Michigan's Rails-to-Trails Carolyn Kane Nationally Recognized

Carolyn Kane is recognized in Washington, D.C. for her service in promoting and developing rails-to-trails systems throughout West Michigan. (supplied photo)

based on a news article in the Ionia County Sentinel-Standard

The Rails-to-Trails Conservancy honored Carolyn Kane as one of 25 people across the United States with a special passion for trails.

Kane began her involvement with the Friends of the Heartland Trail in 1994. Serving on the board, the group has since created 37.5 miles of rail trail from Ionia to Greenville. They had to raise $2.3 million dollars to succeed in this endeavor.

Next, Kane went to work with the West Michigan Trails and Greenway Coalition, and is currently working on connecting 125 miles of trails that goes through six counties to make the fifth largest rail trail in the nation.

She commented, “They said what I had done was very unusual from all the other people. I have done so many things; I did the banking, worked on maintenance, I covered the whole gamut for what it takes to build a trail, and I thought that was really nice of them to tell me that and point that out. Whether it was administration work for trail building, fundraising, maintenance, I was there, and had been supportive for a long time as a volunteer."



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Three Equestrian Campsites to Open in Pigeon River SF

photo from Backcountry Horsemen

based on an article in the Grand Rapids Press

When 15 equestrian campsites in the Pigeon River State Forest were closed three years ago, horseback riders were not pleased. However, the Fish and Wildlife Service stated that the move was necessary because the land had been purchased with fish and game monies, and those needs had to be given priority.

Now, three of the sites are being reopened. These are located on property which was not bought with fish and wildlife funds. They are also sites with no facilities. They simply provide legal places to cam, but have no electricity, water, or bathroom facilities. These sites were opened as a result of the Right to Ride Legislation which was enacted last year, and forced the DNR to develop recommendations for equestrian access.

The only site in the Pigeon River State Forest which had remained open to horse use was the Elk Hill Campsite. The number of sites is now raised to four, total. The reopened sites are near Cheboygan County’s Lost Lake along the northern border of the state forest, near Oxbow Creek Road in southeast Cheboygan County, and off of East Sturgeon Valley Road south of the Elk Hill Campground in Otsego County.

Equestrians are expected to be glad for the shift, but to be less than happy about the small provision for their recreation desires.



See Preserving Our Equine Heritage
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Generation X Gets Outside

bicyclists in Dayton, Ohio (photo by jhy)

from a report, the Longitudinal Study of American Youth

Do those 84 million Americans born between 1961 and 1981 do much of anything productive? Do they appreciate outdoor recreation? A new study from the University of Michigan, by Jon Miller, says they do. He analyzed the activities of 4000 people considered to belong to Generation X. "Generation X is the first generation to grow up in the Internet Era, and it is perhaps the most extensively wired (and now wireless) generation in American history." So it might be expected that they would not value natural settings or outdoor pursuits.

However, the study found that:
• 74% of young adults reported doing at least one nature hike in the preceding year and 54% reported three or more nature hikes,
• 65% reported going swimming or scuba diving at least once in the preceding year and 56% reported swimming or scuba diving three or more times,
• 41% reporting boating or sailing at least once in the last year and 23% reported three or more boating or sailing outings,
• 35% reported going hunting or fishing during the preceding year and 24% reported going hunting or fishing three of more times during the preceding year,
• 20% reported engaging in bird watching at least once in the preceding year and 11% reported bird watching three or more times in the preceding year,
• 13% reported skiing or snowboarding at least once in the preceding year and fi ve percent reported doing it three or more times, and
• 12% reported that they had engaged in mountain climbing at least once in the previous year and five percent indicated that they had climbed a mountain three or more
times in the preceding year.

Only 13% reported not participating in any kind of outdoor activities.

The primary focus of the study was on work and social habits, and the conclusion is that Generation X has turned into fine adults, who are competent to run the world for the next 20 years or so.



See Longitudinal Study of American Youth (a pdf)
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Michigan's Recreation Passport After One Year

"P" on license plate tabs (photo by jhy)

from a news release of Michigan DNR

The Department of Natural Resources announced on Oct 20 that the participation goal for the first year of the Recreation Passport was met and exceeded by Michigan citizens. The Recreation Passport, an optional $10 fee that can be paid at the time of motor vehicle renewal, is the new funding model for Michigan state parks and state forest recreation programs.

In 2011, the program's first year, the DNR set a goal of 24.3 percent participation by Michigan motorists. Final tallies for the first year show that the goal was met and exceeded, with 24.7 percent of Michigan motorists checking "Yes" to support the Recreation Passport when renewing their motor vehicle registration. In total, the revenue generated by the sale of the Recreation Passport was $18,816,500.

The DNR has set a participation rate goal of 30 percent for 2012. The price for the Recreation Passport in 2012 remains unchanged at $10.

Secretary of State Ruth Johnson added, "We are very pleased to partner with the DNR in promoting our state parks and helping to preserve them for future generations." Johnson kayaks, sails and camps with her family at state parks across Michigan. "We have such an exceptional park system that truly contributes to our quality of life."

The funds raised in the first year of sales for the Recreation Passport are split according to a formula in the law that created the program. The Secretary of State's Office is reimbursed $1 million for administrative costs, and the state parks operational budget ($10.7 million) and the Michigan Water Ways budget ($1.03 million) each get an amount equivalent to the revenue that the former Motor Vehicle Permit (window sticker) system brought in averaged over the last three years. After that revenue is deducted, the remaining revenue for 2011 was divided as follows:

State Parks - Capital Outlay (50 percent): $3,043,250
State Parks - Maintenance (30 percent): $1,825,950
Local Park Grants (10 percent): $608,650
State Forest Recreation (7 percent): $426,055
Cultural/Historical Facilities in State Parks (2.75 percent): $167,379
Marketing (0.25 percent): $15,216

"Even if you think you will never go to a state park or enjoy one of our state forest campgrounds or trails, supporting the Recreation Passport is a good way to support your county, community or township parks, "DNR Director Rodney Stokes said. "Ten percent of the revenue is dedicated to a grant program to help improve parks in local communities."



