Benefit Harvest Dinner Fundraiser toProtect the Arcadia Marsh

Arcadia Marsh field trip (photo from Manistee Audubon)

a news release of Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy

A group of dedicated community volunteers are hard at work cooking up a Harvest Dinner to support efforts of the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy to protect the Arcadia Marsh. They’ve recruited volunteers, sponsors, donors of services, and have secured a dozen special items to auction at the event. Kristine Harvey, one of the organizers, states “this project is bringing together people who have some of the same loving thoughts towards the marsh. We are getting to know each other, and we are learning things from each other.”

Arcadia Marsh is located at the mouth of Bowens Creek and drains into Lake Arcadia. The health and viability of Arcadia Marsh has significant impacts on maintaining and improving the water quality of Lake Arcadia. “Fresh water estuaries like Arcadia Marsh have the second-most productive ecosystems per unit area—even more productive than tropical rainforest” says Chris Sullivan, Land Protection Specialist for Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy, “We have a unique opportunity to purchase, restore, and create a nature preserve on 155 acres of the nearly 400-acre Arcadia Marsh.”

Since 1991, the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy has protected over 32,000 acres of significant natural, scenic, and farm lands and nearly 100 miles of irreplaceable shoreline in Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Manistee counties. As part of their ongoing commitment to protecting the Lake Michigan Coast, the Conservancy has protected over 1/4 of the approximately 16,000 acre Lake Arcadia Watershed, mostly within the Arcadia Dunes project, which protects the northern headwaters area.

The Harvest Dinner will be held Saturday, October 10th, at 6:00 p.m. at Camp Arcadia, 3046 Oak Street, Arcadia. Tickets are $100, and only 200 tickets will be sold. Chef Kurt Harvey is "planning to prepare pot roast using beef supplied by Rice Farm, roasted and steamed vegetables from Manistee and Benzie County, naturally-leavened bread from Pleasanton Brick Oven Bakery, and a great deal of volunteer labor and love. Desserts will not disappoint. It will all add up to a fantastic meal for a great cause."

For information or to purchase tickets, visit Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy call them at 231-929-7911. Tickets are also available at Camp Arcadia, 231-889-4361
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Gone Hiking

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by JHY

I'm headed for the Trail Junction Festival in Ohio, and then on to hike my last 104 miles of NCT in Ohio. See you in a few days.

See Trail Junction Festival
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Origins of the Manistee River Trail Association

Manistee River from the MRT (photo by otisourcat)

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submitted by Shaun Ensign

The creation of the Manistee River Trail Association has a long and winding back story.

Its one of those you have to know it started to appreciate where it leads.

When I was a kid my family and I would camp along the back waters of the Tippy Dam at least a few times a year. My brother and I would play the normal kid games running the woods pretending we were in the Army. It was always a special time that my family and I would spend together. Almost every time we would camp, we would hike. Many times we would hike the “northeast” side of Red Bridge; this was always my favorite place to hike. I remember being so enchanted as a child, the area felt so big and wild.

Looking out over the river I felt I was in a different world, seeing the wildlife that a city boy from Grand Rapids only got to see “up north”. Years went by, I started to grow up and the family camping trips happened less and less. I still visited the area, taking friends to camp there, hunting in the area, what we referred to generically as “Red Bridge” never left my thoughts or heart. After the years went by, I found myself living in Traverse City.

That is where I got into backpacking and met my girlfriend. Oddly enough, my girlfriend took a job in the little town of Manistee. After about a year and knowing I was in love with the woman, I decided to move in with her. Low and behold the Manistee National Forest was now in my backyard. Camping, hiking and backpacking country was very accessible to me now. The area I had hiked as a kid was now a full fledged, designated trail. After hiking the trail numerous times, solo and with friends it became evident to me that the trail was in need of some attention. There were many campfire conversations on what needed to be done on the trail, that was the easy part, the hard part was how we can get these things accomplished. That is when I came up with idea to start an association, one that would be aimed at the protection and preservation of the trail. So with a handful of great friends the MRTA was born. The thing I like to convey to people is that even while the desire that has driven me to start this endeavor has a long sentimental past, it is future that is more important to me and to us. The Manistee River Trail Association was formed to ensure that the trail and the surrounding area are protected for generations to come. We are looking forward to the ’08 season and really pushing for action this year.

