are most prized or how quickly a sportsman can catch his/her limit. I’d prefer the river to contain healthy populations of the species that are native to it. I don’t care how much fun they are to catch or how quickly you can catch can catch them. If we restore the river habitat, the fish population will eventually recover (though it may need a bit of help).

Natural rivers can be dangerous places. I spoke with a kayaker earlier this year who very nearly drowned when she turned a corner and found a tree completely blocking the river just downstream from the overlook below Beitner Park. This is well upstream of the area where people have complained of logjams problems related to the drawdown. It is a function of ALL free flowing rivers and especially fast narrow ones. Canoeists and kayakers have to accept the risks associated with their activities. I don’t think we should dam up every river that might develop a logjam and I don’t think we should keep an outdated dam in order to prevent their formation. Surfers accept the risk of shark attack, hikers accept the risk of twisted ankles, and river paddlers have to accept the risk of rapids, logjams, sweepers, strainers, etc. Twenty some years ago it was my tipping over in the rapids below Beitner Park and the long bruising swim afterwards that inspired me to take my first canoeing class, to upgrade my equipment and become serious about the sport. It also started my decades long love affair with all rivers (and the Boardman in particular). As a lover of rivers, I believe in their protection and restoration. 

As a long time environmentalist, I too will mourn the loss of habitat for species that have made the ponds their home. And, I will not belittle those who cherish the beauty of the former pond. I know first hand the love that one can develop for nature and natural areas. I’ve met Bruce Carpenter and spoken with him. I know he cares passionately about the pond and its wildlife. If there was a proposal to turn the pond into an airport or a resort or a golf course, I’d be fighting the destruction right there beside him. But, we are considering destroying the pond, not the river. We’re actually talking about restoring the river and the natural beauty that were lost long before any of us had the opportunity to experience them. I don’t know if the area will be more or less beautiful than Bruce found the pond, but I do know it will eventually be more natural. And, in the Grand Traverse Natural Education Reserve I think we should opt for the more natural environment. I know it will take more time than we want it to, but if we have the necessary patience and foresight, we may well get to rediscover the beauty that was once lost and pass it on as a gift to future generations.

Please remember that the BRDC did not require the drawdown of Boardman Pond.  The BRDC is conducting a study to assess the impacts of certain dam disposition options.  I personally think it is great that everybody is ardently expressing their opinions about the drawdown, but please don’t accuse the BRDC of creating something it had no say in.  The BRDC is trying to create an environment where anybody and everybody that wants to participate in a productive process of learning can.  I have personally learned a lot about the Boardman River and the dams since attending only several meetings.  I have also learned that anybody can say anything they want and pawn it off as the truth on blog sites.  When you type a comment in a blog, you aren’t surrounded by other people who may have different opinions.  If you really want your opinions to be heard and respected, I would suggest attending BRDC meetings where you can interact with a variety of scientific experts. 

Thank you BRDC for providing an unbiased forum for anybody and everybody to participate.  One of the meetings I attended had experts from all over the State, local leaders and politicians, and Federal people.  I think you are doing an amazing job bringing people together.  I only wish some of the bloggers would attend more meetings and actively participate in constructive dialogues.

Went down to Lone Pine Tee Landing today and was amazed at the transformation that has taken place since the night I and others got caught in the log jam!  Well, bless their hearts they got rid of the log jam, now the whole river bank is washing away and taking huge trees with it!  Pretty soon all the money that was spent building that wonderful stairway down to the river will be wasted.  It will be falling into the river along with all the trees that have come down.  Anyone that has not taken a walk along the boarman river from Beitner to the sabin “pond” should really wake up and smell the roses.  Talk to anyone that will listen and get a group to go down there!  You will be truly amazed at what some people are calling “the river going back to its natural state!

