To the Journal editor:

Teal Lake is the treasure of Negaunee. Opening the lake up to motorized boats and vehicles is not the way to improve the commerce or tax revenue of our city.

Negaunee City Councilman Nick Visser is incorrect in thinking that Teal Lake “sits there empty year-round.” (“Negaunee considering allowing motors on Teal Lake,” The Mining Journal, Feb. 23).

During the winter, the lake is a huge resource for ice anglers who spend hours on the frozen water.

During the summer it is a huge resource for kayakers, canoers, anglers, swimmers, stand-up paddlers, and picnicking families who all use the lake for recreation.

Right now, though it is alongside U.S. 41, Teal Lake is serene and calm. Ducklings paddle around the swimming area in the summer. Boaters and swimmers can be guaranteed a safe and quite place to spend leisure time. There aren’t motor boats creating waves or jet skis zooming past at close range.

Instead of allowing motorized vehicles into our lake, let’s promote the lake as a place where kayakers, canoers, anglers, swimmers, stand-up paddlers, and families can come for a clean, quiet, and beautiful day of recreation, free from motor boat waves and excessive pollution.

Emily Richards

Negaunee