2008 will be the year that we really start to get organized and put some plans into motion.

This is a brand new organization (officially formed in June ’07) and while we are young we have great aspirations for the trail. Some of the things we have planned for the trail include: rebuild/repair the boardwalk that crosses the marsh, short reroutes to combat the areas of erosion that plague the trail. The list goes on, most of the issues we have are simple maintenance/preventative maintenance. With all the work talk out of the way I would like to add that we are all about fun and games as well. One of the biggest reason we decided to create this assoc. is build a network of friends that enjoy camping, hiking, backpacking and the like. You will find on our website “Base Camp” where we have a message board for all to enjoy. We look forward to seeing everyone out on the trail this year and hope you all would consider joining us in our mission.

See Manistee River Trail Association
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Help Historic Trees

(photo by from Extra Dirt)

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a news release of National Home Garden Club

Do you know of a tree that is exceptional in some way? Maybe one that has stood in your town square for generations, or one that's made the perfect backdrop for family photos through the years?

Now you can give that tree the recognition it deserves. In July, American Forests launched a Historic Tree Register, and they need your help to get the nation's most memorable trees into the spotlight.

You can nominate a tree that has historical significance, or a tree that's special to you personally. Trees that are selected for the register may be propagated and sold by American Forests, so that special tree can live on and bring joy to others.

Since 1917, American Forests has been researching and documenting trees that witnessed history. Our Historic Tree Program brings history alive by propagating and selling the offspring of trees connected to famous people, events, and places. American Forests’ collection has grown to over 2,000 historic trees, but there are many worthy trees still unrecognized.

Trees do so much for us. This is a cool opportunity to do something for them.

See how to register Historic Trees
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Zebra Mussels Found at Isle Royale

zebra mussels (photo by Ron Dermott from the US FWS)

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a news release of Duluth News Tribune

Michigan's crown jewel in Lake Superior, Isle Royale, had escaped the invasion of the alien zebra mussels, until recently. Park officials confirmed the find and are very concerned since the island still has one of the largest populations of native mussels in the Great Lakes.

Superintendent Phyllis Green said that with so many boats coming to the island, they will probably never know how the invaders arrived. She is calling for an all-out effort to attempt to wipe out the colony. It is believed that they are all zebra mussels, and not the larger Quagga mussel, and are almost all located at the west end of the island in Washington Harbor.

The first zebra mussels in Lake Superior appeared in Duluth 20 years ago. They are moved around primarily by being attached to boats. So far 24 mussels have been removed from Isle Royale docks, and water tests are being done to check for larvae (called veligers). Poison could be used to kill the larvae.

An expert from Minnesota Sea Grant pointed out that very few efforts at eliminating zebra mussel concentrations in lakes have succeeded. But he is hopeful that this problem may have been caught early enough.

See Biological Pesticide Found for Zebra Mussels
See 330 Trillion Quagga Mussels Can't Be Right
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Canoeing Wife Aids Husband's Capsized Sailboat

based on a news article in the Muskegon Chronicle

Amy Schrotenboer, pregnant and guiding a leaky canoe, paddled to her husband's aid when his sailboat capsized on the evening of September 3. It had been a quiet sunset sail for Josiah Schrotenboer until a gust of wind and a freak wave tipped his catamaran into Lake Michigan near Muskegon's Pioneer Park.

Josiah was waiting calmly with his boat, despite the 46-degree temperature of the water. He was wearing a life vest and short wet suit. Although he felt that he could swim the half mile to shore, Schrotenboer did not wish to abandon his sailboat.

At about 9:30 p.m. a Coast Guard helicopter and Muskegon County Sheriff's Marine Unit rescue boat arrived. The boat and owner were towed safely to shore, and the Coast Guard took advantage of the opportunity to do a short training exercise.

"There hasn't been this much excitement along here for years," commented Amy.

