Steve Yelvington is encouraging news site managers with forums and comments on stories to make a special effort in 2007 to get rid of the bad actors, the guys and gals who start flame wars, get nasty, throw tantrums and are generally uncivil and uncouth.

He’s absolutely right, and I know for a fact cracking knuckles works.

Interactive features are far too important to your community and your business to be left unmanaged. They require staff guarding and participating. They sometimes require a heavy hand. And in the healthiest environments, the best participants help and are recognized and rewarded. But never, ever, should you leave the community to its own devices. The other option — not having forums or comments — is the worst possible option. So in 2007, suck it up, and get participation right.