A request for help to save running trails near Decatur

Dear Friends,

    For more than 30 years the Point Mallard Trail has provided the only piece of riverfront property for the citizens of Decatur and visitors that is not privately owned by industry.  It has existed in harmony with the golf course and with the rest of the park.  Recently there have been massive tree cutting and clearing along the trail. 

    I called Parks and Recreation over a month ago to voice concern and was told that permission was given to cut a "few" diseased and trees under 3" in diameter so that the golfers would get a better view of the river.  I visited the trail and found that MANY more trees that were mature and healthy had been clear cut.  At that time I counted conservatively 89 trees that were not diseased and over 3" in diameter.  AS OF TODAY - THEY ARE STILL CUTTING.

    Points to consider:

• These trees provide shelter, food, protection to the abundance of wildlife that live along the river.
• These trees provide protection for the hikers, runners, bikers from the cold and wind in the winter and protection from the hot sun in the summer.
• The deep roots of the trees prevent the erosion of the banks of the river.
• The trees are a part of the natural beauty of the park along the river.
• The ONLY reason for cutting trees and surrounding plants is for golfers to get a better view.

    What we can do:

• Mayor Don Kyle, Councilman Gary Hammon, and Jeff Dunlap (Decatur Parks and Recreation) are responsible for this.  Contact them.
• Contact all wildlife preservation agencies (TVA, National Wildlife Reserve, Army Corps of Engineers, etc.)
• Contact our representatives in government.
• Share this situation with anyone who cares about wildlife conservation and preservation.

    Solutions:

• We must shore up the river bank for immediate prevention of erosion.
• Replant trees along the bank for long term protection.
• If you have other solutions please contact me - Pam Duke at larrypamduke@aol.com
• Our beautiful Point Mallard Trail is being destroyed - this is a CRISIS!!

Thank you,

Pam Duke