Recreation Master Plan

Home , Highland Recreation Area, Wolverine (train)

THE VILLAGE OF WOLVERINE LAKE

RECREATION MASTER PLAN

2016 - 2020

Tiki Night on Wolverine Lake

Adopted February 10, 2016

THE VILLAGE OF WOLVERINE LAKE RECREATION MASTER PLAN 2016 – 2020

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

V ILLAGE C OUNCIL

John Magee, President Ed Sienkiewicz, President Pro-Tem Mark Duff Patrick Nagy Brian Nedrow John Scott Mike Stack

P ARK AND R ECREATION B OARD

Lynn Lewis, Chairperson Diane Braykovich Mark Duff, Council Liaison Scott Fredericks, Planning Liaison Jack Hansel Sig Jamison Amber Pisha

V ILLAGE S TAFF

Sharon Miller, Administrator & Clerk Michael Kondek, Treasurer John Ellsworth, Police Captain Tim Brandt, Building Inspector

S PECIAL T HANKS

Tom Hite - Photos

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T ABLE OF C ONTENTS

Introduction ...... 1

Community Description ...... 4

Administrative Structure ...... 20

Recreation Inventory ...... 22

Public Participation ...... 49

Goals ...... 52

Action Program ...... 53

Tables and Figures Table 1: Input Participation ...... 3 Table 2: Population Change 2000 - 2014 ...... 6 Table 3: Wolverine Lake and Surrounding Communities Population Growth 2000 - 2010 ...... 6 Table 4: Household Change ...... 7 Table 5: Median Age Comparison ...... 7 Table 6: Population Change by Gender and Age ...... 8 Table 7: Projected Population Change by Age Group ...... 9 Table 8: Household Types ...... 9 Table 9: 2013 Population with Disabilities ...... 9 Table 10: Median Family Income ...... 10 Table 11: Land Use Change 2007 - 2013 ...... 16 Table 12: 2015-2016 Budget Summary ...... 20 Table 13: Regional Recreation Facilities ...... 37 Table 14: Parkland Acreage Standards ...... 47 Table 15: National Sports Participation, 2012 ...... 49 Table 16: Improvement Schedule ...... 55 Figure 1: Wolverine Lakes Park and Open Spaces ...... 22 Figure 2: Clara Miller Park ...... 23 Figure 3: Wolverine Lake Access Site ...... 24 Figure 4: Lakes Community Trail ...... 25 Figure 5: Vita Trail ...... 26 Figure 6: United Neighborhood Walkways Plan (2006) ...... 28 Figure 7: Area Park Facilities ...... 32

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Figure 8: Regional Recreational Facilities around Wolverine Lake ...... 36 Maps Location Map ...... 4 Natural Features Map ...... 15 Existing Land Use Map ...... 17 Potential Conservation/Natural Areas Map ...... 18 Appendices – Supporting Documents Survey ...... 58 Survey Results ...... 60 Notice of Draft Plan Availability ...... 72 Park and Recreation Board Resolution ...... 73 Notice of Public Hearing and Minutes of Public Hearing ...... 74 Village Council Resolution of Adoption ...... 75 Letters of Transmittal to Regional Agencies & DNR ...... 76

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INTRODUCTION

Clara Miller Park

I NTRODUCTION

Recreation is, to a large degree, why there is a Village of Wolverine Lake. One of the key reasons for the Village’s creation in 1954 was to protect and improve the lake as a recreational asset for those who lived in the community. Today, Wolverine Lake, the Village’s namesake, remains the community’s foremost recreation resource. The 270-acre lake represents almost 27% of the Village’s total land area.

Since 1954, the Village has expanded and built upon its recreational foundation in the creation of other park facilities and programs. Formal recreation plans in the Village can be traced back to 1974 when Herbert Norgrove mapped out potential recreational facilities throughout the Village. Formal recreation master plans were written in 1993, 2001, and 2009, and this Plan builds upon those planning efforts to expand and improve recreation opportunities for the Village’s residents.

The 2016 Village of Wolverine Lake Recreation Master Plan articulates a vision for parks and recreation in the Village. The purpose of this Plan is to guide recreation planning and development efforts of Wolverine Lake over the next five-year period, to December 2020. Once adopted, the Plan is the official document to be used by the community to guide decisions regarding parks and recreation. This Plan is also intended to meet the State’s standards for community recreation planning that are necessary to gain eligibility for grant programs.

WHAT THE PLAN CONTAINS

The Village of Wolverine Lake Recreation Master Plan follows the format suggested by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) in the Guidelines for the Development of Community Park, Recreation, Open Space and Greenway Plans (IC 1924, revised 3-19-2015). It begins with a brief overview of the Plan as well as a description of the planning process which was used to develop the Plan. The Plan then presents a community description, providing information on both the social and physical characteristics of the community. A description of the community’s administrative structure follows, including information on funding and budgets. A detailed recreation inventory describes the existing parkland and recreational facilities of the community as well as those of the region and state. The public participation portion of the Plan presents the input received from local officials, staff, and residents of Wolverine Lake, which helped the Park and Recreation Board formulate the Plan’s goals and objectives. The action program then provides steps and strategies for implementing the Plan. Finally, the appendix includes supporting materials, such as a copy of the public input survey, and resolutions and notices that document the Plan’s adoption by the Village Council.

PLANNING PROCESS

The process used to draft the Plan consists of three phases: background studies, evaluation, and plan development. Each is described more fully below:

1) Background Studies. This phase involved gathering and updating data from the U.S. Census, existing documents and plans, and from field observations. The data is organized into two main categories: community description and recreation inventory.

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2) Evaluation. The second phase in the planning process evaluated and analyzed the data compiled to determine recreation facility deficiencies and needs. Public input to assess recreational needs was also sought at this level. A written survey and a public hearing were conducted to receive residents’ opinions and ideas for the park and recreation system. Input from Village officials and the Park and Recreation Board were also used.

3) Plan Development. The last phase in the process involves Plan development and adoption. Based on the deficiencies and needs, goals and objectives were formulated and a specific action plan developed. Strategies to implement the Plan were also discussed.

The following diagram illustrates the planning process and how it corresponds to the MDNR suggested format described earlier:

MDNR Suggested Format

 Description of Planning Process Background Community Description  Community Description Studies Recreation Inventory  Administrative Structure  Recreation Inventory

Recreation Facility  Needs Assessment and Public Evaluation Deficiency and Needs participation

 Goals and Objectives Plan Master Plan  Action Program Development  Supporting Documents

This Plan was developed with input from local officials, staff, and residents. The Park and Recreation Board distributed a survey during their 2015 Village Festival and Corn Roast to gather input on needed improvements to the community’s recreation facilities and programming. The survey was also available for download from the Village’s website. Input from local officials and the members of the Park and Recreation Board were also used. The Plan was recommended for adoption at the Park and Recreation Board’s meeting on January 25, 2016. The Plan was then adopted by the Village Council on February 10, 2016, following a public hearing. The Master Plan was also available for public review and comment at the Village Hall for one month prior to the public hearing.

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Table 1 Input Participation 

Public Input Plan Adoption Adoption Plan Public Hearing Action Program Program Action Goal Formulation Formulation Goal Recreation Inventory, Recreation Inventory, Resource Inventory & Resource Inventory Community Description Description Community

Village Council   

Village Planning Commission  

Park and Recreation Board     

Village Residents   

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COMMUNITY DESCRIPTION

Wolverine Lake Village Hall

C OMMUNITY D ESCRIPTION

REGIONAL SETTING

The Village of Wolverine Lake is located in Commerce Township, which is in the southwest quarter of Oakland County, Michigan. The Village is directly adjacent to the City of Walled Lake to the southeast, and close to the City of Wixom to the west. It is a residential community of approximately 1.7 square miles in size and was built around a 270-acre, all-sports lake that was created in 1923 by construction of a dam. Originally, vacation cottages populated the shores of the lake. However, in 1954, the Village was incorporated and today has over 4,000 residents. The Village is approximately five miles north of I-96, the major east-west highway in the region. The major north-south route near the Village is I-275. A relatively new north-south road, the M-5 project or the Haggerty Road Connector, starts at 13-Mile and ends at Pontiac Trail, where it becomes Martin Parkway. The parkway extends to a round-about at Oakley Park Road. This recent road improvement makes the Village easily accessible to major markets and other residential areas.

Location Map

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Oakland County is located in the northern area of the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG) region. SEMCOG is the regional planning agency that conducts planning studies and maintains a comprehensive database of information about each community it serves. It is a source for some of the population and land use related data included in this Plan.

The jurisdiction covered in this plan is the Village of Wolverine Lake. The plan talks about all aspects of recreation in the Village, and how the residents are served by local and regional recreation providers. In planning for the future recreation needs of the Village, it is essential to understand both the community of people to be served and the recreation resources which the community has to offer. The first part of the Master Plan provides an overview of the population, and physical and recreation resources of the Village, with the goal of understanding the unique features and opportunities in the community.

SOCIAL CHARACTERISTICS

While the Village saw substantial population growth in the 1970’s, it has declined for the past 30 years (1990 – 2010). However, the Village’s population is projected to stabilize through 2040 according to SEMCOG.

The Village’s growth pattern is similar to some other lake communities in the area. This is likely due to the fact that Wolverine Lake is built out, with little vacant land appropriate for development. In contrast, the larger surrounding cities and townships still have developable property.

While population has declined, the number of households has increased (Table 4). Together with the change in population, this data reflects the national trend that each household contains fewer people than in the past. According to SEMCOG’s 2040 forecast, this trend is expected to continue.

According to the 2010 Census, the median age for the Village is slightly higher than that of Oakland County and the State of Michigan (Table 5). Table 6 shows decreases in seven age groups (0 to 14 years, 30 to 44 years, and 75 to 79 years). The large increases for 60 to 64 years and 65 to 69 years are consistent with trends across the nation, as are the projections for 65 to 75 years and older (Table 7). This shift will change the proportion of children and seniors in the community. According to a report published by the Research Institute for Housing America (Frey, 2006), pre-seniors (age 55-64) will show the greatest increase from 2000 to 2010, while young seniors (age 65-74) will follow as the greatest increase from 2010 to 2020. This population group corresponds to the baby boom generation.

Concurrently, households with children are predicted to decrease by 2040 while households without children will increase (Table 8).

According to the 2013 American Community Survey, 4.3% of Village residents have some form of physical disability. Table 9 presents the distribution of physical disabilities by age group. The special needs of these people must be considered when planning for parks and recreation facilities and programs.

