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
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

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
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

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
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

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
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

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
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

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
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

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

These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

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
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

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.
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

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.
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

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
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

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)

These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch