Antrim County Parks and Recreation Plan

2019-2024 Antrim County Parks and Recreation Plan

Approved by the Antrim County Board of Commissioners on January xx, 2019 Submitted to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources on January xx, 2019 Table of Contents Introduction ...... 3 Community Description ...... 7 Administrative Structure ...... 15 Recreation in Antrim County ...... 23 Description of Planning and Public Input Process ...... 53 Goals and Objectives ...... 55 Action Program ...... 58 Appendices ...... 62 A: Survey Questions ...... 62 B: Survey Results ...... 69 C: ACNA Master Plan ...... 88 D: GRNA Strategic Plan ...... 163 E: Post-Completion Self-Certification Reports ...... 176 F: Snowmobile Trail Map ...... 178 G: ORV Trails Map ...... 179

Page 2 1. INTRODUCTION

1.1. Purpose The purpose of this parks and recreation plan is to act as the visioning and road map for park and recreation decisions over the next five years. Current and future needs and opportunities are kept in mind during the planning process. While the plan is not required per state law, it is needed in order to apply and receive recreational grant funding.

The plan will review the Counties demographics and citizen make up, explain the administrative structure that relates to County parks and recreation, and inventory existing parks, natural areas and recreational facilities. Further, the plan will explain the planning and public input process that was used to formulate the goals and objectives for the next five years relating to the County parks and recreation services. All of the information was factored in to the development of an action program. It should be noted that projects not included in the action program are still eliglible to apply for recreation grant funds and do not receive any “mark downs” for not being included.

1.2. Background Antrim County contains a wealth of natural resources which are enjoyed throughout the year by visitors and residents alike. The fresh water lakes and rivers in the County comprise nearly 20,480 acres, including the Elk River Chain of Lakes, the Jordan River Valley and numerous watersheds. Public and private forests cover nearly half of the County, approximately 280 square miles. Recreation for residents and visitors is year- round, where hunting, fishing, boating, biking, hiking and snowmobiling are popular activities.

Page 3 The Elk River/Chain of Lakes Watershed is a major tourist attraction, encompassing approximately 500 square miles in four counties: Antrim, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska and Charlevoix. Approximately 23% of the basin drainage area is covered by water. There are more than 30,000 acres of wetland soils associated with more than 200 streams that flow directly into the Chain of Lakes.

The Upper Chain in the Elk Rapids/Chain of Lakes is above the dam in the Village of Bellaire and consists of Beals Lake, Scotts Lake, Six Mile Lake, St. Clair Lake, Ellsworth Lake, Wilson Lake, Benway Lake, Hanley Lake and Intermediate Lake. Below the dam, Lake Bellaire, Clam Lake and Torch Lake continue the Chain, connected by the Grass River, which is well known for its protection of natural resources and environment.

The Lower Chain begins at the outflow of Torch Lake and includes Skegemog Lake and Elk Lake. The high water quality of the lakes and streams in the Elk Rapids/Chain of Lakes is one of our County’s most important assets.

The Elk River/Chain of Lakes Watershed covers the majority of the western half of the County and is the largest sub-watershed of the Grand Traverse Bay Watershed. According to the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, the Elk River/Chain of Lakes Watershed contributes nearly 60% of the surface water flowing into Grand Traverse Bay, including fourteen (14) primarily oligotrophic and mesotrophic lakes in its chain. An additional fourteen (14) lakes exist as closed basins or headwaters of minor tributaries. Torch Lake alone accounts for 5% of the total inland lake surface water and 24% of the inland lake water volume in the State of Michigan.

Page 4 This unique watershed has over 163 miles of shoreline and almost 65 square miles of surface water. The water drops 40 feet in elevation as it flows the nearly 55 miles on its way to Grand Traverse Bay/ Lake Michigan.

1.3. Climate

The Michigan Department of Agriculture, Climatologic Division prepared the follow climate data:

In winter months, the temperature ranges in the high-to-mid-20degrees for an average high and the average low temperature is in the mid-teens. During the growing season, the average highs are about 70 degrees with lows near 50 degrees at night. The temperatures are influenced and modified in the spring and fall from the lake effect. This “Great Lake Effect” provides cooler temperatures in the spring and warmer temperatures in the fall. The west half of Antrim County lies within the presence of Lake Michigan, which tends to lessen extremes in temperature and creates a climate favorable to production of specialty crops such as cherries, grapes and other various fruits. The inland lakes and soil conditions of this western area permit such types of agriculture not otherwise feasible at this high latitude. During the summer, the off-the-lake air currents tend to prevent high temperatures and maintain humidity. In the autumn months, they retain heat and in the spring help retard premature growth with the cold retained in the lakes.

Growing degree-days are equivalent to the “heat units.” During the month, growing degree-days accumulate by the amount that the average temperature each day exceeds a base temperature (50 degrees F.) The normal monthly accumulation is used to schedule single or successive plantings of a crop between the last freeze in spring and the first freeze in fall. The scheduling of pesticide application is also based on degree days.

The total annual rainfall ranges from 30 to 33 inches. Of this rainfall, 18.7 inches usually fall in April through September. The growing season for most crops lies within this period. Evaporation generally exceeds rainfall during the growing season. The average seasonal snowfall, as recorded by the Road Commission, is 156 inches and the winter storage of water in the root zone is important for the production of forest and agricultural crops for the upcoming year. Thunderstorms occur on approximately 31 days of each year.

The average relative humidity in mid-afternoon is about 63%. The sun shines 75% of the time possible in summer and 40% in winter. The prevailing wind is from the southwest. Lake Michigan, on the western portion of the County, impacts the weather for an average distance of 10 to 15 miles inland.

1.4. History

Page 5 Historically, Antrim County was originally known as Meguzee County. As an unorganized County, Meguzee was laid out in 1840. In 1843 the name was changed to Antrim. Antrim County began to become a serious recreational and tourism destination in the 1920's after the decline of the then dominant lumber industry. The County was also home to several of the earliest summer camps in northern Lower Michigan, the first being founded on Clam Lake in 1895. In 1998 Michigan State University Extension estimated that Antrim County had 44,445 acres devoted to public recreational use

In the late 1930’s the County began acquiring lands for the purposes of parkland development and forestland management with the purchase of 50 acres on the shore of Lake Michigan for $1,000 that later became the first county park, Barnes Park, which today provides excellent camping facilities, swimming and hiking trails for residents and visitors. Tax reverted lands were added to the County’s land base throughout the early 1940’s. The Grass River Natural Area represents the first area dedicated as an official Natural Area and is well known as an outdoor educational area today. The Grass River Natural Area includes 69 parcels totaling nearly 1,443 acres.

The County continues to develop its stewardship ethic towards its natural resources and recreational areas. Today, the County faces a number of influences in regards to its recreational areas and land uses that did not necessarily exist in the past.

The County’s population growth will continue to affect its stewardship, as since the 1960’s Antrim County has experienced a demographic transition from a declining population to a population undergoing rapid, sustained growth. The challenge related to this population growth is the potential for sprawling development competing for the County’s remaining undeveloped areas.

There continue to be challenges associated with providing recreational opportunities for a wide variety of recreational pursuits, with the County making parks more accessible to tourists while preserving the natural resources. Addressing these challenges will impact how the County can continue to provide recreational opportunities in a way that keeps pace with the changing population and shift in tourism as well as balance the need to protect and enhance our natural resources for the foreseeable future.

1.5. Relationship to the County Master Plan

The 2019 – 2024 Antrim County Master Plan identifies the need for parks and recreation services within the County for future development. The ‘Economic Development” section summarizes that, “Targeted community investments on place-based improvements to attract knowledge workers and their families with a special focus on green infrastructure investments, parks, trails, recreation areas, and bicycle and pedestrian connections throughout the community and with adjoining rural areas.”

Further, the ‘Human Element’ chapter states the need for “Creation of a Parks Department, developing network of trails strategically in the county to connect existing

Page 6 trails, and improving public access to all of our lakes including a boat launch on Lake Michigan.”

Page 7

2. COMMUNITY DESCRIPTION 2.1. Population The demographics of Antrim County provide data to support future and current planning of parks and recreation acquisitions and uses. When planning for a community, it is important to know who will be affected by the plan and their characteristics. This chapter of the plan presents the demographics of the County.

The U.S. Census Bureau estimates Antrim County’s 2017 population to be 23,292 residents. Antrim County’s population increased significantly between 1960 and 2000, but has had little overall change since 2000. (See the Chart 2.1 below titled “Antrim County Population 1900-2017”).

Page 8

Antrim County Population 1900-2017 25,000 23,580 23,110 23,292 20,000 18,185 16,568 15,000 15,692 16,194 11,543 10,964 12,612 10,000 9,979 10,721 10,373

5,000

0 1900 1910 1920 1930 1940 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2017

Population

2.2. Population Distribution within the County Figure 1.1 (below) gives a graphical representation of the location of residents as recorded by the 2010 Census. The southern portion of the county has the highest population and is expected that the area will continue to have a majority of the population. This should be kept in mind when planning for parks and recreation opportunities in the future. Chart 2.2 shows the distribution of population between the Townships and Villages of Antrim County.

Figure 1.1

Page 9 Antrim County Population 2000 & 2010 by Township and Village 3,500

3,000 2000

2010 2,500

2,000

1,500

1,000

500

Data source: 2000 & 2010 U.S. Census

2.3. Households in Antrim County The U.S. Census definition of a household is all the people who occupy a housing unit, including family and non-family members. The 2010 Census identified 9,890 households in Antrim County which represented a 7.2% increase from the 2000 Census. Household data is used to determine population growth projections. The 2010 Census average household size was 2.36 which was a 4.5% decrease from the 2000 Census. Chart 2.3 (below) shows the household growth in Antrim County. Antrim County - Households by Township (Village households are included in the township numbers) 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 Banks 388 507 525 675 641 Central Lake 526 633 733 921 932 Chestonia 101 131 147 199 201 Cus ter 126 162 232 397 481 Echo 174 241 301 355 351 Elk Rapids 505 782 1,009 1,206 1,218 Forest Home 371 494 574 790 781 Helena 149 312 340 408 473 Jordan 54 141 206 323 378 Kearney 234 420 542 661 694 Mancelona 774 939 1,181 1,511 1,665 Milton 271 465 584 850 955 Star 82 140 204 295 384 Torch Lake 121 276 307 498 589 Warner 52 80 95 133 147 3,928 5,723 6,980 9,222 9,890

Page 10 2.4. Seasonal Populations Similar to most of Northern Michigan, Antrim County is a tourist destination and it is important to consider seasonal population in parks and recreation planning. The U.S. Census Bureau defines a seasonal home as “a housing unit held for occupancy only during limited portions of the year, such as, a beach cottage, ski cabin, or time-share condominium.” The 2010 Census notes that 6,514 housing units were reported as seasonal, recreational or occasional use. This is an 18.1% increase from the 2000 Census. Chart 2.4 shows the population including seasonal and transient residents.

Antrim County - 2012 Permanent, Seasonal & Transient Residents

Permanent Second home % population population Overnight TOTAL Seasonal January 23,406 1,707 364 25,477 8% February 23,406 1,707 635 25,748 9% March 23,406 2,672 462 26,540 12% April 23,406 2,672 430 26,508 12% May 23,406 2,672 1,494 27,572 15% June 23,406 13,762 1,565 38,733 40% July 23,406 13,762 3,145 40,313 42% August 24,672 7,546 6,829 39,047 37% September 24,672 2,327 2,969 29,968 18% October 24,672 2,327 1,816 28,815 14% November 24,672 2,327 731 27,730 11% December 24,672 931 698 26,301 6%

Data source: Northwest Michigan Seasonal Population Analysis, published by Networks Northwest in 2014.

Page 11 2.4. Age Distribution of Residents in Antrim County According to 2010 Census data, the median age in Antrim County increased by 6.3 years between 2000 and 2010. In 2000 the median age for the County was 41.1 years, increasing to 47.4 in 2010. Census data also shows that age groups over 45 experienced population increases between 2000 and 2010 while all age groups under 45 saw decreases. Chart 2.5 shows the difference in population by age group between the 2000 Census and 2010 Census. Increases in middle age individuals, coupled with strong increases in retirement age people, presents interesting planning problems for recreational use.

