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Michigan DNR Celebrates 100 Years of State Parks

Michigan DNR Celebrates 100 Years of State Parks

Michigan DNR celebrates 100 years of state parks Photos by Cory Smith and A supplement to the Daily News | Saturday, May 11, 2019 Courtesy Archives of Page 2 | Saturday, May 11, 2019 A HIDDEN GEM Area’s only , the Ionia State Recreation Area shouldn’t be overlooked DN Photo | Cory Smith MEGHAN NELSON [email protected]

ate Sunday morning after a week of chilly rain, the Ionia State Recreation Area seemed to be Lwaking up for summer. Wildlife and visitors meandered through the park, soaking up the sunshine and taking in the picturesque views of the Recreation Area at 2880 W. David Highway in Ionia. Inside the park, there are a variety of amenities for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds to enjoy. “This park has something for everyone, a beauti- ful lake to swim or boat, plenty of different trail op- tions (horse, bike, hike) and some great overnight accommodations with camping or cabins avail- able,” explained Ionia State Recreation Area Unit Supervisor Trevor McGinn. “Or, for the person who loves the outdoors, we have some great fishing and hunting also. It truly is a great place to visit.” With 4,500 acres of land, the park offers enough room to feel almost secluded on a May morning while enjoying its amenities. Even with everything the park offers, according to McGinn, the recreation area is Ionia County’s best-kept secret. When McGinn learned the Department of Natu- ral Resources was hiring him in 2016, one of his friend’s response was, “Congrats. You’re going to the hidden gem.” “Hidden gem? What does that mean?” McGinn recalled. “He told me, ‘The place is beautiful, but nobody knows it exists.’” McGinn has a few theories as to why the recre- Fisherman leisurely boat on Sessions Lake inside the Ionia State Recreation Area on a Sunday morning. The state park’s lake allows a place for ation area isn’t as well known as other state parks. visitors to wade, fish, boat and just relax by. — DN Photo | Meghan Nelson One of them is the park’s proximity to other Michi- gan beach attractions. The Ionia State Recreation Area includes one of the few lakes in Ionia County, and, according to Mc- Ginn, park planners hoped the sandy shore would attract more visitors than it has. “When you think about a beach and you live in Ionia County, you’re only 50 minutes away from ,” McGinn said. “I think we fall into the capacity where it’s a nice little beach, but we’re so close to Grand Haven and Holland. If you’re going to take a day to go to the beach, why not go there?” Brandi Anderson, the owner of BeachSide, said she has tried to informally survey visitors on where they’re from and why they stopped at her store near Sessions Lake inside the recreation area. Most people she talks to are from Lansing or Grand The Ionia State Recreation Area’s Sessions Lake offers a place for visi- The Ionia State Recreation Area includes 15 miles of equine trails, Rapids. tors to swim, fish and boat whether they stop by for the afternoon or which crosses over Sessions Creek. The equine trials and campgrounds Anderson has noticed the lack of awareness lo- spend a few nights camping in the park. — DN Photo | Meghan Nelson draw many visitors to the park. — DN Photo | Cory Smith cals have for the park nestled within Ionia County. “We really have a beautiful park,” she said. “It’s hasn’t heard of the park must not own a horse. through the woods. There are lots of different op- a great place to be, and I love taking my family out “The equestrian trails here are awesome. It’s tions.” there.” nice for riding here because we have a water Even though she said the recreation area is Kristie Walls, the president of the Ionia Horse crossing and a bridge,” Walls said. “We have open popular in the equestrian community, she and other Trail Association (IHTA), jokes that anyone who run two tracks, and we have single path winding members of the IHTA are working to make the park Saturday, May 11, 2019 | Page 3 a destination by adding a one-mile skills course to the 15 miles of exist- ing trails. “It gives people a place to teach horses skills they might encounter on a more difficult trail, such as Shaw- nee National Forest or the U.P., places that have more technical riding,” she said. It will have fun obstacles like a giant spider, as well as challenging ones, such as steep steps. “I’m excited about it because it’s going to be fun to ride on,” she added. Walls is also proud of the new pavilion and corrals in the eques- trian camping section and is looking forward to the future addition of an arena. “Building an arena will allow people who are having issues with a horse to do some work with their manners,” she said. “It also allows us to have some workshops and bring in some clinicians.” Walls isn’t the only one working on park improvements this summer. McGinn said new features this year include a 55-foot fishing pier (which isn’t exclusively for fishermen) on Sessions Lake and shade structures at the beach. Anderson is bringing in more boats for visitors to rent. While the improvements weren’t purposely planned to align with this year’s 100th anniversary of the Department of Natural Resources, McGinn is excited to usher in the next The Ionia State Recreation Area includes 4,500 century of Michigan state parks with acres of hiking, biking and equine trails as well the additions. as Sessions Creek which feeds into Sessions Lake, • BeachSide Camp & Beach Store To celebrate the anniversary and where park visitors can swim, fish and boat. — DN • Boat & Beach Rentals the many improvements inside the Photos | Cory Smith • Paddle Boats park, the Ionia State Recreation Area, BeachSide and the Ionia Area Cham- • Kayaks ber of Commerce are partnering to • Canoes host a ribbon cutting and summer • Paddle Boards kickoff event from 5 to 7 p.m. May 24 • Float Pads at the recreation area. • Lounge Chairs Anderson is offering free hot dogs and chips to the first 50 attendees, as • Umbrellas well as other discounts on food and • Daily Food Specials boat rentals. McGinn is looking for- ward to showing off the new improve- • Smoothies & Ice Cream Treats ments. There will also be a children’s • Live Bait fishing competition and a sand castle competition. • Shaded Hammock Posts McGinn hopes the event brings more • Clean Facility people into the park who will continue to visit throughout the summer. More information about the Ionia State Recreation Area can be found online at www.michigan.org/proper- ty/ionia-state-recreation-area online.

