Ottawa County Offers "Step It Up"

Step It Up (photo from Ottawa County Parkd)

from Ottawa County Parks

The Ottawa County, Michigan, Parks and Recreation Commission is offering a free 8-week program designed to help you stay active and explore new parks. Hikes are held each week from April 28-June 20, 2026. Dogs are welcome on leash.

Eight guided hikes/activities will be held. Locations are:
• Hemlock Crossings
• Grand Ravines
• Upper Macatawa Natural area OR Preview the Grand Explorers Trail Race at Grand River Park
• Connor Bayou- hike and paddle
• Ottawa Sands
• Paw Paw Park OR hike and kayak at Ottawa Sands
• Ottawa Sands
• Pigeon Creek
• Grand River Park

See more detail at Ottawa County Parks


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Boyne Forest Bicycle Trails to Expand

TOMMBA biker (photo from TOMMBA)

from an article on MLive

The popular Boyne Forest mountain biking trails will soon be expanding onto an additional 36 acres of adjoining land.

The Little Traverse Conservancy and Top of Michigan Mountain Bike Association (TOMMBA) are partnering to raise $300,000 to purchace land adjecent to the Boyne School Forest and a trail excavator for use by TOMMBA.

Conservancy staff will conduct a thorough inventory of the land’s natural features and ecological characteristics before any trail construction begins. The Conservancy's interest is in preservation of the land, and the trails will be designed to minimize environmental impacts.

Nearby communities were recently surveyed and TOMMBA reports that the overwhelming response was to build more trails. There are currently three loops and about 15 miles of trails in the Forest.

See more about the Boyne Forest Trail


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Hardy Dam Fate May Rest on Repairs to Spillway

Hardy Dam Spillway (photo by jhy)

from Croton Crawlers

The Hardy Dam on the Muskegon River (Michigan) creates the 4000-acre Hardy Dam Pond, the centerpiece of the recently completed 40-mile Dragon Trail. The identity of the trail is linked to the dragon-shaped impoundment, and Newaygo and Mecosta Counties have worked for 15 years and invested millions of dollars on this recreational destination.

But the fates of the 13 dams that Consumers Energy may sell to Confluence Hydro are all linked to the Hardy spillway. Consumers Energy has asked to delay repairs to the Hardy Dam spillway until 2028. Construction was supposed to begin in May 2026, but regulations allow for a time lapse for review and approval of the sale.

Regulators have still not decided if they will approve the plan to sell the dams to Confluence Hydro LLC, a subsidiary of a private equity firm, Hull Street Energy. Consumers will buy back all energy generated for at least 30 years.

However, the needed repairs to the 95-year-old Hardy Dam have raised concerns. Consumers Energy would continue to benefit from the power generation without having to do the necessary repairs.

Consumers says if the sale is denied their plan is to remove the dams. “If the sale is rejected, Consumers Energy likely will not proceed with the spillway project,” said Brian Wheeler the spokesperson for Consumers Energy. At utility hearings, CE testified, "We would then start decommissioning Hardy Dam and all of our dams.”

The spillway project is the largest single liability affecting the sale of the dams. According to federal standards, the dam is in satisfactory condition, but carries a "high hazard." This means that there would be probable loss of life in event of failure. Current regulations require dams to pass a safety test of the "probable maximum flood," and Hardy dam does not meet that standard. A new auxillary spillway for emergency overflow must be constructed.

Hardy Dam accounts for about one-third of all the hydro-energy generated by all 13 dams, but the income can not cover the cost of the spillway upgrade. In fact, this requirement was part of what initiated the plan to sell the dams.

Confluence Hydro has agreed to do the work, but the sale will not be approved until the responsible party is clearly identified and a timeline is laid out.

The Dragon Trail has received national recognition as a recreation success, and it is indeed a beautiful trail. It is open to non-motorized uses, and although the trail is completely open, supporting facilities such as campgrounds and additional access points are still in the works. Losing the reservoir would not destroy the trail, but much of the scenic beauty would be lost and water-based recreation would be drastically changed.

See Dam Removal Debates Continue


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Purple Blazes- What Do they Mean?

purple blaze (photo by jhy)

by jhy

More than a few times in my hiking the North Country Trail in various states I've come across purple blazes along the trail, most often adjacent to a road. I was informed that these marked private property.

In truth, 20 states have "purple paint laws." The blazes mean a variety of nuances of "No Trespassing."

The following states recognize purple painted stripes (blazes) on trees: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia (uses purple or aluminum), West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

Several states designate orange with a similar meaning including Arizona, Idaho, and Montana. Utah property owners can use orange or yellow.

In Maryland bright blue is used, and Nebraska recognizes blue or red.
Missouri has the strictest laws, considering the purple blazes the equivalent of "No Trespassing" signs with full legal penalties for those who cross. Sometimes, the purple only means 'No Hunting, Fishing, or Trapping." This varies by state.