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based on news from MSNBC

A Chassel, Michigan man, John Wallace, was mauled to death in Yellowstone Park in August. The bear was euthanized on October 3 because it has been linked to another bear fatality in July of this year.

Yellowstone officials say that the July attack was explainable, because the bear- a mother with cubs- was surprised by hikers, who ran when the bear confronted them. However, with the same bear being linked by DNA to the August attack, the decision was made to eliminate that bear.

There is about one bear injury for every 3 million human visits to Yellowstone Park, which means there is an incident about once a year. However there were none in 2010.

Visitors from the east, who are used to black bears, would do well to study up on the differences in how you should respond to grizzlies. In either case, running is the worst possible choice because it provokes the bear's chase response.



See XXX
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Isabella County Regional Non-Motorized Plan

urban bike trail (photo by jhy)

based on a news article in the Central Michigan Morning Sun

Norm Cox of the Greenway Cooperative has recently issued a report saying that the "best way to improve pedestrian and bicycle safety is to increase the number of pedestrians and bicyclists.”

Isabella County, Union Township in particular, has hired Cox as consultant to develop a non-motorized pathway plan for the region. Central Michigan University, the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe and the city of Mt. Pleasant are cooperating in the project.

Cox’s firm is the consultant hired by Union Township, in cooperation with the city of Mt. Pleasant, Isabella County, Central Michigan University and the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe to develop a non-motorized pathway plan for the area.

The plans are being made without regard to the political boundaries. This ability to create a region-wide plan may give the county a head start on creating a model system of pathways. Cox says this is unique in the state and that it will help with funding.

The plan calls for tying together existing bicycle routes, such as those on the CMU campus and in the city’s riverfront parks, with bike routes on or close to main roads, marked neighborhood collector routes, and wayfaring signs.

For walkers, it calls for construction of wide sidewalks in developing areas, and more crossing islands on busy streets. He said those make crossing streets such as Mission Street safer, as well as slowing traffic.

The recommendations include turning some four-lane roads into three-lanes, transforming the extra lane for bicyclists. Although this is likely to be controversial, Cox says that it makes the overall route safer because drivers become aware of bicyclists and pedestrians.

Perhaps the most controversial of Cox’s expected recommendation is to turn some four-lane roads, such as Isabella, into three-lane roads with wide, striped-off shoulders usable for bike lanes.

Long-range plans include connecting with the Fred Meijer Heartland Trail, which ends in Alma, and the Pere Marquette Rail-Trail, which runs through Clare, with a trail through Isabella County.



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based on a news article at Firehouse.com

Crockery Township (Ottawa County) Fire Chief, Gary Dreyer, reported that a hiker was rescued on Monday, September 26. The man, in his 40's, had been hiking in the Crockery Creek Natural Area. He apparently fell and hit his head on a log. The hiker and a friend were following a deer trail into a ravine. One man stepped on a rotting log and lost his footing, falling on another log.

Fortunately the friend was able to call 911. Although the Natural Area is not far from "civilization," the shortest route to reach the injured hiker was through heavy brush. Dreyer described the extraction as "labor intensive." He also cited recent rains as creating difficult and slippery conditions.

It was impossible to get an ATV to the scene, so the man was carried out on a stretcher, the old-fashioned way. The injured man was taken to Spectrum Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids to be checked out, but was conscious and alert by that time.



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National Forests Create Strong Economic Impact

fishing the Pere Marquette River (photo by jhy)

a news release of the USDA National Forests

Recreational activities on national forests and grasslands continue to make large economic impacts on America's rural communities, contributing $14.5 billion annually to the U.S. economy.

According to the National Visitor Use Monitoring report released tin August 2011 by Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell, national forests attracted 170.8 million recreational visitors and sustained approximately 223,000 jobs in rural communities this past year.

"This data shows once again just what a boon our forests are to local economies," said Tidwell. "Because of forest activities, thousands of jobs are supported in hundreds of rural communities. We are proud of helping to put a paycheck into the pockets of so many hardworking Americans."

National forests also provide economic relief for vacationers. Fewer than half of the U.S. Forest Service's 17,000 developed sites charge any fees for visitors. The report reveals that 94 percent of visitors were satisfied with their experience on the national forests.

"Our national forests are some of the most beautiful and adventure-filled places in the world," said Tidwell. "The national forests give Americans a chance to build life-long memories for the price of food and gas. You'd be hard pressed to find any vacation destinations that offer better value."

Western Michigan is the location of the Manistee unit of the Huron-Manistee National Forest.



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Petoskey Couple Escapes Minnesota Pagami Creek Fire

smoke from Pagami Creek Fire (photo from a video at NorthlandNewsCenter.com)

based on a news article in the Duluth News Tribune

Greg and Julie Welch, of Petoskey, spent a terrifying day and night surrounded by the Pagami Creek Fire in Minnesota's Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

The couple was kayaking on Kawasachong Lake north of Tofte about 4 p.m. Monday when the fire hit. They had previously been told that they were in no danger. Then came the unprecedented 16-mile run as 40 mph winds spread the fire far to the east.

Three-foot waves kicked up on the water and Julie's kayak capsized. The sky turned black from smoke and hot coals and ash began raining from the sky. the Welches spent the afternoon in the water, wondering if they would survive. The noise from the fire and wind sounded like a freight train, and the two could barely hear each other shout although only ten feet apart. They could find air pure enough to breathe only at the water's surface, and they used sweatshirts to shield their faces from the hot coals.

The strong winds blew water onto the rocks at the eastern shore making a place that they decided was safe to land. Their tent had been lost, but they used inflatable mattresses to shelter themselves for the night. Severe thunderstorms and hail hit that night.

