CADILLAC (WWJ/AP) - Here's news some people will definitely drink to.
Federal officials are delaying a ban on alcoholic beverages along sections of three rivers in the Huron -Manistee National Forest in northern Michigan. Supervisor Leslie Auriemmo said the prohibition will be put off for at least a year.
Officials announced the ban earlier this month, saying it would protect natural resources and public safety on the Au Sable, Manistee and Pine rivers. Violators could face fines up to $5,000 and possible prison time.
"To put it politely, we've seen a lot of issues ranging from dangerous behavior on the water to public urination, nudity, trespass, and a number of other issues that have damaged the water systems themselves and put people's safety at risk," Nate Peeters, public affairs officer for the Huron-Manistee National Forest, told WWJ's Beth Fisher.
The U.S. Forest Service says many people favored the ban. But thousands signed an online petition against it. Critics said it would hurt tourism and damage local economies.
Auriemmo says a group representing small businesses, local governments and private citizens will develop a plan for restoring public safety on the rivers. The alcohol ban may be imposed in 2020 if conditions don't improve.
The ban would have run from the Friday before Memorial Day to Labor Day. It would prohibit alcohol on or within 200 feet of the: AuSable River between Mio Dam Pond and 4001 Canoe Landing; Manistee River between Tippy Dam and the Huron-Manistee National Forests' Administrative Boundary; and Pine River between Elm Flats and Low Bridge. The ban would not apply to private land, developed campgrounds or designated campsites.