My experience in general has been that this may be a sensible idea, but the execution by landowners is usually poor. The blazes are supposed to be a full 8" long and between 3-5 feet off the ground, a little lower than trail blazes. Illinois suggests a maximum distance between blazes of 36 feet. I've seen edges of land along roads (presumably where owners were not happy to have a national trail passing by their property) that were marked with huge sloppy blobs of purple paint on every tree.

That said, if this were done with discretion and moderately neatly, it's very helpful to hikers to know when they are close to private property when passing through public land. It's usually not possible to know intuitively where property lines are, and if dispersed camping is allowed in an area, your tent site is supposed to be 200 feet off the trail. But will that 200 feet take you out of a state forest and into someone's woodlot? Information is good. I prefer a few purple blazes to plastic signs nailed up every 20 feet.

It would be good if a single color were universally adopted. Trails are seldom blazed with purple, but red, blue, yellow, and orange are all commonly used on trails of various lengths.

See an article on the topic in USA Today


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Gordie Howe Bridge to Have Bike, Ped Lane

Gordie Howe International Bridge (photo from the Gordie Howe International Bridge)

from Bridge Michigan

While this new vehicular bridge is on the far east side of Michigan, this is significant news for pedestrian and bicycle traffic.

The new Gordie Howe international bridge which goes from Detroit, Michigan to Ontario, Canada, will have a 12-foot wide, bi-directional lane for walkers and bicyclists. There will be no charge for these users to cross the bridge although they will need to have the usual documentation for the international border.

This is the only bridge from Michigan to Canada that allows non-vehicular crossings.

The multi-use trail entrance is separated from vehicular ramps for safety. The total crossing length is about 1.5 miles.

The path will connect to trails in Windsor, including the Trans Canada Trail, and to other paths on the Michigan side, including on West Jefferson Ave., Campbell Street and Fort Street in Detroit.

Other Canada/US bridges that allow pedestrians are the Peace Bridge (Buffalo), Rainbow Bridge (Niagara Falls) and Thousand Islands Bridge (Northern New York). All of these connect to New York state.

The six-lane Gordie Howe International Bridge is in final testing stages and will open soon.


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Laketown Beach to Get New Stairs to Lake

site of former Laketown Beach steps (photo from Laketown Township)

from M-Live

Laketown Township in Allegan County, Michigan, plans to build new stairs to the Lake Michigan Beach this summer.

Laketown Beach is located at 6710 142nd Ave., about five miles southwest of Holland. The previous wooden stairs were removed in 2025 due to safety concerns. The new stairway will be about 5 feet wide and may be adjustable aluminum with composite tread called EZ Beach Steps. EZ Beach Steps can be raised or lowered as the dune shifts.

The required public hearing has been held, and the township is discussing funding.

See more from Laketown Township


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Land Conservancy of W Michigan Celebrates 50 Years

Ottawa County Park (photo by jhy)

from Land Conservancy of West Michigan

The Land Conservancy of West Michigan has its 50th anniversary in 2026, and they invite you to join them in celebrating.

Throughout 2026, we’ll be unveiling events, sharing historic stories, and celebrating the community that’s made 50 years of conservation possible.

The Explorathon kicks off on April 18! Join the Land Conservancy of West Michigan and our conservation partners for a guided hike along the forested dunes of the Lake Michigan shoreline.

For this first of three outdoor events celebrating the impact of 50 years of keeping nature nearby, we will be hiking through 2500 acres of connected, protected lakeshore habitat. Hikers can choose their own adventure: Join us for a 7-mile hike through 5 connected parks and preserves or a 2-mile paved hike through Ottawa Sands. Both experiences are led by naturalists guides who will share about park history and the protected natural features found in the globally unique and rare ecosystems we'll be exploring.

Hike participants will travel along the forested dunes of the iconic shoreline, enjoying views of Lake Michigan to the west and the Grand River valley to the east, while learning more about the importance of landscape-level conservation work, hearing stories about how these lands came to be protected, and enjoying the fruits of decades of hard work to protect and restore natural land on the Lake Michigan shoreline.

Tickets are required to attend. On-site registration will be available, but space is limited. We recommend registering early to secure your spot!

There will also be a guided bicycle tour on June 6, and a guided paddling event on August 29.

Learn more and purchase your tickets at Nature Nearby


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Restoration to Create Wau-Ke-Na Preserve

Wau-Ke-Na preserve area to be restored (photo by Keto Gyekis)

a news release of Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy

The Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy will continue a huge habitat restoration project at Fennville, Michigan. The Wau-Ke-Na, W.E. Smith Preserve South Tract will benefit endangered grassland birds and monarch butterflies – but like any home renovation project, it’s going to look terrible for a while. Long term, our hope is to create some of the best grassland in the area for seldom-seen birds such as bobolinks, Henslow’s sparrows, savannah sparrows, eastern meadowlarks, sedge wrens, American kestrels, and Northern harriers.