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Table 2 Village of Wolverine Lake Population Change 2000-2014 Year Population # Change % Change 1990 4,727 2000 4,415 -312 -6.6% 2010 4,312 -103 -2.3% 2014* 4,325 +13 +.03% 2040* 4,312 -21 -.04% Total change 2000-2014 -90 -2.0% (Source: U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census and *SEMCOG estimate/projection)

Table 3 Village of Wolverine Lake and Surrounding Communities Population Growth 2000-2010

2000 2010 # Change % Change Projected 2040* Village of Wolverine 4,415 4,312 -103 -2.3 4,312 Lake Orchard Lake Village 2,215 2,375 160 7.2 2,499 City of Keego Harbor 2,769 2,970 201 7.3 3,169 City of Sylvan Lake 1,735 1,720 -15 -0.9 1,835 Commerce Township 30,349 35,874 5,525 18.2 41,628 West Bloomfield Twp. 64,860 64,690 -170 -0.3 66,056 White Lake Township 28,219 30,019 1,800 6.4 30,329 Milford Township 8,999 9,561 562 6.2 9,807 City of Novi 47,579 55,374 7,795 16.4 57,897 City of Wixom 13,263 13,498 235 1.8 14,942 City of Walled Lake 6,713 6,999 286 4.3 7,678 Oakland County 1,194,156 1,202,362 8,206 0.7 1,246,863 (Source: U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Census; *SEMCOG)

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Table 4 Village of Wolverine Lake Household Change 2000 2010 Total Households 1,671 1,733 With Children 640 545 With Seniors (65+) 246 363 Without Seniors 1,425 1,370 2+ without children 697 770 Live Alone, 65+ 87 98 Live Alone, under 65 247 320 Average household size 2.64 2.49 (Source: U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census)

Table 5 Median Age Comparison 2000 2010 Village of Wolverine Lake 37.5 years 42.7 Oakland County 36.7 years 40.2 State of Michigan 35.5 years 38.9 (Source: U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census)

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Table 6 Village of Wolverine Lake Population by Gender and Age 2000 2010 # Change Male 2,241 2,226 -15 Female 2,174 2,086 -88

Under 5 years 308 207 -101 5 to 9 years 326 241 -85 10 to 14 years 313 281 -32 15 to 19 years 269 316 47 20 to 24 years 175 201 26 25 to 29 years 236 260 24 30 to 34 years 350 227 -123 35 to 39 years 460 251 -209 40 to 44 years 421 350 -71 45 to 49 years 406 452 46 50 to 54 years 360 401 41 55 to 59 years 287 323 36 60 to 64 years 173 302 129 65 to 69 years 86 212 125 70 to 74 years 102 118 16 75 to 79 years 84 70 -14 80 to 84 years 40 47 7 85 years plus 19 53 34 (Source: U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census)

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Table 7 Village of Wolverine Lake Projected Population Change by Age Group Projected Age Group 2010 2040* Change Under 5 years 207 245 38 5 – 17 years 723 634 -89 18 – 24 years 316 349 33 25 – 34 years 487 574 87 35 – 59 years 1,777 1,180 -597 60 – 64 years 302 265 -37 65 – 74 years 330 530 200 75 years plus 170 535 365 (Source: U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Census; *SEMCOG)

Table 8 Village of Wolverine Lake Household Types Household Types 2000 2010 Households with Children 668 545 Two or More Person Households without 697 770 Children (Source: U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census)

Table 9 Village of Wolverine Lake 2013 Population with Disabilities Number Percent Population 5 to 17 years- 621 Population with Physical Disability 16 2.5% Population 18 to 64 years- 2,914 Population with Physical Disability 86 2.9% Population 65 years and over- 514 Population with Physical Disability 86 16.7% (Source: U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census)

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SOCIO-ECONOMIC CHARACTERISTICS

The Village of Wolverine Lake’s median household income stayed about the same during the ten year period between 2000 and 2010. This was a positive trend considering the decrease in median household incomes for the County and State. This time period also saw a decrease in poverty in the Village.

Table 10 Median Family Income 2000 2010* Village of Wolverine Lake (In 2010 dollars) $70,893 $70,771 Oakland County $75,540 $65,637 State of Michigan $53,457 $48,471

Wolverine Lake: Households in Poverty 56 (3.3%) 53 (3.2%) Wolverine Lake: Persons in Poverty 229 (4.8%) 129 (3.0%) (Source: U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census. *American Community Survey 5-Year Estimate)

According to the Office of Labor Market Information, the July-August, 2015 unemployment rate for Oakland County was 5.7%, and 5.1% for the State of Michigan.

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NATURAL RESOURCES

Regional Geographic Profile The distribution of the region's natural features corresponds to distinct geological zones. The Southeastern Michigan Region is generally characterized as a gently rolling plain, bounded on the east by a system of water bodies which connect Lake Erie and Lake Huron. The western boundary is composed of a chain of moraines (hills) which divide the flow of rivers between Lake Michigan and Lake Erie. In between these two natural boundaries are three major river systems, the Huron, the Clinton, and the Rouge, which rise from a gravel plain. The Flint and Shiawassee rivers, which are located in the northern fringe of the region, drain to the north and west.

Physiography Oakland County covers an area of over nine hundred square miles, encompasses over four hundred lakes, fifty thousand acres of recreational land and approximately eight hundred miles of inland lake shoreline.

As a result of glacial formation, the primary features which characterize the Oakland County landscape are two moraine (or hill) belts (the Saginaw and Huron-Erie systems) which cross the county in a northeast-southwest direction and three outwash plains (Commerce, Drayton and Oxford Plains). The northern portions of the two hill chains are the location of some of the highest points of elevation in the county; elevations between 1,000 and 1,200 feet above sea level. The southern belt of hills has typical elevations between 800 and 1,000 feet above sea level. The average elevation of the Village of Wolverine Lake is 932 feet above sea level, and the summer elevation of the lake is kept at 918.25.

Lying between the two belts is a broad, pitted, flat plain composed of outwash sands and gravels. The gravel plain is ten miles wide in some locations; it is generally flat but it is interrupted by a broken group of hills which generally parallel the two belts of moraines. This plain is to the east of the Village.

Scattered throughout the hilly belts and outwash plains are hundreds of depressions, many occupied by inland lakes which range in size from small ponds less than one acre in size to lakes covering one and one-half square miles. The approximately four hundred lakes are an outstanding feature of the county. However, the distribution of the lakes is not equal across the landscape; the southern portion is not as well endowed as other portions. The largest lakes, which occupy 20,000 acres, are Cass and Orchard lakes.

In the extreme southeast corner of the county is a glacial lake plain which slopes gently in a southeasterly direction. The flat character of the lake plain is interrupted by streams and a series of former glacial lake beaches. The elevation of this plain decreases from 800 feet to 633 feet near the southeast corner of the county.

The county's topographic elevation varies from 630 feet to 1,221 feet. The total variation in relief is 591 feet. Except for a small area to the northwest of the county which slopes to the north and northwest, the county slopes to the southeast. There are several areas of steep slopes but generally slopes are in the nine to twelve percent range.

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Several slopes provide scenic views to the southeast. Particularly notable is the high area running east-west along the border of the City of Pontiac and Orion Township. Other scenic views are found at Kensington Metropark (Milford Township) and along Granger Road in Brandon and Oxford townships.

Soils County soils were deposited by receding glaciers. Soil types range from sand and gravel to clay and peat, representing approximately thirty-nine different kinds of soil throughout the County. The majority of the Village’s soils are described as “urban land,” which means that it has been sufficiently disturbed by development that their natural characteristics have been permanently altered. The areas not covered by homes, streets, driveways and other amenities is identified as Spinks soils, which are suited to building site development and septic tank absorption fields. Due to the built-out nature of the Village, these soils are generally used for lawns, gardens, and other plantings.

County Hydrology Five river systems have their origin in the moraine belts and outwash plains in Oakland County. The land area that lies northwest of the upland hills is drained by the Flint and Shiawassee River systems. The area to the southeast of the upland hills is drained by the Clinton, Huron and Rouge River. The Village of Wolverine Lake is located on the very eastern edge of the Huron River watershed.

While Oakland County has more natural lakes than any other county in the state, Wolverine Lake was created by installing a dam on a stream during the early part of the 20th Century. The water flows from Wolverine Lake into North Commerce Lake, then Proud Lake State Recreation Area, and ultimately into the Huron River. Wolverine Lake is part of the Norton Creek section of the Kent Lake Watershed. Kent Lake is an impoundment in the Huron, just south of where Norton Creek flows into the Huron River.

Wolverine Lake Water Quality The lake is the nucleus and heart of the Village. Wolverine Lake provides both scenic beauty and recreational space for the entire area. The citizens are dedicated to preserving and protecting the quality of the lake which they consider to be their "main street."

Like many county lakes, Wolverine Lake is surrounded by residences. These historic land uses have caused pollution from septic fields and fertilizers, which results in excessive weed growth or eutrophication. Eutrophic lakes are generally shallow, turbid, and support abundant aquatic plant growth. Under natural conditions, most lakes will ultimately evolve to a eutrophic state as they gradually fill with sediment and organic matter transported to the lake from the surrounding watershed. Added inputs can be associated with human activity, accelerating the eutrophication process. To address lake quality, the Village conducts studies each year. The most recent, the Annual Report and Management Plan for Wolverine Lake (November, 2015), reports the results from water quality tests performed in the spring (April) and late summer (September) of 2015, as follows: . Thermal stratification(cool water near the lake bottom) was not evident during the spring sampling, but strong in late summer. Dissolved oxygen levels were reduced at

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the bottom of all three sampling sites. These conditions would support a warm- and cool-water fishery (bass, pike, sunfish and walleye), but not cold water fish such as trout. . In the spring, phosphorus concentrations were one level below the eutrophic threshold. A eutrophic state is when a lake has gradually filled in with sediment and organic matter from aquatic plants. This is a natural lake “aging” process. In the late summer, total phosphorus levels were low at the surface and substantially elevated near the bottom, indicating phosphorus release from the deep sediments due to low-oxygen conditions. . Chlorophyll-a levels were low at all three sampling sites in both April and September, indicating algae growth in the water column was minimal at the time of sampling. . Secchi transparency measurements were near or below the eutrophic threshold value. . Alkalinity levels indicate that the lake is within the moderate to hard water range for Upper Midwestern lakes. pH values were within Michigan’s water quality standard. Both indicate that Wolverine Lake is a well-buffered system not susceptible to the effects of acid rain.

The Village actively manages the lake water quality for recreational activities such as fishing, water skiing, jet-skiing, boating (power and non-power) and swimming. As an advisory body, the Water Management Board assists the Village in this effort by investigating and making recommendations to the Village Council on water management issues affecting the safety, health, and recreational opportunities of Village residents and visitors. The Village has also developed the Mute Swan Management Plan to successfully address issues in wildlife management. Mechanical weed harvesting and professional herbicide treatments, aeration/bio-augmentation project, regular water quality testing, fish stocking, purple loosestrife beetle program, and passage and enforcement of a fertilizer ordinance are other initiatives implemented by the Village.

Stormwater Management Initiatives The Village of Wolverine Lake is required to obtain a stormwater permit from the State to enable it to discharge stormwater from the Village-owned and operated stormwater utility system. While the Village has conducted many events and programs to protect the water quality in the lake, the stormwater permit enhances these existing programs.

One effort to improve water quality in the Norton Creek area is development and implementation of the Kent Lake Subwatershed Management Plan, which was finalized in 2002. This plan was created to address phosphorus loading into the Huron River (and the Kent Lake impoundment) from stormwater runoff into local lakes and streams. Because Wolverine Lake contributes to the Kent Lake watershed system, the Village has participated in development and implementation of the Watershed Management Plan. The Village’s success in minimizing phosphorus loading will also help the watershed overall. The target phosphorus level for Kent Lake, as reported in the plan, is .030 mg/L.

In September of 2008, the Village hosted two “Waterfront Wisdom Workshops,” educating residents about septic system maintenance and native landscaping. The workshops were well attended, and educated participants about the Huron River Watershed, how proper septic system maintenance and landscaping practices can impact surface water, and how to implement water-friendly practices in both areas. The Village is currently in the process of replacing septic systems with a sanitary main, but continues work to minimize septic impacts to the lake.

Working with staff from Commerce Township and Walled Lake, the Village sponsored a community-wide “Water’s Edge Day” on October 4, 2008. This event was used to plant a

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native rain garden and riparian buffer garden in Clara Miller Park, and to educate residents about water-friendly landscaping techniques.

The Village is also a member of the Huron River Watershed Council, who assists communities with watershed and environmental issues shared throughout the watershed as well as through the state-wide Phase II storm water management permit requirements.