In the morning, they paddled through the blackened area, back to their truck parked at Lake Kawishiwi which was undamaged. At the ranger station in Tofte they were given a refund on their Boundary Waters permit!

Greg and Julie say they love the Boundary Waters and will return, but not when a fire is burning.



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Tails to Trails Raises $10K for Animal Shelter

shelter pet (photo by Animal Match Rescue Team)

based on several news articles

Isabella County’s Humane Animal Treatment Society raised about $10,000 Sunday for the operation of their shelter. The run/walk takes place each year at Island Park in Mt. Pleasant. Participants were welcome to bring their own pets, or to take a dog from the shelter.

The walk and 5 kilometer run use the Chippewa Trail system, with the run being staged in the morning and the walk in the afternoon. Participants who raised more than $75 received a T-shirt.

HATS Executive Director Jill Irving commented, "Many people who have adopted pets from the shelter use the opportunity to give back by either paying their own fee to take part, getting pledges from others, or both."



See Isabella County’s Humane Animal Treatment Society
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Michigan State Championship Disc Golf

disc golf (photo by Garret Ellison)

based on a news article in the Ludington Daily News

Since 1996, the State Championship Disc Golf Tournament has been held in the Mason County area, on Labor Day weekend, largely because there are enough courses in the area to handle the volume. Even more courses have been added since the beginning year.

Jeff Schwass, the tournament director, confirmed that 340 players were pre-registered, and even more signed up on the weekend of the event. This meant that they were required to qualify on Friday to compete in the actual tournament.

Courses used for the tournament include Beauty, Beast and Goliath at the Mason County Campground, Leviathan Pro, Mids and Amateur, at the Ludington School Forest, and Flip City in Shelby. Added to that is a new course called The Edge at Scottville Riverside Park.

The Scottville course is not yet permanent, but is getting rave reviews for a short course. It consists of 20 holes over 4851 feet. Thirteen holes are in the woods, and seven in the open fields.

Not used for the tournament is another course, installed last year, at Udell Rollways off M-55 east of Manistee.



See 2011 Michigan Disc Golf Championships
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Epic Runners Meet at North Country Run

Terry Hitchcock (from the cover of his book)

compiled from several sources

This past Saturday, two epic runners were on hand at the North Country Run, staged at Big M near Manistee.

Terry Hitchcock ran the equivalent of 75 marathons in 75 days, at age 57. His book, A Father's Odyssey, tells of the challenges involved. He now travels the country as a motivational speaker. A movie about his quest was produced, called My Run, and his theme is "Nothing is Impossible."

Steve Knowlton was inspired by Hitchcock's run, and set out on one of his own, from St.Paul, Minnesota to Atlanta, Georgia. He has also completed a run from the northwest corner of the state of Washington to the southeast coast of Florida, over 4000 miles. His purpose was to raise awareness of Crohn's disease. He also hopes to raise money for that cause.

The two men had previously met, and are friends. Both live in Minnesota.

Hitchcock sold copies of his book on Saturday, and talked about the changes in his live that led him to take on such a run. Knowlton actually competed in the event, calling it a "tough course."

The North Country Run is a race with ultra marathon (50 miles), marathon and half marathon options. It is in its 12th year, and always fills fast, with a long waiting line for registration.



See Terry Hitchcock's site
See Steve Knowlton's site
See North Country Run
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Sleeping Bear Get $2 Million Toward Trail

Sleeping Bear Dunes- Lake Michigan (photo by Carol Spears, Wikimedia, public domain))

based on news from several sources

Hard on the heels of being voted the most scenic place in America, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore has now received $2 million in federal grant money toward the goal of completing a multi-use trail through the park. The trail will run for 27 miles from the southern edge of Leelanau County to Good Harbor Bay. As a part of the TART (Traverse Area Recreation and Transportation) Trail System, the Heritage trail is being forged through partnerships with a number of entities.

Dusty Shutz, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Superintendent, says, “The Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail is the single most exciting project to come out of our recently completed General Management Plan."

The grants come from the U.S. Transportation Department and cover a 3.7 mile section of the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail from Glen Arbor to the historic Port Oneida site, said Deputy Superintendent Tom Ulrich.

Since passing through public comment in 2008, the trail was designed in 2009. Construction will start next spring for the first four-mile stretch from the park's Dune Climb to Glen Arbor. This stretch, alone, could cut down on the amount of auto traffic congestion. Currently there is no other safe way to travel between these two popular destinations than by car.



See Sleeping Bear Heritage Trailway
See Sleeping Bear Dunes
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Labor Day Events at West Michigan State Parks

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a news release of the Michigan DNR

Labor Day may mark the unofficial end to summer, but Michigan state parks are still bustling with activity. As summer winds down, GO-Get Outdoors and take advantage of the long holiday weekend to squeeze in one more camping trip, bike ride or paddling adventure. Check out what's happening in Michigan state parks over the Labor Day Weekend.

Sept. 3
Wilderness State Park (Emmet County) -- Talent Show
Campers and day users will get the chance to show off their talents during the Fifth Annual Talent Show at Wilderness State Park, taking place at 9 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 3, at the park's amphitheater. Donated prizes will be awarded. All interested parties may register with the park. Wilderness State Park is located at 903 Wilderness Park Dr. in Carp Lake. For more information or to register for this event, contact the park at 231-436-5381.

Sept. 3
Biking 101 along the White Pine Trail in Cadillac (Wexford County)
The Fred Meijer White Pine Trail State Park offers a 92-mile scenic biking trail between Cadillac and Grand Rapids. Learn to enjoy the trail to its fullest with a Biking 101 class scheduled for 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Sept. 3. The class will meet at the White Pine Trail Cadillac Staging Area, 7184 E. 44 Road in Cadillac, where staff from Mitchell State Park's Carl T. Johnson Hunting and Fishing Center will offer the basics in bike maintenance and safety. Participants will take a five-mile ride at the completion of the class. Representatives from McLain Cycle and Fitness of Cadillac will provide an assortment of bikes for participants to demo, and loaner bikes will also be available. Children under 10 years old should be accompanied by an adult. In the event of rain, the program will be postponed or cancelled. For more information about either Biking 101 event or directions, contact the Carl T. Johnson Hunting and Fishing Center at 231-779-1321.