Antrim County - Population by Age 2000 2010 % change Total population 23,110 23,580 2.0% Under 5 years 1,325 1,155 -12.8%

5 to 9 years 1,558 1,387 -11.0%

10 to 14 years 1,746 1,444 -17.3% 15 to 19 years 1,497 1,417 -5.3% 20 to 24 years 969 914 -5.7% 25 to 34 years 2,379 2,033 -14.5% 35 to 44 years 3,464 2,629 -24.1%

45 to 54 years 3,177 3,628 14.2%

55 to 59 years 1,536 1,934 25.9% 60 to 64 years 1,426 1,823 27.8% 65 to 74 years 2,353 3,054 29.8% 75 to 84 years 1,321 1,625 23.0% 85 years and over 359 537 49.6% Median age 41.1 47.4

2.5. Gender The distribution of Antrim County population by gender is shown in Chart 2.6. Overall, males and females are evenly distributed, however, more senior citizens are female.

Table 1.5 – Population by Sex

Population by Sex 1980 % of total 1990 % of Total 2000 % of Total 2010 % of Total Male 7980 49.28% 8903 48.96% 11545 49.96% 11674 49.51% Female 8214 50.72% 9282 51.04% 11565 50.05% 11906 50.49%

Age 65 and over 1980 % of total 1990 % of Total 2000 % of Total 2000 % of Total

Male 1114 45.58% 1423 45.00% 1867 46.29% 2497 40.48% Female 1330 54.42% 1739 55.00% 2166 53.71% 3672 59.52%

Page 12

2.6. Senior Citizens Chart 2.7 also lists the population of senior citizens (aged 65 and over) by township and for the County as a whole. While 22% of County residents are aged 65 or over, the lakeshore townships tend to have higher proportions of senior citizens. Antrim County’s senior population increased by 1,083 from 2000 to 2010 while the county added only 530 residents over that period of time.

An aging population presents numerous challenges to Antrim County in the provision of public facilities and services. For recreational facilities, the question of access to handicapped patrons becomes a major design, construction, and cost issue. The relative distribution of types of recreation facilities may also become a factor as the demographics of the local population continue to evolve.

Age Group Antrim County Star Echo Milton Banks Warner Custer Helena Jordan

Kearney Chestonia Elk Rapids Elk Mancelona Torch Lake Torch Central Lake Forest Home Forest

Under 5 Years 81 105 23 53 34 94 67 37 62 78 316 92 52 33 28 1155

5-9 95 106 39 55 61 135 74 50 75 101 349 127 55 29 36 1387

10-15 107 141 20 62 58 132 100 47 53 113 351 123 60 39 38 1444

15 - 19 108 122 38 66 68 173 68 33 68 107 319 124 53 38 32 1417

20 - 24 55 90 26 40 26 93 44 23 43 66 265 62 38 29 14 914

25 - 34 138 197 45 78 81 171 123 68 119 165 483 151 106 57 51 2033

35 - 44 200 246 55 163 119 239 148 93 132 177 573 234 124 76 50 2629

45 - 54 278 358 89 185 147 371 282 145 171 269 619 330 143 166 75 3628

55 - 59 149 177 46 88 74 217 157 95 81 132 280 199 77 136 26 1934

60 - 64 118 184 34 104 54 235 165 108 66 91 248 183 74 142 17 1823

65 - 74 175 285 75 159 112 374 281 197 78 227 368 349 88 260 26 3054

75 Years + 105 187 21 83 43 397 211 105 44 239 229 230 56 189 23 2162

Total 1609 2198 511 1136 877 2631 1720 1001 992 1765 4400 2204 926 1194 416 23580

Median Age 45.7 48.2 46.2 47.3 44.7 53 53.4 55.6 41 48.1 37.4 51.5 42.8 59.8 37 47.4

Pop. under 65 1329 1726 415 894 732 1860 1228 699 870 1299 3803 1625 782 745 367 18374

Pop. over 65 280 472 96 242 155 771 492 302 122 466 597 579 144 449 49 5216

% Under 65 83% 79% 82% 79% 84% 71% 72% 70% 88% 74% 87% 74% 85% 63% 89% 78%

% 65 and over 17% 21% 18% 21% 16% 29% 28% 30% 12% 26% 13% 26% 15% 37% 11% 22%

Page 13

2.7. Persons with Disabilities Chart 2.8 shows the 2012-2016 American Community Survey showing an estimated 15.7% of residents living with a disability.

With such high percentages of the County's population suffering from some form of disability, accessibility issues must be an integral part of all future recreational planning projects.

Disability by Age (Total Group Percentage of Population) With a Disability Non-institutional Population (est. 23,090) Under 18 Years (4,424) 260 5.9% 18-64 Years (12,836) 1,679 13.1% 65 Years or older (5,789) 1,678 29% Total 3,617 15.7%

2.9. Antrim County Labor Force The information for Antrim County’s labor force was provided by the 2012-2016 American Community Survey 5-year Estimates. Chart 2.9 shows that Antrim County has 19,344 residents over the age of 16 years and of that 10,469 are in the labor force. The Survey also estimates that Antrim County has a 7.8% unemployment rate.

2012-2016 Survey Est. Percentage of Population Over 16 Population Over 16 Years Old 19,344 ----- In Labor Force 10,469 54.1 Employed 9,648 49.9 Unemployed 818 4.2

2.10. Northwest Lower Michigan Population Between the 2000 and 2010 US Census, the region grew by 16,466 residents. Most of the growth was in Grand Traverse County. Surrounding populations may affect the process for parks and recreation planning. Chart 2.10 shows the population broken down by County from the 1990, 2000, and 2010 Censuses.

Page 14 Population Comparison by County County 1990 2000 2010 Antrim 18,185 23,110 23,580 Benzie 12,200 15,998 17,525 Charlevoix 21,468 26,090 25,949 Emmet 25,040 31,437 32,694 Grand Traverse 64,273 77,654 86,986 Kalkaska 13,497 16,571 17,153 Leelanau 16,527 21,119 21,708 Manistee 21,265 24,525 24,733 Missaukee 12,147 14,478 14,849 Wexford 26,360 30,484 32,735 Total 230,962 281,466 297,912

Data source: U.S. Census Bureau

Page 15

3. ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE

Antrim County does not have a Parks Department, nor does it have a Parks Director. The County manages its recreational facilities by a mixture of direct management using a combination of County staff and by contracting management of specific facilities. The figure below shows the management system for the park system in Antrim County.

Antrim County Electorate

Antrim County Board of Commissioners

Antrim County Buildings, Lands and Infrastructure Committee

Antrim Antrim County Antrim Creek Grass River Natrual Friends of Glacial Park Manager Conservation Wetzel lake Sub- Administration and Natural Area Area Inc. Hills Natural Area (County Employee) District (County Committee Planning Office Commission Forester)

Park Employees (County Employees)

Recent land acquisitions have brought the current holdings of County-owned property to approximately 5,300 acres. Other assets include public road endings that serve as water access points, ball field sites, an industrial site, lake and stream frontages.

Page 16 3.1. Antrim County Buildings, Lands and Infrastructure Committee

In October of 2014, the Antrim County Board of Commissioners combined the former Parks and Lands Committee, Public Works Committee and Buildings and Grounds Committee to form the current Buildings, Lands and Infrastructure Committee. The Committee is comprised of three County Commissioners who oversee the development and management of the parks and forest land within Antrim County. The Committee meets monthly to hear reports from the Parks Manager, Antrim Conservation District, Grass River Natural Area, and Glacial Hills Natural Area.

The Buildings, Lands and Infrastructure Committee advises and reports to the Board of Commissioners with recommendations that may increase the recreational opportunities for residents and visitors of Antrim County. The Buildings, Lands, and Infrastructure Committee also oversees the preparation of the Parks and Recreation Plan, starting in 2018. The Committee acts as the budgetary oversight for the County park system in conjunction with the Finance and Ways & Means Committee.

Capital budgets for the various County-managed recreational entities are, whenever possible, provided by the County General Fund. However, the recent financial crisis that many counties face, including Antrim, has forced an almost exclusive reliance on outside grant funding, both public and private, for capital improvements. Antrim County has applied for grants from the Rotary Charities, the Grand Traverse Band of Chippewa and Ottawa Indians, Coastal Zone Management, Michigan Natural Resource Trust Fund, the Great Lakes Fisheries Trust, the Norcross Foundation, as well as various federal agencies. These grant applications have met with varying degrees of success. In most grant budgets, the County will typically provide some percentage of the total project cost with a local cash match.

In the future, should funding through grants and the general fund alone be drastically insufficient to meet the needs of the parks and recreation system in Antrim County, other types of funding could be pursued by the County. A general countywide millage is one possibility. Another possibility would be purchase of stickers required to enter and use County recreation facilities. Special assessment districts may, in some cases be possible and appropriate. Such steps can only be taken after a thorough consensus develops in the County over the direction and long-term objectives that are articulated in the Parks and Recreation Plan.

3.2. Staff and Administrative Support Personnel

Antrim County employs one seasonal Park Manager and numerous seasonal park attendants at the County owned campground, Barnes Park. It is the role of the Park Manager to oversee the day-to-day operation of Barnes Park, Noteware’s Landing, and the Elk Rapids Day Park and report any items of concern that may develop to the Buildings, Lands and Infrastructure Committee. The Parks Manager and staff also perform occasional maintenance at the Antrim Creek Natural Area and other County parks. The Buildings, Lands and Infrastructure Committee reserves the right to assign additional

Page 17 duties to the Park Manager and staff as they see fit.

The staff of the County Administration and Planning Office administers any and all functions associated with County parks and/or recreation opportunities, i.e. grant administration, park development, trail implementation, etc. The staff of the Administration and Planning Office is the official record taker of all minutes and holds all documents and files for the Buildings, Lands and Infrastructure Committee and the Antrim Creek Natural Area Advisory Committee.

3.4. Contracted and Jointly Managed Facilities

3.4.1. Grass River Natural Area, Inc. (GRNA) Grass River Natural Area provides educational programming through the Grass River Education Center to both K-12 students and adults. Continuing environmental education through the grades, and combining it with leadership training, will be the best way to ensure respect and stewardship of our natural resources in and around Antrim County. In addition, Grass River holds multiple education programs at Antrim Creek Natural Are.

The County provided an annual contribution of $34,000 in 2018 to the Grass River Fund for operational expenses. The County additionally provided $100,000 per year for 3 years (2018-2020) towards the Grass River Boardwalk project and $66,667 per year for 3 years (2017-2019) for the Grass River Road and Parking Lot project. Grass River Natural Area, Inc. provides nearly all of the rest of the funds for the management of the Grass River Natural Area. The majority of operational funds are generated through a variety of sources (membership, donations, fund- raising events, program fees, etc.). The Grass River Master Plan calls for acquisition of additional wetland areas, which is typically accomplished through grants from the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund and from private funding sources.

3.4.2. Friends of Glacial Hills The Antrim County Board of Commissioners along with the Village of Bellaire and Forest Home Township entered into an intergovernmental agreement to create the Friends of Glacial Hills in 2015. This new group is responsible for the management of the activities on the trails at Glacial Hills Natural Area. All three governmental entities own separate portions of the 800 acre property.

The Friends of Glacial Hills maintain the 31.5 miles of trails and three trail heads by utilizing volunteers. The trails serve many uses including hiking, running, and mountain biking and skiing. The Friends of Glacial Hills are supported by trail users through donations and annual memberships, as well local community and donor funding.

3.4.3. Antrim Conservation District (ACD) In addition to the contract with the County to provide soil erosion, household hazardous waste, and recycling contract, ACD also holds the forest and wildlife

Page 18 contract. This contract states that ACD will have a qualified forester to administer forestry activities for the County. It also states ACD is responsible for advising and informing the County on forestry activities on County-owned land, parklands, and natural areas. ACD is also helpful in the maintenance of County parks.