Vegetation Oakland County lies in a deciduous forest zone. Typical vegetation groups in the county include swamps (or wooded wetlands) and marshes (emergent wetlands), bogs (acidic wetlands), lakeshores, stream sides, meadows, abandoned fields and forests. Five major forests are found in the county: floodplain forests, mixed hardwoods, oak- hickory, beech-maple, and pine- hardwoods. Early records indicate that conifers constituted an important element in Michigan's original forests; however, pure evergreen forests are characteristic only of the northern and western part of the Upper Peninsula.

The remaining natural vegetation in the Village is comprised of approximately six acres of deciduous forests, 13 acres of coniferous forest, and approximately 28 acres of wetlands (7 acres of forested wetlands; 10 acres of scrub-shrub wetlands, and 11 acres of emergent wetlands). The remaining vegetation is planted in lawns and other ornamental landscape material.

Fish and Wildlife Wolverine Lake supports extensive fish and marine species, waterfowl, and marine plant life. The lake is stocked annually and the more common species of fish include large mouth bass, northern pike, walleye, crappie, and various pan fish. The lake has been the location for Bass Master Tournaments several times, and is deemed a very good sportsman’s lake. Resident waterfowl includes Canada geese, and many species of ducks that are common to Southeast Michigan. Besides the more commonly found species, the pintail duck occupies the lake during the fall migration, and the mute swan also occupies the lake at certain times of the year. Other marine species, such as the snapping turtle and freshwater clams can also be found. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources along with the Audubon Society educates and issues permits for Canada goose egg replacement to help control over population. An annual round up of Canada geese also takes place.

The Village’s Water Management Board supports the education of and access to local water resources. The Benstein Road boardwalk allows residents close interaction with wetlands and waterways, and assists neighboring communities in encouraging wetland and water body education.

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Commerce Township

GLENGARY GLENGARY P

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Legend WOLVERINE LAKE Woodlands Wetlands Natural Features

Deciduous Emergent Feet 0 250500 1,000 1,500 2,000 Forested ¯ Carlisle/Wortman Associates, Inc. Scrub-Shrub Community Planners & Landscape Architects 6-27-14 Open Water

LAND USE PATTERNS AND DEVELOPMENT TRENDS

The Village is predominately a fully-developed residential community in the heart of a larger suburban area. The surrounding communities of West Bloomfield, Novi, Walled Lake, Wixom, and Commerce Township have experienced extensive growth in the past 30 years due to better access to I-275, a major north-south thoroughfare, and the extension of M-5. Along with this expanded residential development, many strip and open-area shopping malls, large freestanding retailers (big-box), and office and industrial parks have been built to support the new residential development.

The Village of Wolverine Lake is predominately a residential community with over 49% of its land use area in residential uses. The next largest land uses are water, at approximately 27%, and road right-of-way at 13.3%. Slightly more than three percent of the land is vacant and the remaining 7% is used for commercial/office, public/institutional, and recreation/conservation. A comparison of how the existing land uses in the Village has changed over time is shown in the following table (Table 11). There has been minimum change in the past 15 years, except for the increase in commercial land uses.

Table 11 Village of Wolverine Lake Land Use Change 2007-2013 2007 2007 2013 2013 % Change 2007- (acres) % of Total (acres) % of Total 2013 (acres) (acres) Single-Family Residential 463 42.9 462.3 42.8 -- Multi-Family Residential 38 3.5 63.5 5.9 +2.4% Commercial/Office 16 1.5 15.7 1.5 -- Public/Institutional 10 .9 10.1 .9 -- Recreation/Conservation 60 5.6 60.1 5.6 -- Water 289 26.8 290.7 26.9 -- Road right-of-way 143 13.3 143.5 13.3 -- Vacant 59 5.5 33.4 3.1 -2.4% Total 1,078 1,079.4 (Source: Oakland County Planning and Economic Development)

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PLANNING INITIATIVES

Due to its built-out condition, any new development within the Village will most likely be minor. However, change is inevitable in both population dynamics and re-use and replacement of buildings on existing lots. The Village’s Master Plan and County planning initiatives address broad goals to direct future change for the benefit of the Village and County.

2015 Village of Wolverine Lake Master Plan The Village Master Plan includes several action items that will compliment recreation planning within the community. The Village’s Master Plan will be implemented over a 20-year period. A number of actions directly correspond to improving recreation facilities, while others protect and improve water quality within the lake. The relevant items from the plan are listed below. . Upgrade roads, pathways and sidewalks . Maintain dam and lake equipment . Continue to improve non-point source stormwater runoff through Phase II Stormwater Permit . Address Parks and Recreation issues . Identify additional park property for potential procurement

2004 Oakland County Potential Conservation/Natural Areas Report This study was conducted in 2003, and focused on identifying and evaluating the county’s natural areas and providing options to help protect the quality natural areas. Prioritization criteria included size, presence of riparian lands, wetlands, and connectivity to assess each natural area’s ecological value. The analysis revealed one, high-quality natural area within the Village, which is located in the boundaries of the Heron Hills Condominium development. This area is considered high quality due to its size, its association with the adjacent park (Commerce Township) and its mixture of woodlands and wetlands.

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Oakland County Parks Five-Year Parks and Recreation Master Plan: 2013-2017 The Oakland County Parks Five-Year Parks and Recreation Master Plan (2013-2017) articulates a vision for the county’s parks and recreation activities to guide future decision making. Through public opinion surveys and other information gathering techniques, this plan outlines the needs and priorities of residents within the county for recreation services and facilities. The plan lists hiking and nature trails (50%), picnicking areas and shelters (19%), hard surface trails (19%), and 18 and 9-hole golf courses (17%) as the top four facilities identified by respondents. The action program portion of the plan lists specific tasks that the Commission will strive to undertake within the five-year timeframe of the plan. The action items for the four county parks closest to Wolverine Lake include: . Lyon Oaks County Park: New contact station; cricket field and dog park lighting; small dog park pavilion; park master planning process is scheduled for 2015. . Glen Oaks County Park: Installation of a new putting green; improvements to infrastructure, including construction of a new bridge over the Pebble Creek Drain; park master planning process is scheduled for 2015. . White Lake Oaks Park: First tee renovation; addition of maintenance and storage buildings; park master planning process is scheduled for 2015. . Waterford Oaks Park: Dog park development; picnic pavilions; toboggan run repairs; new waterpark feature (to be determined), pavilion, and bathhouse improvements; county market improvements; irrigation improvements; and storm water management improvements.

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. ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE

Park and Recreation Board

A DMINISTRATIVE S TRUCTURE

The administration of parks and recreation services in the Village of Wolverine Lake is the responsibility of the Village Council. To meet this responsibility, the Village has established a nine-member Park and Recreation Board (under PA 156, 1917), whose members are appointed by the Council. The Board is made up of residents and representatives from Council and the Planning Commission. The Village Administrator also serves as an ex-officio member of the Park and Recreation Board by reason of his/her position.

The duties of the Park and Recreation Board, as defined by ordinance, include:  To consider and study the reasonable needs of the Village in terms of recreational facilities and activities and provide the Village Council with recommendations and cost estimates on how to meet those needs.  Provide recommendations regarding the use, maintenance, and improvement of Village recreational facilities and activities.  Be responsible for planning, organizing, and operation of cultural, athletic, and recreational activities in the Village as approved by the Village Council.

Although the Village ordinance establishing the Park and Recreation Board also makes provisions for a park and recreation department, no such separate department currently exists. Recreation facilities in the Village are maintained and operated by the Village’s Department of Public Works, which is under the direction of the Village Administrator.

FUNDING AND BUDGET

The Village general fund budget for 2015-2016 contains some funding for maintenance and improvements to Village park and recreation facilities, as well as annual, community-wide events.

Table 12 Village of Wolverine Lake 2015 – 2016 Budget Summaries Revenues FY 2015 FY 2016 Taxes $1,321,000 $1,380,000 Personal Property Taxes $18,000 $24,000 State Shared $341,900 $351,900 Commerce Rebate $95,000 $43,000 Park & Rec Revenue $10,200 $12,700 Building Department $45,000 $75,000 Solid Waste $284,000 $292,000 Equipment Rental $65,000 $65,000 Interest Income $12,000 $15,000 Cable Franchise Fees $57,000 $60,000 Other $58,500 $350,600 Appropriation of PYS $64,970 $0 Total Revenue $2,372,570 $2,669,200

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Expenditures FY 2015 FY 2016 Police $730,750 $713,000 General Services $494,600 $482,300 Rubbish & Leaf Collection $267,000 $276,000 Dept. of Public Works $286,900 $284,550 Lake Improvement $86,100 $98,200 Capital Expenditures $195,800 $182,300 Parks & Recreation $75,700 $82,200 Building & Code Enforcement $73,200 $103,700 Community Services $28,200 $29,500 Village Complex $24,450 $25,400 Water Management $19,200 $14,200 Planning Commission $13,160 $9,760 Legal Fees $56,000 $56,000 Engineering $7,450 $7,950 Zoning Board $7,610 $8,110 Council $4,750 $4,750 Beautification $1,700 $5,300 Addition to Surplus $285,980 Total Expenditures $2,372,570 $2,669,200 (Source: Village of Wolverine Lake)

VOLUNTEERS AND PARTNERSHIPS

The Village maintains a relationship with the Walled Lake Consolidated School District to both coordinate recreation facilities, and work with students on various water quality monitoring and wetland plant management projects.

Other organizations operating in the Village that could be tapped to assist in recreation programs and/or facilities include:

 Rotary Club  Optimist Club  Lakes Area Youth Assistance  Rebuilding Together

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RECREATION INVENTORY

Ice Hockey on Wolverine Lake

R ECREATION I NVENTORY

The residents of the Village of Wolverine Lake are able to take advantage of a variety of recreational resources at the local level as well as at the regional level. There are a host of township and city-owned parks and schools, as well as privately-owned recreational facilities located near Wolverine Lake. This section describes these recreational opportunities. The information contained in the following pages was compiled from local community recreation plans, community websites, aerial photographs, and a field survey.

VILLAGE OF WOLVERINE LAKE PARKS AND OPEN SPACES

The Village of Wolverine Lake currently operates two parks and a portion of the Lakes Community Trail that total 30.61 acres of land. The map below depicts the location of these parks as well as the private open space and common areas that are located within subdivisions.

Figure 1. Wolverine Lake Parks and Open Spaces

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Clara Miller Park Clara Miller Park includes 13.08 acres of land and is located between Benstein and Brisbane roads in the northwest part of the Village. This community park was named in honor of Clara Miller, who was the Chairman of the first Parks and Recreation Board in 1966. After leasing the park land for several years, the Village purchased it in 1979 from the Huron-Clinton Metropolitan Authority using federal community development block grant (CDBG) funds. Facilities found at the park include:  Two basketball courts;  Two half basketball courts;  An in-line hockey rink;  Three ball fields;  One soccer field;  Picnic pavilions;  Restrooms;  A parking lot including over 130 spaces from Benstein Road;  Two play structures and various types of playground equipment;  Two tennis courts on Wakito Rd., with striping for Pickleball;  Pet waste station;  A multi-use pathway (Lakes Community Trail) along the south boundary of the park, with connections to both Benstein and Brisbane roads.

Figure 2. Clara Miller Park

Source: Bing Maps

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Wolverine Lake DNR Access Site Located on the northeast part of Wolverine Lake, this site includes 2.62 acres of land behind the Village Hall, which provides lake access and opportunities for fishing. The facilities include:

 A boat launch on Wolverine Lake;  Restroom with pit toilets; and  A parking lot with 15 spaces from Glengary Road.

