Forest preserve not right for Olympics

I am deeply concerned about the proposal to have the 2016 Summer Olympics' equestrian events in the Lakewood Preserve in Lake County.

Forest preserves were charted to "preserve nature as near as possible in its natural state, while providing access to the public." The proposed Olympic venue overreaches this intent. It would destroy acres of plants, trees and wildflowers and wipe out the habitat of small and large wild animals and birds. It would destroy beautiful, established trails designed to protect users from the heat of summer, and cold winds in winter, under the old growth trees.

No forest preserve should have trees removed for such a huge activity. There are far more suitable locations, many of which have been suggested. Note that in 1984, the majority of Olympic equestrian events were held at the Santa Anita racetrack in Los Angeles.

Only extremely experienced professionals should be planning and selecting a site and designing such a venue. They will know the value of the venue both before and after the events.

It is very possible the sites and buildings would become an unused eyesore in the county. Horse facilities are notoriously difficult to maintain, manage and be financially solvent. I have and have had friends in this business, and have seen and heard the problems, many unforeseen, that arise.

I would like to point out the misconception that only a small group of neighbors and environmentalists are objecting to the Lakewood site. Not so. I met with a group of "oldtime" horse friends recently, and they pronounced the concept as "crazy."

Other of my friends who hike, ride and bird watch live in Lake, Cook and DuPage counties and voiced their objections: "does not belong there," "insane," "whose idea was this?" and so on. The problem is that they expound their objections to me, not to the officials who represent the public.

Forest preserves have always been an important part of my life. I owned horses for 30 years and spent 15 hours a week riding forest preserve trails. I also hiked, and cross country skied there and love the natural environment.

Last year, health problems and age stopped this activity, but not my concerns with our forests. Perhaps other troubled citizens will write to and call our commissioners and officials and join me in asking any and all persons who have the power of selection of venue to find a more suitable location.

June Decker

Grayslake