3.4.4. Antrim Creek Natural Area Commission (ACNA) The Antrim County Board of Commissioners has chosen to create the Antrim Creek Natural Area Commission to oversee the development of a 154 acre natural area, which includes nearly a mile of shoreline along Grand Traverse Bay. The Antrim Creek Natural Area Commission is a collaborative effort between Antrim County, Banks Township, and the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy. The County directly appoints three members of the Commission and the remaining two members are appointed by the County based upon the recommendations by Banks Township. Annual operational expenditures for the Antrim Creek Natural Area are made from the Antrim County General Fund. An Endowment Fund has also been established for the preservation and maintenance of the Natural Area. This Endowment Fund is overseen by an Endowment Committee, chaired by the Antrim County Drain Commissioner, and managed on a day-to-day basis by the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation.

3.4.5. Wetzel Lake Day Park In partnership with Mancelona Township and the Antrim Conservation District, the Antrim County Board of Commissioners has established a Day Park at Wetzel Lake. The land the park sits on is owned by the State of Michigan but Antrim County has a long-term lease agreement for the site through the forestry management unit of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment (DNRE).

3.4.6. Elk Rapids Dam Fishing Park The Elk Rapids Dam Fishing Park is located at the tailrace area of the Elk Rapids Hydroelectric dam and hydroelectric power plant. The park is maintained by the Village of Elk Rapids through a lease agreement with the County for the land and the adjoining beach area.

3.5. Operational Budget The Antrim County Board of Commissioners appropriates funds from the Antrim County General Fund for the operations of the County park system on a yearly basis. The 2018 budgets for the Antrim County Parks and Recreation system include nine line items: Barnes Park-Operations and Maintenance, Elk Rapids Day Park-Operations & Maintenance, Grass River Natural Area, Antrim Creek Natural Area, Cedar River Natural Area, Noteware’s Landing Wetzel Lake, and Willow Day Park, Mohrmann Park, and Forest Land Management. In addition, there has been an endowment fund set up for Antrim Creek Natural Area.

Page 19 Antrim County Park-related Operating Budget Items 2018 Funding Levels

Item 2018

Barnes Park $275,070.00 Elk Rapids Day Park $ 17,340.00 County Appropriation: Grass River $ 34,000.00 Natural Area Antrim Creek Natural Area $ 6,287.00

Cedar River Natural Area, Mohrmann Natural Area, Murphy Park $ 3,600.00

Wetzel Lake, Notware’s Landing, and Willow day Park. $ 7,575.00

County Appropriation: Glacial Hills Natural Area $ $8,708.02

County Appropriation: Forestry $ 73,037.00

3.6. Inter-Agency Relations

Coordination between the Buildings, Lands and Infrastructure Committee and the various reporting entities is handled in a number of ways:

1. A County Commissioner also serves as an ex-officio member of the Board of Directors of Grass River Natural Area, Inc. This helps to ensure County input and oversight into the operations of Grass River Natural Area, Inc. and the management of the Grass River Natural Area.

2. The County Parks Manager, the Director of the Grass River Natural Area, and the County Forester (or other staff of the Conservation District) regularly report at the meetings of the Buildings, Lands and Infrastructure Committee. This ensures communication and coordination between staff and administrative bodies on various projects and in areas of overlapping administrative authority.

3. The staff of the Planning and Administration Office serve as administrative staff to the Buildings, Lands and Infrastructure Committee. This helps to ensure a proper flow of information and coordination of projects of mutual jurisdiction and interest.

4. The Chairman of the Antrim Creek Natural Area Commission is a County

Page 20 Commissioner.

5. A member of the Buildings, Lands and Infrastructure Committee is appointed to the Friends of Glacial Hills Board of Directors.

6. The staff of the Administration and Planning Office work with Art Rapids!, who have developed and maintain the “Walk of Art” in the Elk Rapids Day Park. The “Walk of Art” hosts outdoor art sculptures from various artists around not only the County, but the world. These sculptures compliment the Day Park without altering the park or public access and come at no cost to the County.

7. At every meeting of the joint Wetzel Lake Committee, there is a representative of the Buildings, Lands and Infrastructure Committee, Mancelona Township, and the Antrim Conservation District. A Conservation District representative is the District Director, who also serves as the chair of the joint committee. The Director typically reports on Wetzel Lake activities to the Buildings, Lands and Infrastructure Committee.

8. Information and coordination of meetings with members of civic groups such as local Rotary Clubs, Lion Clubs and others that have an interest in facilities such as non-motorized trails through Antrim County that join the existing trails of neighboring counties.

9. Coordination of on-going multi-jurisdiction projects including Wetzel Lake Park, Elk Rapids Day Park, and, as funding allows, the Elk Rapids Dam Fishing Park project.

10. Development of future projects that will most certainly involve numerous townships and the County in the establishment of the Antrim County leg of a regional non-motorized trail (between Traverse City and Charlevoix), as well as the establishment of new parks in the eastern half of Antrim County.

11. County forest lands (and associated recreational facilities and natural areas) are managed by contractual service with the County Forester. The County Forester also reports monthly to the Buildings, Lands and Infrastructure Committee regarding forestland activities.

3.7. Rules and Regulations Governing the Use of County Parkland

Rules and regulations governing the use of County Park and Forestlands have been established and amended by the vote of the Board of Commissioners. Typically these Rules are posted at the park. In the case of Barnes Park, rules are printed on the registration form/ticket for the campsite.

In special cases, where inter-jurisdictional agreements are involved, an ordinance for the

Page 21 establishment of the park or natural area may be enacted, with specific rules of use being part of such an ordinance. The Antrim Creek Natural Area Ordinance is an example of such an ordinance.

The County ordinances governing forestlands serve as an umbrella for the management of the parks and natural areas by the Antrim Conservation District. The specific rules and regulations governing each parcel is laid out in the parcels forest management plan written by the County Forester and approved by the County Board of Commissioners. Ordinances for County properties include: the Antrim Creek Natural Area Ordinance, the Barnes Parks Ordinance, the Grass River Natural Area Ordinance, the Jordan River (Motor Boats) Ordinance, the County ORV Ordinance and the Torch Lake and Clam Lake Rivers Ordinance.

3.8. Community Barrier-Free Compliance Status

All County recreational facilities are evaluated for accessibility on an on-going basis. This occurred as part of the recreation inventory process by the Parks and Recreation Commission along with the managing agencies in 1999. As part of the recreation inventory process in 2004, all local units of government (townships and villages) were asked to report their degree of barrier-free compliance at all their facilities. All local units of government were also asked to report any planned improvement schedules in regards to making the facilities barrier-free.

Antrim County continues to address and resolve all identified accessibility issues at all major county recreation areas. Past projects that have increased accessibility to our recreational resources include an accessible bathhouse and accessible playground equipment at Barnes Park. Antrim Creak Natural Area includes construction of two barrier-free trails and utilizes accessible portable toilet units. The recently completed “perception trail” at Grass River Natural Area, which is a .3 mile sensory/braille trail that allows for those with sight impairments to enjoy an educational nature trail. All future accessibility improvements will conform to the guidelines listed in Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and to the guidelines developed by the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board

Until all accessibility action items have been completed, Antrim County will continue to implement the following transition methods: The Grass River Natural Area, Inc. will continue use of an accessible, wooden entrance ramp at the Grass River Natural Area Interpretive Center until a new facility can be constructed. Continued use of accessible portable toilet units will occur at the Antrim Creek Natural Area until all accessible measures identified in the Antrim Creek Natural Area Master Plan have been implemented.

Many individuals have chosen Antrim County as their retirement community. With this aging population, Antrim County is very committed to maintaining and increasing accessibility to our recreational resources. All future facilities and programs will be developed in compliance with ADA guidelines and the guidelines developed by the

Page 22 Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board.

Page 23

4. RECREATION IN ANTRIM COUNTY

Antrim County is rich in the natural resources that attract visitors year-round to enjoy our outdoor and nature-based activities. The abundance of beautiful natural scenery to admire, fresh waters and streams for fishing, canoeing, kayaking and boating, as well as hiking trails, golf courses and ski hills continue to make Antrim County a repeated destination site for families and visitors for generations.

The County’s fresh water resources including the Chain of Lakes, the Jordan River Valley and access to Lake Michigan, as well as many other areas, provide constant opportunity for hunters, fishermen, hikers and snowmobilers alike.

The Antrim County Parks and Recreation Board and the staff of the Administration and Planning Department completed a comprehensive inventory of community recreational resources in 2000. In 2018, the Administration and Planning Department, along with the assistance of the Villages and Townships within the County, updated the list. A comprehensive, updated inventory was required before effective identification and prioritization of community recreational needs could be accomplished. Data was compiled with the goal of placing the information in a searchable database on the Antrim County web site (see www.antrimcounty.org).

Page 24

For easier reference geographically, all County properties/facilities, local public properties/facilities, and all school and private properties/facilities within the County have been organized and listed by Township. Included in this inventory are facility location maps that illustrate the location and spatial distribution of all recreational facilities within Antrim County

4.1. Regional Recreational Opportunities:

After compiling its county recreational inventory, the Antrim County Parks and Recreation Commission (2000) also tabulated an inventory of recreational facilities outside of the county. The purpose of this regional inventory was to provide a broader perspective to available recreational opportunities, thereby permitting the County to better assess community recreational needs.

In compiling this regional recreation inventory the Antrim County Parks and Recreation Commission choose to only inventory those counties immediately adjacent to Antrim County. The Commission believed that the counties adjacent to Antrim County would provide the best perspective in which to analyze community recreation needs. It should also be noted that this regional recreation inventory is not exhaustive (many local recreational facilities and perhaps some county facilities were not accounted for). The purpose of the regional recreation inventory was to better assess recreation needs within Antrim County. Therefore only the most significant recreational facilities within the adjacent counties were inventoried.

The immediate recreational opportunities lying to the north of Antrim County are located within Charlevoix County. Recreational opportunities within Charlevoix County include:

• Fisherman's Island State Park on the shore of Lake Michigan. • Numerous skiing and golfing opportunities at Boyne Mountain Resort • Non-motorized trail opportunities; as typified by the Petoskey - Charlevoix Trail • Numerous boating and fishing opportunities available on Charlevoix County's inland lakes, specifically Walloon Lake and Lake Charlevoix and Round Lake.

Recreation opportunities located to the east of Antrim County are found primarily within Otsego County:

• Otsego State Park • Pigeon River Country State Forest • Hartwick Pines State Park • Hidden Valley Resort • Sylvan Treetops Resort

Page 25 • Numerous motorized and non-motorized trails, including the 47-mile Cheboygan - Gaylord Rail-Trail, highlight the opportunities found within this county.

The majority of immediately accessible regional recreation opportunities are found to the south and west within the counties of Kalkaska and Grand Traverse. Significant acres of State Forest land are located within Kalkaska County. Within State Forest land areas, and along the heavily used Boardman River and Manistee River are numerous State, county, and privately owned camping and canoeing facilities.

• The Village of Kalkaska is home to the Kaliseum recreational complex. • Kalkaska County has many motorized (Kalkaska Area ORV Trail, the Blue Bear Snowmobile Trail, several MDNRE snowmobile and ORV trails) and non- motorized trails (including North County Trail, the Shore to Shore Trail, Kalkaska Winterfest Trail, and the Boardman River Water Trail) within its borders. • Kalkaska County recently added a new little league park in Rapid City based on their Recreation Plan. • The Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy manages two nature preserves (Seven Bridges Natural Area and Skegemog Swamp Pathway) within the County. • Mackinaw State Forest

Grand Traverse County, the most heavily populated county in the immediate region, contains the largest variety of recreational opportunities in the area. Grand Traverse County contains several natural areas and state parks.

• Sand Lakes Quiet Area • Maple Bay Natural Area • Ptobego Wildlife Management Area • Skegemog Wildlife Area • Brown Bridge Quiet Area • Traverse City State Park • Grand Traverse Natural Education Reserve

Numerous non-motorized trail opportunities are found within Grand Traverse County including:

• The North American Vasa Trail • Single-track mountain biking path • Traverse Area Recreation Trail (TART) • The North County Trail • Shore to Shore Horseback Riding Trail • Boardman River Water Trail

Page 26 In addition, to non-motorized opportunities, several motorized trail opportunities exist, including Boardman Valley Snowmobile Trail and the Grand Traverse ORV Cycle Trail. Numerous private skiing, golfing, and gaming opportunities exist within the County. Highlighting these opportunities are the Grand Traverse Resort, the Turtle Creek Casino and Resort, and the Holiday Hills Recreational Area.