Figure 3. Wolverine Lake Access Site

Source: Bing Maps

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Lakes Community Trail The non-motorized pathway is owned by the Village of Wolverine Lake, the City of Wixom and Commerce Township. The portion owned by Wolverine Lake includes 14.91 acres and runs from Glengary Road to Clara Miller Park. The overall trail runs for a total of four miles from Richardson Park in Commerce Township through the Village, and ends at Gilbert Willis Park in the City of Wixom.

Facilities of the Lakes Community Trail include:  Four miles of paved pathway, eight feet wide;  Access and connections to and from:

 Richardson, Hickory Glen, and Maple Glen Parks, Commerce Township;  Glengary Road;  Clara Miller Park;  Hickory Hill Golf and Country Club, and Gilbert Willis Park, City of Wixom; and  Proud Lake Recreation Area.

Lakes Community Trail in Maple Glen Park Source: Commerce Township Website

Figure 4. Lakes Community Trail

Source: Oakland County Green Infrastructure Map, Oakland County Website

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Vita Trail The Vita Trail is a 6.86 acre area named after the Vita Course it contains. The park has a series of exercise stations giving users opportunities for a variety of fitness activities. The Vita Trail also contains some wooded areas, and is adjacent to and accessible from the Lakes Community Trail and Glengary Road.

Facilities of the Vita Trail include:  Multi-use exercise stations including a balance beam, pull up bar, vault bar, sit up bench, and stretching block;  Paved and woodchip pathways;  A 10-space paved parking lot accessed from Glengary Road;  Picnic tables; and  Pet waste station.

Figure 5. Vita Trail

Source: Google Maps

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United Neighborhood Walkways In an effort to expand pedestrian access throughout the Village, the United Neighborhoods subcommittee was established in 1999. Its mission is to create walkable recreation paths in and around Wolverine Lake. The effort grew out of the need for safe passage by foot or bike from one neighborhood to another. The proposed 5,290-foot walkway system was developed with public input in 2001.

Segments of the walkway that have been paved/constructed include:  Paved shoulders along Lakeview, Delmonte, Darnell, Connecticut, and Benstein.  Six-foot wide Benstein bridge boardwalk, which runs along Benstein from McCoy to Delmonte for approximately 1,800 feet. The boardwalk connects the northern and southern portions of the Village. It was completed in 2006 through a partial grant from the Michigan Department of Transportation. To celebrate the completion of the bridge, Wolverine Lake sponsored a five-mile community walk on Labor Day in 2006 as part of Governor Granholm’s “Bridging Active Communities” event.  Paved shoulders along Wolverine Drive, Penny Lake Road, and S. Commerce Road.  Paved shoulder and pedestrian bridge over dam along Glengary, completed in 2008.  Pedestrian path along S. Commerce Road to W. Oakley Park Road.  Pedestrian path along Glengary Road between S. Commerce and the Vita Trail (just west of Los Angeles Dr.)

As additional roadways are paved, the shoulder will also be paved providing room for pedestrians to walk or bike. A map of the completed and proposed walkway segments is provided on the following page.

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Figure 6. United Neighborhoods Walkways Plan

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Subdivision Parks and Common Areas Private, subdivision common areas provide valuable passive recreation resources for subdivision residents. These areas range in size from less than one-half acre to 5 acres, totaling about 28 acres. Subdivision parks typically consist of grassy areas with trees, benches, playground equipment and pathways. Some subdivisions parks also provide access to Wolverine Lake.

Neighborhood Parks In the previous Wolverine Lake Parks and Recreation Plan, 31% of residents stated that they wanted more parks closer to their homes. The Village responded and has recently purchased two parcels within neighborhoods to use as “pocket parks,” or small local parks within easy walking distance of surrounding homes. One of these parks is called Amenia Park (located on Amenia), and the other is called Oak Island Park, located on Oak Island. Both will be developed as pocket parks.

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LOCAL RECREATION FACILITIES AROUND WOLVERINE LAKE

In addition to the Village parks and open spaces, there are facilities provided by Commerce Township, the City of Walled Lake and the City of Wixom which offer recreation opportunities to the residents of Wolverine Lake. The nearby facilities are briefly described below and Figure 7 depicts their location.

Commerce Township Parks Bicentennial Park. This community park is centrally located on Fisher Avenue. It is a 10- acre park offering two volleyball courts, tennis courts, basketball courts, a soccer field, two play structures, a picnic shelter and picnic areas.

Dodge Park. This 106-acre park is an old state park acquired by Commerce Township in the 1990s. The wooded property includes volleyball and basketball courts, play equipment and an extensive system of nature trails.

Hickory Glen Park. This 155-acre park is centrally located in the community. It currently features seven ball diamonds, a football field with concessions and restrooms, a play structures, a multi-use paved pathway and mountain-bike trails.

Historic Byer’s Homestead. This park is located on Commerce Road across from Mill Race Park, south of the historic village. This 2.5 acre farm was settled in 1825 and includes a farm house and barn with country store. It is also adjacent to the Huron River which allows visitors to view wildlife.

Long Park. This park includes 95 acres surrounding Berry Lake and is located on Fourteen Mile Road. It includes a picnic shelter, play equipment, and an extensive system of nature trails.

Maple Glen Park. This 102-acre park is located in the west part of the Township and includes eight ball diamonds, seven softball fields, concessions and restrooms, two play structures and a multi-use paved pathway.

Mill Race Park. A eight-acre park in historic Commerce Village, which was the site of a former grist mill. The site is on the state register of historic places and includes a picnic area and hiking trails.

Richardson Community Center and Park. This park is an 80-acre park on Reed Lake. Facilities include a soccer field, volleyball court, a play structure and playground equipment, nature trails, cross country ski trails, passive recreation areas and a 4,200 square foot community center building.

City of Walled Lake Parks Marshall-Taylor Park. This three-acre park is located on West Maple Road. The park features a picnic area, two play structures, play equipment and walkways.

Riley Field. This one-acre property is located on Pontiac Trail and includes a baseball/softball field with a gazebo, picnic area, and two play structures.

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Sims Park. This 15-acre community park is located east of the Village of Wolverine Lake and includes three basketball courts, a tennis court, sand volleyball, picnic shelter and area, play equipment, portable restroom facilities, ponds and trails.

City of Wixom Parks Civic Center Park. Wixom Civic Center Park in the heart of the downtown contains the City Offices, Police Department, Public Library, Parks & Recreation and the Community Center. The Community Center provides activities for Adults 50+ and community classes. The Center hosts a variety of community events and is also available to rent for special engagements to include business meetings, weddings, showers, etc. Outdoor recreational facilities include a play structure, basketball, picnic tables and a plaza with a jetted fountain.

Gibson Historical Park. The 6-acre historic site was acquired in 1995. The site hosts recreational opportunities while preserving a relic from Wixom's past. The park includes a farmhouse built in 1872. Upgrades to the property have transformed it to a multipurpose facility that host senior citizen and teen activities. Features include a community garden, horseshoe pits, benches & picnic tables, multi-purpose field and a pathway connection to Lyon Oaks Park.

Gilbert C. Willis Park. This 46-acre park is located on Loon Lake Road, west of the Village of Wolverine Lake. The park features wooded areas, rolling hills and open space with a variety of activities including athletic fields and courts, a picnic shelter, picnic area, a tot lot, restrooms, horseshoe pits, in-line skate court, sledding hill, tennis court, youth baseball field, nature trails and a fitness trail.

Gunnar Mettala Park. This 65-acre park is located on Wixom’s east side on West Maple Road. The park offers open space, wooded areas and a variety of activities including soccer and baseball fields, tennis, basketball, in-line skate courts, a sand volleyball court, restrooms, a picnic shelter, picnic area, playground equipment, paved walkways, nature study and jogging trails.

Wixom Habitat. Wixom Habitat is a 292-acre nature preserve located in the north of Wixom. It contains unique natural features, and plant and animal habitats. The site’s water bodies and wetlands provide natural stormwater management, including pollutant filtration and stormwater and flood retention. The Wixom wastewater treatment facility is located on the site. The site includes 800 feet of boardwalks and 2,685 feet of unpaved trails connected to the city- wide bike path. Interpretive signs and a viewing platform allow visitors to learn about their surroundings.

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Figure 7. Area Park Facilities

Commerce Township

Village of Wolverine Lake

City of City of Walled Wixom Lake

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SCHOOL FACILITIES

Although no schools are located within Wolverine Lake’s boundaries, the public school grounds near the Village provide valuable recreation opportunities for residents. Private and parochial schools also offer some recreation opportunities. The use of school property and facilities, however, offers limited public access and is dependant on each individual school’s policies.

The Walled Lake Consolidated School District includes six elementary schools, two middle schools, and three high schools near Wolverine Lake. The elementary schools offer playgrounds, ball fields, soccer fields and indoor gymnasiums while the middle and high schools include recreation facilities that are typical of a large public school such as tennis courts, running track, indoor pool, indoor gymnasium, and football, baseball and soccer fields. Figure 7 depicts the location of the nearby schools. They are:

 Commerce Elementary, 28 acres, located in Commerce Township;  Glengary Elementary, 37 acres, located in Commerce Township;  Mary Helen Guest Elementary, 8 acres, located in the City of Walled Lake;  Loon Lake Elementary, 13 acres, located in the City of Wixom;  Oakley Park Elementary, 19 acres, located in Commerce Township;  Walled Lake Elementary, 10 acres, located in the City of Walled Lake;  Wixom Elementary, 10 acres, located in the City of Wixom;  Sarah Banks Middle School, 40 acres, located in the City of Wixom;  Geisler Middle School/Western High School, 149 acres, located in the City of Wixom; and  Walled Lake Central High School, 44 acres, located adjacent to the Village’s boundaries in Commerce Township.  Walled Lake Northern High School, 87 acres, located in Commerce Township.

The Walled Lake Consolidated School District also provides an active community education program as well as an outdoor education center which offers a variety of recreation programs for residents. These facilities are:

 Walled Lake Community Education Center, located on Pontiac Trail in the City of Walled Lake; and  Walled Lake Community Outdoor Education Center, 11 acres, located on Sleeth Road, adjacent to Proud Lake Recreation Area.

The nearby private schools provide some limited recreation facilities which are only available to their students. They include:

 St Matthew Lutheran School, about 9 acres, located in the City of Walled Lake;  St William School, located in the City of Walled Lake; and  Wixom Christian School, 23 acres, located in the City of Wixom.

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PRIVATE RECREATION FACILITIES

In contrast to municipal or school facilities, commercial private recreation resources are often designed to serve customers from around the area. Some of the commercial recreation facilities located near Wolverine Lake are described and listed below.

Detroit Finnish Summer Camp Association. The Detroit Finnish Summer Camp Association was established in 1925 on 68 acres of land on Loon and Sun Lakes, southwest of the Village of Wolverine Lake in the City of Wixom. The site contains small cabins, a clubhouse, and a variety of recreation facilities, including a boat dock, canoes, covered picnic area, basketball court, softball field, playground equipment, lighted horseshoe court and beach.

The other private facilities located on substantial properties in the area include golf courses and gun clubs. They include:

Golf courses:

 Bay Pointe Golf Club, 105 acres, located in Commerce Township;

 Beacon Hill Golf Club, 120 acres, located in Commerce Township;

 Edgewood Country Club, 107 acres, located in Commerce Township;

 Hickory Hills Golf Club, a 9-hole course that contains 53 acres in the northeastern corner of the City of Wixom;

 Union Lake Golf Club, 100 acres, located in Commerce Township.

Other Facilities:

 Novi Oaks Golf and Sport Center is a sports complex, containing a driving range, batting cage, and putting green, located east of the City of Wixom on Twelve Mile Road;

 Total Sports Complex is located on Wixom Road and features indoor baseball and soccer fields, a roller hockey rink, batting cages, pitching tunnels, and fitness training facility;

 Multi Lakes Conservation Club, 154 acres, located in Commerce Township;

 Birmingham Gun Club, 50 acres, located in Commerce Township; and

 Detroit Gun Club, 60 acres, located in Commerce Township.