See US Coast Guard Boating Safety page
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Hiking, Biking Trail Proposed Around Hardy Dam Pond

Hardy Dam Pond is an impoundment of the Muskegon River, roughly between Stanton and Newaygo (Google Maps)

based on a news article on M-Live

Hardy Dam Pond was created in 1937 when the dam was constructed on the Muskegon River to provide hydroelectric power. Typically, surrounding land was purchased to prevent other utilities from building additional dams. But in the 1960s when hydro-electric projects were brought under federal licensing rules, the area was opened to public use. This has primarily meant that boaters and anglers had access to the water. The land itself receives little use.

That is about to change. A shoreline trail for hiker and mountain bikers may be built creating a loop around the 3,900-acre lake. Most of the property is owned by Consumers Energy. The trail is the brain child of Big Prairie Township supervisor David Wright, and enthusiastic backpacker. He is working with local business interests, the Michigan State University Extension and Consumers Energy to develop the project.

Wright says the land has hills, ravines and wetland areas, and claims that it is "some of the best forest hiking to be found south of Ontario."

Backpacking would be encouraged, although overnights would need to be spent in the developed campsites. Consumers Energy does not have the resources to police backcountry camping.

Consumers Energy is forwarding the proposal to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. Wright predicts that the trail can be built for less than $50,000, using volunteers to do much of the work. Local governments, businesses and foundations have expressed interest in aiding with funding. If the project is federally approved, trail construction could begin as early as summer 2010.

Hardy Dam Pond is an impoundment of the Muskegon River where it runs northeast to southwest roughly between Stanton and Newaygo.

See Newaygo State Park
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Manistee to Celebrate Man-Made Lake Purchase

Existing and Proposed Access to Man-Made Lake, Manistee

based on a news article in the Ludington Daily News

Manistee’s Man-Made Lake shore has been rescued from development which would block both views of the water, and some public use. Most of the shoreline now belongs to the city of Manistee and will be returned to recreational use. From 1970 through 2006 that was the primary use.

In 2006 Sand Products, the owner, announced that it planned to build homes on the property. City officials and private citizens worked together to obtain the funds to purchase the land. The Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund provided a grant for part of the money, and Manistee is now the official owner.

The land was originally a large sand dune, but was mined for use by the auto industry beginning in the 1930s.

People are invited to help celebrate the purchase of Man-Made Lake on September 26, at 2 pm in the lake’s parking lot. Manistee Community Development Director Jon Rose said that there will be music, speeches and probably refreshments. A tent will provide shelter, and there will be a shuttle bus to and from Fifth Avenue Beach.

See Manistee to Buy Man-Made Lake Shore, Increase Accessibility
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Belmont Man Dies Hiking in Colorado

based on a news article in the Chicago Tribune

A Belmont, Michigan, man died while hiking near Vail, Colorado.

57-year-old Patrick O'Brien was hiking with his son in the mountains when he died of heart disease. An autopsy was performed by the Eagle County (Colorado) coroner's office. The sheriff's office is not investigating the death, saying it was totally due to natural causes.

Father and son were only about a half-mile from the trailhead at the time of the death.
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Horse Soccer Comes to Lake County

horse soccer game (photo by from Narrow Gate Youth Ranch)

a news release of Narrow Gate Youth Ranch

Horse soccer is one of the newest ways for beginners to advanced riders to have lots of fun on horseback! It is fun and easy to learn for all ages, can be played outdoors, or inside indoor arenas. It is played with a ball 40-50 inches in diameter.

Narrow Gate Youth Ranch in Chase, Michigan, is hosting a 3-on-3 horse soccer tournament fundraiser on September 19th at 10AM at their ranch (9241 South Bonney Road, Chase, MI). Narrow Gate opened its doors last year and has touched the lives of many children through their free programs in which they pair hurting children with rescued horses. Together, the child, horse, and volunteer form an ever lasting bond. The funds raised with this event will help pay for the hay for the "Equine Counselors".

They will also be raffling off a 40" Equine Soccer Balls with a smiley face.

Horse soccer leagues and training are springing up all over the country.

Please call the ranch at (231) 832-4806 or (231) 250-6975 for more information.