Sept. 3
Biking 101 along the White Pine Trail in Grand Rapids (Kent County)
A Biking 101 clinic is also planned for 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 3, at the Rouge River Park Trailhead, located at the south end of the trail in Belmont. Learn about riding the White Pine Trail system, new bikes and bike safety. All levels of riders are welcome. Representatives from Ada Bike Shop, Grand Rapids Bicycle Company, Greater Grand Rapids Bicycle Coalition and Village Bike Shop will be present with demonstrations, safety tips, trail maps and more. In the event of rain, the program will be postponed or cancelled. For more information about either Biking 101 event or directions, contact the Carl T. Johnson Hunting and Fishing Center at 231-779-1321.

Sept. 5
Traverse City State Park (Grand Traverse County) -- 2nd Annual Labor Day Bridge Walk
Traverse City State Park is sponsoring its second annual Labor Day Bridge Walk (a mini version of the Governor's annual event). Join campers and park staff at 9 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 5 to walk the bridge overpass spanning U.S. 31 from the campground to the other side of the highway, then head to the park beach for activities and refreshments. Traverse City State Park is located at 1132 US-31 North in Traverse City. For details, contact the park at 231-922-5270.



See Michigan State Parks
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Berry Junction Trail Opens in Muskegon County

Berry Junction Trail (photo from WZZM video)

based on news from WZZM TV 13

For years, Muskegon County has been hoping to complete this seven-mile link in its multi-use trail system, and today the Fred Meijer Berry Junction Trail was officially opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony near White Lake Drive.The trail is built on an abandoned section of the Chicago and West Michigan Railroad where Berry Junction was a real location on the railroad that linked Whitehall and Fremont.

At the north end, the Berry Junction Trail connects with the Hart-Montague Rail Trail in Whitehall, which allows users to continue 28 miles farther north to Hart. The south end of the new trail is located at McMillan Road. The trail crosses Dalton and Fruitland Townships.

The $800,000 price tag for the construction was covered by federal dollars, and grants from other organizations, including the West Michigan Trails & Greenways Coalition, the Frey Foundation, Meijer, and Dalton and Fruitland townships.

The trail is paved with asphalt, and bicycle riders have been checking it out with positive comments for the past month even before the official opening. Eventually, the trail may be extended south for an additional seven miles to connect with Muskegon's Lakeshore Trail.



See map of Muskegon Area Trails

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Boardman Lake Trail Gets Big Financial Boost

Boardman Lake Trail (photo from TART)

based on news articles at 9 and 10 news 
and The Detroit News

The Boardman Lake Trail currently follows the east side of Boardman Lake for two miles. The trail passes through woods and follows the lakeshore. The vision for the trail is that it will encircle the lake providing access to the Traverse Area District Library, Medalie and Hull Parks and more. This will also create a connection between this trail and the TART (Traverse Area Recreation and Transportation) Trail system.

The Grand Traverse County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority has recently granted 10 million dollars for the West Boardman Lake Trail project. The Michigan Economic Growth Authority board approved this as a tax break to expand a road construction project to include 1.8 miles of trail on the west side of the lake. Although the news is welcome, it will be several years before the project is even begun.




See map of the Traverse City urban trails 

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Prairie Falcon Spotted at Ludington

juvenile Prairie Falcon (photo by Chris Lipps)

submitted by Dave Dister

Around 5:20 p.m. this past Sunday Chris Lipps saw and photographed a juvenile Prairie Falcon about 1/4 mile north of the Big Sable Point Lighthouse at Ludington State Park.

The photos are diagnostic. As compared to the similar-sized Peregrine Falcon, the Prairie Falcon, Falco mexicanus, is paler overall, the mustache mark is paler and thinner, there is a white stripe above the eye, the wings are much shorter than the tail, and there are dark axillary (armpit) feathers on the underside of the wings. This represents only the 4th record of this western falcon in Michigan !! The species inhabits dry open country and feeds on small mammals and insects. Also, Carl Freeman may have seen the falcon early Tuesday morning, though Chris did not see it during his piping plover survey shift, nor did Chris and I this early evening (between 6 and 7 p.m.).


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Kalamazoo River Oil Spill Cleanup On Schedule

Kalamazoo River cleanup (photo from Enbridge)

based on a news story from WZZM TV13

Enbridge, the company whose pipeline burst, spilling oil into the Kalamazoo River in 2010, is staying on schedule with cleanup. The local Township Supervisor states that every deadline has been made, and efforts have exceeded the required work.

The final step is to purposely agitate sediments which causes the oil to be released and rise to the water surface. There it can be trapped with booms and removed. Work is focused on areas at Ceresco Dam, Morrow Lake and Mill Pond

The EPA has set a deadline of August 31 to remove as much oil as possible from the river bottom. Some sections of the river may be re-opened for recreation by the end of 2011.

Several new riverside parks will be created as part of the mitigation. These will include boat launches, picnic areas and parking.

It is still unknown what caused the pipe rupture despite study by the National Transportation Safety Board. Cleanup is projected to cost $550 million, but Enbridge says they are committed to completing the job



See Enbridge response updates
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Geoff Hansen

from Nancy Krupiarz, Executive Director
Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance

Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance is pleased to announce that Senator Geoff Hansen (R-Hart) has introduced Senate Bill 555 to create a specialty fundraising plate for Michigan trails. It creates a Michigan Trails and Greenways Fund within the State Treasury to receive the revenues from the license plate and any other monetary donations or assets that are contributed. The Secretary of State would administer the sale of the license plates and audit the account as needed. The funding would to to Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance on a quarterly basis for the development and promotion of the establishment of the statewide trail network. The specialty license plate would cost $35 with $25 coming to the fund.