Dear Johnny First of all The level of the lake is 10 feet less than when this picture was shot.  10 foot tall unstable banks are what you would see now at 63 and by the way it was perfect for trout habitat but now after several near death experiances the county decided because of liabilty to take the log jambs out. Removeing the trout habitat if infact the water level is restored. 
Little Johnny I hate to burst your Bravo on number 20 too but the sand your looking accross was a 20 foot deep fishing hole, the sand and sediment filled it in so much the river turned to the west cutting it’s way thru a huge muck flat, the path with the least resistance.  Clarity of the river has not been the same for nearly 3 months sence.  And for number 3 I wish you could talk to the children of the gentlemen who on fathers day caught 17 pike lying among those stumps.  My dear sweet Johnny have you ever fished for Pike when you were you?, it is like hunting Lions compared to fishing for anything else.
In conclusion you really should come see this spetacular transformation.  I would love to guide you around our little Quarry.  After stumbling down the gravel cliff faces and getting stuck in the muck at the bottom of the pit with a tear in your eye I can here it now Triggle Traggle triggle trone time for this one to go home. Sorry I couldn’t pass it up. up......
PS if there are any questions I would love to help, you have my name and e-mail address

Please

I was looking at the community drawdown photos, and I must say I am amazed and stunned.  Carpenter photo 63 is a splendid representation of the miraculous things that can happen when nature is allowed to run its course.  This scenic river picture will only get better with time.  It was not until I came across Carpenter 20 that I realized that I really need to get out and see this spectacular transformation in the process!  Fantastic photo!  And finally, the best was definately saved for last in Carpenter 3.  I believe, and am sure everyone will agree, that this photo which is found on the last page is an amazing representation of a natural wetland that is an excellent habitat for so many different native species.  Bravo to the photographer and nature for running its well deserved course after 100 years of human destruction via the dams!

Click on the website below and ask yourself.  Is this what it is really all about?  A well-organized well financed movement to capitalize on the neglect of infrastructure as a basis for destruction of critical high hazard dams and bridges? Right now the Boardman Dam is not Dangerous and it has no history of ever being dangerous doesn’t this strike anyone as being a little strange?The DEQ Dam Engineer said during a walk around the pond with the DEQ contested case Judge it is his opinion that under the rain event in question the third spillway which is not used in his calculations would fail when inundated washing out the road.  OK BUT the water has been properly diverted and dam is still there even though every other dam and several other roads are washed out during this deluge according to engineered reports.  If this isn’t a premeditated attempt to rid the City, County and State of a future potential hazardous situation and not a immediate danger like it has been played out to be then I O U ALL A THOUSAND APOLOGIES.  If I asked you does this look like a Natural Education Reserve and Beautiful lake front properties capable of sustaining a multitude of wildlife, waterfowl and fishery or Dangerous unstable steep sloped quarry pit everyone should stay out of?  What would you say my back yard looks like?  The county has already put signs up everywhere telling the public to stay out of this 3 mile stretch of river valley unfortunately I live here I can’t just stay out.  And how long will they be warning the public of the Dangers they have created before it is safe for groups of children to be chaperoned by a single adult through the Educational Reserve again?
It’s not pretty and it’s not right......PLEASE
click on and let the Boardman River Dam Committee know what your thoughts are. Thank you.
Nature Inspired Artist
Bruce Carpenter
http://www.csmonitor.com/2007/0913/p02s01-usgn.html?s=hns

My Dear you are like a ray of sunshine finally someone who is not BRDC brain washed. 
When your out there and see it first hand it is a discrace not only to the environment and everyone having to live out here but everyone who really used this Natural Education Reserve and I say used because it is unusable currently for recreation and relaxation and watching wildlife and now, Well I’m sure you have all heard it form me enough.  This will give you all a idea what we are up against go to this website.
http://www.csmonitor.com/2007/0913/p02s01-usgn.html?s=hns I promise what you see here will let you know what is happening to us here now and without just cause just the County and the City and the DEQ making their break to follow suit......