Beginning this spring, contractors will start clearing the former Christmas tree plantation near the front of the preserve. Non-native conifers like Colorado Blue Spruce will be removed and chipped, and the chips hauled away to be re-purposed in landscaping projects. Later, we will begin prepping other areas for seeding with native grassland plants.

We know the sight and sound of heavy machinery cutting trees, running chippers, and pushing debris into piles will be very alarming – and we apologize in advance for the mess and disturbance. But please know that with this project, we carry forward preserve donor William E. Smith’s grassland initiative at Wau-Ke-Na and his legacy to create a better world for the wildlife with whom we share these spaces.

Throughout the spring and summer, we will temporarily close the preserve from time to time to keep the public safe while we work and will post closure notices on our webpage and social media platforms. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding.

See more details and pictures at Wau-Ke-Na grasslands project


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Great American Outdoors Act Status

Land and Water Conservation Fund access road improvments (photo from the Department of the Interior)

compiled from several sources

The Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) was rea by Congress in 2020 and was fully funded for five years. That means it's up for renewal this year.

The Act provideed roughly $1.9 billion a year for five years to address deferred maintenance in national parks and public lands. It guaranteed full funding of the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) (established in 1965), the income of which comes from fees and royalties paid to the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, Regulation and Enforcement by oil and gas drilling offshore in federal water. The money must be used for the protection of public land and recreation. In 2020, it was funded for $900 million, the highest level ever.

Lawmakers appear supportive, and the President has indicated he will sign it, but its chances of passage depend on which news sources you read. The Act has always been a bipartisan coalition to benefit the American People. Because of the 250th Anniversary of the country, this year's bill is being called the "Great American Outdoors Act 250."

One of the priorities of the fund is to repair critical infrastructure which has been neglected due to deferred maintenance. West Michigan recipients of LWCF money in 2025 were:
• Kalamazoo County, $500,000 for improvements at Milham Park.
• Berrien County; Eaton Park restroom and park improvements - $359,000
• Kent County; East Grand Rapids: Waterfront Park improvement project (Phase 2) - $500,000
• Van Buren Count; Lawrence Village Park Playground improvements - $301,200

Urge your federal lawmakers to support the Great American Outdoors Act 250.

See Department of the Interior, GAOA


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Howard Christensen Nature Center to Close

Howard Christensen Nature Center (photo from their website)

a news release of Howard Christensen Nature Center

On June 30, 2026, the Howard Christensen Nature Center in Kent County, Michigan, will become a nature preserve with only hiking trails.

Dear Howard Christensen Nature Center Community,

HCNC will cease to exist as of July 1, 2026. The land was gifted to Kent Intermediate School District in 1975 by the Christensen family to become the nature center in Howard’s memory. KISD stopped providing field trips in 2005 and closed the doors. Another group tried to continue but were unsuccessful so it closed again. In 2011, a community group formed Lily’s Frog Pad, Inc, a nonprofit organization and they began renting the property from KISD for $1/year. Lily’s Frog Pad, Inc holds the name and manages HCNC. Most of us are volunteers who share a passion for the center and its mission.

Over the past year we have been working with the goal of re-establishing a funding partnership with KISD. Without input from us, we were blindsided to learn in January 2026 that the ISD was no longer interested in owning the property and were in search of a buyer. We asked them to reconsider and provide justification. Area superintendents were surveyed as to their support of HCNC as a valuable resource for the education of children through field trips. During this time, our board made a conscious decision to keep this information confidential in order to maintain the lines of communication with KISD.

On February 23, 2026, we learned that the area superintendents had expressed no interest in retaining the center. The Land Conservancy of West Michigan was named as the potential buyer. As part of the deal, $160,000 of tax payer money was allocated for demolition of all of the buildings. This is close to what we had asked for to improve the center. Once again, we had no input into any of these discussions. We have no standing as the original lease and all possible extensions expired in June 2025 and KISD had put off writing a new one.

We met with the Land Conservancy on March 13, 2026. While we appreciate the work they do, we stressed that this was a legacy property important to the community. It isn’t a conservation mindset to demolish solid buildings with updated roofing and mechanicals. They understood but were not able to share details or make any commitments. Our subcommittee attended the KISD board meeting on March 16, 2026 with the intention of speaking. It was upon arrival that we learned that one of the agenda items was the sale of the property. We pleaded with them to reconsider.