See HorseSoccer.com
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Allegan County Parks Suffer Under Cool Summer

covered walkway at New Richmond Bridge Park (photo from the Holland Sentinel, used under Creative Commons license)

based on a news article in the Holland Sentinel

The covered walkway at the New Richmond Bridge Park in Manlius Township, near Holland, Michigan is nearly complete. The covered walkway was required by CSX railroad to protect people from falling stones and other items from the bridge. It is just one of the many improvements at the park, yet work is proceeding slowly because of the wet summer. The boat launch is being paved and a new handicapped accessible dock installed. Other projects include a new toilet building, five fishing piers, about 14,000 feet of boardwalk on both sides of the river and interpretive signs. But the boat launch area has been underwater most of the summer.

Some of the park system woes are financial. Four of the five Allegan County Parks (Dumont Lake, Gun Lake, Littlejohn Lake and West Side) charge a $5 entry fee, Fridays through Sundays, and on holidays in the summer. The cool weather has meant that there have been fewer visitors in the parks, and thus lower revenues.

Kevin Ricco, director of Allegan County Parks, Recreation and Tourism, looked out his window to a weekend of gray skies and drizzle. He noted that most people just don't want to come outside to play in such weather. This is bad news for park improvements, since half of the funds collected go into the parks' capital fund.

The most popular Allegan County Park is Dumont Lake. The design of the park has a lot to do with that, Ricco said. "Parents can see all the key parts of the park — playground, lakefront, bathrooms — from one central point. They don’t have to chase their kids around to keep an eye on them."

See Allegan County Parks and Recreation
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Transportation Amendments Defeated!

from the American Hiking Society

American Hiking Society and other trail organizations asked you to call your Senator and respectfully request that they vote NO on two amendments that would have threatened significant funding for trails and the hiking experience. Moments ago, the entire Senate voted against these amendments. More than 500 people took action on short notice, and thanks to your voice, these damaging amendments were roundly defeated!

To view video of the recent votes, visit C-Span.org
See How your Senator voted
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Make a Call or eMail To Save Transporation Enhancements

from American Trails and the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy

Tomorrow, Sept 16, the US Senate will vote on the FY10 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development appropriations bill. Senators Coburn and McCain have teamed up to write an amendment which will gut the Transportaion Enhancement Fund that pays for many bicycle paths and paved pedestrian walkways. In an effort to bail out the Highway Trust Fund, they are seeking to eliminate funding for anything other than motorized transportation.

Despite the fact that some of these are required by law, the amendment calls non-motorized pathways "some of the many examples of extraneous expenditures." They are calling for the Transportation Department to set new priorities. Of course, if the Highway Trust Fund had been managed properly there would be no need to raid the enhancements.

McCain and Coburn state that the new priorities must be set because of the "realities of a collapsing transportation infrastructure." It seems as if they have forgotten that all the bike paths funded by enhancement dollars had to meet the criteria of "alternate transportation routes." Because of pedestrian and bicycle paths many people choose to stay off the roads, thus relieving some of the stress and congestion. The Safe Routes to School program has used these funds to make it possible for children to ride bikes or walk to school rather than being driven by parents.

If you think that, despite some highly publicized examples of misuse of Transportation Enhancement Funds, rails-to-trails, urban pathways, pedestrian walkways on bridges, and bicycle lanes on streets and highways have values, please contact your senator and ask him or her to vote against Amendments 2370 and 2371 to H.R. 3288.

Amendment 2370 would prohibit the use of federal funds for pedestrian or bicycle facilities, efforts to reduce vehicle collisions with wildlife, or other specified Transportation Enhancement (TE) projects if the Highway Trust Fund cannot cover unfunded highway authorizations.

Amendment 2371 would allow states to eliminate spending on TE, the nation’s largest funding source for trails, walking and bicycling. Congress currently sets aside a portion of federal funds for TE to support these projects in all states.

Read the Coburn- McCain amendment
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First Ludington Adventure Race Draws 77 Contestants

race winners Henrickson and Paine (photo from PHAST)

based on a news story in the Ludington Daily News

Local men, Todd Henrickson and Geoff Paine, are the winners of the first Hamlin Blast Adventure Race. This honor did not come to them from lack of competition! 36 teams, made up of 77 racers entered the three-part event.