Nature Inspired Artist
Bruce Carpenter

I cant believe how easy it is to trash talk others on the internet of all places.
2 things. I can completely relate to you. Myself and 2 other experienced kayakers and who knew the area, kayaked from Beitner to i believe it is Lone Pine Trail Landing. Just before the landing, there was a terrible log jamb. We were stuck in this terrifying mess for an hour. After we finally got one kayak unwedged from the logs, loss of a $80.00 paddle, and many many cuts and bruises, we climb back out from the many logs and trecked the nasty smelly black beach.
As for John, honey we have kayaked before and we didnt fair well at all. Many others we have talked to didnt fair as well either. I know since this has happened, the DNR has gotten together and fixed this problem, for the meantime! Maybe had they played out all the scenarios that would happen to the river, not just the pond, we would have been unscathed!!
We also set in at Lone Pine after they fixed it, and went down to the damn. Let me tell you, i feel sorry for the land owners that once had lake front. When we got to the pond, it was smelly, weeds and whatnot were floating in the water, and you couldnt see through the water to see the end of youre paddle. We saw A loon. Nothing else. The wall that was once a beach it about 17 feet tall. God forbid should some children or anyone for that matter walk through there and not know what to look for. They could easily fall and get hurt!!
I think the idea that things will return to the way they were, sure, in maybe 50 years. OR MORE. 
Now think about this. By the time the DNR or whomever, are done fixing any damage that was caused, would it have been cheaper and safer to just fix the damns??
I also suggest that before anyone else make any comments on how things look down there, GO THERE AND SEE FOR YOUR SELF BEFORE YOU SAY ANYTHING!!

Philly what’s your game buddy?  I would be more than happy to take you personally on a tour around the Lake / Pond / River.or quarry pit, DO DO Pool whatever it is today? Just to show you first hand what has happened out here Sir / Madam or what ever you are?.  Hiding behind a name like PhillyBusterBob, and talking smack, does this make you feel tough?
How about this Bob I give you the CD’s and you get the domain name and set up your own website offering your link for everyone on this forum Bob........ Come on put your money where your mouth is.....God Knows My Intentions I shared pictures with this joke of a committee more than 10 weeks ago have they been posted ?  Here is your chance PBB to write the script and you and the process could be the heros....just like you have dreamed about.......Now signing off as always persistent as pestilence your
Nature Inspired Artist
Bruce Carpenter

I would be more than happy to look at your evidence.  Once you get your domain name and website set up I will visit the link you will provide for everyone on this forum.

Filibustering? Crowding out other points of view?  Who would hesitate, if it were thier backyard?  Who would hesitate, if they cared about the ecology? I’m sorry I fear the publicity has been terribly misleading and compremised resulting in the public being misinformed.  If anyone is interested in a copy of a thorough portfolio.
Pictures taken every two days durring this monumental event.  Please inquire..... I have 2 cd’s I’m willing to share....

Bruce Carpenter
Nature Inspired Artist

I would be more than happy to help you out with that, B.  I am alluding to the fact that you are filibustering to the point of crowding out different points of view.  After so many rambling posts people lose sympathy with your cause, whether “A Team” is well intended or not.

Does anyone know if zoning laws prohibit new construction of industrial properties, such as a sewage-water treatment plant or any heavy industry that relies on free flowing rivers, along the newly exposed river banks?  It sure would be a disaster to river rehabiliation projects if there were not.

Thanks PBB..

I would be a Nature Inspired Artist

If I lived in a box next to you Bob

I see you have termed yourself Philly Buster
What makes you a PhillyBusterBob?
Do you want to talk about that?

One Question

Do you know your tax money is being spent to defend wheather or not wetlands were destroyed in the valley ?

Just think, the people dreaming this up, can’t even admit if there were wetlands or waterfowl habitat destroyed Bob.

So I’ve spear headed A Team including a lawyer, Consultant, Surveyor, Biologest, and Engineer, myself and a few others who care about the effects on the River Valley and it’s inhabitants.  We have combined efferts hopeing to midigate over the wetlands freneticly and unheededly destroyed. 
What’s the differance Artificial or Natural? Bottom line Bob, there is 3 miles of River Valley destroyed..  River Valley Bob.  Lake, Pond, Impoundment Artificial or Natural call it what you want there is three miles affected and through possible midigation I believe I’m doing all I can to support the ecology and Natural Habitat here at Ground Zero. That in it’s self I feel gives me the right to term myself Nature Inspired.

What have you done to help? Cut me down. Ouch...... And who let you in front of the line to do that?

I’ll pray for you Jimm.......

Thank You

Those who know my work
know me as

Bruce Carpenter

Nature Inspired Artiist

Bruce, I gotta give it to ya, the emails are great keep em coming.  What I dont understand is that you have termed yourself “NATURE INSPIRED ARTIST,” but the dams in question are not natural at all.  You live/lived on an artificial lake.  The river is going back to its natural state.  If you want to move to a natural lake there are many spectacular lakes to chose from in the region.

