Reader Submits Photos of Unauthorized ATV Trails

IRONWOOD, MI - Saturday, July 3, 2010 - A reader of the Chronicle who wishes to remain anonymous recently submitted the pictures that accompany this article. The dozen photos show unauthorized trails throughout the Ironwood area.

The person who submitted the photos included the following commentary: "Authorized trails? I doubt it. Private or public? These are not cave trails. They are a few of the many scattered about town."

For years, the City of Ironwood -- the City Commission, the Planning Commission, the Parks & Recreation, etc. -- and area residents have been examining and debating issues regarding ATV usage within the City limits. Much of the debate has centered around the "Caves" area, and adding to the debate is the establishment of "official" use of that land. Citizens have voiced their objection to the dust, noise and property damage created by ATVs. ATV users have argued that the trails in the "Caves" were created by them, and they have a right to continue to use them. Silent sports enthusiasts have expressed an interest in establishing non-motorized trails and a park to pay respect to area miners throughout the area. Local developers have expressed interest in developing the land. No matter what side of the issue you're on, it doesn't appear that a solution to the problem is near.

The City has been struggling to create compromises that will make all sides happy, or unhappy, depending on your point of view. Currently, according to State law, ATV usage is not legal on City streets, and is only permitted on designated public lands and private property with the landowner's permission.

The once forgotten "Caves" area has suddenly become much desired real estate. For years the former mining area was primarily used by local residents as a dumping grounds for no longer used applicances, tires, TVs and other household items. Recently groups of volunteers representing both the Motorized and Non-Motorized camps have held clean-up efforts in the area. Literally tons of rubbish have been removed from the area.