Adventure Races consist of bicycling, orienteering, and canoeing. This new venue includes portions of Hamiln and Victory Townships in Mason County. Paul Havens of Jenison chose to come north rather than participate in a Kalamazoo triathalon. His teammate voiced their excitement at the choice: "It was a blast," he said.

organizers Klevorn & Maclean (photo from PHAST)

Event organizers Andy Klevorn and Dave Maclean were pleased with the turnout. "Congrats to all the racers who finished their first race, it's quite an accomplishment to put it all together," they wrote in the race wrap-up. They are hoping to attract 200 racers next year. Maclean and Klevorn have teamed up and participated in six previous Adventure Races.

See PHAST- Play Hard Adventure Sports and Tours
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Birchwood Inn Harbor Springs Cycling Classic

cycling the tunnel of trees (photo by Birchwood Inn)

from the Birchwood Inn

Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along some of the most scenic roads of northern Michigan, on your choice of a 20 mile, 42 mile, or 62 mile route. Each route includes scenic M-119, better known as the "Tunnel of Trees." There are refreshment stops along the way and support vehicles out patrolling. After your ride, join us for the barbecue lunch in the courtyard.

The Harbor Springs Cycling Classic is September 19, Saturday. You can register for just the ride or a full weekend package. The weekend package is only $129 per person, plus tax, based on double occupancy. Includes two night's lodging, a hearty breakfast Saturday, a continental breakfast Sunday and the tour registration fee.

To register in advance for the ride only: Adults $20, children 6-12 $10, age 5 and under free. If you register at the pre-ride check ins, add $5 per person.

See Harbor Springs Cycling Classic
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Baldwin Rotary Helps Build Sterling Marsh Boardwalk

completed boardwalk

by JHY

Today the Baldwin Rotary Club showed up in force to help build another section of raised boardwalk in Sterling Marsh on the North Country Trail. This section of trail, in Lake County, has long been a problem area for hikers because of the high water table. One could expect muddy boots most any time, and the potential for needing to wade very real in spring through early summer.

So far this summer the Spirit of the Woods Chapter of the North Country Trail Association has built 436 feet of boardwalk which now stretch into the marsh, beckoning people to explore the area. This section was funded through the National Park Service.

digging post holes

The process of building a boardwalk of this type begins with digging a lot of holes! The posts need to be set firmly, but it takes a lot of muscle power and time to put in two holes every eight feet. Having all the help from the Rotary Club members was great. The goal today was to get a good start on an additional 112 feet of boardwalk which is being funded by the Forest Service.

cutting boards

Thanks to a purchase funded by the Park Service last year, the chapter now owns a small generator. This allows projects like this to be accomplished much more easily than with hand tools. Boards can be cut on site, and the generator is small enough to carry to the boardwalk sections so that power drivers can be used to screw the boards down. Trail Work Coordinator, Ed Chappel, quickly cut the decking to length.

laying out the stringers

By the time I had to leave, the boardwalk was taking shape. The stringers were being put in place, and all the wood had been carried to the location. I suspect that enough people stayed long enough to nearly complete the additional 112 feet today. Whatever is not done today will be finished by the regular "seniors" work group.

In addition to the boardwalk work, a number of people worked hard to rehabilitate sections of trail which are high enough to be dry. The trail here is very old, and has become entrenched. Using McCleods and Pulaskis, special hand tools, this small army improved the treadway to make it more level and encourage proper water drainage.

Many thanks to the people who turned out today to help make Sterling Marsh an appealing place to hike, rather than a nasty challenge!

See Getting Sterling Marsh Out of the Mud

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End of the Road for Beach Use?

sign at end of 121st Ave (photo by Dennis R.J. Geppert, Holland Sentinel)

based on a news item in the Grand Rapids Press

For about ten years the courts have been trying to determine whether people can use the beach at the end of the road in Ganges Township, Michigan. Access to Lake Michigan has never been in question. The issue is whether people can picnic, sunbathe, and make use of the beach area in other ways. The road easement is for travel, and does not actually provide for a public beach. In the 1800's there was a tannery, pier, and village at the end of the road. All these have vanished, leaving only the dead end road.

This week, the Michigan Court of Appeals was scheduled to hear the case. On one side are the landowners on each side of the road end. They are tired of litter, noise, and trespassing. On the other hand, neighbors and other people have been regularly using this access for over 40 years, and they say that this gives them the rights of "adverse possession." Ganges Township sides with those who desire to use the beach.

