As a lifelong canoer and kayaker, I can't say I didn't see this coming. The Huron-Manistee National Forests has banned alcohol use of parts of three rivers.

Leslie Auriemmo, the supervisor of the Huron-Manistee National Forests announced the bans yesterday.

She told the Detroit Free Press, “Our goal is to create a safer, more sustainable, and more enjoyable experience for the thousands of visitors who recreate on our National Wild and Scenic Rivers each year."

The order will remain in effect from May 24 to Sept. 2, 2019. It will apply on and within 200 feet of the:

  • AuSable River between Mio Dam Pond and 4001 Canoe Landing
  • Manistee River between Tippy Dam and the Huron-Manistee National Forests’ administrative boundary
  • Pine River between Elm Flats and Low Bridge

I'm not going to lie, I like to have a little adult beverage while paddling around Michigan rivers, but the behavior of others who get messy drunk and dump their empties in the streams can get under my skin.

The reaction online has been mixed, but on Facebook, Joe Elder shared my feelings on people pushing that line way too much:

As a lifelong kayaker, I am not upset about this in the slightest. Most people aren't doing the right thing and are deciding to trash our waterways. I'm glad they're trying to stop it.

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