4.2. Demand for Recreational Opportunities

The most popular and demanded recreational activities are related to access to our water resources. Boating, fishing and beach activities are primary uses. Public land hunting, snowmobiling, and hiking support a number of seasonal activities on public lands and golf and skiing are provided on private lands. All of these recreational activities are considered high on the demand list.

4.3. Tourism in the Region

Currently Antrim County hosts a variety of tourist-based festivals and recreational attractions. An annual Petoskey Stone Festival is held yearly at Barnes Park, located on the shore of Lake Michigan, which draws people from outside Michigan as well as around Northern Michigan, to celebrate the State Stone. Antrim County is also home to a series of parades and festivals throughout the summer months, such as the Rubber Ducky Festival in downtown Bellaire, Harbor Days in Elk Rapids, the Bass Festival in Mancelona, the Central Lake Car Show, the annual Alden Days, Fireman Day in Alba and the Ellsworth Pig Roast. Weekly events are scheduled during the summer evenings to continue to promote tourism in the downtown areas of Alden, Bellaire, Central Lake, Elk Rapids and Mancelona.

4.4. Equitable Access

Recreation close to home and work is important to residents in Antrim County. This is consistent with the Antrim County Board of Commissioner’s desire to make Antrim County a good place to visit, raise a family, start a business, and to retire. Creating a highly valued quality of life can be supplemented by having a recreational system that can be accessed throughout the County.

4.5. Partnerships

Many proposals for enhancing park and recreational opportunities within Antrim County cannot be achieved without the cooperation between multiple service providers, agencies and user groups. Grants and funding will continue to be necessary, as well as working with the various clubs and organizations in Antrim County. Local village and township zoning officials work with the County in order to locate and secure recreational areas that can be used by both visitors and residents alike. Antrim County has had a great record of working with various local units of government to accomplish various projects in the County.

Page 27 4.6. County Park Inventory

Utilizing 2010 American Disability Act Standards for Accessible Design, each park was rated by the Deputy County Administrator. The ratings are identified in the Michigan DNR’s Guidelines for the Development of Community Park, Recreation, Open Space, and Greenway Plans as, “Each facility should be compared to the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design and at a minimum given a ranking from 1-5, where 1=none of the site elements meet 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design, 2=some, 3=most, 4=all and 5=the facility meets the Principals of Universal Design.”

Page 28 Park Name: Antrim Creek Natural Area

Size in acres: 156

Description of the general purpose or use of each park: General recreational use including hiking, fishing, and swimming; educational programming

Primary Service Area: Banks Township

Type and number of recreation and support facilities: Two day use parking lot

ADA Accessibility Score: 2; there are two barrier free loops within the trail system that are accessible, as well as accessible portable restrooms.

Site Development Plan, if one has been developed: ACNA Master Plan (Appendix ??)

Page 29 Park Name: Barnes Park Campground

Size in acres: 163

Description of the general purpose or use of each park: Campground, general recreation use such as hiking, swimming and fishing

Primary Service Area: Torch Lake Township

Type and number of recreation and support facilities: Two bathhouses; two pavilions; park office building

ADA Accessibility Score: 2; restrooms are ADA accessible, one trail is surfaced

Site Development Plan, if one has been developed: N/A

Page 30 Park Name: Cedar River Natural Area

Size in acres: 187

Description of the general purpose or use of each park: General recreation use, specifically non- motorized trail use

Primary Service Area: Village of Bellaire, Kearny Township

Type and number of recreation and support facilities: Antrim Conservation District Office

ADA Accessibility Score: 1

Site Development Plan, if one has been developed: N/A

Page 31 Park Name: Elk Rapids Day Park

Size in acres: 13

Description of the general purpose or use of each park: Art Rapids! Walk of Art; general recreation

Primary Service Area: Elk Rapids Township, Village of Elk Rapids

Type and number of recreation and support facilities: Restroom facility; pavilion; playground; day use parking lot

ADA Accessibility Score: 1

Site Development Plan, if one has been developed: N/A

Page 32 Park Name: Glacial Hills Natural Area

Size in acres: 814 (split between Antrim County (608), Forest Home Township (175), and the Village of Bellaire (13))

Description of the general purpose or use of each park: General recreation use, specifically non- motorized trail use such as hiking, biking, and cross country skiing.

Primary Service Area: Forest Home Township, Village of Bellaire

Type and number of recreation and support facilities: 2 day use parking lots, 2 restroom facilities

ADA Accessibility Score: 1

Site Development Plan, if one has been developed: N/A

Page 33 Park Name: Grass River Natural Area

Size in acres: 1492

Description of the general purpose or use of each park: General recreational use such as hiking, fishing, and hunting; educational programming

Primary Service Area: Forest Home Township

Type and number of recreation and support facilities: 3 day use parking lots; 2 restroom facilities; Grass River Educational Center building

ADA Accessibility Score: 3; accessible restrooms; perception pathway for visually impaired; boardwalk is accessible

Site Development Plan, if one has been developed: GRNA Strategic Plan

Page 34 Park Name: Mohrmann Natural Area

Size in acres: 249

Description of the general purpose or use of each park: General recreational use such as hiking, cross country skiing, and hunting; forest land under management contract with Antrim Conservation District

Primary Service Area: Kearney Township

Type and number of recreation and support facilities: None.

ADA Accessibility Score: 1

Site Development Plan, if one has been developed: N/A

Park Name: Murphy Park

Size in acres: 73

Description of the general purpose or use of each park: General recreation use such as hiking

Primary Service Area: Echo Township

Type and number of recreation and support facilities: None.

ADA Accessibility Score: 1

Site Development Plan, if one has been developed: N/A

Park Name: Noteware’s Landing

Size in acres: Less than one acre

Description of the general purpose or use of each park: General recreation use such as swimming, fishing

Primary Service Area: Kearney Township

Type and number of recreation and support facilities: Day use parking lot; accessible portable restroom

ADA Accessibility Score: 1

Site Development Plan, if one has been developed: N/A

Page 35 Park Name: Wetzel Lake Park

Size in acres: Less than one acre

Description of the general purpose or use of each park: General recreation use such as swimming

Primary Service Area: Mancelona Township

Type and number of recreation and support facilities: Accessible portable restrooms in warmer months

ADA Accessibility Score: 1

Site Development Plan, if one has been developed: N/A

Park Name: Willow Day Park

Size in acres: Less than one acre

Description of the general purpose or use of each park: General recreation use such as swimming and fishing

Primary Service Area: Kearney Township

Type and number of recreation and support facilities: Accessible portable restrooms in warmer months

ADA Accessibility Score: 1

Site Development Plan, if one has been developed: N/A

Page 36 BANKS TOWNSHIP

Page 37 Banks Township Antrim Creek Natural Area Antrim County Natural Area Lore Road (Landlocked) Antrim County Forest Area

Page 38 Central Lake Township

Facility Controlling Authority Asset Handicap Accessible Acres Electrified Campsites (qty)Rustic Campsites (qty)Beach Restrooms Bath House Play Ground Picnic Area Nature Trails Track & Other Field Fishing Volleyball Tennis Courts Basketball Courts (qty) Equestrian Trails Groomed X-Country SkiX-Country Trails Ski RentalsIce Skating Softball Fields (qty) Baseball Fields (qty)Golf Holes Boat Launch (seeConnected notes for Watertype) body Notes Central Lake High School Board of Education Recreation Field x x x 1 Central Lake Library Central Lake Twp Library x x Green River Access Central Lake Twp Access Site x Green River Herrick Field Central Lake Twp Recreation Field 13 x x x 2 1 Intermediate Lake Access - Houghton Rd Central Lake Twp Access Site Intermediate Lake Intermediate Lake Access - South Street Central Lake Twp Access Site Intermediate Lake Intermediate River - Maple Street Central Lake Twp Access Site Intermediate River Intermediate River - Thomas Street Central Lake Twp Access Site Intermediate River Torch Lake Access - Alberti Access Central Lake Twp Access Site Torch Lake Torch Lake Access - Lake Avenue Central Lake Twp Access Site Torch Lake Torch Lake Access - Lake Street Central Lake Twp Access Site Torch Lake Torch Lake Access - Meggisson Road Central Lake Twp Access Site Torch Lake Torch Lake Access - Wak Wing Central Lake Twp Access Site Torch Lake Central Lake Access - E. Bradford Vlg. of Central Lake Access Site x x Central Lake Wilson Lake Access DNR Access Site x x x Wilson Lake Ron Donaldson Recreation Fields Vlg. of Central Lake Recreation Field x 1 x x x 2 1 1 Thurston Park Vlg. of Central Lake Campground x 4 36 x x x x x x x Intermediate Lake Hanley Lake Access Vlg. of Central Lake Access Site Hanley Lake

Page 39 Chestonia Township

Page 40 Custer Township

Page 41 Echo Township

Facility Controlling Authority Asset Handicap Accessible Acres Electrified Campsites (qty)Rustic Campsites (qty)Beach Restrooms Bath House Picnic Area Playground Nature Trails Track & Other Field Fishing Volleyball Tennis Courts Basketball Courts (qty)Equestrian Trails Groom Cross-Country SkiCross Trails Country Ski RentalsIce Skating Softball Fields (qty) Baseball Fields (qty) Boat Launch (see notes forConnected type) Waterbody Notes Beal Lake Public Access Antrim County Access Sites x Beal Lake Dickerson Road Antrim County Forest Area 160 Hosler Road - Section 24 (landlocked) Antrim County Forest Area 80 Intermediate River - Section 27 Antrim County Forest Area 80 Intermediate River Murphy Park - Section 34 Antrim County Forest Area 73 x Skinkle Road - Section 34 Antrim County Forest Area 150 Echo Township Park Echo Township Beach x x x x x x Six Mile Lake Jigg's Stadium Echo Township Stadium x 1 Mackinaw State Forest -Gaylord Forest Area State of MI Forest Area Six Mile Lake Road - Section 20 State of MI Forest Area 13

Page 42 Elk Rapids Township

Facility Controlling Authority Asset Handicap Accessible Acres Electrified CampsitesRustic (qty) Campsites (qty) Beach Restrooms Bath House Picnic Area Playground Nature Trails Track & Other Field Fishing Volleyball Tennis Courts Basketball Courts (qty) Equestrian Trails Groom Cross-Country Ski TraiCross Country Ski Rentals Ice Skating Softball Fields (qty) Baseball Fields (qty) Golf Holes Boat Launch (see notes for typConnected Waterbody Notes Bass Lake Park Vlg. of Elk Rapids Park x Bass Lake Birch Lake Access DNR Access Site Birch Lake Bridge Street Access Vlg. of Elk Rapids Access Site x Bass Lake Elk Lake Access - East Third Vlg. of Elk Rapids Access Site x Elk River Elk Rapids Dam Beach Vlg. of Elk Rapids Park x x x Elk Lake Elk Rapids Day Park Antrim County Park 13 x x x Grand Traverse Bay Elk Rapids High School Board of Education Rec. Field x x 1 2 x Elk Rapids Iron Company Elk Rapids Twp. Historic Site Elk Rapids Lower Harbor Vlg. of Elk Rapids Beach x x x x Elk River Elk Rapids Memorial Park Vlg. of Elk Rapids Beach x 3 x x x x 4 2 x Grand Traverse Bay Elk Rapids Twp. Hall Elk Rapids Twp. Historic Site Elk Rapids Upper Harbor Vlg. of Elk Rapids Beach x 1 x x x Grand Traverse Bay Elk River Access - East Third Vlg. of Elk Rapids Access Site Elk River Elk River Access - Fourth Street Vlg. of Elk Rapids Access Site Elk River Elk River Access - Millers Park Rd. North Vlg. of Elk Rapids Access Site Elk River Elk River Access - Millers Park Rd. South Vlg. of Elk Rapids Access Site Elk River Elk River Access - West Meguzee Pt. Rd. Vlg. of Elk Rapids Access Site Elk River Elk River Boardwalk Access Vlg. of Elk Rapids Access Site x Elk River Grand Traverse Bay Access Vlg. of Elk Rapids Access Site Grand Traverse Bay Island House and Elk Rapids Public Library Vlg. of Elk Rapids Library Kids Pond Vlg. of Elk Rapids Park x x Grand Traverse Bay Maple Street Vlg. of Elk Rapids Access Site Nick Gisek Roadside Park Michigan DOT Park North Beach Vlg. of Elk Rapids Park 1 x x x Grand Traverse Bay Ptobego Wildlife Flooding Area State of Michigan Nature Area Rotary Park Vlg. of Elk Rapids Park 2 x x Elk Lake Wahboos Road Extension Antrim County Access Site Elk Lake Birch Lake Access - Forest Drive Antrim County Access Site Birch Lake Birch Lake Access - Grove Street Antrim County Access Site Birch Lake Birch Lake Access - Hickory Drive Antrim County Access Site Birch Lake Terrace Ave Extension Antrim County Access Site Elk Lake Palmer-Wilcox-Shah Natural Pres. Antrim County Nature Area Grand Traverse Bay Lake Michigan - walking path Antrim County Walking Path

