SPRING EQUINOX 1996 - Issue Number 35

Crystal River Land Swap

For almost a decade, Bob Kuras and the Homestead Resort in Glen Arbor Township have been attempting to build a golf course and condominium development in the pristine wetlands of the Crystal River (see "The Priceless Crystal"). While existing environmental law and years of organized public opposition have prevented Mr. Kuras from disrupting this unique ecosystem, the Homestead now proposes swapping 168 acres of Crystal River property for 204 acres of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Park, where they would then build the proposed development. At the federal level, legislation enabling the swap to take place is being considered.


Illustration by Kristin Hurlin -- Courtesy of Glen Arbor City Limits

After studying this proposed "swap", the Neahtawanta Center has joined many environmental organizations including The National Park Service, The Michigan Sierra Club, Northern Michigan Environmental Action Council, The National Parks and Conservation Association, Trout Unlimited and the Michigan Environmental Action Council in opposing it.

From an environmental standpoint, both land parcels are deserving of preservation. The Crystal River is unique for its superior water quality and adjoining wetlands. The National Park parcel has maintained trails open to hikers and skiers free of charge and in perpetuity. A fee-based single-use golf course on this land would represent a loss of publicly accessible park land.

The National Park land was reserved for the public at great private sacrifice in order to preserve this land for all people to enjoy. Trading public land to a private entity in the interest of private profit and commercial construction constitutes a loss to us all and a misuse of the powers of eminent domain.

Although the land swap is being presented as the only alternative, there are many more than just two choices--the wetlands or a swap. According to the 1989 "Alternative Site Survey Report" submitted to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources by the Friends of the Crystal River, there were at least eight sites available suitable for development.

Above and beyond the legal and practical concerns, we must take this opportunity to act as caretakers of this beautiful land and its inhabitants who have no voice in Washington D.C. As we explore the delicate balance of our local ecosystems and their non-human inhabitants in this issue of Synapse, we need look no further in order to "Think Globally, Act Locally."

Return to the Index of Synapse 35, Spring Equinox 1996