The U.S. Forest Service discriminates against the old people and the disabled.

On November 11, I got on my ORV and started out to bait my deer stand a mile back at Schlehubers Marsh, only to find the trail completely destroyed where it enters federal property. I could not believe the damage that was done. Trees were bulldozed across the trail for 600 yards. My neighbors and I have been using this trail for 35 years.

My wife and I have diabetes. I have had two heart attacks and am just now recovering from a major back surgery. I can only walk short distances. I feel this action is discriminating against the older people and the disabled. Over the years, I have seen more and more gates blocking access to federal property, roads with signs saying “foot travel only.” I have enjoyed Michigan’s outdoors for 70 years and would like to continue – but cannot. Being a taxpayer for 54 years, I helped pay for roads I now cannot use. What happened to the “handicap accessible” law? Is the forest service exempt from this law? I would like the district ranger to explain this to the public in writing.

It is my hope this reaches our Representative Gary McDowell and Congressman Bart Stupak, also the American Civil Liberties Union. We will be asking for their help to stop this blatant discriminatory practice.

According to a Forest Service letter dated January 17, 2008, “The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability...”
Gilbert Todd
Trout Lake