100 YEAR STATE PARK ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION Ionia State Recreation Area The Ionia Area Chamber of Commerce is holding a ribbon cutting at the Ionia State Recreation Area, 2880 W. David Highway in Ionia, to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Michigan State Parks as well as the recent improve- 2880 W. David Hwy. | Ionia ments made to the park. The ribbon cutting and celebration is scheduled for 5 to 7 p.m. May 24 at the Ionia State Located at Sessions Lake Recreation Area to kick off the summer season The first 50 people will receive free hot dogs and chips from BeachSide Concession, and there will be other discounts on food as well as boat and beach rentals. There will also be a fishing competition at the new fishing pier, 616.522.2521 a sandcastle competition and a campfire with s’mores.

beachside.store 261501 Page 4 | Saturday, May 11, 2019 just starting to break with the weather, so I’m out here looking for fishermen or any illegal ORV (off-road vehicle) activity.” Foster is part of DNR Law Enforce- ‘WE LOVE WHAT WE DO’ ment District 7, an 11-county area in southwest Michigan that includes Kent and Ionia counties. As a graduate of Greenville High School and a current resident of Ionia County, Foster feels right at home each day he’s on the road. “I grew up hunting and fishing and being outdoors all the time, just like a vast majority of us here in Michigan,” he said. Foster’s responsibilities as a conser- vation officer include enforcing laws pertaining primarily to the outdoors, such as managing and protecting wild- life and water resources. As a recent Saturday shift was com- ing to a close, Foster found himself ready to call it a day with little activ- ity — until he noticed a pair of trucks illegally parked on a private trail. Conservation officers often come across wildlife “It’s been terribly slow this spring, throughout Ionia County as they patrol their dis- which I guess is a good thing, but we tricts, enforcing laws pertaining primarily to the actually have the same authority as a outdoors. — DN Photo | Cory Smith Michigan state trooper, though we pri- marily focus on outdoor-related activ- ity. But whatever we run into, we can handle it,” he said. As he closed out his night, he spot- ted some teenagers engaging in illegal activity. “I saw a couple of vehicles in one of our parking lots, and it was three 19-year-olds sitting there together, smok- ing marijuana together. Obviously, it’s legal now, but not for people under 21 or in a public place, so I wrote a citation,” he said. Foster said his view while patrolling, enforcing laws Although Foster is responsible for en- pertaining primarily to the outdoors, keeps the job forcing the law, he said he and his fellow enjoyable on a daily basis. — DN Photo | Cory Smith conservation officers aren’t out seeking to ruin anyone’s fun. “Here, about 95 percent of the people I deal with are out having a good time, I’m just checking to make sure they have their life jackets and are obeying the law,” he said. “Very little of our job is writing tickets and making arrests. We do a ton of education and commu- nity outreach. Most of the people we deal with are good people having a good time, and sometimes we have to ruin it, but for the most part, you’re in a good Cary Foster, a conservation officer with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, patrols a wooded Foster sits in his truck while on patrol as a group of environment and it’s much easier to area May 5 near the Ionia State Recreation Area in Berlin Township. — DN Photo | Cory Smith cyclists pass him by on a trail. — DN Photo | Cory Smith deal with.” For those who do disobey the law, be it not obtaining necessary licensing or While invisible at times, Michigan DNR officers do trespassing on private lands, Foster said they are taking actions that hurt the state as a whole. important, necessary work — loving their job in the process “That’s what the DNR is about — pro- viding for the future and protecting our CORY SMITH comfort. as a conservation officer with the Michi- way of life,” he said. “By purchasing [email protected] “This is what I do on my own time. gan Department of Natural Resources licenses and following the rules, that’s I live out in the country, I hunt, I fish, I (DNR), his view ranges from forested what provides that. If you had no limit hen Cary Foster heads out to the have quads, I’m an outdoors person, so state lands to public lakes. on fish to catch, certain people would office, be it morning or night, this job is perfect for me,” he said. “It’s completely dependent on what go out and catch as many as they could, Whe does so knowing his view Foster’s office is located in the pickup time of year it is, because of what’s go- which is not providing for the future of will almost always give him a sense of truck he drives every day on the job and ing on,” he said. “Right now, things are the fish or that fishing location. Funds Saturday, May 11, 2019 | Page 5 from fishing licenses go toward the hatcheries, pro- viding future fishing opportunities and cleaning the water, and that’s just one example.” In regards to the best part about his job, Foster said that involves the opportunity to travel almost any- where in the state when such an opportunity arises. “There’s not a ton of public land here near Ionia and Montcalm counties, there’s no ORV trails or snow- mobile trails, so there are not those things to patrol, where if you go an hour or two north into Newaygo or Lake counties, it’s all public land with those trails and lots of water,” he said. “Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is a whole different world — but that’s a cool part of this job. We get to travel from time to time, and in this state, there’s everything you want.”

