celery pond

Just one more day of summer before we step into fall 2007. Knowing that Celery Pond is fully intact is something which makes many people happy.

Environmental protection is critical for preserving Michigan’s natural resources. Wetlands are high on the list of needed protection. By saving a wetland, we preserve resources that give natual filtration as well as support wildlife and bird populations.

In recent environmental programs in Lawrence and Lake Michigan College, speakers have stressed one theme: that the local government be the first line of defense for our environment. If we work together to save Michigan’s natural beauty, we honor what is so abundantly offered to us by Nature.

In a 5-2 vote the South Haven City Council recently approved spending $2,000 in fees to hire King and MacGregor of Grand Rapids to do more professional evaluation on Celery Pond contamination levels etc, sharing the cost of more study with the other two developers (J&B Landing and First Choice Marina). The cost of the study is expected to be $5,000.

(for: Bradley, Fahs, Paull, Smith, Stegemen; against: Mayor Appleyard, Andersen.)

All developers have been asked to respond to questions raised by the US Army Corps of Engineers in the draft permit to develop Celery Pond. The US Army Corps letter was included in the Council meeting’s agenda late last month.

The draft permit, approved by the MDEQ earlier this summer, outlines development of a city marina and private marina in Celery Pond. It also includes a channel cut from Black River into the Celery pond which would open a wide passage of about 90′ to accomodate this plan.

If approved, the proposed channel would sever the vital emergency road access that links the Fire Department to the North Side/North Beach. In light of the recent fire on North Beach over Labor Day weekend, a harrowing experience for all involved, this is a major decision facing the Council. Can we really afford to loose this valuable roadway of connection?

The study is due to USACE at the end of September. We are all awaiting what the Corps will decide. If the Corps does not approve the plan, the permit application process would end. If the Corps approves it, the City Council still has final say on whether the development would occur in Celery Pond or not, as it would have to then vote on this critical issue.