The vote passed unanimously. Our last day of operation is June 30, 2026. The center will become a nature preserve with only hiking trails. We are heartbroken. HCNC belongs to the community….the community that has invested so much time, money and energy over the past 50 years. We have been good stewards. Hopefully, the Land Conservancy will be as well. Moving forward, we have two tasks. We are in the process of closing down and dissolving the nonprofit organization. We have a lot of decisions to make and will keep you posted through email, Facebook and our web site.

To begin with, we are accepting no new memberships and admissions are free. Our last two events are also free. The second goal is to reach out to anyone in the community who might have the resources to at least purchase the buildings to save them. Contact us if you have any ideas or would like to help exploring this avenue. Please contact KISD or LCWM if you have any comments or questions about the transaction as we were not involved. Thank you again for 50 years of wonderful support of HCNC. If there is any positive in this, the legacy of the Christensen family will live on in the trails, and the property can’t be developed.

The Board of Directors of HCNC

See the history of the Nature Center at Howard Christensen Nature Center


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DNR Urges Caution after Michigan Blizzard

winter storm aftermath (photo from Michigan DNR)

a news release of Michigan DNR

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is advising outdoor enthusiasts in areas affected by this week’s blizzard to be cautious when planning visits to trails and state parks that may have been affected by the extreme winter weather.

“With record snowfall March 15-16 in the Upper Peninsula – some areas received more than 4 feet of snow – and snowy and icy conditions in the northern Lower Peninsula, we’re urging people to check conditions before traveling to storm-affected areas and to be aware of downed trees and branches, as well as bent or bowed trees and branches that may fall unexpectedly,” said Greg Kinser, Lower Peninsula trails coordinator for the DNR Parks and Recreation Division.

Local officials this week reported impassable, snow-covered roads and downed trees and power lines across the region. Power outages have also been reported, with several counties initially reporting the majority of residents without power.

"In addition to trail impacts, many state parks and recreation facilities across the U.P. and the northern Lower Peninsula were rendered inaccessible by the significant snowfall," Kinser said. "State park staff are digging out, and it will take time before some park facilities are accessible again."

Kinser also thanked trail partner groups for their prompt, professional assistance in helping to assess trail conditions.

About 260 miles of forest roads in the northeastern Lower Peninsula remain closed due to debris from extensive tree damage during the 2025 ice storm. Cleanup efforts are ongoing. Know before you go

DNR staff continue to assess state-designated trails, state parks and facilities following the blizzard and snowstorm that led Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to declare a state of emergency Monday for seven counties in the Upper Peninsula and northern Michigan: Alcona, Alpena, Delta, Missaukee, Ogemaw, Roscommon and Wexford. The governor also declared a state of energy emergency for the entire state to ensure the speedy delivery of heating fuel to affected people.

In these state of emergency counties, and possibly in other areas affected by the storm, state park, road and trail access will be limited. Watch for downed trees and branches blocking trails and roads.

Watch for damaged trees and hanging tree limbs that may fall unexpectedly.

Be aware of split trunks and debris tangled with power lines. If a tree or branch is, or even might be, touching a power line, stay far away and contact your local utility company. Even seemingly “dead” lines can be live. Likewise, never approach debris piles or trees that are entangled with wires.

Find up-to-date closure details and safety alerts by visiting DNR Closures and searching for "winter storm."


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Adopt-A-Forest

removing trash from a forest (photo from the Michigan DNR)

from the Michigan DNR

You can help keep the woods clean by reporting a dumpsite, making a donation or volunteering to clean up the forest, whether state or federal forest in Michigan.

The Adopt-a-Forest volunteer cleanup program was established to protect Michigan's forests in 1991. The program shares the importance of clean and healthy forests, improves recycling and responsible trash disposal and works to stop illegal dumping.

Led by the Department of Natural Resources, the program is a partnership of the DNR, Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy and Michigan-based USDA Forest Service.

In the program's history, more than 2 million acres of forest land have been cleaned up, with 100,000 tires removed and tens of thousands of cubic yards of trash properly disposed of. This work is critical to protecting forest lands for future generations.

Visit the link below to report trash in the woods, volunteer to help, or donate.

See Adopt-A-Forest


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Dam Removal Debates Continue

Tippy Dam on the Manistee River (photo by Consumers Energy)

a news release of Michigan.gov and other sources

Consumers Energy has a new opponent in its bid to sell 13 hydropower dams, several of which are located in west Michigan.

The Michigan Natural Resources Commission, which regulates fish and game, may soon craft a resolution opposing Consumers’ plan to essentially give the dams away to a private equity firm, Confluence Hydro. Like many others, commissioners are concerned the sale contract under consideration now by the Michigan Public Service Commission doesn’t offer enough guarantees that Confluence will care for the dams. One possible negative outcome is that selling the dams could leave the Michigan DNR to take over responsibility if they fall into disrepair.

Confluence has promised it would maintain the dams. Consumers, for its part, says it would rather tear all the dams down than agree to new terms for the sale.