CONSERVING WILDLIFE As James Miller heads out into the field for a day, his job could take him anywhere from a burning forest to a clear-cutting of threatened trees. As a wildlife biologist with the DNR Flat River Field Office, Miller is involved in preserving natural areas near Montcalm and Ionia counties, such as the Montcalm County State Game Area. “Specifically, my main job is to create and enhance wildlife habitat for hunting and continued wildlife growth,” he said. “We go into different ecosystems and determine the best kind of wildlife management.” Earlier this month, Miller and other DNR employ- ees found themselves within the State Game Area, monitoring a prescribed burn. Smoke could be seen billowing high into the air on the border between Montcalm and Ionia counties, and while the scene looked dramatic, Miller assured it was all being per- Cary Foster calls his pickup truck “his office,” as his job requires him to patrol throughout Ionia County, enforcing laws pertaining primarily to formed with a specific purpose — to help preserve the the outdoors. — DN Photo | Cory Smith Karner blue butterfly. “That’s a species that is threatened and only has away,” he said. “That may sound like not a big thing — efforts affect certain lakes and rivers, the work in his one specific type of plant that the caterpillar feeds on, you might say ‘it’s just a butterfly’ — but that’s some- department is critical to ensure Michigan’s native fish the lupin plant (lupinus perennis), and that plant is thing I want my kids to see, I want them to know that species survive. part of the oak savannah ecosystem,” he said. we did work hard to make sure these species are still “We’ve had species that were driven to extinction According to Miller, by performing a controlled around for them.” and others to the brink of it before we had somebody burn, invasive plant species are eliminated while the As a Michigander who grew up near , Miller to start regulating harvest and fishing methods,” he oak can survive and flourish following the burn. said he obtained his love of wildlife thanks to family said. “We tried the absence of regulation and that “Those trees are designed to put all of their growth hunting and fishing trips. didn’t work very well. In Michigan, sport fishing, it’s effort into their root system for five to six years and “I fell in love with being outdoors, and eventually a huge component of our economy, and a lot of our then they grow upwards,” he said. “So the fire goes with conservation,” he said. fisheries, especially here in southern Michigan, a lot through and the root system survives, and it can per- Miller said he’s not alone in that regard, and that of those wouldn’t exist if we weren’t stocking them, sist, while the fire destroys its competitors.” essentially everyone he works with throughout the because we don’t have the natural reproduction to Following a burn, Miller said wildlife can begin DNR shares the same passion. keep them going.” returning to its natural state in as little as two-and-a- “We’re biologist, technicians, hatchery specialists, Gunderman said a majority of Michigan’s inland half weeks. and nobody is out there trying to cause you harm or lakes are dependent on restocking efforts by the DNR “We walk the scene again and can see very quickly mess up your day,” he said. “We want you to enjoy and other organizations and sports clubs. that regeneration starts to happen. In that time frame, natural resources just as much as we do. Most of the “Funding is always a challenge, especially because you will see wildlife such as turkey and deer, as they people we run into in this field, we love what we do. If nationwide there’s been a decline in fishing license love to feed in there on the new blacktop soil. It’s you’re doing this for money, you’re in the wrong career sales and Michigan is not immune to that. That’s been almost as if nothing ever happened, but it creates bio- field. We love these resources and we are really in tune our primary source of funding along with federal diversity and is way better for the environment.” with what is going on in nature.” excess taxes on fish and tackle,” he said. When overseeing a clear-cutting of trees, Miller According to Gunderman, the stocking of fish, said there is a common misperception that the DNR MAINTAINING FISHERIES creating attractive fishing destinations in Michigan is simply destroying trees, but he said that is not the As a Fisheries Division Manager with the DNR and thus more purchased fishing licenses, helps to case. Southern Lake Michigan Unit, Brian Gunderman, is fund efforts to prevent invasive species from making “If you don’t clear cut it, the root system doesn’t also one of many in the DNR now doing what he loved an impact. understand it’s being damaged,” he said. “If you do as a child. “Invasive species, that’s a huge concern and it has a clear cut it shocks the root system into sending out “I grew up fishing, tried to come up with a way to greatly changed how we’ve managed the ,” new sprouts because it knows it was hurt, and that get paid to fish, and this was the closest thing I could he said. “That issue, it’s a never-ending parade with species can now thrive. If you let it mature on its own, come up with,” he said. “I’ve been fishing as long as our inland lakes as well. From zebra muscles to vari- you’re no longer going to get the same benefits for I can remember, and now I’m devoted to managing ous aquatic weeds, those have triggered all kinds of wildlife.” it.” issues. I think, the main thing is, the public doesn’t Miller said he’s passionate about his work because According to Gunderman, the Fisheries division is realize a lot of the work we do in terms of habitat pro- he hopes to preserve as much wildlife as he can for split into hatchery work, research and fieldwork, with tection and working with local communities to address future generations. those in the DNR working to ensure that Michigan’s these issues. It’s kind of an invisible job, but it’s an “You’re going to lose biodiversity if you’re not do- fish are plentiful and their natural habitats are safe. important one. You have to have that habitat, and they ing the work that we are, losing those natural habitats Gunderman said from increasing fish populations have to be protected, otherwise stocking of these fish, that need to be managed, otherwise they could go through hatcheries and researching how manmade it doesn’t really serve a purpose.” Page 6 | Saturday, May 11, 2019 Genevieve Gillette: A champion for state parks

