Letter: Need foresight to preserve open space

The City Council recently passed a resolution to begin a study regarding the development of Phase III of the White Tail Ridge Business Park. This represents the top of the hill behind the day care center.

I implore the council and local citizens of River Falls to consider the long-term impact of the development on the top of White Tail Ridge.

Though we need to continue to seek ways to engage businesses to support the growth of our economy, I also believe we have a responsibility for the preservation of what is still open land.

If we fail, we run the risk of damaging what makes this town special and unique. Our legacy should not only be measured by what we built, but also by what we worked to preserve.

I moved here a couple of years ago because I was drawn to the small town atmosphere and resistance to urban/suburban sprawl.

Rick Cleary, longtime citizen and coach in River Falls, saw enormous potential for trails and access to outdoor space years ago.

Nick Caliva and the non-profit organization KORC (Kinni Off Road Cyclist) has expanded on his foundation and made a truly remarkable place in River Falls.

You can go there any day and see many people using the trails to hike, run, snowshoe, ski, and bike. Putting a road through the hillside, while excavating and developing the hilltop will significantly alter the landscape in both beauty and function.

I will end with a quote by Teddy Roosevelt that is just as relevant today as it was in 1907: “In utilizing and conserving the natural resources of the nation, the one characteristic more essential than any other is foresight.”

Please have the foresight to preserve this space.

Tags: opinion, riverfalls, letter, whitetail_ridge, open, land