As you know Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance has reactivated its small grant fund this year which has been used to help accelerate a few trail projects across the state and we hope to be able to expand both the number of grants and the amount given.

The bill has been referred to the Senate Committee on Transportation and will be taken up for its first committee hearing in the fall. Stay tuned for progress on this exciting new legislation, and I hope that you will be willing to help advocate for its passage!

We believe there are many people, corporations, and agencies out there that are willing to support the cause of Michigan trails!

See Geoff Hansen
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State Park "Recreation Passport" System Already a Success

"P" on license plate tabs

from various sources

The Michigan State Park Recreation Passport launched last October is already proving itself a winner. In the nine months the program has been in place, $10.9 million dollars has come in, which already surpasses the yearly income from the old park sticker and daily pass system. Statewide, about 23% of vehicle registrants are choosing to buy the passport.

Despite reports last year that it would be completely optional, that is proving to be not exactly true. You may opt to buy the passport with your vehicle license tabs. This is certainly the easiest way. However, you will need to pay the $10 to enjoy the state parks. Early reports stated that there would be no checking of stickers, and that the honor system would simply assume that users of the parks would pay. The reality is that those who enter state parks without the sticker will be asked to purchase the passport. Rangers scout parking areas to check for cars without the appropriate "P" on the renewal sticker.

The fact that stickers are not being checked at the gates makes for quick entry to the parks. Recreationists like this speedy service- some feared long lines as rangers hunted for the small "P." In fact, if there is no one at the gate, just drive in, a ranger will locate you later. The parks report that this is very efficient, and saves even more money.

Not only is the passport bringing in more revenue, it costs less to maintain than the old system. There is no yearly state park sticker production cost because the "proof of purchase" is absorbed into the printing of the vehicle registration tabs. The words "Recreation Passport" also appear on the paper proof of registration that is issued with the sticker.

Supposedly, the Michigan Recreation Passport will get you discounts at participating businesses. As of this time, no listing of these businesses is available, but an application for merchants to join can be found at the DNR web site.

Where is the money going to be used? The income will benefit state parks first, but once a threshold is met then other state recreation lands will benefit as well. Here's the official word from the Michigan DNR:

• The first $10.7 million received each fiscal year will be deposited in the restricted State Park Improvement Fund.
• The next $1,030,000 received each fiscal year will be deposited in the restricted Waterways Fund.
• Up to $1 million per fiscal year will be reserved for necessary expenses incurred by the Secretary of State in administration and implementation of the passport fee.
• The balance will be deposited as described below.
        > 50 percent in the restricted State Park Improvement Fund for capital improvements at state parks, including recreation areas.
        > 30 percent in the restricted State Park Improvement Fund for operations and maintenance at state parks, including recreation areas.
        > 10 percent in the new Local Public Recreation Facilities Fund for development of public recreation facilities for local units of government.
        > 7 percent in the Forest Recreation Account for the operation and maintenance of---and capital improvements to---the state forest system of forest campgrounds, access sites, and non-motorized pathways and trails, including equestrian trails.
        > 2.75 percent in the restricted State Park Improvement Fund for operations, maintenance and capital improvements of state park cultural and historic resources.
        > 0.25 percent in the restricted State Park Improvement Fund to promote, in concert with other state agencies, the use of state parks, state–operated public boating access sites, state forest campgrounds and state forest non–motorized trails and pathways; and to promote the use of the Internet for state park camping reservations and for payment of the Recreation Passport fee in conjunction with motor vehicle registration.

So far, everything about the new funding system for Michigan state lands seems to be a winner.

See Michigan's Recreation Passport
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Volunteers Given Expanded Opportunities on State Land in Michigan

volunteers at work (photo by jhy)

a news release of Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance

Gov. Rick Snyder has signed legislation that will allow the Department of Natural Resources to better protect Michigan’s natural resources by allowing volunteers to take on a larger role in the state’s land and wildlife conservation efforts.

The DNR has long relied on volunteers to help ensure the state’s natural areas remain accessible, but under current law, volunteers are limited to assisting with park operations and maintenance. House Bill 4111, sponsored by state Rep. Bruce Rendon, removes restrictions on most types of duties volunteers may perform, opening up opportunities for volunteers to work on a wide range of conservation projects such as improving wildlife habitats in state forest areas and wetland preservation.

“One of the great things about this state is the number of individuals and community groups who are willing to devote their time and energy to making our park system something everyone can enjoy,” Snyder said. “By expanding volunteer opportunities, the state will be able to use taxpayer resources more efficiently and maximize our conservation efforts. This is a perfect example of the kind of cooperation we want to encourage at all levels.”

DNR Director Rodney Stokes added, “This new law will help us ensure we have tremendous outdoor recreation opportunities now and in the future.”

In addition to allowing volunteers to work outside the state park system, they will also be able to use DNR equipment and machinery at the department’s discretion, and they will be protected from lawsuits resulting from their work.

H.B. 4111 is now Public Act 65 of 2011.

See Michigan Trails and Greenways
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Two Buddies Walking for Critters

Annette Krehn and Regina Prophet on a misty day (photo from WZZM video)

based on a news article from WZZM-13 TV 

 Cousins Annette Krehn and Regina Prophet are well into their 300-mile walk from Muskegon to Mackinac. Their goal is to walk the distance to raise money for local animal shelters.

Annette decided to make the trip when she turned 50. She jokingly referred to it as her mid-life crisis. But her cousin, Regina, would not let her leave alone. So the two took their first steps on the adventure on June 16th. Their Facebook page says that they have made it to Mesick at this time.

The women are also hoping to improve their health through the hike. Regina said, "there will be no TV's, no fast food, so we'll have no choice but to lose weight." Both women have struggled to lose pounds for a long time.

One post from Regina reports "a few blisters and I feel like I have no skin on my feet. But I'll make it." The women are carrying their gear in backpacks and are usually camping at night. They have been averaging about 10 miles a day.