All of you who got out on the River this laborday weekend and enjoyed the pond for all is beautiful qualities like The Bird watching, Sorry no Birds.... Like the Fishing,
Sorry No Fish
Like the Boating what ever type you prefer Sorry Dangerous Unsafe Situation Please Stay Out..No Boating...Like the Goose hunting, Laughing to myself when I seen them, Sorry NO Gueese..Like just going for a nice nature walk ....SORRY NOTHING OUT HERE TO SEE UNLESS YOUR A QUARRY PIT LOVER......I hope everyone was able to enjoy pond with this on going minor inconvenience in progress . REALLY I sincerly hope everyone was able to take in all the Grandeur in it’s total Magnificence and gaze opon it’s exposed beauty unseen for 100 years...WOW !!!!!Who said that ???
SOMEBODY SHOOT ME.......PLEASE

THANK YOU
Bruce Carpenter
NATURE INSPIRED ARTIST

JOHN THE TRAVISTY IS THE DRAWDOWN AND LOSS OF HABITAT ALONG A 2 MILE STREACH OF RIVER, ONCE A BEAUTIFUL EDUCATIONAL RESERVE NOW A HIGHLY DANGEROUS UNSTABLE UNPREDICTABLE STINKING QURRY PIT.  WHAT PART OF THAT IS NOT UNDERSTOOD??? HAVE YOU BEEN OUT THERE? AND IF AND WHEN SOMEONE DOES GET SERIOUSLY HURT OR KILLED WILL THAT BE ENOUGH OF A TRAVISTY FOR YOU???  AND AS FAR AS THE DAMS NEVER BEING ALLOWED???  WHAT HORSE AND BUGGY DID YOU RIDE IN ON PAL?  HAVE YOU EVER TALKED TO YOUR GRANDPARENTS OR GREAT GRANDPARENTS AND TO GET AN UNDERSTANDING OF WHAT A GREAT IMPACT IT WAS ON THEY’RE LIFE WHEN THEY TURNED THE SWITCH ON THE FIRST TIME IN THEY’RE HOME AND A LIGHT CAME ON OR AN APPLIANCE MADE THEY’RE LIFE EASIER...HOW QUICKLY AND EASILY WE FORGET THE DEMAND FROM AND IMPACT ON EVERYONE WHO ENJOYS THE LUXURIES OF ELECTRICTY.
OH AND FORGIVE THOSE WHO VENTURE IN TO A EDUCATIONAL RESERVE ONCE ABOUT AS DANGEROUS TO GROUPS OF CHILDREN AS A BUTTERFLY IN A JAR AND NOW FENCED AND POSTED LIKE .........WELL LIKE A QUARRY PIT........... AND THAT IS THE UGLY TRUTH TO IT...................

The travisty here is not the drawdown, but rather the fact that these dams were allowed in the first place. Your anger should be directed at those who allowed these dams to be built, not those who are trying to rectify the situation.

I certainly understand how kayakers get into trouble. As a long time kayaker and boater, the first rule of thumb is to know the area before you kayak it. If you do not scout the area out first, then you need to find someone who can guide you through the area. Don’t blame others for your miscalculations and lack of forethought.

My Dear your grossly mistaken identification of evolution recently entered on the blog has struck me as amazing.  Unless evolution is what the
American Armed Forces did to the Bikini Islands, By Just Destroying it to the point no one can even recognize it, then study it 50 years later.  If that is evolution then everyone so exhaustively working on the Engineering and Feasibility studies can take about a fifty year break and return to study this when it looks like a river valley again instead of a quarry pit ...

A stunning evolution of Habitat?? After two people almost die? Wow!. How can you call the taking of a Beautiful Nature Educational Reserve, remind you a place where you could let your children be escorted in groups thru it’s Natural Beauty, and turn it in to a Highly Hazardous, Unstable, Unpredictable, Stinking, Quarry Pit? and call it a Stunning evolution of Habitat?.
How can you call draining wetlands and destroying waterfowl habitat?. A Stunning Evolution of Habitat? 
And the neglected fishery and fish habitat now nearly completly devastated.  A Stunning Evolution of Habitat?
Unless when you say Stunning your mean like Shock & Awe stunning.
Have you been out to Ground Zero yourself of late?
Have you seen the reports on the condition of the Boardman Dam? what was said that leads you to believe the condition of the Dam is a problem?
Could it have been one of our distinguished County Commissioners quoted from a statement to the Local TV News Crew saying “ the Dam might Blow” or other statements made to undermine confuse or discredit the issue.