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RECREATION SERVICES AND PROGRAMS The Village of Wolverine Lake offers a few special events including tiki night and fireworks, fishing contest, and corn roast festival in the summer as well as other seasonal activities.

Adjacent communities also offer a variety of special events and programs to the residents of the area. Some of these programs are organized by private youth sports organizations and others are offered by Commerce Township for seniors at the Richardson Senior Center.

The Lakes Area Youth Soccer plays at Bicentennial Park in Commerce Township and at other school facilities in the area. There are approximately 600 boys and girls between the ages of 5 and 17 years of age who participate each year.

The Suburban Youth Football Conference is an organization of the Detroit Metropolitan area extending from Southfield to Lapeer and Rochester to Commerce Township. The Commerce Township area has three teams: Hawks, Gators and Braves that play in the fall. Hickory Glen Park and Walled Lake Middle School are the locations for play.

Commerce Little League plays at Maple Glen Park and includes 700 children between the ages of 5 and 16 years old. The Interlakes Girls Softball League also plays at Maple Glen Park and includes approximately 600 girls between the ages of 5 and 17 years old.

Senior programs are run at the Ralph Richardson Center in Commerce Township. The Center offers a variety of programs and activities for seniors such as bingo, bowling, crafts, a ladies group, exercise classes, cookouts, lunches, picnics and trips. The Center also provides meals on the premises or for take out. The meal program is part of the Mercy Services for Aging Seniors Nutrition Program. Transportation services to the center, medical appointments, shopping, banks and other locations are also provided in conjunction with the Village of Wolverine Lake and White Lake Township.

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REGIONAL RECREATION FACILITIES While the Village parks include 30.61 acres of parkland, there are more than 1,400 acres of parkland owned by Oakland County Parks, 6,600 acres of parkland owned by the Huron- Clinton Metropolitan Authority (HCMA), and 19,000 acres of state-owned recreational facilities within an hour drive of Wolverine Lake. These facilities are considered regional recreational facilities. Regional parks are large facilities that provide opportunities such as camping, swimming, boating, hiking and golfing which are typically beyond the ability of a local municipality to provide. Figure 7 and Table 14 depict the location of these regional parks and recreational facilities and list the recreational activities they offer. A description of these facilities follows.

Figure 8. Regional Recreation Facilities around Wolverine Lake

Wolverine Lake

Source: Oakland County Planning and Economic Development Services

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Table 13. Regional Recreation Facilities County Parks HCMA State Parks & Rec Areas

Glen Oaks Glen Oaks Lyon Oaks Waterford Oaks Oaks White Lake Indian Springs Metropark Kensington Metropark Area Rec Highland Rec Area Lake Island Park Maybury State Area Rec Pontiac Proud Lake Rec Area Picnicking         Passive Playground         Paved Trail      Nature Trail        Marked Hiking Trail          Trails Mountain Biking Trail      Equestrian Trail       Cross-country skiing           Snowmobiling     Swimming Beach       Swimming Pool  Waterpark   Boat Rental    Water Boat Launch     Activities Marina  Canoeing   Shore Fishing      Dock Fishing    Boat Fishing     Ice Fishing    Winter & Ice Skating  Seasonal Sledding     Activities Tobogganing   Hunting      Nature Center      Interpretive Nature Study Area     Facilities Farm   Historical Building   Soccer   Ballfield    Volleyball    Court & Turf Tennis  Games Basketball  Horseshoes  Golf Course      Disc Golf  Dog Park  BMX Track  Misc. Banquet/Event Facility     Activity Center  Shooting Range   Rustic Campsite    Modern Campsite   Camping Cabin Rental    Group Camping     

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Oakland County Parks Glen Oaks. Glen Oaks includes 125 acres of parkland primarily used as a golf course and banquet facility. During the winter, the golf course is used for cross-country skiing. Activities and facilities include:

 18-hole par 70 course with challenging par 3 holes crossing streams and rolling terrain;  Pro-shop and club room;  1920s English-style stone clubhouse designated as a historic building; and  Formal garden for outdoor weddings, banquets and golf outings.

Source: Oakland County Parks

Lyon Oaks. With 1,024 acres of parkland, Lyon Oaks preserves more than 800 acres of environmentally sensitive wetlands. It features a nature center, dog park and a golf course. Facilities include:

 13-acre, fenced dog park with water and picnic shelter;  Day-use area with 3.6 miles of hiking trails, a picnic shelter, playground and athletic fields;  Nature center with exhibits, programs for the public, scouts and school groups;  Seasonal archery deer hunting;  Arthur Hills-designed 18-hole golf course and driving range; and Source: Oakland County Parks  Banquet and meeting facilities.

Waterford Oaks. With 145 acres of parkland, Waterford Oaks serves as the administrative headquarters for the Oakland County park system. The park is located northwest of the City of Pontiac. It features a waterpark and a BMX track and The Fridge, a refrigerated toboggan run. Activities and facilities include:

 Bicycle motocross track;  Court games complex with platform tennis, sand volleyball and children's play equipment;  Four miles of hiking trails, including 1.5 miles of paved trails;  Activity Center for classes including dog obedience, aerobics and more;

 Picnic shelters and Lookout Lodge available Source: Oakland County Parks for group rentals;  Waterpark with dual-flume waterslide and wave pool with barrier-free access;  The Big Bucket children's water playground featuring a giant tipping bucket, waterfalls and sprays;

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 Ragin' Rapids, a raft ride carrying riders 515 feet through drops and turns and ending in a three-foot deep splash-down pool; and  Swim lessons for all ages and abilities.

Source: Oakland County Parks

White Lake Oaks. This 195-acre park primarily contains an 18-hole golf course facility with cross- country skiing during the winter. Activities and facilities include:

 18-hole, par 70 course;  A clubhouse featuring a pro shop, club room, garden patio, outdoor wedding area and banquet facilities; and

 Hosts the annual Warren Orlick inclusive golf Source: Oakland County Parks outing.

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Huron Clinton Metropolitan Authority Parks Indian Springs Metropark. Located in the northwest part of the County, Indian Springs Metropark encompasses 2,215 acres of parkland at the headwaters of the Huron River. Much of the park is dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of the natural environment. Activities and facilities include:

 An 18-hole, par-71 regulation golf course with driving range;  A nature center;  An environmental Discovery Center;  Nature interpretation and birding;  12 miles of groomed cross-country trails;  Eight miles of paved hike-bike trail;  Picnic shelters;  Sledding hill;  Spray ‘n’ play park; and  Playscape.

Source: HCMA Website

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Kensington Metropark. Kensington Metropark is a 4,481-acre HCMA recreational facility spanning Livingston and Oakland counties. Its wooded, hilly terrain surrounds Kent Lake. The park features beaches, a nature study area with nature center and trails, a farm learning center, a paved trail and a golf course. The park includes the following:

 Two beaches with concessions;  Two boat launches with docking facilities and boat tours on the Island Queen Sternwheeler;  Paddleboat and rowboat rentals;  Overnight canoe campsites;  Shore fishing;  Organized youth group campsite;  18-hole par 71 golf course;  Disc golf; Kensington Metropark  A farm center with animals, barns and Source: HCMA Website hayrides/sleigh rides;  Ten miles of marked equestrian trails;  A nature center and nature trails;  Eight miles of paved hiking/biking trails, 10 miles of hiking trails and a fitness trail; and  Cross-country skiing, equipment rentals, ice skating, heated lodge with fireplace and concession, tobogganing and sledding.

Source: HCMA Website

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State Parks and Recreation Areas Highland Recreation Area. This recreation area offers 5,900 acres of forest, marshes and lakes in the rolling hills of White Lake Township. The park contains trails to accommodate equestrian riders, mountain bikers, hikers and skiers. Three different day-use areas provide space for picnics, swimming, horseshoes or volleyball. Access sites are located on four lakes within the park for fishing and boating. Highland includes the following activities and facilities:

 30 rustic campsites, a horseman’s camp, an organization camp and cabins;  Picnic area;  Playgrounds;  Beach house;  Boat launch;  17 miles of nature trails and cross-country skiing;  16 miles of mountain biking trails; and  12 miles of equestrian trails.

Source: MDNR Website

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Island Lake Recreation Area. This recreation area comprises 4,000 acres in Livingston County and Oakland County. The terrain is a mixture of open brush land, mature hardwood forest, with some pockets of open meadows. Island Lake includes the following activities and facilities:

 Parking areas;  Five picnic shelters;  A beach at Spring Mill Pond with concessions, toilets, playground and volleyball;  Soccer, baseball/softball and horseshoe pits;  Over 14 miles of trails for hiking or biking and four miles of paved trail;  A shooting range including skeet, trap, and sporting clays;  A balloon port;  3,000 acres open to hunting;  Two rustic cabins;  Canoe rental;  Rowboat and paddleboat rental; and  Snowmobiling in designated areas, cross-country, skiing, snowshoeing and ice fishing.

Source: MDNR Website

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Maybury State Park. This 944-acre park located in Northville contains gently rolling terrain, open meadow, mature forest, a variety of wildlife and wildflowers. Special emphasis is given to introducing people to the natural environment who may not otherwise have the opportunity to experience it. Facilities include picnic areas, playgrounds, living farm, visitor center, and a variety of equestrian, biking and walking trails. Maybury State Park includes the following activities and facilities:

 Parking areas;  Five picnic shelters;  A beach at Spring Mill Pond with concessions, toilets, playground and volleyball;  10 miles of cross-country skiing trails;  11 miles of equestrian trails;  6 miles of hiking trails;  5 miles of mountain biking trails; and  4 miles of bicycle trails.

Source: MDNR Website

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Pontiac Lake Recreation Area. With 3,745 acres of rolling woodland terrain, the recreation area includes a mixture of marshes, ponds, heavy forests, old farm fields, river bottom and lakes that support a wide variety of animals and activities. Designated trails are available for horseback riding, hiking and mountain biking. Activities and facilities include:

 Camping including 176 modern campsites and 24 equestrian sites;  Swimming and beach houses;  Playground equipment;  Picnic shelters;  Boat access site and launch;  Shooting/archery range;  Hunting;  Fishing;  17 miles of equestrian trails; and  11 miles of cross country ski, mountain biking and hiking trails.

Source: MDNR Website

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Proud Lake Recreation Area. With more than 4,700 acres, Proud Lake Recreation Area offers diverse and numerous recreational opportunities on the scenic Huron River. It is located northwest of Wolverine Lake with access from Glengary Road. More than 20 miles of trails cover several diverse habitats. It also offers the unique River Hawk Lodge. Activities and facilities include:

 130 modern campsites, an organization camp, mini cabins, and tent rentals;  Nine miles of equestrian and mountain biking trails;  Six miles of hiking and cross-country skiing trails;  Picnic areas and playgrounds,  A beach house, and  Boat launch.

Source: MDNR Website

V ILLAGE OF W OLVERINE L AKE R ECREATION M ASTER P LAN 46

COMPARISON TO RECREATION STANDARDS

The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) has classified parks and recommended an appropriate amount of parkland for a given population size. Although these guidelines are useful in pointing out deficiencies, a park system should be tailored to meet the needs of the community and not be based on national guidelines.

According to the NRPA, parks and open spaces are categorized as mini-parks (pocket parks), neighborhood parks, community parks and regional parks. The mini, neighborhood and community parks are the “close-to-home” parks, usually less than 15 acres, designed to satisfy the recreational needs of residents located within two miles. All Village Parks are considered “close-to-home” parks. According to NRPA standards, the amount of “close-to-home” parkland recommended is 6.25 to 10.5 acres for every 1,000 residents.

