Empower Wisconsin | April 10, 2020
By M.D. Kittle
MADISON — When he issued his so-called “Safer at Home” order last month, Gov. Tony Evers advised Wisconsin residents stuck at home to get outside, maybe visit a public or state park.
So much for the great outdoors.
On Thursday, Evers directed the Department of Natural Resources to close 40 state parks, forests and recreational trails.
Why?
Because he can. And litter.
“Due to unprecedented crowds, litter, vandalism and out of an abundance of caution to protect public health and safety and help flatten the curve …” the governor explained in a press release.
So DNR agents with presumably much less to do during the COVID-19 outbreak can’t pitch in to pick up some garbage on the trail or look out for the apparent spate of vandals targeting Wisconsin’s beautiful parks and trails?
Outdoor activity made Evers’ list of “essential” activities. But, alas …
“Unfortunately, growing difficulty with ensuring social distancing compliance, dwindling cleaning supplies and mounting trash are some of the challenges faced by our state parks staff. We have to address the growing public health and safety concern and protect Wisconsinites,” the governor state in the press release.
Evers’ decision isn’t sitting well with a lot of folks.
“I’m beyond furious about this. This was our only outlet for physical and mental health,” tweeted Rebekah Lauritch-Snyder.
“We are really getting into overreach territory here,” Edward Treis Jr. tweeted.
