This petition is in regards to the Shell Lake School Forest and the Hollow, where the springs that form Sawyer Creek, a high-quality trout stream, are located. 

Three lots overlooking the Hollow, located along County Road B just west of the old Shell Lake Mill, were given to the city in 1900 by the disbanding Shell Lake Lumber Company, with the restriction that they be “maintained as Public Park and for park purposes exclusively.” These lots have not been developed in 124 years, are one of the best viewing points overlooking the Hollow and the School Forest, and can offer recreational access to residents and visitors. If they are developed, the spring headwaters of Sawyer Creek will be threatened by sloughing soil and polluted runoff.

The city has asked the Washburn County Circuit Court to lift the deed restrictions, so these public lands can be sold and potentially developed as a parking lot. The city claims the restrictions are “impossible or impractical” to keep in place. We urge the Court NOT to remove the century-old deed restriction and NOT to allow these public lands to be sold off for development.