Page 43 Forest Home Township

Facility Controlling Authority Asset Handicap AccessibleAcres Electrified CampsitesRustic (qty) Campsites (qty)Beach Restrooms Bath House Picnic Area Playground Nature Trails Track & Other FieldFishing Volleyball Tennis Courts Basketball Courts Equestrian(qty) Trails Groom Cross-CountryCross Ski Country T SkiIce Rentals Skating Softball Fields (qty)Baseball Fields (qty)Golf Holes Boat Launch (see notesConnected for t WaterbodyNotes Glacial Hills Pathway and Natural Area/Kirkpatrick forest Antrim County Forest Area 536 x Glacial Hills Pathway and Natural Area Forest Home Twp. Forest Area 183 x North Arm Loon Preserve Forest Home Twp. Natural Area x Lake Bellaire Lake Bellaire Access (Miley's) DNR Access Site Lake Bellaire Bellaire Public Schools Board of Education Rec. Field x x x x 1 Intermediate River Access Village of Bellaire Access Site Intermediate River Clam Lake Access - Clam Lake Road DNR Access Site x Clam Lake Intermediate Lk Access - Gorham Bch DNR Access Site Intermediate Lake Lk Bellaire Pub. Access - Cottage Dr. DNR Access Site x Lake Bellaire Lake Bellaire Access Forest Home Twp. Access Site Lake Bellaire Torch Lake Access (4 sites) Forest Home Twp. Access Site Torch Lake Richardi Boat Mooring Fac. - River St. Village of Bellaire Access Site x Intermediate River Richardi Park Village of Bellaire Park 8 x x x x x 2 3 1 Intermediate River Rotary Soccer Park Village of Bellaire Park 10 x Grass River Natural Area Antrim County Natural Area x Grass River Bellaire Walking/Bike Path Village of Bellaire Walking Trail x x x Intermediate Lake Access Forest Home Twp. Access Site Intermediate Lake Lake Bellaire Access (Lessard's) Forest Home Twp. Access Site Lake Bellaire Lake Bellaire Access (Pleasant Rd) Forest Home Twp. Access Site Lake Bellaire Grass River Natural Area (Hunt Club) Antrim County Natural Area Intermediate Lake Torch Lake Access (Dunson Rd) Forest Home Twp. Access Site Torch Lake Torch Lake Access (Dockside Beach) Torch Lake

Page 44 Helena Township

Facility Controlling Authority Asset Handicap Accessibe Acres Electrified Campsites (qty)Rustic Campsites (qty) Beach Restrooms Bath House Picnic Area Playground Nature Trails Track & Other FieldFishing Volleyball Tennis Courts Basketball Courts (qty)Equestrian Trails Groom Cross-CountryCross Ski CountryTra Ski IceRentals Skating Softball Fields (qty)Baseball Fields (qty)Golf Holes Connected Waterbody Boat Launch (see notesNotes for typ Chessie Pause Depot Park Helena Twp. Museum x x x x x x Torch Lake Clam Lake Access - Chapman Rd Helena Twp. Access Site x Clam Lake Clam Lake Access - Crystal Spring RHelena Twp. Access Site x Clam Lake Helena Twp. Ball Dimond Helena Twp. Recreation Field x x x x Torch Lake Helena Twp. Library/Comm. Ctr. Helena Twp. Library x Helena Twp. Tennis Court Park Helena Twp. Park x x x 2 x Valleau Landing Helena Twp. Access Site x x Torch Lake Lake Street between Lots 116 & 117 Helena Twp. Access Site Torch Lake Valley Street Extension Helena Twp. Access Site Torch Lake Franklin Street Extension Helena Twp. Access Site x Torch Lake Township Dock Helena Twp. Access Site x Torch Lake Tyler Street Extension Helena Twp. Access Site Torch Lake Union Street Extension Helena Twp. Access Site Torch Lake Elder Street Extension Helena Twp. Access Site x Torch Lake Best Road Extension Helena Twp. Access Site Torch Lake Pete Marquette Road Helena Twp. Access Site Torch Lake Paige Road Extension Helena Twp. Access Site Torch Lake Thayer Lake Access Helena Twp. Access Site Thayer Lake Lone Tree Point Helena Twp. Access Site Torch Lake Coy Mountain Reserve Helena Twp. Park 17 x Public Boat Launch - (Butch's) Grass River Natural Area (Partial)

Page 45 Jordan Township

Page 46 Kearney Township

Facility Controlling Authority Asset Handicap Accessible Acres Electrified CampsitesRustic (qty) Campsites (qty)Beach Restrooms Bath House Picnic Area Playground Nature Trails Track & Other FieldFishing Volleyball Tennis Courts Basketball Courts (qty)Equestrian Trails Groom Cross-CountryCross Ski Country Trails SkiIce Rentals Skating Softball Fields (qty)Baseball Fields (qty)Golf Holes Boat Launch (see notes Connectedfor type) Waterbody Notes 1905 Antrim County Courthouse Antrim County County Building x x Antrim County Airport Antrim County Airport x 350 x Antrim Cty Prop. - Landlocked Antrim County Forest Area 90 Batchelder Road Antrim County Forest Area 40 Cedar River Natural Area Antrim County Natural Area 187 x Cedar River Derenzy Road Antrim County Forest Area 100 Meadowbrook Med. Care Fac. Antrim County Care Facility x 105 x Mohrmann Park Antrim County Park 249 x x Notewates Landing Antrim County Access Site x x Lake Bellaire Ritt Rd Antrim County Forest Area Bellaire Public Library Forest Home/Kearney TwpLibrary x x Fisherman's Paradise Pub. Acc. Kearney Township Access Site x x x Lake Bellaire Intermediate Lake Access Kearney Township Access Site x Intermediate Lk. Cedar River Drive State of Michigan Forest Area 40 Oslund Road State of Michigan Forest Area 240 Cedar River Walkway Village of Bellaire Walking/Bike Path x Cedar River Craven Park Village of Bellaire Campground x 80 32 20 x x x x x x 3 x Craven Pond Holiday Acres Village of Bellaire Park 1 x Richardi Mooring Fac. - Ohio St. Village of Bellaire Access Site x Intermediate Rvr River Street Access Site Village of Bellaire Access Site x Intermediate River Bellaire Historical Museum Vlg of Bellaire/Kearney Museum x x Mackinaw State Forest - Gaylord Forest AreState of Michigan Forest Area Lake Bellaire Access (North Lakes Rd) Kearney Township Access Site Lake Bellaire Lake Bellaire Access (Fishermans Paradise Kearney Township Access Site Lake Bellaire

Page 47 Mancelona Township

Facility Controlling Authority Asset Handicap Accessible Acres Electrified Campsites (qty)Rustic Campsites (qty) Beach Restrooms Bath House Picnic Area Playground Nature Trails Track & Other Field Fishing Volleyball Tennis Courts Basketball Courts (qty) Equestrian Trails Groom Cross-CountryCross Country Ski Trails Ski RentalsIce Skating Softball Fields (qty) Baseball Fields (qty) Golf Holes Connected Water body Boat Launch (see notes forNotes type) Mancelona Senior Center Mancelona Township Recreation Facility x Hawk Lake Antrim County Forest Area 160 Hawk Lake Valley Rd Antrim County Forest Area 40 Mancelona Public Schools Board of Education Recreation Field x x x Mancelona School Forest - 1 Board of Education Forest Area 200 Mancelona School Forest - 2 Board of Education Forest Area 80 Wetzel Lake park Antrim County Park x x Wetzel Lake Lesher Park Mancelona Township Forest Area 40 Mancelona Airport Mancelona Township Airport Cran Park Village of Mancelona Park 2 Palmer Park Village of Mancelona Campground x 29 12 x x x x x 2 1 3 Railroad Park Village of Mancelona Park x 1 x x x Johnson Pond Village of Mancelona Park Sand Lake Area DNR Forest Area Snowmobile Trails DNR Snowmobile Trails Deward Area DNR ORV Trails Sand Lake Area Trail Head DNR Snowmobile Trails North Country Trail National Park Service Hiking Trail x

Page 48 Milton Township #1

Facility Controlling Authority Asset Handicap Accessible Acres Electric Campsites Rustic Campsites (qty)Beach Restrooms Bath House Picnic Area Playground Nature Trails Track & Other Field Fishing Volleyball Tennis Courts Basketball Courts (qty)Equestrian Trails Groom X-Country SkiCross Trai Country Ski RentalsIce Skating Softball Fields (qty) Baseball Fields (qty)Golf Holes Connected WaterbodyBoat Launch (see notesNotes for Bussa Road Extension ACRC Access Site x Elk Lake Chippewa Trail Extension ACRC Access Site Elk Lake Easly Road Extension ACRC Access Site Elk Lake Hoopfer Road Extension ACRC Access Site Elk Lake Quail Street Extension ACRC Access Site Elk Lake Rex Terrace Extension ACRC Access Site Elk Lake Elk Lake Access - Schweitzer Lane DNR Access Site x Elk Lake East Elk Lake Rd. Extension Milton Twp. Access Site Elk Lake Elk Lake - Kewadin Extension Milton Twp. Access Site Elk Lake Elk Lake Access - Schweitzer Lane Addition Milton Twp. Access Site x Elk Lake Elk Rest Drive Milton Twp. Access Site Elk Lake Milton Twp. Beach Milton Twp. Beach x x x Elk Lake Milton Twp. Park - East Elk Lake Drive Milton Twp. Park x Elk Lake Plat of Woodlawn - Park A next to Bussa Road Milton Twp. Access Site Elk Lake Ringler Road Park/Elk Lake, Site #38 Milton Twp. Park x 4 x x Elk Lake Erickson Road ACRC Access Site Grand Traverse Bay O'Dell Road Access ACRC Access Site x Grand Traverse Bay Winters Road Extension ACRC Access Site x Grand Traverse Bay Birchview (Joe Marks) Dr. Milton Twp. Access Site Grand Traverse Bay Birchview Dr. 94 ft on Lake - Pathway and Table Milton Twp. Access Site Grand Traverse Bay Carne Court, Plat of White Sands Milton Twp. Access Site Grand Traverse Bay Stevens Ct., Plat of White Sands Milton Twp. Access Site Grand Traverse Bay Skegemog Lake Wildlife Viewing Platform DNR Viewing Platform x x Lake Skegemog Skegemog Access - Fairmont Dr. - Site # 48 Milton Twp. Access Site Lake Skegemog