Regional parks are parks that serve a broader area (one hour drive) than community parks and focus on meeting the recreation needs of the region as well as preserving unique landscapes and open spaces. They include the Oakland County Parks, HCMA metroparks, and the state- owned parks and recreation areas described in the preceding pages. The NRPA standard for regional parks is 15 to 20 acres of parkland per 1,000 people. Other types of parks include the following:

. Schoolyards, areas that can fulfill the space requirements for other types of parks such as neighborhood, community, sports complex or special use which include the public school facilities located near the Village; . Greenways, areas that link parks together to form a continuous park environment such as the multi-purpose pathway included in the Village; and . Private recreation facilities, areas that are privately owned yet contribute to the Village parks and recreation system.

Table 14 Parkland Acreage Standards

NRPA standard Required - Village Deficiency/ Type of Park Per 1000 Based on 2014 Existing population population 4,325 Surplus

‘Close to Home’ Parkland 6.25 to 10.5 Ac. 27 to 45 Ac. 30.61 Ac. + 4 Ac. and Greenway Subdivision Parks - - 28 Ac. Commerce, Walled Lake, - - 961.3 Ac. and Wixom Nearby Parks Regional Parks 15 to 20 Ac. 65 to 87 Ac. 27,000 Ac. +26,935 Ac. Schoolyards - - 400 Ac. Private Recreation Facilities - - 996 Ac.

According to the above standards, the Village of Wolverine Lake currently meets the needs for total “close to home” parkland. The amount of parkland available to Village residents is even greater when we take into account the recreation facilities provided by the Township and cities adjacent to the Village as well as the private subdivision parks and common areas, schools, and other area private recreation facilities. The Village of Wolverine Lake is also well- served by the regional park facilities provided by Oakland County, HCMA and the state located in the area.

V ILLAGE OF W OLVERINE L AKE R ECREATION M ASTER P LAN 47

ACCESSIBILITY ASSESSMENT AND STATUS OF GRANT ASSISTED PROJECTS

The Village of Wolverine Lake has taken action within the last ten years to bring the park facilities in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Clara Miller Park has undergone improvements to allow for barrier free access to picnic areas, picnic tables, restrooms and playground equipment. Improvements also include new accessible exercise equipment along the Vita Trail.

An assessment of the accessibility of each Village park to people with disabilities was conducted. This assessment considers the accessibility of both the facilities themselves as well as the access routes to them. The ranking system used to evaluate the parks range from 1 to 5 with 1 being “none of the facilities meet accessibility guidelines” to 5, “the entire park was developed using the principles of universal design.”

The Village of Wolverine Lake parks are given the following rank: “4 – most of the facilities/park areas meet accessibility guidelines.”

In accordance with ADA, the Village ensures that all future parks projects adhere to accessibility standards.

The northern portion of the Village Lake Access Site was purchased from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) to house the Village offices. However, Wolverine Lake has never been the recipient of MDNR grant funds for the acquisition or development of its open spaces or parks.

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PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

Village Festival volunteers assisting visitors

P UBLIC P ARTICIPATION

An essential task in the recreation planning process is to determine the needs of the community as a basis for an action plan that will improve the parks and recreation system. Needs expressed by the public provide the rationale to formulate goals and objectives as well as identify areas for capital improvements. To assess the public’s desires, consideration was given to results from a resident survey and general recreation trends.

NATIONAL RECREATION TRENDS

Recreation trends on a national level and in Michigan provide insight into activities that show the greatest growth in popularity and therefore may affect the future direction of parks and recreation. The Outdoor Foundation regularly conducts national surveys to measure participation in physical activities and track changes from previous years. According to the Outdoor Foundation, nearly 50 percent of Americans (141.9 million) ages six and older participated in outdoor recreation in 2012. Table 16 lists the top five outdoor activities.

Table 15 Village of Wolverine Lake National Sports Participation, 2012 Activity Participation Running, Jogging and Trail Running 53.2 Million Freshwater, Saltwater, and Fly Fishing 46 Million Road Biking, Mountain Biking, and BMX 42.3 Million Car, Backyard, and RV Camping 38 Million Hiking 34.5 Million (Source: Outdoor Participation Report, 2013, The Outdoor Foundation)

These trends are consistent with trends observed in Michigan. According to a telephone survey of Michigan residents conducted as part of the 2013-2017 Michigan Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, the top ten outdoor recreation activities are: biking (all types), camping, fishing, walking outdoor (including dog walking), hiking (all types), playing outdoor games/sports, hunting, swimming (all types), boating, and visiting playgrounds

Monitoring parks and recreation trends is important in determining how parks and recreation services should evolve. The implication of the trends noted above along with the demographic and physical characteristics of Wolverine Lake can be summarized as follows:

 Recreation facilities and programs should respond to the expected increase of seniors.

 There is a trend towards implementing community-wide non-motorized transportation and complete streets systems to accommodate bicycle and pedestrian recreation use and to contribute to healthy and walkable communities. The Village of Wolverine Lake has established such as system and facilitates connections to a regional system with infrastructure improvements.

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RESIDENT SURVEY

The Park and Recreation Board developed and distributed a survey to residents at the annual Wolverine Lake Corn Roast on September 12, 2015. The survey was also posted on the Village website, and available at Village Hall. The survey asked residents to respond to nine questions designed to solicit input on the primary goals the Park and Recreation Board were considering. A copy of the survey instrument and results are included in the Appendix of this document.

Thirty-three (33) people took the time during the Corn Roast festivities to fill out a survey. Twenty-one (21) residents downloaded and completed the survey at home, or filled out a survey at Village Hall, making the total number of responses 54. Of this total, 76% were adults (between the ages of 20 and 64), 17% were teens (ages 12-19) and the remaining respondents were seniors (3.5%) and children (3.5%). The survey responses indicate the following opinions:

 Clara Miller Park is the most used park in the community, with more than 28% of respondents using the park more than 20 times a year. The second most used is the Village sidewalk/boardwalk pedestrian paths (22% using them more than 20 times a year), and the third most used is the Lakes Community Trail (with 16% using it more than 20 times a year). These results are consistent with the large and growing popularity of walking and other trail sports.  Regarding satisfaction with Village parks, 80% of respondents stated that they are either very satisfied or somewhat satisfied with Clara Miller Park and the Lakes Community Trail. Seventy percent have the same opinion about the Vita Trail; 65% of the Village sidewalk/boardwalks; and 60% of the Wolverine Lake DNR access site.  Respondents were then asked to rate their satisfaction with facilities available at Clara Miller Park. Facilities ranked with the highest satisfaction are the pavilions/picnic shelters and picnic tables/benches at 80%. Facilities ranked with the lowest satisfaction are the restrooms (18%) and playground equipment (12%).  Residents were asked to suggest ways of improving Village parks and recreation facilities. Of the 36 people who made suggestions, 11 people stated that no improvements were needed. Eight stated that more pathways/sidewalks are needed in the Village (for bicycles, to Dairy Twist, and on S. Commerce and Benstein Roads) and that some paths need repair. Seven suggested new restrooms, six suggested either repairs or replacement of playground equipment, and several suggested repairing/replacing benches and picnic tables. Ideas for new facilities included a splash pad, concession stand and music venue  The next question asked respondents to rank a list of facilities in order of first, second or third priority. A water feature/splash pad was ranked the highest first priority (63%), followed by additional/replacement play structures or facilities (60%). Highest ranked for second priority are additional/replacement picnic structures/facilities (59%) and multi-purpose paths (45%). Highest ranked for third priority are more neighborhood parks (67%) and bocce/shuffleboard courts (44%).  Satisfaction with Village-sponsored events was highest for the Village-wide garage sale (67% very or somewhat satisfied), followed by Tuesdays in the Park (58%) and Bus Trips (e.g. Eastern Market, Tigers, Red Wings, etc.) (56%).  Regarding new programs, 79% of respondents would participate in a Halloween event for children, 73% would participate in fitness programs in the park, and 66% in an adult Easter egg hunt 67%).

V ILLAGE OF W OLVERINE L AKE R ECREATION M ASTER P LAN 50

 Other comments provided by respondents included providing better restrooms, start a walking club, add a bicycle path around the Village, and don’t attempt to replicate events that other communities provide.

PARK AND RECREATION BOARD VISIONING

The Park and Recreation Board met to discuss the Village’s parkland resources and future improvements that will be needed as the demographics of the Village change over time. Board members were asked to evaluate the existing “Vision” for parks in the Village, and how it illustrates the desired character of Village parks and facilities.

In summary, the Board would like to have parks that are safe, fun, and beautiful, with a full walking trail throughout the community that accesses recreation facilities for all abilities. The vision, goals, and action program for future recreation facilities are included in the next chapter.

PUBLIC REVIEW AND PUBLIC HEARING

After the Park and Recreation Board established the tentative vision for recreation facilities in the Village, they considered input from the resident survey and reviewed recreation trends, deficiencies, and other background information to establish the master plan goals and action program for implementation.

A draft master plan was then prepared and made available for public review for 30 days beginning on December 16, 2015. A copy was available for review on the Village’s website. The plan’s availability for public review was posted on the Village’s website and in the local paper. Following public review, the Park and Recreation Board approved the draft plan and recommended its adoption by the Village Council.

Public input on the master plan culminated in an advertised public hearing held by the Village Council on February 10, 2016. Following the hearing, the master plan was subsequently approved by the Village Council.

V ILLAGE OF W OLVERINE L AKE R ECREATION M ASTER P LAN 51

GOALS

Benstein Boardwalk at Wolverine Lake

G OALS

The Village of Wolverine Lake Park and Recreation Board has formulated goals for the next five years. They are broad enough to encompass the needs expressed from the public, from Village officials, staff, and the observed deficiencies in the recreation resources of the area. They also consider demographic changes, current and anticipated development, the area’s physical resources, and recreation trends.

Vision: To provide a diverse and connected system of recreation facilities and programs for all the residents of Wolverine Lake that are safe, fun, and that bring about a sense of community.

Goal #1: Provide attractive parkland and facilities that are close to residences, and that are connected through a pedestrian trail system.

Goal #2: Provide park facilities that are diverse, safe, fun, and accessible for all ages and abilities.

Goal #3: Offer a recreation program of year-round, regularly scheduled activities for varied ages and abilities.

Goal #4: Continue to implement and refine a maintenance program for recreation facilities, including schedules and responsibilities.

Goal #5: Improve opportunities for communicating with residents regarding recreation events.

Goal #6: Develop a strategy to construct a community center in the Village.

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ACTION PROGRAM

Volleyball at Village Festival

A CTION P ROGRAM

The action program details the manner in which the goals will be met. It includes a list of specific projects, as well as a capital improvement schedule with suggested capital improvement projects with a sequence and strategies for implementation.

ACTION PLAN

The following lists specific projects and actions which are recommended to be accomplished during the planning period.

Action #1: Maintain a plan that outlines regularly-scheduled inspections, maintenance schedules, responsibilities, and funding. This action item could include creating a volunteer corps, possibly meeting for a few hours one Saturday a month during the summer, to ensure the parks are clean and that equipment is functional.

Basis for Action: This item was identified through the resident survey.