See Two Buddies Walking for Critters
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First 75-Miles of Lake MI Water Trail Dedicated

NPS photo by Diane Banta

from the National Park Service

"The vision of the Lake Michigan Water Trail Association is to create within the next few years, the longest continuous loop water trail in the world, a four state 1600-mile long trail around all of Lake Michigan. The Lake Michigan Water Trail will help improve the quality of life for all of the communities along the route and attract paddlers from around the world!"

With that lofty goal, on June 4, 2011, National Trails Day, the first 75 miles of this trail were dedicated in Gary, Indiana. The day was marked with paddling events, and also a bike ride at Portage Lakefront. Kayakers and canoeists explored not only the shoreline, but also the East Branch of the Little Calumet River.

Dan Plath, the Indiana representative for the Lake Michigan Water Trail Association and president of the Northwest Indiana Paddling Association, said, "The environmentally friendly and healthy use of human-powered watercraft allows paddlers to explore the lakeshore in a most intimate way."

When fully realized this will be he longest water trail in the world.

See Lake Michigan Water Trail Association
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Group Paddling the Muskegon on Voyage of Discovery

from a news article in the Muskegon Chronicle

Twelve paddlers are following the entire 217 miles of the Muskegon River, from June 8-18. Their quest is called Voyage of Discovery, and their plan is to have fun and generate publicity for and interest in the Muskegon River.

“I hope the publicity the event draws, that it gives people a greater appreciation of the resource we have in the Muskegon River,” said Wayne Groesbeck, chairman of the Muskegon Watershed Assembly. The WMA is sponsoring the paddling event. Wayne and his wife are participating, in a tandem kayak.

Jeff Alexander, author of The Muskegon: The Majesty and Tragedy of Michigan’s Rarest River is also behind the project. His hope is that it will help residents understand the significance of the river.

The river's many problems need to be addressed. The lumbering era, manmade and artificial dams, pollution from industries, agricultural runoff and stormwater runoff have all affected the quality of the watershed.

The core group will paddle the entire river. However, people are urged to join the group for one or several days.

When the paddlers traverse the six counties of the river and reach Muskegon on June 18, a celebration is planned at Fisherman’s Landing in Muskegon. Organizers plan to have a speaker and the public is invited to the 1 p.m. event.

See Voyage of Discovery
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Connecting Mason County Forum

Ludington Avenue east- no place to walk (photo by jhy)

a news release of Connecting Mason County

Connecting Mason County is working to get multi-use trails throughout Mason County to CONNECT all the different recreational areas we have.

on June 8th at 6:30 p.m. at the Pere Marquette Township Hall there will be a forum to discuss how treacherous Mason County is for non-vehicular traffic. Goals of the project are to promote safety and good health, and to protect the environment. There are many recreational areas throughout Mason County, but the only "safe" way to get to those places is by car.

Phase I of the group's plans is to create sidewalk along US-10 through Pere Marquette Township. Other organizations which are working toward the same goals are welcome to partner in this effort. And local governments will be encouraged to become involved.

Four people will give short presentations:
1. Joan Young - Get Off the Couch, North Country Trail
2. Jeff LaPrad - Bicycle Commuter
3. Heather Venzke - City of Ludington Community Development Director (speaking on City's sidewalk program)
4. Kevin Hughes - Health Education Manager of District Health Department #10 (speaking on Complete Streets)

At the end, after the speakers, the floor will be opened to the audience.

See PM Township Could Build Multi-Use Path on US 10
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National Trails Day 2011- West Michigan Events

by JHY with information from American Hiking

American Hiking Society has long sponsored National Trails Day on the first Saturday of June each year. This year's theme is "Made with All Natural Ingredients."

National Trails Day is a celebration of trails that grew out of President Ronald Reagan's recommendation that all Americans be able to go out their front doors and within fifteen minutes, be on trails. The recommendation, dubbed Trails for All Americans, became the impetus behind several public and private parties joining American Hiking Society in launching National Trails Day® in 1993.

Trails do not just appear for our enjoyment, it takes many hours of planning, labor, and negotiating to develop them. National Trails Day®, the only nationwide celebration of trails, brings awareness to trails and thanks many people and partners for their support and hard work, including volunteers, land agencies, and outdoor minded businesses. It is also a day to introduce people to the many joys and benefits of trails.

Registered Events in West Michigan for 2011
Traverse City: The Grand Traverse Conservation District is hosting a Boardman Valley Trail improvement project. (pre-registration required)
Grand Rapids: The Kent County Parks Department will be building new trail at Knapp Valley Forest Park. (pre-registration required)
Lowell: The West Michigan Chapter of the North Country Trail Association is hosting a tour of historic Fellasburg Park in the morning, a hike in the afternoon, and a potluck dinner at 4 pm.
Branch and Manistee: The Spirit of the Woods Chapter of the North Country Trail Association will host an event at two locations. Short guided hikes, snacks and parking fees waived by the Forest Service.

For more information about all registered events See American Hiking Society

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Update on GetOffTheCouch.info

This news blog began as an outgrowth of the Get Off The Couch (GOTC) web site. I'd been posting news articles without benefit of a blogging platform, and it was just a no-brainer to make the switch. The two sites should support each other. GetOffTheCouch.info has detailed information about where to find quiet, muscle-powered recreation opportunities in Mason, Lake, Manistee, and Oceana Counties in west Michigan.

It's been very successful in some ways. The traffic has been great, ranging from 90,000 to 120,000 hits a year. But my original dream for how to make the site pay for itself has been a learning experience. I thought that it would be a great place for local motels, eateries, sport stores, outfitters, etc. to get the word out to people who are looking for those local recreation sites.

But, the reality has been that local places do not want to advertise on the internet. I won't bore you with the details, but the truth is that I have only one local advertiser left (other than me promoting my own stuff). Gathering the info and maintaining the site takes way too much time to just be a hobby, so I've lowered my sites from that lofty and am working at putting Google ads throughout the site.

