Voice of the People


The public is being asked to comment on the proposal to charge entrance fees to our Indiana Dunes National Park : $25 for 1 to 7 days, $45 for an annual pass. What entrance? Would there be guards posted at West Beach, Tolleston Dunes, Cowles Bog, Howe Prairie, Kemil Beach, Lakeside Pavilion, Mount Baldy, Pinhook Bog, Heron Rookery and where else to check for these passes? One of the things I love most about the dunes is that they belong to everybody. While people who come from afar might not mind the fees, I feel that they are a burden on the everyday folks who pop into the park on a regular basis. Gone is the last-minute decision to go down to the beach for the sunset. Have you paid your fee? Is the fee collection office open so we can pay? The friendly park ranger is now the feared pass checker. What happens to repeat offenders who insist on coming like they always have? I have always loved the welcoming aspect of the dunes – there for us, always, in all seasons. With the fees higher than at the state park, there would be even more pressure on that burdened resource. Local people have been coming to these dunes, owning them emotionally, and volunteering thousands of hours, for generations. If there has to be a pass, then, for us locals let it be a simple proof of residence in Lake, Porter or LaPorte County. I just feel so strongly that this is our park and now there is an attempt to take it away from us. There was a Zoom meeting hearing Wednesday, Aug. 18, which I missed. I am writing to the park at 1050 Mineral Springs, Chesterton 46304. You might want to, too.

Marti Pizzini
Chesterton

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