Most Michigan state parks, state-managed trails, boating access sites and recreation areas have remained open during the COVID-19 pandemic, but the the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) said closures could happen if they continue to see visitors ignoring social-distancing requirements.
Tippy Dam Recreation Area has already been shut down until further notice because too many people were traveling outside their local areas to visit the park, and the large number of visitors was not social distancing, according to DNR.
Ron Olson, Chief of the DNR Parks and Recreation Division, said they are seeing an influx of visitors at state parks since Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's stay-at-home order began.
"In order to continue to keep state parks and trails open, we expect everyone to follow effective social distancing practices, to not litter and not travel long distances to enjoy the outdoors," Olson said, according to Michigan.gov.
"If concerns continue to build, the DNR will have to look at closing or further limiting access to our state-designated trails, state parks, boating access sites and other outdoor locations," Olson continued on Michigan.gov.
Ed Henley, a fisherman in the Lansing area, said cutting off access to popular fishing areas like Tippy Dam will have a devastating impact on the local community.
"This is our one line of decompression. This is how we get out of the house, let our minds go back to a good place, and when we are shut up, it's not good for anybody," Henley told WILX10.
The DNR said anyone traveling outside their local area to visit DNR lands is not in compliance with the governor's "Stay Home, Stay Safe" executive order.
Long-distance traveling could aid in the spread of the virus. "When you do that, you expose yourself and others to things such as stopping at gas stations and stuff like that," Olson told WILX10.
The Department of Health and Human Services will issue a civil penalty of up to $1,000 for anyone who does not comply with executive orders pertaining to social distancing at state parks and recreation areas, according to the DNR.
The DNR has also seen an uptick in litter since they've had to reduce trash services at DNR-managed locations. They ask that all visitors help them keep the parks and recreation areas clean by cleaning up after themselves.
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