Highlights of North Country Trail Annual Report

cover of NCTA 2025 Annual Report

from the NCTA

The North Country Trail Association has issued their 2025 Annual Report which helps people see at a glance what has been accomplished over the past year.

If anyone has reservations about the how their contributions are being used, this should make you proud to support the trail. There are 618 miles of the 4800-mile trail in Lower Michigan.

Highlights from 2025:
• total miles of NCT - 4860
• 53 bridges built or replaced
• 4066 feet of puncheon built or replaced
• of the 4860 trail miles, 3365 are now off road (70% off road, and more miles off road than the original estimate for the entire trail

Concerning finances, the report states: "The NCTA continued remarkable financial sustainability in 2025. Despite a 22% decline in agency grants and early uncertainty about federal funding, which accounts for roughly 20 to 25% of revenue, strategic “belt-tightening” ensured a resilient bottom line. Growth was fueled by a record-breaking year for private support: Donations and memberships hit $900,000 (up 20%), while corporate and foundation giving rose by 23%. These resources were immediately mobilized for the trail"

NCTA Board President Jan Ulferts-Stewart says, "This report features work that honors our history as a volunteer-powered organization while positioning us to reach even further in the years ahead. Thank you for your role in caring for the North Country Trail and ensuring it remains a place of pride. "

See the full NCTA Annual Report


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Petoskey Moves to Preserve Little Traverse Wheelway

collapsed Little Traverse Wheelway (photo from City of Petoskey Parks and Recreation))

from Bridge Michigan

The Petoskey City Council says it intends to preserve public trail easements along the Little Traverse Wheelway. The damaged section of what is known as the "Miracle Mile," is an easement across private property.

Owners, Gustav and Courtney Lo, have sued Petoskey for not repairing damaged sections of the trail that fall on their land. They want the easement released back to them saying that the lack of maintenance makes this necessary.

The city has instructed its attorney to continue to negotiate to maintain the easements. However, the major stumbling block is the $20 million price tag to rebuild and stabilize the shoreline that collapsed from erosion in 2020.

Public input strongly supports protecting the trail, but the funds will be difficult to raise under possible time constraints of the Los' lawsuit.

After a closed session of the council on April 20, Mayor John Murphy read the following statement: “It’s the city council’s intention to preserve the easements of the trail. The city council has authorized the city attorney to continue in discussions with the Los with a goal, with the intent to preserve existing easements while addressing the Los’ concerns.”

See Little Traverse Wheelway Repair Still Uncertain


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Extra- Cheboygan Waterways Closed Until May 8

warning for Cheboygan waterways (graphic from Cheboygan County Sheriff)

from Cheboygan County Sheriff's Office

By order of the Coast Guard three waterways in Cheboygan County are closed to boat traffic until May 8, 2026. This includes the Cheboygan River, Black River, and Indian River.

Lakes are open to boaters, but extreme caution is urged. High water and significant debris are the biggest issues.


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Grand Haven Kite Festival- May 16, 17

kite festival (photo from City of Grand Haven)

from the city of Grand Haven

Look up and get ready to be amazed! The Grand Haven Kite Festival transforms the Lake Michigan shoreline into a sky full of color, creativity, and high-flying fun. Watch professional kite fliers perform synchronized routines, stroll the beach lined with giant show kites, and even bring your own to join in.

This free, family-friendly event takes place at Grand Haven State Park on Saturday, May 16 (10 AM–5 PM) and Sunday, May 17 (11 AM–5 PM), weather permitting. It’s the perfect spring getaway—plan your stay and make a weekend of it in Grand Haven.

See the full schedule at Grand Haven Kite Festival

See Kite Festival Facebook

See Grand Haven Kite Festival


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Significant North Country Trail Detour

damage to Highbridge Road (photo origin uncertain)

by jhy

The recent high water and flooding in Michigan is having significant impacts on a multitude of recreation facilities and opportunities.

Perhaps two of the most significant are in the Manistee National Forest. There are two areas of closure. One is a part of the North Country Trail, and the other concerns the Manistee River Trail which has formed the eastern part of what may be the most popular loop trail in the state of Michigan.

Highbridge Road, north of Highbridge over the Manistee River has experienced washouts on both sides of the road and the structural integrity of the road surface is compromised. The picture above does not show the extent of the damage. The Forest Service has closed the road EVEN TO PEDESTRIANS, which means that hikers can not cross the river at this bridge. There are very few bridges across the Manistee.

What this means for at least a month is that any thru hikers (northbound or trail WEBO although the local direction of travel is east) will need to follow M-55 east from Udell TH for 11 miles to Warfield Rd, turn north and then west on Coates Highway to Red Bridge. There, you can access the connector to rejoin the NCT. (south or trail EABO should follow the connector to Red Bridge, take Coates Hwy east, south on Warfield, and M-55 west to Udell TH)

This is a 17- mile detour, but the total length of the skipped trail is about the same, so mileage is approximately equal, but the experience will definitely be compromised. Note that this entire route will be busier than usual with vehicle traffic as all the usual Highbridge traffic will also be using this road detour.