Lawmakers, meanwhile, have introduced bills to toughen Michigan’s dam safety standards, currently among the weakest in the nation.

The dams under discussion are:
• Au Sable River: Mio, Alcona, Loud, Foote, Cooke, and Five Channels dams.
•Manistee River: Hodenpyl and Tippy dams.
•Muskegon River: Rogers, Hardy, and Croton dams.
•Grand River: Webber Dam.
•Kalamazoo River: Calkins Bridge Dam.

Many of these dams have become the centerpieces of recreational facilities such as the North Country Trail along Hodenpyl Dam Pond and the Dragon Trail encircling Hardy Dam Pond.

See more about the Natural Resource Commission comments


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Pedestrian Tunnel Under Construction in Oceana County

construction of the tunnel (photo used with permission of Oceana County Press)

from Oceana County Press

A pedestrian tunnel is being constructed to pass under M-20 in Oceana County, Michigan, that will connect the Lewis Adventure Farm and Zoo with the parking lot. A traffic study was completed two years ago that identified a need to stop pedestrians and trams from crossing M-20 due to vehicle volume and speed.

The tunnel is uniquely designed in that it is a precast concrete structure that is being built off-site and will be assembled when the excavation is complete.

Funding came from a special allocation by the state that was procured by Senator Jon Bumstead.

It is approximately 76 feet long and 24 feet wide with a divider to separate pedestrians from tractor-pulled trams that transport people from the parking lot.

The road is expected to reopen at the end of May 2026, but the interior of the tunnel will not be completed for use until August.


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Lyme Disease in Michigan Soars

deer tick (photo from the US Agricultural Research Service)

from a news article at WZZM and other sources

In Kent County, Michigan, cases of Lyme disease have risen dramatically in the past six years. Only 11-12 cases per year were reported from 2016-2020. In the first nine months of 2025, there were 216 cases. Statewide, cases have also risen but slower at about 150%.

The black-legged, or deer tick is now found in almost every county of the state. This is the primary carrier of Lyme disease.

Lyme can be treated with antibiotics, but post-Lyme syndrome can linger for years causing joint pain and body aches. Another after-effect is immune system disorders. Some have compared it to long COVID. These lingering effects do not respond to antibiotics.

Learn to identify the kinds of ticks. Black-legged ticks are tiny, and they are the most common carriers of Lyme. Dog ticks are larger and less concerning. The Lone Star tick has a large white spot and is more likely to carry different diseases. Asian longhorn ticks are now also found in Michigan, including Berrien County, but these pose a greater threat to animals than humans.

In short, ticks are no longer just a southern problem. Tuck pants into socks, use repellent, check yourself when coming indoors, or daily if on an extended outing.

See Asian Long-horned Tick in Berrien County


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Man Swept Off Pier Survives Thanks to Life Rings

the actual moment of being washed off the pier (photo by Ryan Bale)

a news release of South Haven Area Emergency Services

Through its ongoing beach safety program, the City of South Haven, Michigan, installed year-round life ring stations in 2023. The South Haven Rotary Club supported the program with a $13,500 grant for the installation of the six stations located on the south and north piers. This safety equipment, along with quick action by a friend, saved a life.

South Haven Area Emergency Services (SHAES) and South Haven Police Department responded to a report of a person being swept off the pier into the water at 5:40 p.m.

A 57-year-old man, reported to be from out-of-state, escaped with his life when waves swept him off the Lake Michigan south pier in South Haven on Friday evening. (March 13, 2026)

A second person with the victim threw him a life ring and pulled him to safety. He was out of the water when authorities arrived. The incident occurred near the lighthouse end of the pier. The subject was taken to Bronson-South Haven Hospital for treatment of injuries.

The pier was closed at the time with waves sweeping over it.

Persons who go onto the piers in South Haven when they are closed are subject to a $1,000 fine. The city declared the piers closed earlier in the day because of the high wind and wave conditions.

Ryan Bale captured the moment the subject was being washed off the pier into the lake. Let this photo be a reminder of the power of the lake waves and the dangers they pose. Please take seriously any closings of the many piers along Great Lakes shorelines.


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Funding throughout Michigan for Invasives Control

wooly adelgid management (photo from MI DNR)

a news release of Michigan DNR

The state of Michigan announced on March 11, 2026 that 27 projects will share $2.4 million in funding through the Michigan Invasive Species Grant Program for efforts that address the prevention, detection, eradication and control of aquatic (water-based) and terrestrial (land-based) invasive species.

The program – cooperatively implemented by the Michigan departments of Agriculture and Rural Development; Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy; and Natural Resources – has four key objectives:
• Preventing the introduction of new invasive species.
• Strengthening the statewide invasive species early detection and response network.
• Limiting the spread of recently confirmed invasive species.
• Managing and controlling widespread, established invasive species.