enevieve Gillette, born in Lansing in Project, located near Pontiac, as well as May 1898, was a trailblazing land- the City of Lakeland in Florida. Some Gscape architect who spent her life of her larger commissions included Fer- trying to expand Michigan’s state parks ris State University, the Starr Common- system. wealth for Boys and Albion College. Raised on a farm, Gillette enjoyed a Hoffmaster’s sudden death in 1951 close relationship with nature from a took Gillette by surprise. She took it young age. When it came time to enroll upon herself to be the champion of the in college, Gillette did not have many parks system after Hoffmaster and be- choices. At the time, women mostly gan working with other active citizens studied home economics and other dis- and conservation groups to bring atten- ciplines that made them “good wives.” tion to the state of the parks system. Yet, Genevieve was not interested in Gillette traveled the length and these topics. In college, her professors breadth of the state in her efforts to mo- suggested she enroll in agriculture and bilize public opinion to save parks. She chemistry classes, and so she enrolled was at the forefront of citizens’ activism in an agriculture course at Michigan during the min- Agricultural College in 1916. ing controversy in the 1950s and found- Gillette was invited by the course ed the Michigan Parks Association. instructor to take a botany exam to join In 1969, Gillette, along with the the botany honor society. She didn’t Michigan Parks Association, began a think she could pass, but scored a 95, lobbying effort in the Michigan Leg- and was admitted into the society, which islature to pass a $100 million bond to was composed of people significantly rebuild the parks system over a decade. older than herself. Gillette graduated The successful passage of the bond from Michigan Agricultural College in issue bolstered her efforts and passion. 1920, becoming the first female land- Gillette also was involved in the effort to scape architect in the state. create the state’s motor vehicle permit, After graduation, Gillette accepted an early form of the Recreation Pass- an offer from the famous landscape Landscape architect Genevieve Gillette was called ”a saving angel to Michigan’s natural beauty” for her port, to secure more funding for state architect Jen Jensen in Chicago. Being work on Michigan’s state parks. — Courtesy Archives of Michigan parks. She went on to serve on President paid $25 a week, she was relegated to Lyndon Johnson’s Citizens’ Advisory answering phone calls. However, Gillette pointed as the first superintendent of reports and thorough research in his Committee on Recreation and Natural was involved with the Friends of the state parks in Michigan. Gillette met quest for an expansive Michigan state Beauty. Native Landscape and accompanied Hoffmaster through a mutual friend. parks system. In 1976, Gov. William Milliken dedi- them on their surveys of possible park- Hoffmaster relied on Gillette’s expertise As instrumental in helping set up cated the E. Genevieve Gillette Nature lands in the two years she was working and advice, as a volunteer. She contrib- parks as she was, Gillette continued Center at as a at the firm. Jensen even encouraged her uted to establishing some of the earliest her work as a landscape architect. She tribute. When she died in 1986, tributes to consider getting involved with the state parks, including those at Hart- undertook landscaping projects for the poured in. The Detroit Free Press called state parks system in Michigan. wick Pines and Ludington. Hoffmaster Detroit Parks and Recreation Depart- her “a saving angel to Michigan’s natu- At the time, P.J. Hoffmaster was ap- especially relied on Gillette’s detailed ment and the West Acres Housing ral beauty.” — Michigan DNR State park memories: Babe Ruth and the atomic bomb even threatened to arrest Babe if he did not “make a Oppenheimer called him. They had a problem. Oppen- Babe Ruth arrested satisfactory answer.” On Aug. 5, when the Yankees came heimer, who was a collaborator, wanted to discuss an to Detroit from Cleveland, Babe went right to bed. He was urgent matter with Compton, but in person. Since they for fishing violations awakened to be told that he might be arrested. Babe’s were working on a top-secret project, the scientists were Babe Ruth, the famous New York Yankees slugger, was response? Go back to bed, of course! not allowed air travel. So, Oppenheimer took a train to not as good a fisherman as he was a ballplayer. During Michigan. Compton picked him up from the train station the summer of 1926, he violated Michigan’s game and and the two men drove to where fish laws by fishing at Island Lake Recreation Area before First crisis of the they walked on the beach and talked about the problem at the fishing season officially had begun. Babe went fishing hand: could testing the atomic bomb set off a chain reac- with teammate Pat Sexton from the porch of the Island Manhattan Project solved tion that would destroy the world? Lake Hotel and was caught with 25 bass and bluegill Scientists working on the bomb had discovered before the official June 16 start of the fishing season. Arthur Compton, a native Michigan resident, was a nuclear fusion — the principle of the hydrogen bomb. In The game warden arrested both of them and seized their world-famous physicist working on the atomic bomb. creating the bomb, scientists were afraid that it would tackle, but not their catch. They were released and even During the summer, Compton often would visit Otsego cause the explosion of hydrogen and nitrogen in the air, made it back to the game in Detroit that afternoon. Lake State Park with his family. While the Manhattan with unknown, potentially disastrous consequences. In August 1926, Babe was summoned to appear in project — the research and development that led to the While this was a very real fear, Compton asked Oppen- court in Brighton by A.B. Wilkinson, the conservation world’s first nuclear weapons — was being developed in heimer and the other scientists to go ahead and complete officer for Oakland and Livingston counties. Babe was Berkeley, California, Compton would invite friends to the the calculations. In fact, over the next three months, charged with three violations: fishing without a license, family retreat in Otsego Lake, while he continued to work Compton asserted that should the chances of an atomic fishing out of season and taking undersized fish from on the project. explosion destroying the world exceed 3 in a million, the Island Lake. Wilkinson held a warrant for Babe when In July 1943, Compton was at the general store in the latter came back to Detroit to play a game. Wilkinson Otsego Lake with his family when a panicked Robert Continues on Page 7 Saturday, May 11, 2019 | Page 7 The Michigan DNR and you SOUTH SHORE CAMPGROUND s an avid outdoor enthusiast absorb- Come Enjoy Our ing all that surrounds us, and by Aspending as much time as possible afield, I’ve become very fond of the hard PRIVATE BEACH work accomplished by the men and women who have proudly put on the at Crystal Lake uniform and swore to protect that which is priceless — the natural resources of Our lake is perfect for all water Michigan. STEVE MERREN activities and is known for its crystal [email protected] Annually, hundreds of thousands of clear waters and spectacular sunsets. people in “the Mitten” hunt, fish, hike, We offer a friendly, relaxing and family 2850 South Shore Dr. swim, and camp, all contributing to the have healthy elk herds, moose in the U.P., oriented camping experience. Crystal, MI cause of preservation and a very solid and while extremely limited — the op- 989-235-4222 thank you to those who have made it portunity to harvest the prehistoric lake 261112 their personal responsibility to keep the sturgeon. balance in order. This is merely the tip of the iceberg, In almost any outdoor scenario, but deer management, salmon stocking, AN UNPARALLELED GOLFING EXPERIENCE whether it be a simple stroll down a daily catches, minimum