Mio restaurant rallies for clean rivers
The Paddle Inn Restaurant in Mio made shirts to encourage keeping the rivers clean.
MIO, Mich. — Floating the river in the summer months of Michigan is one of the most relaxing activities, but it is also important to follow the rules and keep Michigan rivers clean. Back in February, the United States Forest Service created a ban of alcohol on the AuSable river from the Mio Dam Pond to Canoe Landing in Alcona County. That same month the ban was rescineded.
In July, the Forest Service developed a community driven action plan that would address current issues like public safety and widespread littering. The plan focuses on educating people about the values and benefits of their wild scenic rivers and empowering them to be good visitors.
A local establishment in Mio, Paddle Inn Restaurant, is going above and beyond in promoting that residents and visitors pick up their trash.
“If the ban took place I think it would definitely affect,” said restaurant owner Wendi Mills. “I have made our business shirts with a logo on the back that says ‘We love our river, please pick up you litter’ just as a friendly reminder to keep our environment clean. As well as be able to have fun with your friends and family. We would hate to see that go away.”
The Forest Service will meet again this fall to see if adjustments need to be made.
