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Thousands sign petition to stop ban of alcohol on some Michigan rivers

Posted at 3:37 PM, Feb 08, 2019
and last updated 2019-02-08 16:53:47-05

(WXYZ) — Thousands have signed a petitionto stop the ban of drinking on some rivers in Michigan.

The National Forest Service is now banning drinking on some rivers up north this summer. Those who violate the ban could end up with a $5,000 fine or six months in jail.

According to the service, alcohol will be banned on three rivers in the Huron-Manistee National Forests.

Between May 24 and Sept. 2, alcohol will be banned on portions of the AuSable, Manistee and Pine rivers this summer, and within 200 feet of the rivers.

The petition was created by an organization named "Our River." They would like to repeal the ban, specifically the order signed by forest supervisor Leslie Auriemmo.

Some people who signed said the ban could hurt small businesses in the area.

As of Friday, nearly 17,000 have signed the petition.