Michigan Fisherman Convicted for Illegally Diverting River in National Park

Andrew Blair Howard faces charges after creating a channel in the Platte River to improve boat access, sparking environmental and legal repercussions.

• Andrew Blair Howard, a 63-year-old financial adviser, was convicted of tampering and vandalism for diverting the Platte River at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
• The diversion aimed to restore access to a coho salmon run, blocked by a sandbar after the National Park Service ceased dredging.
• The channel, initially unauthorized, grew to about 200 feet wide, attracting fishermen and affecting local wildlife and wetlands.
• Howard's actions, driven by a policy dispute with the National Park Service, resulted in significant ecological and financial harm.
• Howard faces up to six months in prison, a $5,000 fine, and at least $26,000 in restitution for environmental damage and legal fees.

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