Reps. Ken Borton and Cam Cavitt are working together to ensure the Cornwall Creek Flooding dam, located in Cheboygan County, is repaired by the state and not destroyed, as currently planned. The state department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) classified Cornwall Creek Flooding as being in “poor condition” and recommended the state Department of Natural Resources (DNR) take immediate action to improve its safety. The DNR, however, has decided the cost to repair the dam is greater than the value of Cornwall Creek Flooding and has opted to get rid of the dam.

“Over the past several decades, Cornwall Creek Flooding has attracted so many locals and visitors across the state,” said Borton, of Gaylord. “This pristine body of water in the heart of the Pigeon River State Forest has served as one of our region’s most beloved and cherished attractions since 1966. Cornwall Creek Flooding is one of Northern Michigan’s most accessible, yet remote, lakes. Folk’s camp, fish, hunt, hike, ride horses, kayak, canoe and more on this beautiful body of water. The governor and DNR should ask locals for feedback on such massive proposals. If they did, they’d know firsthand how unpopular the decision to dismiss the Cornwall Creek Flooding dam is.”

“Initially, the DNR’s response to EGLE was to do just what they recommended – fix the dam,” said Cavitt, of Cheboygan. “Over time, however, the DNR has unilaterally decided the cost of repair is greater than the value of Cornwall Creek Flooding, and has opted to eradicate the dam and the flooding, based on cost alone. I can tell you firsthand – I’ve received an outpour of support to repair the Cornwall Creek Flooding dam from locals in Cheboygan County, as well as folks throughout my entire district, and across the state. I have no doubt in my mind that the dam is worth saving. For over half a century, this unique destination has served as the home for some of our state’s most beloved wildlife. State officials determined anglers and other visitors annually contribute about $100,000 to the rural economy at local shops, gas stations and diners. The dam is an integral part of our community, the Pigeon River Forest, and Northern Michigan as a whole.”

Reps. Borton and Cavitt ensure they are doing everything possible at the state level to keep Cornwall Creek afloat. Rep. Cavitt recently introduced House Bill 4380, which would provide the necessary funding to repair Cornwall Creek Flooding dam. The bill was referred to the Committee on Appropriations, on which both Borton and Cavitt serve, where it awaits further action.