BAY COUNTY, MI (WNEM) -
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources' decision not to close the Bay City State Recreational Area to spray for mosquitoes has left a bite.
The decision to not spray in the park was made by Lansing officials because they are concerned about what chemicals are in Bay County's mosquito abatement solution.
"There's two issues. One is disclosures to our many visitors, most of whom are from not only out of county but also from other states and nations. The other issue is to find out exactly what impact it has on the food chain of the ecosystem we have around here," said George Lauinger, the manager of the park.
But some say that mosquitos are so bad in the park, walking around it is terrible.
"As you're walking or biking down the trails, you can really notice a difference. At night, it's just unbearable," said Bangor Township resident Daniel Symons, who believes the park needs to be sprayed for mosquitos.
Others said they agree with the decision to not spray.
"They're a bother, but on the other hand, spraying, that's toxic for the whole environment. That's a disaster, a catastrophe. It just devastates the food chain and gets to us," said Victor Jaroslaw, who opposes chemicals being used.
Bay County has turned over the chemical list used in the mosquito abatement solution to the state. The state will determine if the chemicals should be used at the park. That decision is expected later this year.
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