Page 49 Milton Township #2

Facility Controlling Authority Asset Handicap Accessible Acres Electric Campsites Rustic Campsites (qty)Beach Restrooms Bath House Picnic Area Playground Nature Trails Track & Other Field Fishing Volleyball Tennis Courts Basketball Courts (qty)Equestrian Trails Groom X-Country SkiCross Trails Country Ski RentalsIce Skating Softball Fields (qty) Baseball Fields (qty)Golf Holes Connected WaterbodyBoat Launch (see notesNotes for type) Torch River Access - Lake Street DNR Access Site x Torch Lake Cairn Monument ACRC Monument Milton Twp. Park - Cairn/Indian Milton Twp. Park x 33 x x x x 4 2 1 1 Campbell Rd. Extension ACRC Access Site Torch Lake First Avenue Extension (Cedar Street) ACRC Access Site Torch Lake Hammond Avenue - Plat of Harbor Beach ACRC Access Site Torch Lake Hickin Road Extension ACRC Access Site Torch Lake Indian Road Extension ACRC Access Site Torch Lake Rice Avenue - Plat of Harbor Beach ACRC Access Site Torch Lake Ringler Rd. Extension of Torch Lake ACRC Access Site Torch Lake Stover Avenue - Plat of Harbor Beach ACRC Access Site Torch Lake Sutter Road Extension ACRC Access Site Torch Lake Winters/Waring Road Extension ACRC Access Site Torch Lake Torch Lake Access - Severance Avenue Milton Twp. Access Site x Torch Lake Torch Lake Access - Kessler Park - Site #93 Milton Twp. Access Site Torch Lake Lake St. Plat of New Highlands Milton Twp. Access Site Torch Lake Second Avenue - Harbor Beach (Pine Tr. Ln.) Milton Twp. Access Site Torch Lake Torch Lake Access - Severance Avenue Addition Milton Twp. Access Site x Torch Lake Torch View Street (Torch Lake Acres) Milton Twp. Access Site Torch Lake Torch Woods #26 Lot #33 (100.38 Feet - Co. LandMilton Twp. Access Site Torch Lake

Page 50 Star Township

Page 51 Torch Lake Township

Facility Controlling Authority Asset Handicap AssesibleAcres Electrified CampsitesRustic (qty) Campsites (qty)Beach Restrooms Bath House Picnic Area Playground Nature Trails Track & Other FieldFishing Volleyball Tennis Courts Basketball Courts (qty)Eqestrian Trails Groom Cross-CountryCross Ski Country Trails Ski RentalsIce Scating Softball Fields (qty)Baseball Fields (qty)Golf Holes Boat Launch (see notesConnected for type) WaterbodyNotes Barnes Park Antrim County Campground x 163 64 11 x x x x x x x Lake Michigan Torch Lake Access DNR Access Site x x x Torch Lake Torch Lake Township Bill Good Day Park Torch Lake Twp Park 4 x x x x x x x Torch Lake Golden Beach Access Torch Lake Twp Access Site x Lake Michigan NW Torch Lake Drive Boat Ramp Torch Lake Twp Access Site 8 x Torch Lake Torch Bay Nature Preserve Torch Lake Twp Access Site 38 x x x Lake Michigan Eastport Torch Lake Access DNR Access Site Torch Lake Traverse Bay Road Antrim County Access Site Torch Lake Birchview Drive Torch Lake Twp Access Site Torch Lake Lake Michigan Access (multiple) Torch Lake Twp Access Site Lake Michigan Eden Shores Torch Lake Twp Access Site Lake Michigan Creswell Road Extension Antrim County Access Site Lake Michigan Kruger Road Extension Antrim County Access Site Lake Michigan Bay Colony Road Extension

Page 52 Warner Township

Page 53

5. Description of the Planning and Public Input Process

Antrim County utilizes a “systems approach to planning” to address the County Parks and Recreation Plan. The Guidelines for the Development of Community Park, Recreation, Open Space, and Greenway Plans notes this approach as being “…defined as the process of assessing the park, recreation, and open space needs of a community and translating that information into a framework for meeting the physical, spatial and facility requirements to satisfy those needs.”

5.1 2019-2024 Antrim County Parks and Recreation Survey In the creation of this Parks and Recreation Plan, Antrim County utilized a survey as an initial method to gather public input. The survey (appendix ??) was distributed via email to local municipalities clerks for further distribution, advertised in local newspapers (Appendix ??), posted on County webpage, posted on local recreational organizations social media pages (e.g. local chamber of commerce’s, Antrim Conservation District, Grass River Natural Area, Friends of Glacial Hills, etc.) The survey was available from Tuesday, September 4, 2018 to Friday, September 28, 2018.

While the survey was not a scientific survey, the two hundred and thirty residents that responded to the survey helped formulate the goals, objectives and action plan in this plan. The results of the survey (Appendix ??) show some information

Page 54 of respondents, such as village or township residency, age group, children in the household, and household with a member who is permanently disabled.

The survey asked which parks respondents used within the last year. The top five parks were: 1. Barnes Park Campground and Grass River Natural Area (tie), 3. Antrim Creek Natural Area, 4. Glacial Hills Natural Area, and 5. Elk Rapids Day Park. The survey also identified how often respondents use parks on a weekly basis, which shows the majority of citizens use the parks at least 1-2 times per week. Respondents were asked what improvements they would like to see, what park lands, facilities or amenities they would like to see added, and which activities they participate in at County parks.

Respondents were asked if the county should acquire additional parklands with 10.9% of respondents saying no, while the 76.9% answered either yes or maybe, and the balance having no opinion. Nearly 60% of respondents said that potential, future land purchases should be funded through grants and donations. When asked about expansion of trails, 64.4% of respondents were in favor of non-motorized trails and 40.7% were in favor of motorized trails. It should be noted that there was not a majority of respondents voting no against motorized trails.

5.2 Draft Plan Public Review and Comment The draft plan was taken to the Buildings, Lands and Infrastructure Committee on October 30, 2018 for recommendation to the Board of Commissioners for release to the public for the review and comment period. The Board of Commissioners voted to release the plan on November 8, 2018 and the plan was distributed out on November 12, 2018.

The draft plan was distributed to local municipalities, advertised in the local papers, posted on various local recreational organizations social media postings, and word of mouth for public review and comment. Additionally, the Deputy County Administrator met with multiple organizations and County departments to review information in the plan.

5.3 Final Approval by the Board of Commissioners With, the review period over, the final product was presented to the Antrim County Board of Commissioners and public hearing was held on the draft plan at their Thursday, January 10, 2019 regular meeting. At this meeting, the 2019-2024 Antrim County Parks and Recreation Plan was approved by resolution (Appendix ??). Subsequently, the plan was submitted to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, the County Planning Commission and the regional planning commission Networks Northwest (formerly, the Northwest Michigan Council of Governments).

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6. Goals and Objectives

Discussions within the Buildings, Lands and Infrastructure Committee, requesting resident/citizen input, and looking at historical data and projects helped formulate the goals and objectives below. These will help with providing benefits to residents and visitors. The goals and objectives look at improving existing facilities and services, as well as future facilities and services that may be provided.

1. Goal: To provide and administer park and recreation opportunities and needs of the community

Objective: Establishment of a Parks and Recreation Director

The establishment of a Parks and Recreation Director would allow better management and oversight of the 5,300 acres of County owned property. This has been identified through multiple past park and recreation plans. Some of the other ways this position would be beneficial to the County include; freeing up time of the Park Manager to focus on Barnes Park Campground, further development of current and possible new parks, and streamlined supervision of parks. This position would also allow for the further development of youth programs and education opportunities.

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2. Goal: Improve current park facilities and amenities for all users

Objective: Identify and upgrade facilities and amenities as needed throughout all County parks

Congruent with the results of the survey, the most popular request for park improvements were restroom upgrades. Other top requests were for parking improvements, additional trails, and amenities such as benches, picnic tables, grills, and trash cans. It should be kept in mind that any upgrades should incorporate and meet ADA Standards for Accessible Design.

3. Goal: Provide new and additional opportunities to the community

Objective: Explore potential and feasibility of developing new parks and recreational opportunities on current County owned property

Feedback from the survey showed interest in additional boat launches (to Lake Michigan as well as inland lakes, particularly Torch Lake), connecting existing trails, new snowmobile/ORV and non-motorized trails, dog park, skate park, and kayak launches. One note was that there is no County parks near the hamlet of Alden.

4. Goal: Add to existing trails and establish new trails

Objective: Explore partnership opportunities to establish new non-motorized and motorized trails, as well as connecting existing trails

As identified through the survey, there is interest in non-motorized and motorized trails. Examining the opportunities to connect existing trails, such as Glacial Hills Natural Area to the Village of Bellaire, with other stakeholders (e.g. Forest Home Township, Village of Bellaire, Bellaire Chamber of Commerce, and Friends of Glacial Hills) should be pursued. Additionally, support of the ongoing ventures such as the Traverse City to Charlevoix trail project would meet this. Recognizing the importance of motorized trails would help bring new visitors to the area, as well as providing the opportunities to residents.

5. Goal: Promote existing parks, facilities and trails

Objective: Create maps and work on social media presence for the promotion of County parks, trails and boat launches

Increasing the social media presence for County parks and facilities will benefit both residents and visitors by bringing awareness of the parks and on goings within them. Working with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, local townships and local villages to establish a map of boat launches. Develop a map of the trail opportunities as well as their uses for residents and visitors within the County

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6. Goal: Inspect and grade condition of County parks

Objective: Complete an inspection based on a linear scale of current parks and facilities to further knowledge of needs and opportunities (e.g. current land uses, condition of facilities, ADA accessibility)

Creating a scoring system for current County parks and facilities will help with future needs. Adding this to the results of the survey would further assist with the identification of where resources will best be served.

7. Goal: Strategic acquisition of additional parklands

Objective: When land for sale is unique to the County based on location, park and recreation value or historical significance, it should be examined for purchase

When lands near existing parks or that hold significant value to history or to the parks and recreation of the County, they should be pursued. If a purchase is being considered, the public should be involved in the process as identified by the survey with 43.7% being in favor of additional land and 33.2% being maybes.

8. Goal: Protection of land and water quality

Objective: Developing measures to protect trees, land and waters from invasive species

While not identified by the survey, invasive species are a serious threat that needs to be looked at. Development of a plan to combat the further growth of invasive species is important to the preservation of the County’s trees, lands, and waters.

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7. ACTION PROGRAM

7.1 Rationale

The goals and objectives in Chapter 6 were devised based on the community survey that was available for the public, historical data and previously completed projects, and discussions stemming from the Buildings, Lands and Infrastructure Committee. The following action program contains ways to meet these goals for individual existing parks and services, the County parks and recreation services as a whole, and future needs and opportunities. As a point of information, projects proposed for recreation grant funding that are not included below are still eligible to apply for funding.

7.2 Action Program

Antrim County’s outstanding outdoor natural resources are the basis for tourism and the area’s recreation-based economy. Exceptional recreational and educational benefits are available for all visitors and residents. Maintaining and upgrading existing facilities must continue to be a priority for Antrim County, and must be addressed in the Parks and Recreation Plan. Continued expansion and acquisition of natural areas and better facilities will continue to benefit the area economy.

Page 59 7.2.1. Grass River Natural Area Continued support of Grass River Natural Area, Inc. in their goal of maintaining and developing Grass River Natural Area. When applicable, the purchase of contiguous land should be considered for future trail development and preservation of land.

These projects will help Grass River Natural Area attain goals 2, 3, 4, and 7.

7.3.2. Antrim Creek Natural Area: Antrim Creek Natural Area has existing trails that are in need of improvements such as rerouting. In addition, there is opportunity to replace and increase wayfinding signage in the area. The Antrim Creek Antrim Area (appendix ??) is in need of updating as the last update was in 1998.

These projects help Antrim Creek Natural Area attain goals 2, 3, and 4.

7.3.2. Barnes Park: Barnes Park Campground, as identified by the Park Manager, is in need of upgraded bathhouse renovations, new drain field construction for bathhouses, relocation of overhead wires to underground, and repaving the interior road of the park. Additionally, when the opportunities arise, consideration of expanding the park should be examined. This would allow for the possibility of additional camp sites, and expanding and connecting trails

These projects will help Barnes Park Campground attain goals 2, 3, 4, and 7.

7.3.3. Elk Rapids Day Park Elk Rapids Day Park is located near the Village of Elk Rapids downtown. It would be advantageous to work with the Village of Elk Rapids, Elk Rapids Township, Art Rapids!, and other stake holders to connect the park to the downtown area. In addition, providing bike racks at the park for visitors would be beneficial to the park and area. Expanding the current parking lot will also be important for those who chose to drive. This will help with the increase of visitors to the park.

These projects will help Elk Rapids Day Park attain goals 2, 3, and 4.

