Unpopular Alcohol ban on Michigan rivers Shelved until 2020

Au Sable River (Photo: Flickr, U.S. Forest Service)

A controversial proposal to ban alcohol on three Michigan rivers will be shelved until at least 2020.

News outlets report that the U.S. Forest Service says it will instead work with local communities near the Au Sable, Manistee and Pine rivers to address the public safety and natural resource issues that sparked the proposal.

MLive reports:

“Individuals and businesses throughout northern Michigan have expressed strong interest in partnering with the Forest Service to address ongoing public safety and environmental issues on our National Wild and Scenic Rivers,” said Huron-Manistee National Forests Supervisor Leslie Auriemmo.

“We welcome a practical, community-driven solution to these challenges.”

Word of the possible alchohol ban sparked outcry from tourists and businesses that would be affected. Nearly 45,000 people signed an online petition against it.

The ban would have been in effect on portions of the three rivers between late May and early September. Violators could have faced a maximum $5,000 fine or five years in prison.