The Proposed Crook Horn Creek Nature Trail:
A Guide To Understanding The Issues As Presented By Its Supporters
The proposed Nature Trail at Crook Horn Creek is a plan to clean up the dirt road that already exists from 51st street to the creek (inland waterway). Initially the plan included a nature observatory and other “amenities” but were eliminated due to feedback from the public/neighbors. Proposed improvements include: removal and cleanup of debris (garbage & refuse); grading and resurfacing the old road with a porous material (yet to be determined); new (permitted) fishing/crabbing pier to replace the 2 old (unpermitted) piers, 2 access points from 52nd St; signage (designating the area as a nature trail); and trash recepticles at the entrances. Despite what is being said (and written in to the local papers) by opponents, the project plans as submitted to the Dept. of Environmental Protection call for no parking lot(s), no gazebo, no restrictions on fishing or crabbing, no intrusion into the existing wetlands, and certainly no other "attractions". The project is simple and environmentally sound. It is, in fact, a cleanup and maintenance project designed to protect an a part of our island which has been left to it's own devices for far too long - as this beautiful, natural wetland habitat has been overlooked and too often abused.
This Q&A is designed to give the public a different view of what is being proposed than the information dispersed by a group of nearby property owners opposed to this project.
FAQ
Q: Why is it necessary to do anything to the dirt road trail?
A: Although the area is currently enjoyed by fisherman, crabbers and people who enjoy nature, it has also become an area abused by people who dispose of garbage and refuse; items such as tires, motor oil, and shrubbery. It is NOT “perfect the way it is, in it’s natural state”. We support cleaning up the overall appearance and managing the area as a nature area so it will be appreciated and respected by all who visit.
Q: Is it true the Nature Trail will prohibit fishing and crabbing?
A: No. In fact, the existing (unpermitted) piers will be replaced with a newer, safer (permitted) pier.
Q: Is the Nature Trail designed to be a tourist attraction?
A: Not at all. The area will continue to allow access to a natural area of our island environment, but there are no other enhancements that would attract tourists. In fact, it will be more restrictive, in terms of auto access. Those that choose to enjoy the area would, more than likely, be more respectful of the environment.
Q: Will the Nature Trail be harmful to the environment?
A: This project must be reviewed and approved by the Department of Environmental Protection and is considered a “low impact” project. In fact, the project itself is a clean-up and management project. The very purpose is to preserve and protect an environmentally sensitive area. Despite the conjecture and opinions of some, the DEP's sole reason for being is to protect our environment. Their expertise and judgement should decide the best course for the Crook Horn Creek area. Neighbors with a personal agenda should not.
Q: Will people who live adjacent to the Nature Trail lose personal privacy?
A: Nothing will change which would reduce or increase privacy. They may, in fact, enjoy less auto traffic when the road is blocked to vehicles.
Q: Will vehicles continue to be allowed on the Nature Trail?
A: No. The project details include a gate at the entrance. We do not support vehicle access except for specific, supervised purposes.
Q: Is the Nature Trail the first phase of a rails to trails bike trail?
A: No. They are two independant projects. The nature trail is a stand-alone project which does not include the railroad tracks. There is alot of support for a rails to trails project from 35th to 51st streets, but that project is independant of this.
Q: Is this the first environmentally sensitive area to be improved and managed in Ocean City?
A: No, other projects include the Stainton Nature area at 29th & Bay, and the Corson Inlet State Park at the south end of the island. Both pristine, natural areas.
Q: Why are residents against this project?
A: Most residents are not against this project. Most residents support this project. There is a small but vocal group of homeowners in opposition. Unfortunately, this group has created doubt among some citizens as to the nature of the project. This group and/or individual neighbors have made false statements indicating: fishing and crabbing would not be allowed; the wetlands would be destroyed; this is part of a "bigger plan"; and that their is going to be "boardwalk themed attractions". All of these statements are false and have been made purposely to misinform the public in order to gain support. They seek only to further their agenda of protecting their personal privacy.