The case is important because of the precedent it can set for other road ends on Lake Michigan. Yet the situation is so confused that there are actually conflicting signs about allowed uses at the 121st Street road end.

No news report has followed as yet, giving a decision.

See Road End Public Access Changes
See Beachwalkers- Michigan and Ohio Hold Opposing Views
See End of the Road for Public Beach, in the Holland Sentinel
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Mid-America Trails and Greenways Conference

from the Michigan Trails & Greenways Alliance

The 4th Mid American Trails & Greenways creates an excellent opportunity for all those involved in trails and greenways to share our experiences learn from each other and continue connecting our trails and greenways.

Sponsored by eight Mid America states of Ohio, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Indiana, Michigan, and Kentucky, and supported by a host of national, state, regional and local trail agencies and organizations, the conference will feature interactive educational sessions and exciting mobile workshops bringing together the best presenters from Mid America and the nation. An update on the state of trails and greenways in Mid America will be followed by informative sessions that will look at all aspects of trail and greenway development and operations.

Four post-conference workshops on the development and management of water trails, development of regional/multi-state trail networks, an on-site workshop building sustainable trails sponsored by the Michigan Mountain Biking Association, and a soup-to-nuts look at successful strategies for trail development will provide the opportunity to further explore and share ideas.

An exhibit area with more than forty exhibitors displaying their products and services will be a part of this event!

See Michigan Trails & Greenways Alliance
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Death of Trumpeter Swan Solved, But Pain Remains

trumpeter swan (photo from Michigan DNR)

based on news stories in the Ludington Daily News

The trumpeter swan is the largest waterfowl in North America, and is easily distinguished from the European mute swan by its straight neck and black bill, with no yellow spot in front of the eye. In Michigan it is considered threatened. There are about 400 of the birds in Michigan, although most are in the Seney Wildlife Refuge of the U.P. This is considered a true success story, since in 1933 there were only 66 known trumpeter swans in the entire United States.

In April, southwest Michigan lost one beloved trumpeter swan. Near Custer, on a pond owned by Brad and Judy Goff, one trumpeter had been returning every year for the past 12 years. The swan was tagged, and was known to have been released in Hamlin Lake in 1994 and was 18 years old. The swan was not a pet in any sense of the word, but was so familiar to the Goff's that they had named him Swannie.

On the night of April 27th, the Goffs heard gunshots and feared the worst. In the morning the swan was indeed found dead. "We got such enjoyment out of him," said Goff. "It's small-minded, cruel. It wasn't an accident."

Michigan DNR Conservation officers made an arrest in the case on July 29. James Cameron, age 19, of Custer was taken into custody. The case was solved because many people cared a lot about Swannie. A great many tips came in, and finally a young man who was with Cameron at the time of the shooting came forward with the pertinent information.

It is hard to understand why some people just feel the need to shoot things simply because they have a gun and something is moving. Hunting for meat is one thing. The loss of this wonderful bird is not something that can simply be replaced like a pet. About 100 of the Michigan birds live in southwest Michigan.

See DNR information on the trumpeter swan
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Beach Walk/Run, Sept 12, Pentwater

Charles Mears State Park (photo by Michael Turk)

a news release of Michigan DNR

Charles Mears State Park will host a chance to "GO Get Outdoors" at a beach run/walk on Saturday, Sept. 12. The 5K and 10K races will begin and end at Charles Mears State Park, with the races starting at 8:30 a.m., and follow a course covering paved, sand and beach surfaces.

"The course starts out along the picturesque streets of Pentwater, and then proceeds through the beach communities north of town," said Park Supervisor Jim Gallie. "The final segment of the course follows along the water's edge and, with Lake Michigan experiencing high water levels, participants should be prepared for the possibility of wet feet."

Proceeds from the event will benefit Communities Overcoming Violent Encounters (C.O.V.E.), a nonprofit organization serving victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and women and children who are homeless.

The entry fee for the event is $15 per person if registered by Monday, Sept. 7, and $20 after Sept. 7 with special discounted rates for families. The first 100 registrants will receive a free event T-shirt and refreshments will be provided for all participants. Prizes will be awarded to the first and second place female and male finishers in each age group for the running events and for the overall female and male first and second place finishers of the 5K walk.

