Editorial: No misery here
Thursday, November 17, 2005
It's good to hear people are following the rules.
A little more than four months ago, the Conservation Commission put into effect new leash regulations for dogs at Mt. Misery. The public hearing process seemed longer than it actually was. The public meetings felt like they went on forever.
And it wasn't always a polite process, either. Residents from all around the area packed hearing rooms to make sure they had their say as the regulations were hashed out. Some took them personally - too personally, perhaps. Fingers were pointed, and motives were questioned. But with rules comes restrictions, and Mt. Misery users were ready to fight.
In the end, the result was the best possible compromise. The regulations don't require dogs to be on leash at all times - which the commission originally planned to put into effect - but they don't let dogs run free through the woods, either.
Today, dog walkers continue to use the land, finding serenity in its quiet woods. Ranger Jane Layton said people generally follow the regulations, and are more receptive to her if she has to approach them.
It was disconcerting to hear, however, that before the regulations were in effect, some Mt. Misery users responded rudely when Layton asked them to get their dogs under control. Of course, it's hard to swallow new rules, and it's one thing to defy the establishment when they're not looking. But there's a level of respect to be had, and it's disappointing to know some people did not respect Layton as she did her job.
But that's all in the past now, and it's time to move forward. One Mt. Misery user said harmony is beginning to return to the area and its users. Hopefully it has come to stay. | | |
