 A portion of the Dune Trail (photo by jhy) |
compiled from several sources
Rosy Mound Natural Area near Grand Haven, MI, has been a small pocket of dune ecosystem with short trails since opening in 2004. The land, considered critical habitat, had been on the Ottawa County radar since 1989.
Now, an additional 127 acres, adjacent to the northeast, have been acquired. This results in a 291 acre natural area.
Trails will be expanded. The original park has only a little over 2 miles of trail, and they are challenging miles, crossing the dunes by means of stairs.
The new acres are currently open to the public, but development will proceed according to the master plan. The acquired area had been mined for sand, so restoration will be involved. Some leveled areas are suitable to be more highly developed with parking, picnic areas, restrooms, etc.
Approximately 108 acres will be protected as critical habitat. The master plan states its intention to "strike a balance between preserving the natural environment while ensuring access for all visitors to experience the area’s scenic beauty."
Results of a public survey strongly favor less development, but the strongest positive responses were for better restroom facilites, and more natural surface trails.
Approximately 4 miles of new trails will be established, more than doubling the trail network.
See the full Master Plan which includes all public comments
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