Over the past two years, while I was completing my North Country Trail quest, GOTC hasn't been getting much attention. In particular, the calendar is completely out of date, and will be removed for the time being. It needs to be made interactive for easier entering of events. It was also very difficult to compile the pertinent information. I'm unsure what the solution would be to that problem.

I'm also in the process of moving the entire site to my own server space, which will cost less. This shouldn't be too difficult, except that the forms for condition reports on every page will need to be redone, and this takes time.

I absolutely believe that this project is viable, but to date have not been able to remotely begin to have it pay for itself.

Anyone with a relevant blog or web site who is interested in advertising, feel free to read the Get Off The Couch advertising terms.

See Get Off The Couch
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Note from Admin- Entrecard

I have had to re-apply to Entrecard, as they deleted my blog when Blogger accidentally flagged it as spam. If you had pending ads here, they are all gone, and I have a new EC account number. My apologies for any inconvenience, I hope your credits were given back and that you won't hesitate to advertise here again.
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Ottawa County to End "No Swim" Warnings

based on a news article in the Grand Rapids Press

Due to the fact that it takes 24 hours to get the E.coli results from beach water testing, Ottawa County will no longer issue beach advisories.

Shannon Felgner, communications specialist for the Ottawa County Health Department, stated that last year, they were able to confirm that surges in E. coli levels are short lived. By the time results were learned, and an advisory was issued the danger had already passed.

Muskegon agrees that this time lag is a problem, but stated that they will continue to post warnings. They hope to procure fast-result test kits for next year, but the kits are not yet approved by the Environmental Protection Agency.

All reports can be seen through the Michigan DEQ BeachGuard web site. Historical data allows people to make decisions about using beaches which seem to have ongoing problems.
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Emmett County Gains Prestigious Dark Sky Designation

Headlands Park (photo from UpNorthLive video)

based on several news articles

Headlands Park, just west of the Mackinac Bridge in Emmett County has been granted the prestigious designation as a Dark Sky Park. Only five other such locations have been named in the United States. These are in Utah, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Mexico and Washington state.

Dark Sky Parks are considered to be outstanding locations for viewing the night sky. A 75-page application must be submitted to the International Dark-Sky Park Association. Testing for intrusive light on the property was conducted. There is also the requirement of an educational component, and ideas are being collected to meet this need.

Laurie Gaetano, the county’s Parks and Recreation Director, commented, "This important designation will spur many more opportunities for the public to come out and enjoy the beauty of the land, waters and skies that define North Michigan. And it will also ensure the protection of the many animal and bird species that call the Headlands home."

The 600-acre park has already been used for teaching opportunities related to astronomy. Cheboygan astronomer, Patrick Stonehouse, served as the Dark Sky Association sponsor for the Headlands property application. Upon hearing of the designation, he wrote, "Your achievement will benefit all those local star lovers who will have nowhere else to go in lower Michigan to see their celestial friends."

See Emmet County park on prestigious list for a really dark sky from UpNorthLive, and the video
See Emmet County park gets top designation for sky-watching from the Detroit Free Press
See Emmett County Dark Sky Park
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Interesting Birds in Mason County

snow bunting (photo by Dave Dister)

from Dave Dister

Today at Ludington Harbor I found two very late Snow Buntings (north pier) and one Willet (south pier). I also saw two Piping Plovers on the beach south of Ludington Harbor, heard a Sora in the Pere Marquette Marsh, and heard a Red-headed Woodpecker at Buttersville Park. Birds are definitely moving north again.

Dave

willet (photo by Dave Dister)

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TART Trail May Get Tunnel

South Airport Road, Traverse City, Michigan (from a TV 7&4 video)

based on a news stories from UpNorthLive.com Tunnel under South Airport Road? , and Study results take a closer look at trail plan

"South Airport Road is 'The Wall,' stated Ted Okerstrom, one of the planners and proponents of a tunnel to take the Traverse Area Recreation Trails (TART) underneath the busy street, which is currently the barrier separating the TART system from the Boardman River Trail.

TART Executive Director, Julie Clark, says, “The tunnel provides the most access to the most types of user; skiers, hikers, bikers and even canoeists can use it.” This plan places the tunnel along the Boardman River Trail, providing a connection between the whole TART system and the Boardman River system.

This connection would provide downtown Traverse City residents, pedestrians, bicyclists, and skiers off-road access to Grand Traverse County's athletic fields, Nature Education Reserve and the Boardman River valley.

Funding stands as the biggest challenge, but Traverse Trails is planning to apply for grant money. The project is a partnership between City of Traverse City, Charter Township of Garfield, Grand Traverse County, Sara Lee, and Traverse Area Recreation and Transportation (TART) Trails, Inc.

See Traverse Trails
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Volunteers Needed for Karner Blue Monitoring

male and female Karner Blue butterflies (photo from the National Forest Service)

from Heather Keough, District Wildlife Biologist USDA Forest Service

The Baldwin/White Cloud Ranger District, located in western lower Michigan, is looking for volunteers to assist with monitoring and management activities for the federally endangered Karner blue butterfly in 2011. Volunteers are needed to help conduct surveys between late June and early August to assess the status of Karner blue butterfly populations, and evaluate the effectiveness of different management strategies for restoring Karner blue butterfly habitat. There are opportunities for individuals of all skill levels to participate. Training will be provided. Interested parties can volunteer during weekdays, for a few days, or a week or more. Limited mileage reimbursement and/or housing may be available upon request.

Volunteer participation has allowed the Baldwin/White Cloud Ranger District to dramatically increase its management and monitoring activities for the Karner blue butterfly. The volunteers, partners, and U.S. Forest Service personnel that have made the Karner blue butterfly recovery program a success were recently recognized for their achievements with the receipt of two prestigious national awards: Wings Across the Americas Award for Butterfly Conservation, and Making Tracks with the Forest National Award for outstanding accomplishments in the Habitat Management Program. To those who volunteered during past field seasons, thank you and congratulations! Your participation made these awards possible!