7.3.4. Glacial Hills Natural Area Glacial Hills Natural Area has well established trails but there is opportunity to link these existing trails to a new trail leading to the downtown of the Village of Bellaire. Working with Friends of Glacial Hills, Village of Bellaire, Forest Home Township and other stakeholders to accomplish this is important. When applicable, consideration of purchasing additional land should be examined to develop new trails. Additionally, continued support of the Friends of Glacial Hills is key to the future development of the natural area.

Page 60 These projects will help Glacial Hills Natural Area attain goals 2, 3, 4, and 7.

7.3.5. Wetzel Lake Park Wetzel Lake Park has the advantage of being near the Village of Mancelona, and the opportunity to link the two should be examined. This would require working with the Village of Mancelona, Mancelona Township, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (as the landowner), and other stakeholders.

These projects will help Wetzel Lake Park attain goals 2, 3, and 4.

7.3.6. General Parks and Recreation Projects While there is currently a seasonal Park Manager with seasonal staff, much of their time is dedicated to Barnes Park Campground. The establishment of a Parks and Recreation Department and subsequent hiring of a Parks Director would better allow for the fulfillment of the Parks and Recreation Plan goals, objectives, and action programs. It would also allow for better coordination of resource management, development and public outreach.

The development of a grade sheet to inspect and rate currently owned parks, lands, and facilities will help assist with finding opportunities to better serve County residents and visitors alike. These ratings would help with the planning process of where improvements are most needed, and where new opportunities would best be served.

Developing promotional materials that can be distributed by local municipalities and business that identify County parks and trials will help promote the current park system. Working with other municipalities would allow for all parks in the area to be promoted. Further, working with those municipalities that have public access to the inland lakes in the County will allow for the promotion of public access sites and boat launches.

Looking at opportunities to develop new parks in the County where no County parks are currently located is important to future development and growth of the County. The hamlet of Alden is one area where there is no County park. When land that could serve in this capacity, it should be considered to encourage growth in the County.

Supporting the development of non-motorized trails, such as the Traverse City to Charlevoix Trail, should be encouraged. And where applicable, the County should help with this project and be involved with the other stakeholders to ensure the success of the project. Further, the County should work with surrounding townships, counties and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources to examine the potential growth of snowmobile and ORV trails, particularly on the east side of the County.

Page 61 Developing a plan to combat and prevent invasive species is important to the preservation of our parks, lands and waters. This plan could be done on a multi- jurisdictional basis for the preservation of currently owned County land, as well as the surrounding communities’ lands and waters.

These projects help Antrim County attain goals 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8.

Page 62 Appendix A: Survey Questions

QUESTIONS RESPONSES 230

Multiple choice

Page 63 Add option or ADD "OTHER"

Required

Page 64 Short answer text

Page 65 Other…

Long answer text

Page 66 Other…

Page 67 Other…

Long answer text

Page 68 Page 69 Appendix B: Survey Results

Page 70 Municipality Respondents Percentage of Respondents Banks Township 12 5.2% Central Lake Township 28 12.2% Chestonia Township 5 2.2% Custer Township 8 3.5% Echo Township 6 2.6% Elk Rapids Township 9 3.9% Forest Home Township 40 17.4% Helena Township 14 6.1% Jordan Township 3 1.3% Kearney Township 17 7.4% Mancelona Township 25 10.9% Milton Township 6 2.6% Star Township 9 3.9% Torch Lake Township 12 5.5% Village of Bellaire 8 3.5% Village of Central Lake 9 3.9% Village of Elk Rapids 6 2.6% Village of Ellsworth 2 0.9% Village of Mancelona 11 4.8% Warner Township 0 0.0% TOTAL 230 100% Page 71

Age Group Responses Percentage 1-24 5 2.2% 25-40 42 18.3% 41-54 62 27.1% 55-72 103 45% 72 and older 17 7.4% TOTAL 229 100%

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Children under 18 Responses Percentage 0 149 65.1% 1 33 14.4% 2 28 12.2% 3 12 5.2% 4 4 1.7% 5 plus 3 1.3% TOTAL 229 100%

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If you answered "Yes" to question #4, please explain. 17 responses 1. My daughter has autism and sensory processing disorder 2. COPD 3. Back issues 4. I have been disabled since 2014 due to Traumatic Brain Injury 5. Getting around limits me 6. PTSD 7. Still can use our parks 8. Ptsd 9. Wife MS 10. Severe heart condition. 11. Type 1 Diabetic. 12. Neck/spinal injury 13. Fibromyalgia 14. Wife with birth defects 15. Severe spinal degeneration, restricts mobility 16. Receptive aphasia, memory loss and left sided weakness from partial paralysis of left hip muscles from a stroke. 17. 100 % VA Page 74 Page 75

What are some improvements that you would like to see at County parks? (e.g. additional trails, parking, restrooms) 107 responses 1. Restrooms (7) 2. Restrooms (5) 3. Restrooms, parking (2) 4. Trails connecting parks. 5. Benches, animal proof garbage cans, handicapped accessible trails 6. Some lit trails for night x-county skiing or snowshoeing. Road improvement to Grass River so it doesn't need to close because of the road condition. 7. I know they just finished a new section of boardwalk at Grass River. That would have been my only suggestion. 8. Restrooms and trails! 9. Cleaner, bathrooms, ppl pick up after pets and kids 10. Parking and restrooms 11. trails 12. Bike trails 13. All 14. The access road into GRNA could use some upgrading

Page 76 15. Just routine maintenance 16. Restrooms, improved signage for trails like they did at glacial hills 17. Advanced trails at Glacial Hills 18. Trails, restrooms 19. Port-a-jons, water 20. Changing rooms at Glacial Hills 21. Trails & restrooms 22. Not much needed. Keep environmental impact to a minimum. 23. Parking & restrooms 24. Signage on how to actually GET to them. 25. There is always a need for bathrooms. I also think trails for people to enjoy is a great idea. 26. Horse back riding trails 27. Better trail signs at Glacier, too many numbers confusing.how about "you are here" on a large map 28. Trails, parking, hunting. 29. Fresh'n Up Curb Appeal is of Utmost Importance 30. Antrim creek natural area beach is full of dog crap needs to dog free area 31. Adequate waste containers 32. Keep things close to nature, maybe add an information board about what to look for 33. Beach clean up. So much trash left behind by visitors 34. Restrooms & guide maps 35. Just keeping them clean is important 36. Glacial Hills connected to Bellaire. 37. Park needs better parking closer by 88 And elk rapids park needs better parking specially for handicap and during parades 38. All existing are good, we need a county park near Alden. 39. OK NOW 40. A well at Glacial Hills. 41. Preference for Antrim County Residents .....ie, reservations 42. Restroom (even a Porta-potty that's cleaned regularly), and maintained walking trails. 43. More connecting bicycle trails so I don't have to be in auto traffic 44. dog friendly trails and beaches 45. More trailsmore 46. Bellaire walking trail expansion 47. Better upkeep on the trails and better signs for detail of the trail 48. More hard surface trails 49. Exted Bellaire walking path Page 77 50. All of the above 51. Trash receptacles. 52. All the above 53. Some more technical trail options at Glacier Hills. 54. The ones I visit have all been in pretty good shape, maybe a more picnic tables? 55. additional trails, safer bridges 56. Trails, bike, hike and ski 57. Improvements to bathrooms at Barnes Park please. 58. Resting benches and/or adirondack chairs for sunset views 59. Beautification, signage 60. More tables, grills, benches, garbage receptacles 61. Restrooms at glacial hills 62. put someone in charge that knows what they are doing 63. Historical info on the area. List of any native species to the area 64. Many; the parks are all a joke! 65. restrooms, trash & dog waste barrels 66. Disc golf course 67. Mohrmann Natural Area trails configured to be be on county property, trail maps and new signage. 68. More trails, bathrooms, dog friendly 69. Benches and restrooms 70. Trails 71. More benches along trails 72. Build out what we have for good use, not more lands! If not used, perhaps sell or use in a different way. Art parks, activities , Music parks-activities. Maybe people that have instruments would like to just "jam", or artist bring their type of art and just gather and use it socially as well.Twp owned parks should need to be in the parks systems, cared for and used. Some on water are not even available for use. 73. Restrooms and some benches. Make the trails more accessible for handicapped individuals. 74. Docks 75. Clean restrooms 76. Walking/Biking trail around Wetzel Lake 77. Keep clean with restrooms. 78. None 79. Trail connecting Glacial Hills to Bellaire; completion of the TC to Charlevoix Trail; completion of the boardwalk reconstruction at Grass River 80. Just maintain them all nicely 81. Better restrooms 82. Better/additional parking and restrooms 83. Additional information on County park locations and facilities Page 78 84. Additional trails, year round access, parking, better maintenance of existing trails, 85. Additional hiking trails 86. Connect Glacial to the village 87. It is always good to have restrooms available at a park. 88. More non motorized trails that connect parks to each other and to towns 89. Bike Lanes 90. Wetzel lake pathway 91. Barnes Park could use better updates 92. I am very impressed with the quality of parks! Just keep supporting them so they stay wonderful. 93. better road to Grass River, please! non-motorized trails connecting parks to villages (like Glacial Hills to Bellaire). skate park. 94. Improved Parking Lot 95. Trails 96. restrooms at the torch nature preserve

Are there any park lands, facilities, or amenities you would like to see added within the County? (e.g.. new parks, trails, boat launches) 83 responses 1. No (5)

Page 79 2. Boat launches (3) 3. Trails (3) 4. Boat launches (2) 5. Boat launch on the west side of Lake Bellaire (2) 6. Anything added is always a plus; especially boat launches 7. New parks . Ice skating . Wall climbing. Hiking trails connecting parks. 8. Barnes Park boat launch, porta potties at Mohrmann Park 9. Not at this time. 10. Boat launch to the Bay!!! 11. More boat launch options 12. trails 13. No 14. XC ski trails 15. North End of Torch Lake in Eastport I would like to see cleaned up and recognized as a beach. Not just a boat launch 16. New swimming areas 17. Bike paths 18. Yes, I would love to see paved bike or walking trails!! We have he TART, Wheelway, Leelanau Trail etc, but no paved trail in this area. 19. Pump track 20. Access and launches 21. Skatepark, water trail 22. See above 23. Better access to Lake Bellaire and SIGNAGE on how to get there. We have people stop and ask us all the time. 24. Torch lake boat launches 25. Snowmobile trails 26. A boat launch on Torch Lake 27. Have DNR Improve The Boat launch on St Clair Lake to include Dock 28. Could always use a new park! 29. ATV trails 30. Biking trails added at Wetzel Lake & neighboring State land. 31. Not real sure guess I need to pay more attention 32. Would love to see a bike/hike trail close to Alden. We do not have anything close to us. 33. Since the DNR do not maintain their boat launches perhaps they could be turned over to the county to maintain (mowing, tree brush cleanup) 34. More trails 35. Flat safe Bike trails 36. More boat launches 37. more trails, I have been to other county dog parks and that would be a nice addition for our county Page 80 38. Bike lanes. There is a tremendous amount of bikes on the roadway due to the increase popularity of Glacial Hills 39. Trails for bikes and walking pathes 40. Access to lakes for people and boats 41. When you don’t have much, anything would be greatly appreciated. 42. New trails at Glacial, conecter to town 43. kayak launches 44. Improvements in general 45. N/A 46. the county woods should be manage by someone that knows what they are doing. the county forester has allowed cutting that should not have been done 47. Destination motorized area. 48. Many! 49. Summary of trails with maps available 50. More hiking trails. Dog parks 51. ORV, motorcycle trails 52. Always need more parks near Mancelona 53. Dog park. Splash park 54. Swimming areas separate from boat access. 55. Do we have any water areas that have a water habitat study with goggles etc. not deep but kids and adults could look and learn not deep but in water 56. ORV trails and more snowmobile trails. Connecting hiking trails. 57. Boat launches or docks 58. Up grade the boat launches at Bellaire and Intermediate lake ie: concrete upgrade and deeper, if possible would be nice. 59. Again, some attention to the Wetzel Lake area. 60. Take over DNR boat launches since they have stopped maintaining them. I live next to one, no maintenance this year, even mowing. 61. More and better boat launches 62. Walking trails 63. Designated bike paths to and from villages and attractions 64. non-motorized trails for bikes and walking 65. Winter access to Pinney Bridge for snowshoeing, skiing and winter camping. Dog-friendly (off leash) trails, more and lengthier trails on existing properties, a bike link from Bellaire to Glacial Hills and a bike link from Cedar Meadows into Bellaire. Reduced speed limits in high residential rural areas. On-site sports equipment rentals— baseball, ice skates, volley balls... A municipal indoor swimming pool and ice skating rink. Youth programs. 66. Making parks accessible to all 67. Bike Lanes 68. Above, with rustic camping to link to North country trail. 69. It would b wonderful to have a bike pathway in and around Antrim Co. esp. around Torch Lake where traffic is hazardous to walkers and bikers 70. Another Torch Lake public boat launch Page 81 71. Always like more- so appreciative for what we have 72. I would like to see an off-road bike/walking lane around Torch Lake to alleviate dangerous biking/walking/running on Torch Lake Drive. [similar to the bike trail between Charlevoix and Petoskey] 73. continued expansion of Glacial Hills-more property and more trails, including hiking trails that are not as technical as the bike trails.