For more information about the event, contact Lynne Cavazos at (231) 869-5939.

See Charles Mears State Park
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Traverse Area VASA—NCT—KART Trail Connections

representatives from the NCTA, DNR, TART, KART, and Senator Carl Levin

from the Grand Traverse Hikers, Sept 2009 newsletter

On Saturday June 6, National Trails Day, a large group of people gathered at Guernsey Lake and celebrated the opening of the new trail segment connecting the VASA Trail in Acme to the KART Trail system in Kalkaska.

It is now possible to hike from the VASA Trailhead in Acme all the way to rejoin the NCT northeast of Kalkaska. This involves using the VASA Trail to the Big Rock on its eastern section and then proceeding east across Williamsburg Road to join the NCT in the Sand Lakes Quiet Area. Following the blue/white or white/blue metal signs, depending on which way one is walking, the NCT is the dominant trail all the way into the Kalkaska Fairgrounds area. At this location it joins the KART Trail System, then moves east on side streets, and eventually crosses US 131 & CR 612. As you enter the Log Lake area (camping is permitted), the NCT heads northeast finally uniting with the existing NCT/SST system.

This trail has been blazed with signage at key road crossings. It does need mileage signs.

See Tart System Map (not all new connections are shown)
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Loreen Niewenhuis Invitation to Lakewalk Completion

Loreen Niewenhuis

received by email from Loreen

Loreen Niewenhuis' adventure is entering the home stretch!

She just returned from Segment 9 which spanned from Manitowoc to Milwaukee. On Labor Day she will take part in the 52nd Annual Mackinac Bridge Walk. Then, from September 21-26, she plans to walk the remaining miles from Milwaukee to Chicago. The Lake Trek will come full circle on Chicago's Navy Pier on Saturday, September 26 at 2pm.

Everyone is invited to be there! For anyone who would like to attend the celebration, there is a 1-hour lake cruise (with a light, catered lunch and soft drinks and cash bar). This will be on Kanan Cruises which docks on Navy Pier. The cost is only $30/per adult, $20/per child under 16.

Rooms at the Sheraton are discounted. The deadline to sign up for the cruise or hotel rooms is September 15.

For more information about the celebration, see Lakewalk Celebration
See Lakewalker Halfway Around Michigan
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Giant Hogweed Found Near Manistee

Giant Hogweed (photo from the King County, Washington, web site)

from a news article on 9&10 News, and other sources

Hogweed, Heracleum mantegazzianum, is similar to the very large Cow Parsnip, but is even larger. A stand of about 200 plants has been found near Manistee, Michigan, on private property.

The Department of Agriculture is working hard to destroy the plants to prevent their spread. What is the huge concern?

Giant Hogweed's sap has been described as "Poison Ivy On Steroids." The sap of the plant causes severe skin burns. It can grow to 15 feet, with leaves spanning 2-5 feet. The thick stem has mottled purple areas. The stem, leaf and flower stalks are hairy. It has small white flowers in big clusters, looking like huge Queen Anne's Lace.

The plant has a strong foothold in New York, but this is the first known spotting of Giant Hogweed in northern Michigan.

See Avoid Giant Hogweed - Severe Skin Reactions
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Equinox Fun in Newaygo Sept 19

Loda Lake (photo by John Winkleman)

based on information from Newaygo County Tourism

Do you like hiking, biking, kayaking, geocaching, star gazing, or even some bluegrass music? If so, the place to be on September 19, 2009 is Newaygo!

A kid's camp will run all day, from 8am to 5:30 pm. Kids can be signed in and picked up at any time, and will include basic camp activities.

Hikes will include a 9-mile guided trek around Loda Lake, well known for its wildflowers. Paddling events will begin both morning and afternoon. Bicyclists can enjoy a road ride, or choose from several trail rides. A geocache event is scheduled for the afternoon.

40 lucky participants will get to try a high ropes course, 20 in the morning, and 20 in the afternoon.

In the evening, everyone can enjoy the Green Sky Bluegrass concert at the Dogwood Center, Fremont, followed by stargazing at the Stephen Wessling Observatory.

All proceeds will benefit polio research and the Camp Henry Scholarship Fund.

See Newaygo County Tourism
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