Michigan’s 22 regional cooperative invasive species management areas (CISMAs) will each receive $70,000 in annual support to provide education and technical assistance to landowners. Additional funds for survey and treatment of high-priority invasive species including red swamp crayfish, water-primrose, wild parsnip, black swallowwort, knotweeds and kudzu will go to twelve of the areas.

Some West Michigan projects are:
• Surveying and treating hemlock woolly adelgid on the northern edge of the infestation in Benzie, Grand Traverse, Leelanau and Manistee counties along the Lake Michigan shoreline.
• Conducting survey and treatment of mile-a-minute weed infestations in Calhoun County.
• Surveying for highly invasive hydrilla in southwest Michigan waters near the known infestation in Berrien County.


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Sugarloaf Now Owned by Leelanau Conservancy

Sugar Loaf (photo from the Leelanau Conservancy)

from Leelanau Conservancy

The transfer of Sugar Loaf to the Leelanau Conservancy is officially complete, marking a historic milestone in a community-driven effort to permanently protect this beloved local landscape.

For generations, Sugar Loaf has inspired awe, adventure, and deep local pride. Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of the the Edmund F. and Virginia B. Ball Foundation, donors, partners, and supporters, the mountain will now be stewarded for the benefit of the community and the natural environment forever.

The Conservancy’s long-term vision for Sugar Loaf includes a well designed trail network for hiking, biking, snowshoeing, cross-country and backcountry skiing, along with universal access features, scenic viewpoints, and family-friendly spaces. Plans also include ecological restoration work to protect native species and reduce erosion.

Sugar Loaf is not yet open to the public

See more at Leelanau Conservancy


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Sleeping Bear Named Among Best Unique Beaches

Sleeping Bear dune (photo from NPS)

compiled from several sources

TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Awards has ranked Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (Empire, Michigan) among the top five unique beaches in the United States. It was placed at number four overall.

The 450-foot dunes rising from Lake Michigan helped the lakeshore place as it did. The rankings are based on TripAdvisor reviews over the previous year. This award recognizes locations that offer something beyond the typical sun and sand. The dramatic golden dunes and their contrast with the surprisingly tropical-blue water was a winner with visitors.

“This ranking validates what we locals already know — Sleeping Bear Dunes is an iconic example of Pure Michigan," said Laura Ann Johnson, Executive Director, Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes.

The opportunities for adventure also helped the scoring.

TripAdvisor has about eight million listings, and fewer than one percent of them ever make a "Best Of..." list.

The three beaches ranking higher than Sleeping Bear for this year were Boulders Beach Penguin Colony – South Africa, Isola Bella – Sicily, Italy, and Bamburgh Beach – United Kingdom.

Of course, West Michigan regulars know that Sleeping Bear offers much more than dunes. There are miles of forested trails, water activities, scenic drives and more.

See Parade


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Michigan Outdoor Economic Growth Slow in 2024

Trap Hills in Michigan's Upper Peninsula (photo by jhy)

from Bridge Michigan

The US Bureau of Economic Analysis has released data from 2024 on the outdoor industry. Outdoor recreation in Michigan added $15.1 billion to the economy, an increase of over one billion from 2023. Although there was growth, it lags behind 35 other state's rate of increase of 4%.

Brad Garmon, executive director of the state’s Outdoor Recreation Industry Office, said, “One thing about Michigan’s outdoor recreation economy is it’s really diverse. In some ways, that means that we don’t grow as fast as some other states that see a big upswing.”

Since it takes time to collect and process data, these figures from 2024 do not reflect the most recent season. A good snow year suggests that figures for 2025 will look better.

Garmon also stated that slow, steady growth is probably better than volatile peaks and valleys. Michigan ranked in the top 20 states in most categories of outdoor recreaton. Approximately 125,000 jobs are generated in the state from outdoor recerational pursuits.

See the full article with several graphs at Michigan lags US in outdoor economy growth


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Final Phase Boyne City- Charlevoix Trail Proceeds

Boyne City- Charlevoix Trail (photo from Top of Michigan Trails Council)

from the Boyne Citizen

Phases 4 and 5 of the Boyne City-to-Charlevoix bike and pedestrian trail are coming into focus for completion.

The trail has been in progress for over ten years. A new round of fundraising is being launched to begin the engineering work for the final stretch. 93% of the total trail has been funded, and filling in the final gap is critical to the economic success of the trail.

Top of Michigan Trails Council and the Charlevoix County Trail Team are partnering to lead the project. The first goal is $50,000 for the design and engineering portion of this phase. Possible routes will be identified, a conceptual design created and potential problems addressed.

Finding additional volunteers to assist with the project is also deemed critical.