The assistance of volunteers is vital to meet our recovery goals! Please choose to volunteer this year and help conserve a locally endangered species. If you or someone you know is interested in participating in the 2011 field season, please contact me at 231-745-4631 x 3111 or hkeough@fs.fed.us.

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Adaptive Bike Trail Being Built at Challenge Mountain

adaptive bike (photo from Kids Wish Network)

based on a news article in the Petoskey News

Kids with special needs will have one more place to enjoy the outdoors, possibly as soon as this summer, thanks to Challenge Mountain

Challenge Mountain, a non-profit organization based in Boyne City, Michigan, is dedicated to enriching and improving lives for the mentally and physically challenged through outdoor recreation.

They already provide opportunities for kids with special needs to ski, using special equipment to adapt to each special situation in the least restrictive manner possible. Now, board member Bob South says, "The end result we’re shooting for is having an adaptive trail where kids can learn mountain bike skills. It has to be adaptive for kids who have never ridden before and for kids with a variety of disabilities."

South has been planning the adaptive trail for about twelve years. On March 15, volunteers began walking the Challenge Mountain property to being choosing a route for the trail. A skills course of about 1.5 miles will be the first project.

Coupled with the trail building, a separate committee will work on raising the money needed to acquire a variety of adaptive bikes for kids to use. Such bikes are often custom built, and can be quite expensive. In addition to bikes which can be powered by a single child, some bikes will be special tandems, and other will be bikes with side-cars.

See XChallenge Mountain
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Free Map of Michigan Multi-Use Trails

from the Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance

As of January 2011, a new map of Michigan's multi-use trails is available. For a free copy of the Michigan Trails and Greenways Map and Directory send a self addressed stamped (.61 or 2 first class stamps) business size envelope to:

MTGA Trail Map
PO Box 27187
Lansing, MI 48909

If you prefer an interactive online map, go to: Michigan Trails Finder

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1700 More Acres Protected in Pere Marquette Watershed

Elliott property (photo by Tim Johnson)

condensed from the Spring 2011 Newsletter of the Land Conservancy of West Michigan

The protection of the free-flowing Pere Marquette River continued in 2010 as two more families protected their land by creating conservation easements with the Land Conservancy.

The Elliott family created an easement of 136 acres which helps protect the resident trout and migratory salmon and steelhead that use the Pere Marquette along their stretch of the river.

Wildlife benefits too. "They tell me that bobcats are nocturnal, but I see them throughout the night and day," notes Craig Elliott. There is also an active bald eagle’s nest in a tall white pine overlooking the river on the property.

A small stream originates within a cedar grove and runs through a majority of the Elliott property before flowing onto adjacent Michigan DNR land. By protecting their property with a conservation easement, the Elliotts have ensured that this stream will continue to be a cold-water feeder stream to the Pere Marquette.

Upstream of the Elliott property, the Lewis family has also made the permanent commitment of a conservation easement to protect their 17 acres along the Middle Branch of the Pere Marquette. The Middle Branch is known for its brown trout population. Because of surrounding open space, the Lewis property is frequented by bobcat, white-tail deer and black bear.

"We strongly believe that we don’t truly own the land, but are merely caretakers for coming generations," states Eric Lewis as he reflects on the desire of placing the property into a conservation easement.

See Land Conservancy of West Michigan
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Several Western Michigan State Forest Campgrounds to Close

State Forest Campground (photo by jhy)

based on a news release of the Michigan DNR

With all the budget pain in Michigan, some State Forest Campgrounds are going to suffer. Ones that are "underutilized" will be closed, 23 of them. These are all campgrounds that have few amenities, and therefore attract fewer campers. Of course, if you are one of the people who really prefers to get away from the crowds, this news is not going to be good.

Most of the closures are in the Upper Peninsula, but Lower Michigan is not exempt. To be closed:
• Cheboygan County: Black Lake Trail Camp
• Crawford County: Manistee River Bridge
• Lake County: Bray Creek
• Montmorency County: Little Wolf Lake State Forest Campground
• Oscoda County: McCollum Lake State Forest Campground
• Otsego County: Pigeon Bridge and Round Lake
• Wexford County: Long Lake

Cara Boucher, assistant chief of the DNR's Forest Management Division, said, "Given the long-term trend of declining use and the inability to raise camp fee revenues, the only way to absorb the current cut in General Fund support is to close some campgrounds."

The order to close the 23 campgrounds will be submitted as a proposal at today's Michigan Natural Resources Commission (NRC) meeting in Lansing, and will be eligible for action by DNR Director Rodney Stokes at the NRC's May 12 meeting in Flint. If approved at the May meeting, the closures would be effective on May 19, 2011.

It's difficult to imagine how much this will save. The only services provided are usually latrines and a hand pump. Admittedly, these need to be serviced in the spring and fall, but surely the high-performing campsites could cover some costs for the smaller sites.

It's difficult to imagine how future generations will learn how to enjoy nature when more and more places that are close to natural are closed each year.

See Natural Resources Commission Agenda for April 7, 2011
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Rough Legged Hawk in Mason County

caption (photo by Dave Dister)

received from Dave Dister

Dave Dister is working on becoming the man who "wrote the book" on birding in Mason County, Michigan. This was received from him yesterday:

Today while driving south on north Angling Road in Victory Township, I drove by a rough-legged hawk on a spruce tree near the road. I quickly turned around, drove back and got a few photos before it took off. I was only 35 feet or so away from the bird- how cool ! Also, note that as a rule RLHAs [rough-legged hawks] perch on the tips of trees vs. the similar sized RTHAs [red-tailed hawks] which perch on major branches. This is even noticeable from a great distance.

If you want to be on Dave's birder e-list and receive updates directly, contact him at Dave Dister
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