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Page 86 Additional Comments or Suggestions? 37 responses 1. Snowmobiling, ATV trails are in great demand! 2. More ATV trails needed on east side of the county 3. Promote these areas! Most folks go to Otsego, Jordan River or Torch Lake because of name recognition. I didn't even know about most of your list. 4. Trails should be multiple use, not just for one type of user. 5. Love all the opportunities we currently have! 6. Love our beautiful part of the country 7. We have just bought a vacation home in the town of Bellaire. I know that there are trails and walks and access to the lake but as we've been busy renovating we're yet to use them. Though quite honestly I have no idea where they even are. There should be clear signs in town showing people which way to Ski Resorts and Golf Courses and Trails and public Lake Access. People stop and ask us all the time. Maybe people who are in town to go to Shorts would make the time to go and check them out and then be repeat visitors if they knew they existed. 8. Connect a bike trail from GT Co to Charlevoix Co. Biking is huge & will continue to grow. Snowmobiling is an aging sport. ATV,s too loud & neighbors near a proposed trail will not be for that. 9. No 10. Snowmobiles and ATVs bring people from downstate...which bring in $$$ for the local economy. 11. I appreciate our parks and your work 12. Less property leave some for wild animals. More vehicles are just ads more drinking and drugs and more attacks in secluded places 13. Work with conservation groups like Torch Conservation Center and GTRLC to get a parcel in Helena township to be converted to an accessible hiking and biking trail. 14. Quality better than quantity! 15. ATVS, side by sides and snowmobile riders are dirty SOBs and should not be allowed in the parks 16. A nice walking/running trail would be nice to have near Mancelona. 17. I think bicycles that insist on being in the same lane as autos should be licensed and a share the cost of maintaining these roads. My car and motorcycle are taxed. 18. I visited Barnes Park for the first time this year to make use of the beach. I enjoyed my Saturday visit so much that I went back on Sunday. Will definitely be back next year. Very nice campground!! 19. If possible expand Barnes Park, It's heavily used and it's a Money maker for the County and for Local Businesses. 20. you need people who cares about what they are doing 21. Meet with user groups and DNR , partner on projects 22. Ask Joe Short for money because he never gives to anything & causes lots of drunk driving in Antrim County!!!!! 23. Antrim county needs to remember there is other motorized traffic besides that brings in tons of revenue to local businesses. Unfortunately the county seems to always want to cater to non motorized traffic 24. Now is the time to plan before all the property is bought up and built on. 25. I am in favor of the non-motorized trail, but not in favor of the trail to be in the Barnes Park Campground. 26. Should not be from bar to bar

Page 87 27. separation for safety reasons alone are enough to have separate trails/roads. If a motor it buys a lic. if not it does not belong on a motorized road! Perhaps on water , all crafts could have a "sticker vs. lic. In events the smaller stickers could be interest items to collection...ie" Paddle Antrim could have just a small fee for a this year 'EVENT '18. Bikes too have such for races, or events, to help pay for bike racks, rest rooms along the way for the event day etc. not a big charge. $2-$5...it all adds and helps, keep stickers small in size. 28. Consider the increased revenues from the suggested uses. 29. What ever you do, please do not raise people's taxes any more. Thanks for all your work it's not easy and you cannot please everyone, do your best and that's all anyone can ask. Thanks Tim 30. Non-motorized trails between Bellaire & Mancelona would be awesome! 31. There needs to be some action on the east side of Antrim County, such as Wetzel Lake area. Taxpayers on the east side of the County need to see some action. 32. Protecting Grass River Natural Area forever as it is without any additional easements or development and expand the natural area. 33. Attention is need at the Bellaire Little League fields and Craven ball fields 34. I think it will be important to develop a recreation plan that respects the divergent desires of our community 35. It would be nice to have bike lanes or bike trails around Torch. 36. Everyone I know would benefit from good safe bike pathways around Torch Lake where the speed limit now is 55mph, way too fast for residential traffic. 37. The county has acquired enough publicly owned land.

Page 88 Appendix C: ACNA Master Plan

Page 89 Page 90 Page 91 Page 92 Page 93 Page 94 Page 95 Page 96 Page 97 Page 98 Page 99 Page 100 Page 101 Page 102 Page 103 Page 104 Page 105 Page 106 Page 107 Page 108 Page 109 Page 110 Page 111 Page 112 Page 113 Page 114 Page 115 Page 116 Page 117 Page 118 Page 119 Page 120 Page 121 Page 122 Page 123 Page 124 Page 125 Page 126 Page 127 Page 128 Page 129 Page 130 Page 131 Page 132 Page 133 Page 134 Page 135 Page 136 Page 137 Page 138 Page 139 Page 140 Page 141 Page 142 Page 143 Page 144 Page 145 Page 146 Page 147 Page 148 Page 149 Page 150 Page 151 Page 152 Page 153 Page 154 Page 155 Page 156 Page 157 Page 158 Page 159 Page 160 Page 161 Page 162 Page 163 Appendix D: GRNA Strategic Plan

Page 164 Page 165 Page 166 Page 167 Page 168 Page 169 Page 170 Page 171 Page 172 Page 173 Page 174 Page 175 Page 176 Appendix E: Post-Completion Self-Certification Reports

Post-Completion Self Certification Reports

Funding Source Grant # Park Name Grand Amount Scope and Current Condition Status

Change courts, comfort stations, roadways and Land and Water parking areas, water, sewer, trailer camping, Conservation Fund 26-00041 Barnes Park $30,000.00 picnic and playground area Completed

294 acres purchased for outdoor recreation, Land and Water Grass River parking lots, access roads, vault toilets, nature Conservation Fund 26-01093 Natural Area $43,291.00 walk with boardwalk bridge Completed

Land and Water Grass River Educational platform, observation towers, Conservation Fund 26-01304 Natural Area $10,305.46 benches, utilities, well, signs, vehicle turnout Completed

28.48 acres purchased to provide a link with Grass River Clam Lake frontage between existing Grass Trust Fund TF86-186 Natural Area $45,000.00 River Natural Area Parcels. Completed

Renovate Bathhouse, replace Vault Toilets, Extend Electric to additional campsites, and construct stairway to the beach to control foot Trust Fund TF90-249 Barnes Park $41,750.00 traffic and prevent further erosion. Completed

Acquisition of 170 Acres with 170 acres approximately 5,000 feet of frontage on Grand Antrim Creek Traverse Bay, including the mouth of Antrim Trust Fund TF95-051 Natural Area $4,764,100.00 Creek Completed Raise and widen existing self guided boardwalk Grass River trail in unique wetland area of Antrim Counties Trust Fund TF95-081 Natural Area $41,600.00 Grass River Natural Area Completed

Acquisition of 63 Acres and 745 feet if wetland Grass River shoreline on Lake Bellaire, Grass River, and Trust Fund TF97-170 Natural Area $243,178.00 Clam Lake Completed

Page 177 Acquisition of 400feet of Grass River and 4 Grass River acres of wetland habitat to be added to the Trust Fund TF98-269 Natural Area $86,925.00 Existing Grass River natural Area Completed

Acquisition of 115 Acres with 2,640 feet of frontage along the north and south banks of Cedar River Cedar River to protect its ecological functions, Trust Fund TF99-436 Natural Area $320,662.00 scenic beauty, and recreational access Completed Construction of signs, educational displays, port- Antrim Creek a-john structure, overlooks, trails, and Trust Fund TF00-349 Natural Area $143,154.00 information arbor. Completed Replacement of existing playground equipment, installation of a new basketball court, upgrade 19 Clean Michigan CM00- sites to electric, construct new bathhouse, and initiative 215 Barnes Park $117,238.00 resurface road Completed

37.5 acres purchased including 2,777 feet on Grass River clam lake, Grass River and Shanty Creek to be Trust Fund TF00-145 Natural Area $348,750.00 included in the Grass River Natural Area. Completed Construction of a visitor center, walking path Trust Fund TF03-160 Barnes Park $160,100.00 and upgrades to campsites Completed

Grass River 20.5 acres purchased with over 1,600 feet of Trust Fund TF04-116 Natural Area $100,000.00 Finch Creek frontage. Completed Grass River 10.47 acres purchased with over 260 feet Clam Trust Fund TF05-024 Natural Area $50,000.00 Lake and Grass River Frontage Completed Acquisition of 172 acres on Lake Bellaire and Grass River Grass River including 8,080 feet of water Trust Fund TF06-014 Natural Area $2,093,000.00 frontage. Completed Glacial Hills Pathway and Acquisition of 180 acres for the 763 acre Glacial Trust Fund TF07-163 Natural area $162,000.00 Hills Pathway and Natural Area. Completed

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Designated Snowmobile Trails ") R D R BUSH RD R ") Highway E N

D I O R S

Paved Road R

MONTGOMERY RD MONTGOMERY

S E N E

S DERENZY DERENZY RD S H

D T Gravel Road U EASTCOTT RD RD PRIMROSE RD D W EDDY SCHOOL T

M A

R A

A C P

Poor Dirt Road K O S 4_76

O J SL E UN A R 66 RD TOBIAS D "! S State Forest Land R ( C D ") D R RD

R OLDS D ALBA HWY Federal Land STOVE R RD R

Bellaire E

OTSEGO

RUSNELL RD RUSNELL OTSEGO Lakes and Rivers LP4, K R D

SCHUSS MOUNTAIN RD C HARVEY RD HARVEY City or Village U

LP76, W T [1] E I

County Boundary Outline S LP768 V HA 4 N 4_76 E ") T N Lake Y CEDARRIVER RD I C P R ") Bellaire E DOERR RD E K C R [1] O D T LP4, LP476 Mancelona Rd West of T Crooked Lake Rd A D 4

R WHISPERING PINES DR ") G WETZEL LAKE RD 4 E

N ")

Snowmobile Trail Map Appendix F: M D O ON R T D S R R O A ("!88 S T E M D R D B TRL SCHOLL RD R

O L MAPLE AVE MAPLE

F D 4_76 E Y RD M R LE D AL O V

S ") C

D 4 BOCOOK RD BOCOOK O MANCELONA RD CROOKED LAKE RD ") ALDEN HWY C F

O D Mancelona I I N LUE

N D B LA E W R D K W C E L

H E E R R

A K D R D T

C R A R

T MANISTEE RIVER RD RIVER MANISTEE L H SODERQUIST RD D R W ELDER RD E ELDER RD L W

F I

E L

H E I R A

T L O

E I RD JOHNSON U K D N M

K R

M D

E D K E

S D R BAILEY RD BAILEY

K N R

R O G

D T BEBB RD 76 W O

L H ONARD R R MUSSER RD ")

BEBB RD W LE D N G O 3

A P 6

R R 4 I

R A

A 76 MCPHERSON RD MCPHERSON WAY RD WAY D " ) 791 Page 179 ") 791 More DNR Trail Maps: K A L K A S K A WESTWOOD RD NE STARVATION LAKE RD NE 679 ") http://www.michigan.gov/dnrtrails ") LP679[2] Appendix G: ORV Trails Map

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