See more and a map at Top of Michigan Trails Council


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Boyne City May Get Skate Park

proposed Boyne City skate park (graphic from city of Boyne City)

from the Boyne Citizen

A long-planned community skate park in Boyne City, Michigan, has moved one step closer to becoming a reality. City commissioners have unanimously approved a grant application from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Trust Fund grant for $376,000.

If the grant is approved, this would provide the largest portion of funds raised to date. The amount would cover most of what is needed to complete the park. Trust Fund grants have to be matched with 25% local funding. This is already raised by the non-profit skate park organization

No money will come from the city budget. However, the city will help maintain the park, once constructed.

City Manager Sam Demel called the park “a great asset for the community.” It will be built at Rotary Park at Boyne City. There is currently no skateboard facility in the city.


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Watch for Elk on the Move

Elk Crossing (photo from MDOT)

a news release of Michigan DOT

Elk are on the move in the northern Lower Peninsula!

You may notice some electronic message boards along I-75 in the Vanderbilt (Otsego County) area warning of elk crossings. According to the DNR, the elk have shifted their typical spring migration routes further north of where current permanent elk crossing warning signs are posted (those signs will be adjusted accordingly later in the spring).

Also, please don't stop your vehicle on the freeway to take pictures of any elk you may see.

See Threads.com


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Benzie County Residents Fight Cell Tower

Benzie County cell tower (photo credit unclear)

compiled from several sources

Residents in Crystal Lake Township (Benzie County, Michigan) are challenging a November 2025 ruling that upheld the construction of a 199-foot cell tower near Bellows Park. Residents filed a motion to reconsider, arguing the court made significant legal errors regarding zoning permits for the APC Towers project.

Arguments center on land use, potential deed violations from 1938, and a contentious zoning review process.

The city of Frankfort built the tower on land they were deeded in Crystal Lake Township. A November 1938 deed to the city of Frankfort specifies the property is to be used for public use. And an additional 1948 deed states that the public use is "in perpetuity," or forever.

The township's zoning board of appeals said since the city owns the land, the township can't enforce their rules. The decision will be ruled on by the court.

Nearby homeowners are strongly protesting the tower. The great-grandson of the original donor said his relatives must be "spinning in their graves." He would like to see the tower removed and a few hiking trails added.

See more at UpNorth Live


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Pedestrian Bridge at Traverse City SP Being Removed

graphic rendering of new at-grade crossing (photo by Illustrated Archetecture)

a news release of Michigan DNR

Signal installation at Traverse City State Park entrance begins in early March; motorists should expect single-lane closures

As part of an $8.5 million enhancement project at Keith J. Charters Traverse City State Park, in early March crews will begin installing a new traffic signal at the relocated U.S. 31 campground entrance.

During the traffic light installation, motorists on U.S. 31 should anticipate intermittent single-lane closures. Additionally, pedestrians should expect temporary sidewalk restrictions.

The project is anticipated to take two weeks. Digital message boards will be posted one week before construction starts.

Once installed, the traffic signal will operate in flashing mode for up to one month before becoming fully active in late April. The pedestrian crosswalk will remain closed until the signal is fully operational.

The traffic light installation is part of a larger project that the Michigan Department of Natural Resources began in February 2025. The planned project is designed to modernize the park’s facilities, enhance visitor access and traffic flow and improve accessibility, including a redesigned park entrance, a new at-grade pedestrian crossing, a new campground contact station, a relocated park headquarters building and an expanded sanitation station. All components of the project are compliant with Americans with Disabilities Act accessibility guidelines.

The park's modern campground closed in July 2025 and will remain closed through the 2026 season. The campground will reopen April 1, 2027. The Lake Michigan beach day-use area is expected to remain open; however, visitors should anticipate occasional closures for intersection work.

See the project page, including project details and a construction timeline at Michigan.gov


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South Rogue River Trail

construction of the SRRT (photo from Plainfield Charter Township)

from MLive

Plainfield Township in Kent County, Michigan is working on a $2.2 million project. This is part of the connected trails which will go from Lake Michigan to the middle of the state named the Grand Ruver Greenway. This portion will be called the South Rogue River Trail (SRRT). “When everything is complete, you’ll have basically a continuous, 171-mile separated pedestrian trail starting in Grand Haven and going all the way to Owosso,” Ben Swayze said. Swayze is the Kent County Parks Director.

This two-mile segment runs along Rogue River Road from the White Pine Trail to the Rogue River/Kuttshill Drive intersection. A pedestrian bridge will cross the Rogue River. The bridge alone cost $880,000

Work began in mid 2025 and completion is expeced in May 2026.

Funds came from the township’s non-motorized trails and recreational areas millage fund, and Kent County will cover the cost of the bridge.

Described by the township in an October newsletter, the SRRT is “offering a safe and scenic route for walkers, runners and cyclists.”

