6/15 A bill has been introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives that would provide “fair and reasonable compensation” to landowners when abandoned railroad lines through their properties are converted to recreational trails.
Outdoor enthusiasts want more trails. Landowners and farmers aren’t opposed to that. They argue simply that if someone wants to use their land, they should ask permission.
The bill has been introduced by Congressman Jim Ryun , a Kansas Republican. You may remember Ryun. He is a former Olympic runner. Today, he often uses the so-called Rails-to-Trails system for running. But he believes that trail development along old railroad rights-of-way should not ignore the fact that the land was and remains private property.
A couple of generations ago, farmers forged deals with the railroad companies to use the land but it was agreed that it would revert back to its owners when the lines were no longer in use and abandoned.
Simply because the rails are idle today, or indeed have been removed, does not mean that the rights-of-way are public property.
Ryun argues that it’s a matter of common sense. “It’s a rule we should have learned in kindergarten. You ask permission before you take what isn’t yours.”
That’s a rule that President Clinton, Vice President Gore and their happy band of disciples should be made to write l00 times on the blackboard.