What is happening here has absolutely nothing to do with the condition of the Dam structurally.  The DEQ’s Dam Engineer has made a evaluation of the Dam. 
He has found that the spillways 2 of them can not effectively pass a half millennium or 500 year flood.  What wasn’t said was there is a third and it was not used in his calculations to determine the inadequacy of the passage of water thru or around the Dam.  In the event of a 500 yr flood, first of all it has to rain 11 inches a day for 48 hrs. over the complete Boardman River Valley watershed area covering 270 square miles.  That is a 270 square mile rainstorm that hangs over the complete watershed area and Down Pours 5 times harder than it’s ever rained here. It has been dubbed A Katrina like Event.  In The Dam Engineer’s own words,” It could happen” And in his defense it did.  Thank God Noah made ready for it. 

People there is a engineered study that states that in the event of such a great deluge Brown Bridge Dam and Sabin Dam would both fail before the Boardman Dam.  It also states the Weather system could be tracked for days perhaps weeks.  It states The Boardman Dam can pass 6 inches of the ponds level per hour, translating to 12 feet per day, taking little more than a day to equal the 17 foot draw down if needed. This in-fact is part of the Traverse City Light & Power’s Emergency action plan.  So if such a rain event reared it ugly face The Emergency plan would go into action draining the pond preparing for just such a rain fall.  So the questions you have to ask yourself seem to be.
1.)Why Are They Destroying the Public’s Riparian Rights?  A right you have to enjoy the waterway be it fishing, Boating, Swimming,Bathing, Ect.
2.)Why Are They Destroying the Public’s Right to a enjoy a Nature Educational Reserve Dedicated to the public forever? 
3.)Why Are They Destroying Wetlands?  Habitat for a once strong waterfowl population
4.)Why Are They Destroying the Aquatic plant life.  Sustenance for waterfowl , habitat for Fish
5.)Why Are They Destroying the Fish Habitat and Fishery? 
6.)Why have they allowed so much Sand and Sediment to be eroded into the pond to the point of filling it in?
7.)Why have they created such a dangerous situation for, Visitors, Bird Watchers, Kayakers, Boaters, Fisherman,Hikers, Property owners, Animals, Fish, Reptiles, Birds, Bugs, Even the Dirt is in danger!!!.  Is there anything that’s not at risk at GROUND ZERO?.

This by no means is Evolution of Habitat this is plain and simple human intervention where there is absolutely no need to intervene. 
Especially humans that say they are working exhaustively on engineering and feasibility studies that will not be available until after everything is dead and gone. 
even in there own words they have said “Given the amount of Time and Money, we have had to Cobble this together. “
2 seconds later guess who said this.
“I don’t think Cobble is a good word “ There were those that I’m sure agree with cobble and think there couldn’t be a better word..

Penny, I can certainly empathize with your concerns. There has been a stunning evolution of habitat along the Boardman since the drawdown began.
I would like to point out that the Boardman River Dams Committee (BRDC), a community organization made up of interested citizens and representatives of numerous local, state and federal organizations, is not responsible for the drawdown of Boardman Pond. The drawdown is mandated by the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) based on the current condition of the Boardman Dam and the potential loss of life and property in the event of a dam failure. My understanding is that the drawdown is temporary as an exhaustive engineering and feasibilty study is underway to determine all the possible alternatives for the fate of the dams, the river and all who live in and along it.
Your input is critical to the process. I would encourage you to attend a BRDC meeting (fourth Tuesday of each month, Civic Center, 6pm) and become actively involved in the process of reaching a solution that we can all live with.

