Protect public access and outdoor traditions. This is a call to reinstate responsible camping for families, fishermen, and surrounding communities as a whole. Access matters, as there is also a curfew set for 10pm, we need to stand for anglers' rights for fishing at Matejcek.

This is written to preserve the tradition of outdoor living, learning, and community bonding. 

Let future generations fall asleep to the sounds of the outdoors- not the silence of lost access. 

My reasons for this petition and why this is something I feel strongly about, is because of my children. 

This is the first time in 9 years that I have tried camping again. My children [11, 4, and 4], have grown a bit and I thought it would be an opportunity to see how they enjoy it. 

For the last 5 weeks, we have been out camping at the upper campground at Matejcek. At least 2 or 3 days a week. Mostly during the week. 

My children fell in love with the dam. The beach and swimming during the day. The s'mores around the fire before bed, and enjoying the overnight air in their own tent. 

One of my children (4) is diagnosed with autism. When he comes home after camping, and when he is actively playing there, his personality completely changes. 

He is happier, with less stims ( overstimulated outbursts/noises associated with autism) and his eloping ( basically running away without warning ) is nearly nonexistent. He is less picky with food, and overall seems calmer. 

I want my children to continue to enjoy the dam as they have really grown to love it. The routine of going to Matejcek has brought the best out of my boys, and I will fight to keep it an active part of their lives.