Action #2: Expand recreation uses of currently-owned Village property. This action item includes evaluation of existing recreation equipment and park facilities for improvements and/or replacement of older equipment to bring it up to modern safety standards. It also improves the functioning and appearance of the parks and properties through appropriate landscaping. All upgrades must be in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and efforts should be taken to remove all existing barriers to universal access. Proposed projects include:

Clara Miller Park: a) Children’s play equipment  replace older pieces of playground equipment, including the slides, stage coach, swings, animals on springs, climbing tower, and merry-go-round b) Other park amenities  Update restrooms and connect to sanitary sewer when available  Construct a concession stand and storage for recreation equipment  Provide a pop/juice/water machine near restrooms  Replace/add picnic tables, benches, and grills as needed  Add landscaping around tennis courts in a way that ensures visibility for safety  Provide more garbage cans to improve park cleanliness  Consider feasibility study and/or park master plan for Clara Miller Park and Vita Trail Park that includes new equipment, water feature/splash pad, etc.

V ILLAGE OF W OLVERINE L AKE R ECREATION M ASTER P LAN 53

Vita Trail / Lakes Community Trail: a) Park amenities  Add senior vita-trail stations  Add restrooms  Add picnic pavilion  Add play structure  Provide more garbage cans to improve park cleanliness

United Neighborhoods Trail: a) Identify areas of the Village where recreation facilities are not accessible via pedestrian pathways. b) Continue to expand the pedestrian trail system throughout the Village

Neighborhood Parks: a) Identify areas of the Village where neighborhood parks and facilities can be added. b) Continue to expand the number of neighborhood parks throughout the Village where possible

Basis for Action: These items were identified through the background studies, resident survey, the Park and Recreation Board, the Village Council, and the Village of Wolverine Lake Master Plan.

Action #3: Explore acquisition of new parkland properties within underserved neighborhoods, particularly in the southern portion of the Village.

Basis for Action: This item was identified through the resident survey.

Action #4: Explore providing recreation programming for varied ages and abilities, and how these programs could be accommodated in a new community center building. This action item would include partnering with adjacent communities to develop a recreation program strategy for Village residents. It could also include developing a building program that outlines facilities provided by a community center, such as a fitness room, kitchen, community gathering space with billiards or ping-pong table, etc. It could also include hiring a part-time recreation program/volunteer coordinator.

Basis for Action: This item was identified through the Park and Recreation Board discussions and resident survey.

Action #5: Identify new and effective methods of communicating to residents about available recreation facilities and events.

Basis for Action: This item was identified through the background studies, Park and Recreation Board discussions, and resident survey.

V ILLAGE OF W OLVERINE L AKE R ECREATION M ASTER P LAN 54

PROJECT SCHEDULE

Table 17 lists the individual projects along with the specific tasks the Village would like to accomplish, the project goal reference, a cost estimate, and potential funding sources. These projects are not prioritized, and will be implemented as funding and/or resources are available. However, to guide implementation, each project is assigned a time frame for completion. Short-term (ST) projects are recommended for completion within one to two years, while long- term (LT) projects may take longer to be completed, five years or beyond. Mid-term (MT) is between the two.

Table 16. Improvement Schedule Time Project Goal Cost Estimate Funding Source Frame

Existing park Continue to implement and refine 4 - ST maintenance a maintenance plan that describes inspections, schedule, responsibilities and funding. Establish a volunteer corps to 4 - ST regularly maintain parks.

Existing park Replace unsafe play equipment at 2 $25,000 - $60,000 General Fund, MT and recreation Clara Miller Park and install a play Grants & facility upgrade structure on safety surface Donations Upgrade restroom and connect to 2 To be determined General Fund, LT sanitary sewer when available Grants & Donations Construct a concession stand and 2 $30,000 - $50,000 General Fund, MT storage for recreation equipment Grants & Donations Attract sponsors and donations for 2 - Grants & ST installing a pop/juice/water Donations machine near restrooms, signs, picnic tables, grills, and trash receptacles. Add landscaping by tennis courts 1 $5,000 - $15,000 General Fund, MT Grants & Donations Install senior vita-trail stations 2 $10,000 - $20,000 General Fund, MT Grants & Donations Install restroom, picnic pavilion 2 To be determined General Fund, LT and play structure at Vita Trail Grants & Park Donations Identify areas where pedestrian 2 - ST pathways are needed. Continue to expand the pedestrian 2 To be determined General Fund, ST - LT trail system throughout the Village Grants & Donations

V ILLAGE OF W OLVERINE L AKE R ECREATION M ASTER P LAN 55

Time Project Goal Cost Estimate Funding Source Frame Seek funding for continued 2 $500,000 - ST development of the pedestrian trail $750,000 system

New park Identify areas of the Village where 1 - MT - facilities neighborhood parks are needed LT Continue to expand the number of 1 To be determined LT neighborhood parks throughout the Village, where possible Seek funding and/or donations to 1 - ST - add more neighborhood parks LT throughout the Village

Establish Establish recreation programming 3 - MT recreation strategy. programming Meet and discuss opportunities for 3 - MT a coordinated recreation program with local recreation groups, the school district, adjacent communities, Oakland County Parks, HCMA and the DNR. Hire a part-time recreation 3 To be determined General Fund, LT program /volunteer coordinator. Grants & Donations

Communications Research new ways of 5 - ST communicating with residents, using technology to the greatest extent possible

Park Conduct a feasibility study/park 2 $5,000 - $7,500 General Fund, MT Development mater plan to modernize Clara Grants & Feasibility Miller Park and Vita Trail Park so Donations Study/Park that all facilities are safe, accessible, Master Plan and meet the needs of residents.

Financing Identify fund raising and grant 1 - 5 - ST - opportunities as an on-going task LT

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IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES

To accomplish the recommended actions during the next five years, it will be necessary to secure adequate funding. The current budget provides only a fraction of the funds required. Therefore, the following strategies are recommended.

Public Support for Parks Public support for parks and recreation will be crucial in determining the level of services the Village will be able to provide in the future. A specific park or project millage over a limited period could be sought for particular projects such as trail development and maintenance.

State Funding and Other Grants The Land and Water Conservation Fund and the Natural Resources Trust Fund continue to be the major funding sources for parkland acquisition and development in Michigan.

Other funding is available through other governmental divisions, such as the Fisheries Division (Inland Fisheries Grant Program), or the Forestry Division (Detroit Edison Tree Planting).

In addition, the Michigan Department of Transportation Enhancement Fund is available for the development of non-motorized pathways within road right-of-ways. There are also a number of smaller grant programs available for the establishments of trails and pathways or trail related facilities such as the Bikes Belong Coalition.

Other Sources of Funding The community should continue to investigate other sources of funding. Seeking donations, attracting sponsors, holding fund raising events, and seeking out other revenue sources are methods that have been successful in raising funds for parks and recreation improvements in other communities.

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APPENDIX

Sunset at Wolverine Lake

Wolverine Lake Parks and Recreation Master Plan Update

Q1 I'm a...

Answered: 54 Skipped: 0

Senior (Age 65+)

Adult (Age 20 - 64)

Teen (Age 12 - 19)

Child (Age 11 & Under)

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Answer Choices Responses

Senior (Age 65+) 3.70% 2

Adult (Age 20 - 64) 75.93% 41

Teen (Age 12 - 19) 16.67% 9

Child (Age 11 & Under) 3.70% 2

Total 54

1 / 12 Wolverine Lake Parks and Recreation Master Plan Update

Q2 From the following list of parks or facilities, please tell us how often you used each in the past year?

Answered: 54 Skipped: 0

Clara Miller Park (Betwee...

Wolverine Lake DNR Access S...

Lakes Community Tr...

Vita Trail (Off of...

Village Sidewalk/Boa...

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Never 1 to 5 6 to 10 11 to 20 More than 20 Total Weighted times times times times Average

Clara Miller Park (Between Benstein and Brisbane 15.09% 30.19% 16.98% 9.43% 28.30% Roads) 8 16 9 5 15 53 3.06

Wolverine Lake DNR Access Site (Northeast side of 33.33% 47.06% 7.84% 0.00% 11.76% lake) 17 24 4 0 6 51 2.10

Lakes Community Trail (Glengary to Clara Miller 20.00% 34.00% 14.00% 16.00% 16.00% Park) 10 17 7 8 8 50 2.74

Vita Trail (Off of Glengary Road) 38.30% 31.91% 12.77% 6.38% 10.64% 18 15 6 3 5 47 2.19

Village Sidewalk/Boardwalk Pedestrian paths 32.00% 20.00% 8.00% 18.00% 22.00% 16 10 4 9 11 50 2.78

2 / 12 Wolverine Lake Parks and Recreation Master Plan Update

Q3 Please rate your satisfaction with Village parks or facilities on a scale of 1 to 4, where 1 means "very satisfied" and 4 means "very dissatisfied."

Answered: 54 Skipped: 0

Clara Miller Park (Betwee...

Wolverine Lake DNR Access S...

Lakes Community Tr...

Vita Trail (Off of...

Village Sidewalk/Boa...

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

1 - Very 2 - Somewhat 3 - Somewhat 4 - Very Don't Total Weighted Satisfied Satisfied Dissatisfied Dissatisfied Know Average

Clara Miller Park (Between Benstein and 51.85% 27.78% 1.85% 7.41% 11.11% Brisbane Roads) 28 15 1 4 6 54 1.98

Wolverine Lake DNR Access Site 34.00% 26.00% 2.00% 2.00% 36.00% (Northeast side of lake) 17 13 1 1 18 50 2.80

Lakes Community Trail (Glengary to Clara 60.00% 20.00% 2.22% 2.22% 15.56% Miller Park) 27 9 1 1 7 45 1.93

Vita Trail (Off of Glengary Road) 53.19% 17.02% 0.00% 0.00% 29.79% 25 8 0 0 14 47 2.36

Village Sidewalk/Boardwalk Pedestrian 45.83% 18.75% 4.17% 4.17% 27.08% Paths 22 9 2 2 13 48 2.48

3 / 12 Wolverine Lake Parks and Recreation Master Plan Update

Q4 Please rate your satisfaction with the facilities currently offered at Clara Miller Park on a scale of 1 to 4, where 1 means "very satisfied" and 4 means "very dissatisfied."

Answered: 53 Skipped: 1

Tennis Court

Roller Hockey Court

Basketball Court

Sand Volleyball...

Playground Equipment

Pavilions / Picnic Shelters

Picnic Tables / Benches

Restrooms

Multipurpose Field (e.g....

Baseball / Softball Fields

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

1 - Very 2 - Somewhat 3 - Somewhat 4 - Very Don't Total Weighted Satisfied Satisfied Dissatisfied Dissatisfied Know Average

Tennis Court 29.79% 17.02% 4.26% 4.26% 44.68% 14 8 2 2 21 47 3.17

Roller Hockey Court 30.43% 4.35% 4.35% 4.35% 56.52% 14 2 2 2 26 46 3.52

Basketball Court 35.42% 6.25% 8.33% 2.08% 47.92% 17 3 4 1 23 48 3.21

Sand Volleyball Court 43.48% 8.70% 13.04% 0.00% 34.78% 20 4 6 0 16 46 2.74

Playground Equipment 53.06% 18.37% 4.08% 12.24% 12.24% 26 9 2 6 6 49 2.12

4 / 12 Wolverine Lake Parks and Recreation Master Plan Update

Pavilions / Picnic Shelters 51.02% 28.57% 6.12% 6.12% 8.16% 25 14 3 3 4 49 1.92

Picnic Tables / Benches 42.00% 38.00% 8.00% 4.00% 8.00% 21 19 4 2 4 50 1.98

Restrooms 35.29% 27.45% 9.80% 17.65% 9.80% 18 14 5 9 5 51 2.39

Multipurpose Field (e.g. 40.43% 25.53% 0.00% 2.13% 31.91% Soccer) 19 12 0 1 15 47 2.60

Baseball / Softball Fields 34.04% 17.02% 6.38% 2.13% 40.43% 16 8 3 1 19 47 2.98

5 / 12 Wolverine Lake Parks and Recreation Master Plan Update

Q5 How would you improve the Village parks or recreation facilities? If no improvements are necessary, please write "none."

