It has recently come to the attention of residents in the Copper Country that AFM real estate plans on selling 32,000 acres of pristine land in Keweenaw County. I have made this petition in an effort to have the Michigan Department of Natural Resources designate this as public land. For many years residents of the Copper Country have watched as large portions of land have been sold, trails gated off and recreational areas no longer accessible. Residents of the Copper Country take pride in living in such a beautiful area and getting to enjoy what nature has to offer, but with these large portions of land being sold we are slowly watching our favorite swimming spot, hiking areas and trails be gated off. It is our responsibility to protect this pristine land and allow everyone to enjoy it.