Perhaps the best news is that since Highbridge is a main county thoroughfare, the road will be repaired in good time.

The other huge impact is that for the foreseeable future, the entire Manistee River Trail is closed. The Forest Service is still evaluating damage. Any plans to hike the loop will need to be postponed.

See Manistee National Forest trail alerts updates


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Celebrate Arbor Day- Friday, April 24

graphic from the Michigan DNR

a news release of Michigan DNR

Arbor Day is an internationally celebrated holiday: from Australia to Yemen, people love trees! While everyone might not celebrate on the same day, differing even state to state, most places will celebrate their love of trees with a tree week, tree festival and other events.

Check the DNR's Arbor Day webpage for resources on planting trees and Arbor Day events. The Arbor Day Foundation also has a list of ways you can celebrate Arbor Day by yourself. Statewide events map

Plant a tree: A tree planting checklist to help classrooms or families plant trees.

A Tree’s Life: Learn about the life cycle of a tree.

Seed collecting: Gather seeds from a wooded area. Have children examine their seed collections and invent a system for sorting or classifying them. Explain that plants have developed many different methods of seed dispersal, to ensure the success of their species.

Discover the Forest: This website helps families and educators find simple, fun ways to play and learn in nearby nature, building confidence, connection and curiosity along the way.

Exploring the Neighbor-wood: Explore a nearby outdoor space — like a yard, sidewalk or park — looking closely for signs of how trees are used by animals, plants and people, and take time to observe, wonder and reflect together.

Texture Detectives: Explore natural materials with your sense of touch and practice using descriptive words. Children can test their detective skills by feeling a mystery object and identifying it just by touch.

Gifts of Green: Take a slow, mindful walk, or a “wonder wander,” through nature and use your senses to notice trees, animals, plants and other natural elements. Reflect on the gifts nature provides by drawing or writing a thank-you card.

See DNR Arbor Day


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Howard Christensen Nature Center Update

Howard Christensen Nature Center (photo from their website)

from Howard Christensen Nature Center

While the future of Howard Christensen Nature Center is still uncertain, they are grateful to LCWM for this opportunity.

Representatives from Lily’s Frog Pad board of directors have met with the executive director of the Land Conservancy of West Michigan. LCWM has asked Lily’s Frog Pad to submit a sustainable business plan. This plan will detail how all 5 buildings could be saved for future use by being financially supported through donations, sponsorships, memberships and rental of the buildings.

This request by LCWM to Lily’s Frog Pad is an exciting and positive turn of events. Lily’s Frog Pad board of directors is on track to develop this business plan as soon as is practical. We are hoping to save all 5 buildings and our nature center programs.

The Center offers:
• Miles of groomed trails
• Two floating docks on Chrishaven Lake
• Benches, amphitheater and campfire pits (reservation only)
• Group Picnic areas – first come first served
• Plant species from across North America
• Two Outlook Towers
• Geocaching

See Howard Christensen Nature Center to Close


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Balk Family Park to be Built on Former Golf Course

Balk Family Park community building concept (graphic from Cannon Township)

from Cannon Township

Formerly the Silver Lake Country Club, this property was purchased by Kent County, Michigan, with a generous donation from the Balk family. Cannon Township is in the process of constructing a Community Building on the site. The close proximity of Balk Family Park to other parks and trails will create a recreational destination for both residents and visitors.

Located at 7601 Belding Rd NE, Rockford, MI 49341, the 125 acres will be developed for family recreation and play.

Top Priorities include:
• Restroom/Pavilion
• Boardwalks & Overlooks
• Trails
• Unique Playgrounds
• Disc Golf
• Natural Restoration/Prairie Habitat

The township is accepting donations, and the facilites will be built as funding allows

See more at Balk Family Park


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Treat Wooly Adelgid in Spring

hemlock wooly adelgid (photo from EGLE)

a news release of EGLE

If hemlock trees on your property show signs of hemlock woolly adelgid infestation, now is a good time to plan for spring treatment of this invasive species. Hemlock woolly adelgid, native to Asia, is known to be present in areas of Allegan, Antrim, Benzie, Leelanau, Manistee, Mason, Muskegon, Oceana, Ottawa, Van Buren and Washtenaw counties in Michigan. These small insects suck sap from hemlock needles and ultimately can cause tree death.

Insecticides are available to control the insect, and in many cases, landowners can apply them easily by carefully following label instructions and application rate guidance. In Michigan, the label is the law. In some cases, you may need or prefer the services of a licensed pesticide application business.

