ISHPEMING, Mich. (WZMQ) – A lake in Ishpeming has a new entryway to its boat ramp, after the previous entryway was closed earlier this week.
The DNR opened a new entryway to the Lake Angeline boat ramp Thursday. The entryway sits on private property, and the new property owner put up a gate a couple days ago, though was still giving boaters access through the gate. The new access road is being built on an old easement the DNR has which is located directly adjacent to the entryway.
The DNR had an easement agreement with the previous property owner, but the property was recently sold. The DNR says due to a clerical error, a permanent easement agreement at the boat ramp was never formally finalized. Without a formal permanent easement agreement the new property owner is open to liability by allowing boaters to access his property.
“This gentleman who lives on the property, it’s his property he had every right to put up a gate and he has every right to close the gate, he has to be concerned about liability and trespass and safety on his property,” added DNR Deputy Public Information Officer John Pepin.
According to the DNR they are in negotiations with the property owner to re-open the original entryway but the new road will be accessible immediately.
