A Republican state senator is proposing scaling back potential access restrictions to the forest surrounding an iron mine site just south of Lake Superior.
About 3,500 acres around the site in the Penokee Hills are part of the state's managed forest program, which grants landowners reduced fees in lieu of property taxes if they keep the land open for recreation.
Sen. Tom Tiffany introduced a bill in August to close all 3,500 acres after protesters emerged from the woods and accosted mine workers.
The bill has garnered little support, though and Sen. Rob Cowles, a Green Bay Republican, has introduced his own proposal. It would close areas around mining equipment and roads.
The senate is expected to consider Cowles' plan during a floor session Tuesday.