restrictions and park trail or a fishing excursion for the much more all add up to the remarkable Beautifully groomed course that is fun for golfers of any skill level. ages, the tireless efforts of the Michigan quality of our ecosystem, and by adher- Department of Natural Resources (DNR) ing to the regulations set in place we as can be seen. Through countless hours outdoors folk help maintain that quality. of study and the input and financial It is no surprise that most people involvement provided by the utilizing wish to pass on the genuine love and ad- public, the DNR has been able to, in miration of the outdoors to the genera- turn, provide Michiganders with an tions that are to come, and by providing ––––– GET OUTSIDE & SAVE! ––––– unparalleled state of both beauty and the necessary information and working opportunity. hand in hand with the DNR the idea that $2 OFF OR $5 OFF Through the DNR’s outstanding ef- many generations to come will too have 9 HOLES 18 HOLES forts, some of the most scarce animals in the pleasure of thoroughly enjoying OFFER VALID FOR THE 2019 GOLF SEASON Michigan have made remarkable prog- Michigan’s natural resources will not 261555 ress in stabilizing populations, we now shortly fade away. 1413 E. Kent Rd., Greenville, MI | 616-225-4653 | For tee times, visit www.golfglenkerry.com

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The Jewel Box of Ionia 324 W. Main St. Babe Ruth violated Michigan’s game and fish laws by fishing at Island Lake Recreation Area before the Ionia, MI 48846 fishing season officially had begun. — Courtesy Archives of Michigan 616-597-6605 State park memories Continued from Page 6 project continued. In July 1945, the first 261548 bomb tests were conducted successfully whole project would be called off. Calcula- in New Mexico and, as we know, the world PROUD SUPPORTER OF MICHIGAN STATE PARKS! tions revealed a smaller risk and so the did not end. — Michigan DNR Page 8 | Saturday, May 11, 2019 History and natural landscape highlighted in state parks efore there were parks, there were History Center. people, both settlers and indig- Lumbering and logging were impor- Benous. Before people, there were tant industries in 19th-century Michi- non-human features of the landscape, gan, which left major ecological damage from rocks to reptiles. The Great Lakes as a lot of the old-growth forests were region showcases millions of years of lost. In 1927, Karen Hartwick donated social, geological and ecological move- land for what was to become the name- ments. sake park of her late husband, Maj. State parks in Michigan today are Edward Hartwick. The park houses found in places where people have lived some old white pine, including the erst- for thousands of years. These parks help while Monarch tree. At its healthiest, visitors explore and interpret what these the Monarch was over 155 feet tall and special places meant to Michigan’s peo- about 12 feet in diameter. The Civilian ple, even before there were state parks. Conservation Corps built the Hartwick Sanilac Petroglyphs Historic State Pines Logging Museum and planted Park contains Michigan’s largest known many of the trees in the park as part of collection of early Native American the park’s “second growth.” teachings carved in stone. Created with- Belle Isle Park, owned by the city in the last 1,400 years, the petroglyphs of Detroit but managed by the DNR were discovered following massive fires (through a 30-year lease) since 2013, is that swept the region in the late 19th cen- one of the state’s newer state park ven- tury. The Michigan Archaeological Soci- tures. Like most islands on the Detroit ety purchased this important site and the River, some of the first inhabitants of surrounding land and donated these to Fayette State Park. — Courtesy Archives of Michigan the island were indigenous people. In the State of Michigan in 1971. Today, this the 18th century, the island was settled 240-acre park is preserved to teach us warfront. After the Civil War ended, iron production capabilities. Fayette by French colonists who named it Hog about our cultural and natural heritage the post was abandoned by the Army. In served as the workhorse of the steel Island after the livestock that roamed and is listed in the National Register 1923, the fort and the lighthouse became industry until, by 1890, rising produc- freely on the island. In the late 19th cen- of Historic Places. The petroglyphs are a state park. From 1939 to 1942, the tion costs brought the industry to a tury, Frederick Law Olmsted — who de- sacred to the Great Lakes Anishinabek Works Progress Administration — part standstill. Over time, Fayette became signed Central Park in New York City — and remain an important place of teach- of President Franklin Roosevelt’s New a summer resort. In 1959, the park was re-designed the island as a park, though ing and ceremony. This unique park is Deal initiatives — undertook restora- established when the State of Michigan only parts of his design were ever co-managed with the Saginaw Chippewa tion and improvement work at the park, acquired the area. The historic townsite completed. Important buildings on the Indian Tribe of Michigan. which included creating car parking was developed by the Jackson Iron Co. island, such as the aquarium and the There is military history in places spaces and campsites. Over its 700 acres, and contains the original roads, build- botanical conservatory, were not a part like Fort Wilkins Historic State Park the park also houses the Copper Harbor ings, railroads grades and charcoal of Olmsted’s plans, but instead, were in Copper Harbor, which is a restored Lighthouse, which was built in 1866. kilns — all remnants of a once vibrant, designed by famous Detroit architect 1844 military outpost on . Fayette Historic State Park in industrial community. Since 1974, the Albert Kahn. Other important features The fort was under the direction of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula holds some site has been preserved as an important of the park are the James Scott Memo- U.S. Secretary of War William Wilkins. important clues to the area’s min- cultural and historical landmark jointly rial Fountain, the William Livingstone In 1846, during the Mexican-American ing history. The area around the park managed by the Michigan Department Memorial Light and the Dossin Great War, the garrison was moved to the initially was developed in 1867 for its of Natural Resources and the Michigan Lakes Museum. — Michigan DNR What is Michigan’s first state park? There’s more than one answer s the DNR celebrates the 100th anniversary of gan’s first state park, which is also true. Michigan state parks system, a natural question Approximately 25 years before legislation estab- Aarises — what was Michigan’s first state park? Well, lished the state park commission, the federal govern- the answer depends on how you interpret the question ment gifted the property it owned to and isn’t simple. the state in 1895. The island was designated as Michi- The 2019 state parks centennial celebration is cen- gan’s first state park under the Mackinac State Park tered around the formation of the Michigan State Park Commission. Commission by the state Legislature on May 12, 1919. Because Mackinac Island is operated under the The commission