If one or more trees are infested, make plans to act this year. Without treatment, trees infested with hemlock woolly adelgid are likely to die within four to 10 years. Weakened trees in a home landscape could spell disaster during high winds or storms, and eventually they will have to be removed. Loss of hemlocks in forested areas can reduce shade, winter cover, and food and habitat for birds, fish and mammals.

Products containing either imidacloprid or dinotefuran as the active ingredient and labeled for treatment of hemlock woolly adelgid are effective in combatting the insect.

Imidacloprid moves slowly through trees, taking at least a year to reach the top of a large tree. However, one application will protect the tree for at least four years. Dinotefuran moves through hemlock trees more quickly, making it ideal for heavily infested trees. Dinotefuran protects trees for one to two years.

No matter which treatment you select, be sure your treatment plan includes all hemlocks on your property over the next few years. If hemlock woolly adelgid is on your site, hemlocks without symptoms are very likely to be infested over time, including trees on neighboring properties. It’s a good idea to discuss treatment plans with neighbors and coordinate efforts when possible.

See link above for much more information from the Department of the Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, Michigan.


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South Rogue River Trail Construction

South Rogue River Trail construction (photo by Prein & Newhof Construction)

from Prein & Newhof Construction

Construction is moving ahead on Plainfield Charter Township’s (Kent County, Michigan) South Rogue River Trail. When complete, this new trail will provide a safe, scenic route connecting the White Pine Trail to the Northland Drive area, closing the Township’s first non-motorized loop alongside the Rockford Trail.

This milestone creates a continuous route that expands how residents can move through and experience the area. It also plays an important role in the larger Grand River Greenway pathway network across West Michigan, creating more opportunities to be active outside while enjoying the natural beauty of the Rogue River corridor.

Crews have been making steady progress this spring, including completing backfill at the bridge abutments, installing drainage systems, and advancing work on both the boardwalk and retaining walls. Next steps will shift toward preparing the trail base and setting the bridge on the abutments as the trail aims to open to the public later this spring! Congratulations to Plainfield Charter Township on the continued progress of this investment in outdoor recreation and connectivity. We’re grateful to be part of a project that will serve residents and visitors for years to come, and we appreciate the hard work of Dan's Excavating Service, Inc. and the entire project team helping bring it to life on site.

The South Rogue River Trail is the final pathway funded by the voter-approved Non-Motorized Pathways and Recreational Areas Millage, which expired earlier this year. Kent County will reimburse the Township for the pedestrian bridge once the project is complete.

See Plainfield Township


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Forest Service Responds to Negative Comments about Restructuring

National Forest sign (photo by jhy)

from the Forst Service response

The USDA Forest Service has posted official responses to many of the criticisms of the restructuring plan. Some of those will be listed here.

In response to the moving of some offices, the FS says: "The Forest Service’s facilities footprint is extensive and significantly larger than can be supported under current congressional appropriations, which are declining for facilities — approximately $37 million less in FY 2026 compared to FY 2025. Deferred maintenance has grown to $3 billion, and retaining a footprint we cannot adequately maintain would not be responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars. To operate efficiently and to invest in safe, functional workspaces for employees, the Forest Service must reduce its overall facilities footprint."

There is concern that forest research will become limited. The response states: "The reorganization does not eliminate scientific positions, cancel research programs, or reduce our national research footprint. In many locations, “closure” refers only to individual buildings currently housing small teams. Staff and programs will continue their work, relocated into fewer facilities while maintaining research presence across the country.

"It's important to note that staffing and facilities are funded separately, and closing a facility does not mean the work stops. In many cases staff will move to another local facility, service center, or forest office. This reorganization is focused on rebuilding staff capacity at the field level to deliver the work that builds forest health and improves visitor services."

GOTC is neither criticizing nor defending the federal decisions. The aim is to provide information as these, no doubt, difficult moves will be carried out. For the complete text of the response, follow the link above.


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Three Trails Receive Pure Michigan Designation

White Pine Trail (photo by jhy)

from Outdoor Wire

Each year, trails are recognized as Pure Michigan Trails through a partnership between the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and the state's Pure Michigan marketing program.

This year, The White Pine Trail in West Michigan is one of the recipients. The White Pine Trail runs 92 miles from Cadillac to Comstock Park near Grand Rapids. It follows the former roadbed of the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad, and is a paved multi-use trail. It passes through 15 communities.

"The Pure Michigan Trail program recognizes Michigan pathways that provide a quality trail experience, whether these trail users are hiking, biking, riding or paddling," said DNR state trails coordinator Tim Novak. "The organizations and dedicated individuals helping maintain these high-quality trails have worked hard to support and advocate for trails and trails users while providing safe, accessible recreational experiences year-round."

The other two recipients are the Michigan Air Line Trail, a 7.5-mile trail in Oakland County, near Detroit, and the Great Lakes Way. The Great Lakes Way includes 160 miles of greenways and 156 miles of blueways which connect southern Lake Huron with Western Lake Erie.

See White Pine Trail


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