See article at MLive


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MSU Students Connect with Communities for Trails

MSU students Trail Building, Law and Policy class (photo from MSU, )

from College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Michigan State University

Students in the Trail Building, Law and Policy course in Michigan State's Department of Community Sustainability, have completed a four-year project requiring them to design a trail plan specific to the needs of communities in Michigan.

Instructor Bob Wilson, former Senior Counsel to the Senate Natural Resources and Environmental affairs committee and executive director of the Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance, now identifies communities seeking assistance in trail planning and development. He coordinates with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and more than a dozen communities in Michigan are on a waiting list for the next semester of students.

The students help local authorities develop master trail plans, and their final project is to present a complete document to community leaders.

"The community gets the benefit of a well-done trail plan, and the students learn how their work can impact a community in terms of quality of life and access to trails," Wilson said.

In 2025, students aided the following Michigan areas: Charlevoix, Cassopolis, Sault Ste. Marie, Calhoun County and Clearwater Township.

See more at Michigan Students Partner with Communities


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Events Calendar to be Discontinued

from jhy

Sorry, folks, I can't keep up the news and the calendar. It's just too much work. I will try to highlight some of the major events that come along.


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Coopersville Fundraiser for North Bank Trail

Events Calendar

North Bank Trail (photo from TrailLink)

compiled from several sources

The former Grand Trunk Western Railroad right- of-way from Spring Lake to Marne, Michigan, is being transformed to become the North Bank Trail. A seven mile stretch from the Village of Spring Lake to a Trailhead on 112th Avenue in Nunica has been completed and provides connections to other regional trails including the Lakeside Trail in Spring Lake and the Spoonville Trail in Crockery Township. The Spoonville Trail offers access to the South Side of the Grand River where it meets up with Grand River Explorers Trail. It also links to local pathways in Spring Lake Township and Ferrysburg offering a connection to US Bike Route 35 running along Michigan’s west coast from New Buffalo to Sault Saint Marie.

Future phases of the North Bank Trail will connect Nunica to Coopersville and the Musketawa Trailhead on 8th Avenue in Marne. Ultimately the trail will be a regional link between the beaches of Lake Michigan and the Grand Rapids Metro Area.

On March 5, the city of Coopersville is hosting the Celebrate Coopersville fundraiser for their section of the trail. For $40, attendees will receive complimentary food and entertainment from Main Street Dueling Pianos. A cash bar will also be available. Raffles and a silent auction will also raise funds.

Other funds for this section have come from a Transportation Alternatives Program grant from the state of Michigan

See Friends of the North Bank Trail


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Palmer Woods Bicycle Trails

Events Calendar

new Palmer Woods trail (photo by Pat S.)

from Singletracks.com

It took seven years, but the full 24-mile trail system at Palmer Woods in Leelanau County, Michigan, was completed in 2025.

The Leelanau Conservancy has spent about $10 million to build these trails with ecological restoration and sustainability in mind. The money came entirely from local sources. The land was acquired from a timber company where logging had taken place for 40 years. The Conservancy purchased the 1,155 acres which is surrounded on three sides by Sleeping Bear Dunes.

The forest will be preserved and the majority of the trails are dedicated to mountain biking. It's being hailed as one of the best singletrack bike trails in Michigan.

The bicycle trails are machine-built, and range from beginner loops to "white knuckle" as described by Justin Simpson, Director of Progressive Trails for West Michigan Mountain Biking Association. The intermediate trails are mostly one way, with the direction of travel alternating on successive days.

Caleb Garone, Land Steward for the Leelanau Conservancy, says "the Lion’s Mane Trail has a lot of really interesting dirt jump shapes. There’s [been] quite a bit of rock added for some downhill kickers."

Separate trails for hiking and cross-country skiing have also been built, ensuring that no user group's expectations will be compromised. The Conservancy emphasises that there is a strong commitment to ecological sustainability and diversity.

See maps at the Leelanau Conservancy


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Grand River's Rapids to be Restored

Events Calendar

low head dam on the Grand River (photo from the EPA)

from a news article at MLive

Work will begin in the summer of 2026 to remove the four dams on the Grand River in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan. This will restore the rapids, the historic source of the city's name.

Each dam is low, but they have effectively smoothed the river surface. However, the strong hydraulic force at each dam makes recreational uses unsafe. Removal will return the waterway to a more natural state and recreational opportunities such as kayaking, tubing, angling, and wading will once again be possible.

Over 100 boulders will be placed in the river to improve habitat for fish. The primary goal of the project is to restore aquatic habitat diversity and suitability for native Great Lakes fish and mussel species.

Ah-Nab-Awen Park will be closed for two years during the construction, as it will be used for staging. Total cost of the project will be about $26 million.

See more at Michigan Public Radio


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