Answered: 36 Skipped: 18

# Responses Date

1 Splash pad. Fix baseball fields. New playground equipment. Improve restrooms. 9/22/2015 12:30 PM

2 None 9/22/2015 12:28 PM

3 None 9/22/2015 12:26 PM

4 None. 9/22/2015 12:20 PM

5 Better restrooms. Better backetball & hockey. Better word spreading arena (about events). More events to include 9/22/2015 12:18 PM community.

6 Repaint blue path lines. Bridge is in terrible condition. 9/22/2015 12:14 PM

7 None 9/22/2015 12:13 PM

8 Would like sidewalks to Dairy Twist 9/22/2015 12:09 PM

9 None 9/22/2015 12:07 PM

10 None 9/22/2015 12:06 PM

11 upgrade the old playground equipment 9/22/2015 12:03 PM

12 I really want to try Vitatrail. How about organized walks? 9/22/2015 12:01 PM

13 Clara Millers benches are very old and dirty and gross. 9/22/2015 11:58 AM

14 continue pathways. concession stand. intern summer. 9/22/2015 11:50 AM

15 more mtn bike trails. more bike paths around the village. 9/22/2015 11:46 AM

16 None 9/22/2015 11:44 AM

17 better restrooms 9/22/2015 11:39 AM

18 Work with and actively promote participation in little league baseball 9/22/2015 11:36 AM

19 None 9/22/2015 11:31 AM

20 I think things are good, would like some playground upgrades if possible. 9/22/2015 11:25 AM

21 None. 9/22/2015 11:21 AM

22 1 -Would have liked to still have the fence on Clara Millers baseball field. 2-Benstein Rd has no shoulder & 45 mph. I 9/22/2015 11:20 AM think bikes should be allowed on boardwalk. I will not allow my children to go to Clara Miller because they cannot access it unless they use the boardwalk with their bikes.

23 Clean up Hickory Glenn every year! Bags & crap everywhere. 9/22/2015 11:16 AM

24 Music venue of some sort 9/22/2015 11:10 AM

25 Add no smoking signs in playground. Some minor repair or maintenance to toddler spring rides. Picnic tables need 9/22/2015 11:09 AM paint or repair.

26 Need path on S. Commerce south of Glengary! Road very bad, no shoulder. Lots of people walk to high school. 9/22/2015 11:06 AM

27 none at this time. save our tax dollars. 9/22/2015 11:03 AM

28 Improve little children's area with more climbing structures, and a few more benches. 9/22/2015 11:02 AM

29 keep up maintenance on playground equipment. Clara Miller bathroom smells horrible. Continue bike trails from 9/22/2015 10:58 AM Tampato Wabasso.

6 / 12 Wolverine Lake Parks and Recreation Master Plan Update

30 better bathrooms 9/22/2015 10:55 AM

31 better public restroom 9/22/2015 10:53 AM

32 Tennis courts need work - should start fresh. play pickleball and need cracks repaired, new lines painted. Ideally for 9/22/2015 10:51 AM both, redo courts totally.

33 Better restrooms 9/22/2015 10:48 AM

34 None. 9/22/2015 10:46 AM

35 I ride a bike around and there aren't any bike racks to put my bike (Township hall, Richardson center, Park off 9/22/2015 10:44 AM Benstein)

36 A path is needed in some places along S. Commerce (you know where I'm thinking of) 9/22/2015 10:32 AM

7 / 12 Wolverine Lake Parks and Recreation Master Plan Update

Q6 Would you add any of the following recreation facilities to Village Parks? Please mark THREE in order of priority. If "No," please skip to next question.

Answered: 48 Skipped: 6

More Neighborhood...

Bocce & Shuffleboard...

Water Feature / Splash Pad

Ice Skating Rink

Multipurpose Paths

Passive Nature Areas

Vita Trail Pavilion /...

Concession Area

Additional / Replacement...

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

First Second Third (no (no Total Weighted Choice Choice Choice label) label) Average

More Neighborhood Parks 13.33% 20.00% 66.67% 0.00% 0.00% 2 3 10 0 0 15 2.53

Bocce & Shuffleboard Courts 18.75% 37.50% 43.75% 0.00% 0.00% 3 6 7 0 0 16 2.25

Water Feature / Splash Pad 63.33% 20.00% 16.67% 0.00% 0.00% 19 6 5 0 0 30 1.53

Ice Skating Rink 52.00% 32.00% 16.00% 0.00% 0.00% 13 8 4 0 0 25 1.64

Multipurpose Paths 31.82% 45.45% 22.73% 0.00% 0.00% 7 10 5 0 0 22 1.91

Passive Nature Areas 35.71% 28.57% 35.71% 0.00% 0.00% 5 4 5 0 0 14 2.00

8 / 12 Wolverine Lake Parks and Recreation Master Plan Update

Vita Trail Pavilion / Picnic Structure 30.77% 38.46% 30.77% 0.00% 0.00% 4 5 4 0 0 13 2.00

Concession Area 43.75% 25.00% 31.25% 0.00% 0.00% 7 4 5 0 0 16 1.88

Additional / Replacement Picnic Structures or 11.76% 58.82% 17.65% 0.00% 11.76% Facilities 2 10 3 0 2 17 2.41

Additional / Replacement Play Structures / 60.00% 20.00% 20.00% 0.00% 0.00% Equipment 9 3 3 0 0 15 1.60

# Other (please specify) Date

1 more bike trails 9/22/2015 11:46 AM

2 music 9/22/2015 11:11 AM

3 better bathrooms 9/22/2015 10:55 AM

4 better restrooms 9/22/2015 10:53 AM

5 better restrooms 9/22/2015 10:49 AM

9 / 12 Wolverine Lake Parks and Recreation Master Plan Update

Q7 Please rate your satisfaction with Village-sponsored events on a scale of 1 to 4, where 1 means "very satisfied" and 4 means "very dissatisfied."

Answered: 50 Skipped: 4

Bus Trips (e.g. Easter...

Snacks with Santa

Easter Bunny Lunch

Tuesdays in the Park

Fishing Tournament

Village-wide Garage Sale

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

1 - Very 2 - Somewhat 3 - Somewhat 4 - Very Don't Total Weighted Satisfied Satisfied Dissatisfied Dissatisfied Know Average

Bus Trips (e.g. Eastern Market, Tigers, 44.44% 11.11% 0.00% 0.00% 44.44% Red Wings, Etc.) 20 5 0 0 20 45 2.89

Snacks with Santa 34.78% 13.04% 2.17% 2.17% 47.83% 16 6 1 1 22 46 3.15

Easter Bunny Lunch 34.78% 13.04% 0.00% 4.35% 47.83% 16 6 0 2 22 46 3.17

Tuesdays in the Park 41.86% 16.28% 2.33% 2.33% 37.21% 18 7 1 1 16 43 2.77

Fishing Tournament 41.86% 4.65% 0.00% 2.33% 51.16% 18 2 0 1 22 43 3.16

Village-wide Garage Sale 54.35% 13.04% 2.17% 2.17% 28.26% 25 6 1 1 13 46 2.37

10 / 12 Wolverine Lake Parks and Recreation Master Plan Update

Q8 Would you participate in any of the following events if offered by the Village?

Answered: 50 Skipped: 4

Fitness Programs in ...

Camp-out at Clara Miller

Halloween Event for...

Adult Easter Egg Hunt (wi...

Waterski School

Ice Fishing Tournament

0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8 2

Yes No (no (no (no Total Weighted label) label) label) Average

Fitness Programs in the Park (e.g. yoga in the park, boot camp at the 73.33% 26.67% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% Vita Trail) 33 12 0 0 0 45 1.27

Camp-out at Clara Miller 46.67% 53.33% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 21 24 0 0 0 45 1.53

Halloween Event for Children (e.g. find a pumpkin and decorate it) 79.55% 20.45% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 35 9 0 0 0 44 1.20

Adult Easter Egg Hunt (with prizes appropriate for adults) 66.67% 33.33% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 28 14 0 0 0 42 1.33

Waterski School 42.86% 57.14% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 18 24 0 0 0 42 1.57

Ice Fishing Tournament 53.66% 46.34% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 22 19 0 0 0 41 1.46

11 / 12 Wolverine Lake Parks and Recreation Master Plan Update

Q9 Other Comments:

Answered: 19 Skipped: 35

# Responses Date

1 Wolverine Lake rocks 9/22/2015 12:13 PM

2 Loved the scary park walk from years ago 9/22/2015 12:12 PM

3 Stay original, don't duplicate other city events 9/22/2015 12:08 PM

4 Love the family activities! 9/22/2015 12:04 PM

5 thanks for all you do! 9/22/2015 11:51 AM

6 more mtn bike trails 9/22/2015 11:47 AM

7 more bus trips 9/22/2015 11:30 AM

8 Great community to live in. 9/22/2015 11:29 AM

9 It would be great to have a walking club! 9/22/2015 11:22 AM

10 Not sure why you put old asphalt on a park path - ever try a stroller on it? PS- Glengary didn't need to be redone. Nice 9/22/2015 11:17 AM decision of tax $ - Not.

11 For question #5 - Also like concession area idea! 9/22/2015 11:12 AM

12 Overall, I love what gets done for us. 9/22/2015 11:10 AM

13 Lynn & Team does a great job! 9/22/2015 11:07 AM

14 Do not attempt to duplicate or compete with many of the recreation activities/facilities now available compliments of 9/22/2015 11:05 AM our Commerce Twp/Oakland County tax dollars

15 would really enjoy a bike path around village! We love living in the village! 9/22/2015 11:02 AM

16 sprayer for lake weeds usually empty. They are far when you take your boat out. 9/22/2015 10:59 AM

17 better restrooms 9/22/2015 10:56 AM

18 build better restrooms 9/22/2015 10:54 AM

19 Thank you parks and rec volunteers. 9/22/2015 10:52 AM

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February 18, 2016

Mr. William Parkus Regional Review Office Southeast Michigan Council of Governments Suite 1400 1001 Woodward Ave. Detroit, MI 48226 [email protected]

Re: Village of Wolverine Lake Recreation Master Plan 2016-2020

Dear Mr. Parkus:

The attached Village of Wolverine Lake Recreation Master Plan 2016-2020 was adopted by the Village Council on February 10, 2016. The plan will be sent to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources for their review and approval.

The plan will be subject to further review and updates as deemed necessary by the Village of Wolverine Lake Council.

Please feel free to contact the Village or myself if you have any comments regarding this plan. The Grants Section requests that you copy any comments directly to them at: Grants Management, Michigan Department of Natural Resources, P.O. Box 30425, Lansing MI 48909- 7925.

Thank you for your consideration,

Cc: Sharon Miller, Village Administrator

Richard K. Carlisle, President Douglas J. Lewan, Executive Vice President R. Donald Wortman, Principal John L. Enos, Principal David Scurto, Principal Benjamin R. Carlisle, Principal Sally M. Elmiger, Principal Brian Oppmann, Associate Laura K. Kreps, Associate

February 18, 2016

Bret Rasegan Supervisor, Planning Oakland County Planning and Economic Development Services Executive Office Building 2100 Pontiac Lake Road Building 41W Waterford, Michigan 48328 [email protected]

Re: Village of Wolverine Lake Recreation Master Plan 2016-2020

Dear Mr. Rasegan:

The plan will be subject to further review and updates as deemed necessary by the Village of Wolverine Lake Council.

Thank you for your consideration,

Cc: Sharon Miller, Administrator