At first I read the article “DNR Meeting Rekindles Emotions” in the Jan. 30 issue of the Argus with interest.

But quickly became suspicious of highly provocative comments from individuals identified only by name.

Specifically, I was perplexed by quotes from two gentlemen. Both implied or stated that Eagle Lake is a “private lake” and that they sympathize with lake property owners who oppose any public access.

Their remarks are highly incendiary and markedly different from any of the opinions in the long running debate about DNR access on Eagle Lake. They are not residents of Eagle Lake and don’t represent my point of view or the point of view of the many people that I know on the lake. How are either of these men relevant to the discussion? Why were they chosen to weigh in with such controversial opinions?

Where did the term “private lake” come from? To me, it brings to mind a gated community or a lake with a six-foot fence around it. There has always been public access to Eagle Lake and there continues to be access today, albeit limited. I can’t imagine the many ice fisherman on Eagle Lake this winter think it is a private lake.

I can’t help but wonder if this is a public relations ploy to stir up more support for the DNR. This is a contentious discussion already. What purpose did it serve to introduce new controversy to the debate?

I have serious questions why the Argus took this approach and whose agenda is being promoted.

 

Dave Tarwacki

Eagle Lake