was given responsibility for oversee- Mackinac State Park Commission and was not placed ing, acquiring and maintaining public lands and estab- under the Michigan State Park Commission, there is Campers have enjoyed Michigan’s state parks since 1919. — Courtesy lishing Michigan’s state parks system. more than one answer to the “first state park” question. Archives of Michigan One of the state’s earliest purchases was the site of in 1917. Although the land was INTERLOCHEN STATE PARK of the Legislature Michigan purchased one of the few purchased prior to 1919, Interlochen was the first public The Michigan Legislature paid $60,000 for the land remaining parcels of virgin pine timber to be found park to be transferred to the Michigan State Park Com- that became Interlochen State Park, located southwest in this State, the same being Interlochen State Park … mission in 1920 and is considered Michigan’s first state of Traverse City, in 1917. between two beautiful lakes in Grand Traverse County. park. As recorded in the Biennial Report of the Public However, many consider Mackinac Island as Michi- Domain Commission for 1917-1918: “At the last session Continues on Page 9 Saturday, May 11, 2019 | Page 9 Michigan’s first state park Continued from Page 8 that Thomas W. Ferry, a Mackinac boy who had grown up to become a U.S. Duck Lake on the east covers some 3 Senator, spearheaded a move to have square miles and Green Lake on the west Congress designate the government land is of slightly less extent, the distance on Mackinac Island as a national park. separating the two being but one-half He succeeded, and in 1875, three years mile. The property has a shoreline of after Yellowstone had become the United three-quarter mile on the former and States’ first national park, Mackinac one-half mile on the latter, all of which became the second. Set aside ‘for the is high and dry and very desirable for benefit and enjoyment of the people,’ the camping purposes.” 911 acres outside the 104-acre military Its location between two well-known reservation were to be maintained by the fishing and swimming lakes, Green Lake soldiers who garrisoned .” and Duck Lake — Interlochen means “be- Almost 20 years later, the U.S. Army tween the lakes” — is one of the park’s decided to close Fort Mackinac. At the defining features. time, the didn’t ex- Another is its virgin pine forest. ist, and all national parks were under the “The timber is practically all old umbrella of the War Department. growth white and Norway pine in which “While Mackinac was a beautiful and it is said that no cutting has ever been pleasant post enjoyed by the soldiers done except to remove windfalls and stationed there, it had no remaining Fishing wisdom. We didn’t trees that have died,” according to the Bi- military importance, and its troops were check the tackle box the night ennial Report. “Many specimens of the needed in Sault Ste. Marie to guard the before, or get up before sunrise. white pine two and a half and three feet canal there,” Armour wrote. “Without But we did power the boat that in diameter, towering 175 feet or more in the troops, who would care for the na- would help him realize there’s height, can be seen here and the Norway, tional park?” more to fishing than just catching fish. When the energy you invest tall and dense, is as fine as can be found In February 1895, Senator James in life meets the energy we fuel it anywhere.” McMillian – urged on by a group of with, beautiful things happen. Originally known as Pine Park, Mackinac citizens who wanted the Proudly Interlochen State Park was created to island’s government lands kept in public 65 delivering preserve the land’s virgin pine stand for ownership rather than sold – introduced energy in YEARS Michigan. the people of Michigan. an appropriation bill amendment that The Biennial report continues: “The would turn the military reservation and 261308 object of the State in acquiring this tract the buildings and lands of the national was, first of all, to preserve to posterity park over to the state of Michigan for use at least one remnant of the virgin pine as a state park. forest with which Michigan was so lav- “Congress passed the bill on March GOLDSTAR OUTDOORS ishly endowed by nature, where future 2, with the added stipulation that the generations may go and view the glories land would revert to the United States THE AREAS LARGEST STOCKING DEALER OF QUALITY of the pine forest in all its pristine gran- if it ever ceased to be usedPublication for park CreativeHUNTING, SHOOTINGAd Specs AND FISHINGContact EQUIPMENT deur. Being always open to the public it purposes,” Armour wrote.Michigan “Michigan Department Fishing Wisdom - 4.75 x 5 - 4CP Jackie Shorman will also provide a delightful summer had no state park system, but the state of Natural Resources Masterbrand Legislature acted quickly, and by joint 403-718-3572 recreation ground for those wishing to HANDGUNS, LONG GUNS,No Bleed avail themselves of its advantages in this resolution on May 31, 1895,State created Park theCentennial Enbridge Inc. respect.” Mackinac Island State ParkCelebration Commission feature/ BOWS, CROSSBOWS, AMMO The Public Domain Commission to manage Michigan’s firstsection state park.” OPTICS, CLOTHING AND transferred the land to the Michigan The lands of the military reservation, State Park Commission in 1920. Fort Mackinac and the national park MUCH MORE!! Today, the state park system that the were formally transferred to the state commission started 100 years ago has Sept. 16, 1895. grown to 103 parks that attract 28 million “The state had acquired a treasure,” CHECK OUT visitors each year. Armour wrote. OUR Today, Mackinac Island State Park 10,000 SQ. FT. MACKINAC ISLAND STATE PARK includes the 14 original buildings of STORE! Mackinac Island — historically a Fort Mackinac, which were built by the gathering place for Native people and British military starting in 1780, as well then French fur traders and mission- as several other historic structures and OPEN aries and later the home of soldiers about 1,800 acres of land. stationed at Fort Mackinac – had become More than 80 percent of Mackinac 7 DAYS! a popular tourist destination by the late Island is state park property, managed by 19th century. the Mackinac Island State Park Commis- “By the time of the Civil War, lake sion. boats were bringing visitors to Mackinac More than 800,000 visitors come to the to enjoy the ‘healthy air’ or explore the island each year. The park features a va- island’s natural wonders,” David A. Ar- riety of historic and natural resources, mour, who served as deputy director of including historic landmarks, breathtak-

