Well, it looks like we’ve moved beyond the exceptional winter that we had this year and are well on our way through spring and, hopefully, into summer. A sure sign of spring around here is the end of the NMU school year which is generally around the first week in May. By the time you are likely reading this, NMU will have completed their graduation process and the students will be on their way to enjoying the long-anticipated summer time fun.
Often that summer time fun is still in Marquette and is situated around our many public parks and related summer time activities. One of the more popular activities that is often considered a must see, or in this case a must do, is the jumping from Blackrocks at Presque Isle Park. Some even consider it a rite of passage and say you haven’t really experienced Marquette unless you’ve taken the leap.
The popularity of this area has created a few concerns for us that are urging attention sooner than later and have prompted changes to the area that will probably be in place by the time summer visitors start to venture to the park. The two main problems facing the park are parking and environmental impacts, mainly erosion; both which are caused by the high volume of visitors. Visitors should be aware that there will likely be new and more restrictive parking regulations in the park by the time the park opens for the season. Additionally, there will likely be new natural barriers in place to help control foot traffic and reduce the negative environmental impact.
The bottom line is, when visiting the park, pay attention to new signage and maybe even take the time to review new rules and/or ordinances prior to your venture. In any case, Presque Isle Park will still be a wonderful place to visit and enjoy. So, lets all do our part to keep the park enjoyable for all.