Dear BRDC, What a dangerous mess you have made!!  My friend and I were kayaking from Keystone to the YMCA when we ran afoul of some pretty nasty driftwood causing us to flip.  That was to be expected, what I was not prepared for the destruction of Sabin Pond.  When my kayak flipped I went to assist my friend and lost my kayak to the current.  After a rather difficult cross country hike I came upon what looked like a strip mine.  It was Sabin pond.  In an effort to recover my kayak I was subjected to a nightmare of wetland devastation.  The land I walked on was dried-out too quickly causing dangerous fissure of which I fell in up to crotch depth at one point. (I am a good 12 feet above the waterline during this adventure.) When I attempted to descend to the river the silt was almost impassable. I was crawling across the mudflats on all fours because the soil could not support my weight.  (I’m 9 feet from the waters edge.) I sank at one point with both my legs hip deep.  It took great effort to belly crawl out of the silt to the small stream left of the river path. After recovering my kayak I paddled around the pond looking at the damage to fishing and water fowl nesting areas.  The rocks in which the fish feed the algea and growths off of are dry and 4-6 above water level.  There are tree stumps which used to create rich feeding grounds and bases for sea grass growth are dried out and barren.  It looks like a graveyard!!!!!  What could you possibly thinking.  While I was looking a train passed and the dirt on the side of the track shifted.  One of the scariest things just watching that dirt vibrate and move from the trains passing.  You emptied it too fast to allow for a safe drying of the wetlands!!!!  What are the birds suppose to do next month when they start to migrate south and their habitat is GONE!!!

Dear Carole Your absolutly right I’m sorry if it seems that I’m upset with Jennifer.  That is the furthest thing from my mind.  Further more rest assurred I need no map of where these pictures were taken, I know this valley like the back of my hand.

Please may add what is upsetting is listening to all the so call experts at the BRDC meeting every month telling me lies about the fishery, Telling me lies about situations occurring and down playing the severity of real dangers.  And now having to listen to Tom Rozich of the DNR say things like, “ They will all just go away. “ When asked what is going to happen to the Waterfowl.  And his latest “just build it and they will come” Meaning build a habitat for his presious trout and they will come? 

My Dear this area was set aside by our County Commissioners in conjunction with the National Autubon Society in 1976 specifically for other wildlife besides the DNR’s Presious little brook trout and they fought it all the way then and they picked the ball up and took off running with it at the first oppertunity

In conclusion. If you were seeing it from where I’m setting the only thing pretty is a memory.  On Fathers Day this year I lent my Pontoon to two friends and they’re sons for a fathers day fishing trip.  The five of them caught and released 17 pike right in front of my house.  My Dear the only thing left in friont of my house is 30 to 40 old stumps and 4 acres of dead weeds and stench. 

This is not a pretty picture no matter how you filter it........

My Dear I fully expect some of those photos to hit the website, when I gave them to Jennifer she said it would take time, I understand that.  I was hoping only to share with everyone a fisheyes view of what is happening here.

Carole I’m sure when you see the pictures you will further understand the only thing still pretty is the memories.  My Dear on this past Fathers Day I let friends of mine take they’re boys out fishing on my pontoon (which is no longer in the pond.) 5 people on the boat in a little more than 4 hours and they caught 17 pike right in front of my house.  May I add that the water is completly gone and the only things out there is 30 to 40 old stumps 4 acres of dead weeds and stench.  That is not a pretty picture anyway you filter it.

God knows there is so much more to be said about this atrocity.

Bruce
I’m not the expert on the reason of the selection of these photos, but I know that they are part of a specific project by our intern. The sites he chose to monitor are indicated on the map.

I expect that some of your photos will be displayed, but Jennifer can only be in a limited number of places at one time. Website additions will not be able to be posted immediately. Everyone will need to accept these limitations.

Maybe parts of the area are still pretty?

Dear Boardman River Dams Committee could you please help me book a vacation to this beautiful water wonderland that you have portrayed in you photographs.  You could not have tried any harder to get pictures in this river valley that are more missleading than the ones you have posted.  Your pictures deplict a beautiful pristine river valley and this couldn’t be further from the truth.  This River valley is highly unstable and nearly impassable in every direction you look. 
I have given the BRDC facilitator 85 pictures taken while circumnavigating the banks of the Boardman River in the designated area of the Grand Traverse County Natural Educational Reservce Between Cass Rd. and Bitner Bridge.  These pictures are not bias and occurre in nature in consecutive order deplicting the real horrors and real dangers as they emerge.