Our local community in Gladwin County, Michigan, cherishes Trout Lake at the Trout Lake State Forest Campground, not just for its beauty, but for its vital role in supporting our local wildlife. We engage in numerous activities in that lake such as swimming, fishing, and observing the fascinating wildlife in their natural habitat. However, the draining and non-repair of the cofferdam on Trout Lake by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is threatening this delicate ecosystem.

Trout Lake has a special significance since it's a key living space for Loons. These remarkable birds have always nested on Trout Lake. If the cofferdam is drained and left unrepaired, the consequences will be severe for local wildlife and especially for these emblematic birds. According to the Michigan Loon Preservation Association, the preservation of the Loon's habitat is critical to its survival because Loons are sensitive to human disturbance and environmental degradation.

Preserving our lake means preserving our local heritage and biodiversity. This issue is personal to not only us but to the countless species that call Trout Lake home. We call upon the Michigan DNR to halt the planned draining and commit to repairing the cofferdam at Trout Lake in order to protect our local wildlife and the ecosystem.

We urge those who care about Trout Lake, wildlife conservation, and the future of our community's natural resources to sign this petition. Let's join hands to save our lake, our wildlife, and our common home!