Michigan Votes Forum

ANOTHER DEMOCRAT PAYOLLA SCHEME TO BILK THE PUBLIC OUT OF THEIR FUN AND DISCOURAGE ANOTHER DEMOCRAT IDEA . . . CONTROL YOUR OBESITY!!  THE SKI TRAILS SHOULD REMAIN FREE TO ENCOURAGE WELLNESS WHICH OUR MODERN SOCIETY DOES NOT VALUE ENOUGH.  THIS ALOS IS A TAX WHICH DISCOURAGES USEAGE OF A HEALTHY ACTIVITY BY THOSE WHO MAY NEED IT MOST . . . THE POOR WHO SOMETIMES FIND IT HARD TO INDULGE IN THE SPORTS.   DEMOCRAT PAYOLLA HAS TO STOP!! 

The trouble with schemes like this is twofold. 

First, the cost of enforcement would be high, requiring the hiring of many staff people.  When was the last time you encountered a ranger or warden on a state hiking and ski trail?  (I have been hiking Michigan trails for more than 40 years and never -- NEVER -- have met a ranger while doing so.)

Second, this would simply discourage public participation in a wholesome and healthy outdoor recreation that provides real physical exercise.

I can (perhaps) understand charging fees for high maintenance ski trails -- those that are groomed with set tracks.  I do not like the idea of charging for access to rustic hiking and skiing trails that receive minimal maintenance and supervision.  What I really would like to see is a program that encourages public volunteer participation in hiking and ski trail building and maintenance on state land.