the Mackinac Island State Park Commis- ing vistas, spectacular rock formations, 261260 sion for many years, wrote in his book quiet forests and inspiring nature trails. “100 Years at Mackinac: 1895-1995.” To learn more about Mackinac Island www.goldstaroutdoor.com Armour continues: “Such was the State Park, visit MackinacParks.com. — 358 West M-46, Edmore, MI 48829 | 989-427-6037 growing reputation of Mackinac Island Michigan DNR Page 10 | Saturday, May 11, 2019 Evolving car industry drives state parks’ growth ichigan’s state parks system started out small. Between 1919 and 1921, the Michigan State Park MCommission established 23 state parks. Ini- tially, many of these parks had been wilderness areas or old industrial land — like Hartwick Pines — that were converted to parkland. In many cases, railroads provided visitors access to the parks system. Beginning in the 1920s, cars became an increas- ingly popular form of transportation – an especially important trend for park development, as people began to travel in their cars to state parks After World War II, when car ownership increased further, the interstate highway system brought people, cars and parks closer to each other than ever before. The impact of this accessible road network was significant The changes were evident on state road maps. In 1912, Michigan’s highway department issued a free road map of the state. In 1919, the state Legislature authorized the highway department to publish and sell a tourist map. By 1922, that map included state parks, and by 1923 the map also contained informa- tion on recreation sites, campsites and ferry sched- ules. Needless to say, roads and cars had a big impact on park attendance. In 1922, state parks welcomed 220,000 visitors, but by 1930 — just eight years later — saw a 40-fold increase as state park attendance soared to more than 8 million people a year. Michigan also was one of the first states to in- troduce roadside parks and recreation areas. This Automobiles crowd Island Lake Recreation Area in the middle part of the 20th century. — Courtesy Archives of Michigan occurred after Herbert Larson, an engineer for the Upper Peninsula’s Iron County Road Commission, With most of the state’s population concentrated enabled easier access to parks. had difficulty finding a picnic spot while on a vaca- in the south and southeast, and parks located primar- tion trip to northern Wisconsin in 1919. ily in the north and northwest, automobile travel Continues on Page 11 Supporting state parks — the Recreation Passport ichiganders have always loved their parks. Ini- well as add more parks. Two of Michigan’s neighbors tially, the state was dependent on gifts of lands by — Minnesota and Ontario — pioneered similar sticker Mdonors. However, by the 1920s, if expansion was plans, which were the inspiration for Michigan’s ve- to continue, there was a realization that the state would hicle permits. need a long-term funding source to purchase more land. The road to the sticker, however, was an uphill one. In Financing these lands was not always easy. 1957, the Legislature unanimously passed the “sticker” In 1957, the state Conservation Commission asked the bill, despite opposition from urban Democrats. The leg- Michigan Legislature’s permission to set up a park fee islation was vetoed by Gov. G. Mennen Williams because system. There were 59 Michigan state parks by then, a he thought funds from the sticker would transfer the cost majority of which were situated in southeast Michigan. of park improvement to users. As automobiles and the interstate highway system In 1959, a second sticker bill was passed by the Legisla- connected parks and recreation areas closer than ever ture and vetoed again by Gov. Williams, justified along before, the state parks system was unable to meet the similar lines as before. In 1960, the Legislature passed demand of growing attendance. In 1958, an estimated yet another version of the bill, which was not vetoed. By 17 million people were expected to visit state parks, an 1968, the annual vehicle permits had become an impor- increase of more than 8 percent over the previous year. tant source of revenue supporting Michigan state parks. To keep up with demand, the state’s parks system needed By 2010, it cost $24 to get an annual vehicle sticker. At more funding. This was how the state park vehicle per- the time, the parks system faced a massive infrastruc- mit “sticker” was born. ture deficit. To ensure Michiganders could continue When the stickers were first proposed, there was using their parks, the Michigan Department of Natural unanimous agreement that the parks system needed Resources devised the Recreation Passport, which was more revenue. In fact, the Conservation Commission An early recreation passport. — Courtesy Archives of Michigan tied to the vehicle registration process and functioned based its recommendation on a survey of 4,700 park us- as a vehicle permit. Priced at just $10 and providing ers, which showed that only one in 12 opposed charging a individual entry fees. The annual motor vehicle permits year-round access to all state parks, the Recreation fee for using parks. were windshield stickers. For park visitors who only Passport was a success, generating more than $7 mil- These “sticker” passes would allow unlimited access wanted to visit one park a year, the charge could be lion in its first year. Today, the $11 Recreation Passport to state parks. Charged at $2 a year, the stickers were to up to 50 cents. Funds from the stickers were intended helps fund maintenance and improvements at Michi- be valid for a vehicle instead of the previously charged to help finance improvements to the parks system, as gan’s 103 state parks. — Michigan DNR Saturday, May 11, 2019 | Page 11

WHEN WERE MICHIGAN STATE PARKS AND RECREATION AREAS ESTABLISHED? State parks expand 1919: Interlochen State Park (pur- Yankee Springs Recreation Area chased in 1917) 1969: W.C. Wetzel Recreation Area 1944: Bald Mountain Recreation Area, (name changed around 2002 from 1920: , Charles , Highland state park) after World War II , Grand Haven State Recreation Area, , Park, , Onaway Island Lake Recreation Area, Metamo- 1971: Fort Custer Recreation orld War II brought prosper- State Park, Otsego Lake State Park, P. ra-Hadley Recreation Area, Ortonville Area, , Sanilac ity with more jobs and more H. , Silver Lake State Recreation Area, Pinckney Recreation Petroglyphs State Park, Seven Lakes Wfinancial security for many Park, (renamed Area, Pontiac Lake Recreation Area, State Park workers. But wartime production Keith J. Charters Traverse City State Park Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State schedules meant that workers had in 2011), W.J. , Wilson Park, Proud Lake Recreation Area 1973: Father Marquette National, little time to vacation. Additionally, State Park, William , Memorial (part of ), gas was not readily available for 1946: Laughing Whitefish Falls State civilian vacations. Park In 1943, state park attendance 1921: 1974: declined to 3.9 million, less than half 1947: Tahquamenon Falls State Park of what it had been in 1930. This 1922: , Brimley State 1988: Thompson’s Harbor State Park, occurred even as wartime prosper- Park, Dodge #1 (renamed Island Lake 1949: Warren Woods Natural Area Hart-Montague Trail State Park, Kal- ity allowed the state government to State Park), Dodge #4 Haven Trail State Park invest more money in parks. 