Shoreland Protection Law
Threatened
7/21/99
Dear Governor Thompson:
Please line item VETO the provision in the state budget legislation
that would allow gazebos and other open or screened structures near the
ordinary high water mark of Wisconsin's navigable waters.
As you know, Wisconsin's shoreland zoning requirements have long and
properly required that structures be setback at least 75 feet from the
ordinary high water mark of navigable waters. The only exceptions
are for water dependent and/or safety related structures such as boat houses,
piers, and stairs on steep slopes, or where an averaged setback may be
used given the proximity of closer "grandfathered" structures. The
obvious purposes of these setbacks are to protect the natural shoreland
vegetation and appearance both for ecological as well as aesthetic reasons.
Recent scientific studies and user surveys have reinforced the importance
of these setbacks.
With this background in mind, we were appalled to belatedly learn that
the "gazebos near lakes" budget provision was added by the Joint Finance
Committee with little or no public notice nor thoughtful consideration.
This provision goes against the relevant law, science, and public support
for shoreland protection. What justification has been offered or
demonstrated for this provision? We are not aware of one, other than
the inferred desire of some people to have screened structures so they
can sit near the water without spraying insect repellent or swatting mosquitos.
Aside from its own lack of merit, this provision could well establish
a dangerous precedent for further weakening of shoreland protection and
setback requirements. What other non-water or safety dependent structures
are next on the list for special treatment? The standard 75 foot
shoreland setback may soon be so full of holes that it becomes meaningless.
Given the rapid increase in shoreland development, Wisconsin's lakes, rivers,
and streams need more not less protection. This budget provision
is a serious step in the wrong direction. Wisconsin's constitutionally
protected public trust resources need and deserve better.
Again, we respectfully request that you veto this shoreland budget
provision.
Thank you very much for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Richard Spotts, Director
Green Onion Resource Center
719 Orchard Lane
Ashland, WI 54806
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