1955: After World War II, as veterans 1923: , Bay City State 1989: Old Mission Peninsula State Park returned home, there were too many Park (named back to state park in 1956: Muskallonge Lake State Park, workers and too few jobs. Michigan’s 2017), Fort Wilkins State Historic Park, , Wagner Falls 1991: Lakelands Trail State Park population grew by 70,000 and these Scenic Site new residents needed recreation ar- 1992: , Bond eas. In 1943, at Gov. Harry F. Kelly’s 1924: Albert E. Sleeper State Park, 1959: Fayette Historic State Park Falls Scenic Site request, the Conservation Commis- Higgins Lake State Park (South, 1965), sion made recommendations and Straits State Park 1960: , Tawas 1993: Bass River Recreation Area reports for the acquisition of parks Point State Park, Sturgeon Point State and recreation areas in southeast 1925: J. W. Wells State Park Park 1994: Van Buren Trail State Park Michigan, aggregating about 100,000 Porcupine Mountain State Park. — Courtesy Ar- acres in all. chives of Michigan 1926: , Lake 1961: 1996: White Pine Trail State Park This expansion was a part of P.J. Gogebic State Park (renamed Fred Meijer White Pine Trail Hoffmaster’s vision for the Depart- area would come up with matching 1962: State Park in 2006) ment of Conservation: that it would funds. 1927: Hartwick Pines State Park, create a ring of recreation areas The checkerboard of parks in , Wilderness State 1963: P. J. Hoffmaster State Park, Rifle 2004: Tri-Centennial State Park (re- around Detroit to serve the needs southeast Michigan today is thanks Park River Recreation Area named William G. Milliken State Park & of the growing urban population. to this land acquisition program. Harbor in 2009) Hoffmaster realized early on that Some important parks that came out 1929: 1964: , Twin Lakes as southeast Michigan expanded, of this include Island Lake, Pinck- State Park 2007: Recreation Area it would need adequate space for ney, Pontiac Lake and Proud Lake, 1930: F.J. McLain State Park, Warren recreation. among many others. State Park 1965: Cambridge State Historic Park 2011: Lime Island State Recreation During its 1944 session, the Michi- This expansion had a clear effect (Walker Tavern), North Higgins Lake Area gan Legislature set aside $1 million on park attendance. When the first 1932: Indian Lake State Park State Park, Ionia Recreation Area, to buy Porcupine Mountains State state parks were established in the 2012: Menominee River State Recre- Park (the park was later named Por- 1920s, yearly attendance was mea- 1935: William C. ation Area, Rockport State Recreation cupine Mountains Wilderness State sured in 1922 at about 244,000 visi- 1966: , Clear Lake Area Park) and another $3 million to buy tors. By 1955, state parks welcomed 1937: State Park, , Van land for recreational spaces in south- roughly 17.8 million visitors — a Buren State Park 2014: Belle Isle Park east Michigan. Another $1 million 70-fold increase. During the same 1938: was meant for the Huron-Clinton time period, Michigan’s population 1967: , Meridian 2016: Watkins Lake State Park & Metropolitan Authority, which was rose dramatically from 3.9 million to 1943: Waterloo Recreation Area, Baseline State Park County Preserve established in 1940 with a condition 7.3 million, an increase of over 180 that the surrounding five-county percent. — Michigan DNR

OUR CUSTOMERS ARE THE BEST IN THE WORLD... MARINE, RV & ATV We appreciate all of you. SERVICES • SALES Car industry drives growth From the spark plug buyer to the boat buyer. REPAIR • PARTS • STORAGE Continued from Page 10 sticker, which was a predecessor of We offer Consignment Sales today’s Recreation Passport, was an SUMMER SPECIAL on ALL Recreational Vehicles & Boats By 1927, those who wished to visit outcome of that automobile-driven Select or camp in a state park for two weeks increase in park usage. 40% Bait, Tackle, We work with ALL Insurance Companies or more were issued free permits and The sharp rise in vehicle owner- Rods & Reels We service ALL Major Brands of Marine Engine windshield stickers if they provided ship after WWII also created an in- OFF OFFER EXPIRES SEPTEMBER 30, 2019 their name, address and license num- crease in motor vehicle stickers. More & Recreation Vehicles! ber. cars meant the need for parking lots, As more Michigan residents fre- especially close to campsites, at state Authorized Dealer quented state parks, the Department parks. Not surprisingly, the increase Service, Parts & Accessories of Conservation began to consider in car ownership led to state parks 11331 14 MILE RD • ROCKFORD • 616-754-1629 instituting passes for vehicles instead issuing greater numbers of campsite www.MootsiesMarine.com of individual fees. The annual park permits. — Michigan DNR 261276 Page 12 | Saturday, May 11, 2019 Civilian Conservation Corps lends muscle to park projects hen the Great Depression hit the ing many state CCC camps. country in 1929, it completely Michigan led efforts in developing Wravaged American life, leaving education programs for CCC enrollees. millions on the brink of poverty. In 1933, In 1935, through an arrangement with almost immediately after taking office, the Michigan superintendent of pub- President Franklin Roosevelt created lic instruction, 74 CCC enrollees from several New Deal programs, including many camps across the Lower Peninsula the Civilian Conservation Corps, to help received their eighth-grade diplomas. By address the problem. June 1940, in one of the first of its kind The CCC was a massive public works efforts in the United States, 900 eighth- program that was “to be used in simple grade diplomas had been issued through work, not interfering with normal em- the program. ployment, and confining itself to forestry, The CCC undertook a variety of proj- the prevention of soil erosion, flood ects that were important to the develop- control and similar projects.” The corps ment of Michigan’s state parks system. was very important to the development of For example, the Corps constructed a state parks in Michigan. bathhouse at Ludington State Park, a In the summer of 1933, about 200 large limestone picnic shelter at Indian young men from Hamtramck and Detroit Lake State Park and several structures arrived at an isolated spot in the eastern and a decorative gateway at Bewabic State Upper Peninsula, where they set up tents Park. At , the CCC and named the area Camp Raco — the boys built three cabins and constructed first CCC camp in the state. eight miles of trail. They also built a These men had been through a process w/ ccc muskegon and ccc photos. — Courtesy Archives of Michigan caretaker’s residence from fieldstones at of inoculation and orientation at Camp and a bathhouse made Custer in Battle Creek before coming to going after private industries were caught determine possible projects that could be of logs and stone in Hoeft State Park. the U.P. Within months, 41 similar CCC unaware by the corps mobilization. undertaken with federal funds for con- The corps also was instrumental in the camps housing a total of nearly 8,000 men The CCC in Michigan primarily was servation work. Throughout its nine-year planting of millions of trees in Michigan popped up all over . staffed by Michigan natives, unlike the existence, the CCC was dependent on the to reforest areas impacted by extensive Forestry schools at the University of composition of the CCC in other areas. close work of the Department of Conser- logging and fires. They also earned Michigan and Michigan State College Furthermore, the Department of Con- vation and federal agencies in inspecting money, half of which was sent home to lent tools necessary to get the CCC camps servation had conducted a survey to and approving projects apart from manag- their families. — Michigan DNR

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