Whitefish Township Survey

Home , Tahquamenon Falls, Tahquamenon River, Whitefish Point

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.0 INTRODUCTION ...... 3 2.0 COMMUNITY DESCRIPTION ...... 3 2.1 POPULATION ...... 4 2.2 ECONOMY ...... 7 2.3 PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS ...... 7 2.4 OTHER CHARACTERISTICS ...... 8 3.0 ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE ...... 10 4.0 RECREATION INVENTORY ...... 12 5.0 DESCRIPTION OF THE PLANNING AND PUBLIC INPUT PROCESS ...... 15 6.0 GOALS AND OBJECTIVES ...... 15 7.0 RECREATIONAL NEEDS ...... 18 8.0 RECREATIONAL PRIORITIES ...... 18 9.0 ACTION PROGRAM...... 19

APPENDICES

APPENDIX A – WHITEFISH TOWNSHIP SURVEY ...... 23 APPENDIX B – PUBLIC COMMENTS DURING REVIEW PERIOD ...... 30 APPENDIX C – MAPS ...... 40 MAP 1 – LOCATION ...... 41 MAP 2 – TRANSPORTATION ...... 42 MAP 3 – LAND USE ...... 43 MAP 4 – ELEVATION ...... 44 MAP 5 – RECREATION INVENTORY ...... 45

1.0 INTRODUCTION

Recreation is defined as the “refreshment of one’s mind or body through activity that amuses or stimulates.” Recreation provides opportunities to enhance the quality of life in a community. Whitefish Township officials realize the importance of maintaining the active and healthy lifestyles of its residents and visitors. The Whitefish Township Recreation Plan is an essential step in the development and well being of Township residents and visitors.

2.0 COMMUNITY DESCRIPTION

Whitefish Township is located in the Northwest corner of Chippewa County and lies within the area described as T47N, T48N, T49N, and T50N; and R6W and R7W. Map 1 shows the location of Whitefish Township.

The Township is roughly twenty‐five miles long (North to South) and twelve miles wide (East to West). Lake Superior borders the township to the North and East, Luce County to the West, and three Chippewa County townships to the South (Hulbert, Chippewa, and Bay Mills Townships). Whitefish Township is remotely located and includes a very scenic and natural setting, making it a prime location for recreation and tourism.

Whitefish Township contains approximately 250 square miles of land with roughly forty miles of Lake Superior shoreline. The only population center in the Township is the unincorporated village of Paradise, which is located along the Township’s main route of M‐123. Paradise is a gateway to multiple tourist attractions such as the Tahquamenon Falls State Park, the Great Lakes Historical Society’s Shipwreck Museum, and the Whitefish Point Unit - Seney National Wildlife Refuge and Michigan Audubon property.

The majority of land within the Village is primarily used for commercial purposes, such as motels and resorts, restaurants, stores, gift shops, gas/convenience stores, and auto/snowmobile repair services. Land outside the Village is heavily forested; major landowners include the State of Michigan, the U.S. Forest Service, and timberland corporations.

2.1 POPULATION

The population of Whitefish Township had seen a steady increase the past thirty years until 2010, as seen in Table 2‐1 & Charts 1 & 2. The biggest gain in Township population was seen between 1970 and 1980. At least one dozen families moved into the Township during this time, most opening small businesses (motels, restaurants, etc). During this same time period, Chippewa County saw a ten percent drop in population.

Table 2-1 Populations Trends, 1970-2010 1970 % Change 1980 % Change 1990 % Change 2000 % Change 2010 Whitefish Twp 354 33.3 472 9.5 517 13.7 588 -4.7 575 Chippewa Co 32,412 ‐10.4 29,029 19.2 34,604 11.3 38,543 -0.1 38,520

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

Chart 1 – Whitefish Township Population

Whitefish Township Population 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010

Whitefish Twp Population

Chart 2 -- % Change in Population Comparing Whitefish Township to Chippewa County Trends

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0.00 1970-1980 1980-1990 1990-2000 2000-2010 -5.00

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Whitefish Township Chippewa County

Population projections for Whitefish Township are seen in Table 2‐2. It is very important to note that many seasonal homes have been built in the Township within the past twenty‐five years, which leads to a population increase during the summer months, at which time the Township may see a population of 1,000 or more.

Table 2-2 Population Projections, 1990‐2025 Year Population 2010 575* 2015 589 2020 619 2025 650

*Source: U.S. Census Bureau

The 2008 Projections were based on a healthy projection of a 7% increase over a 5 year period. This chart projects a conservative 2.5% increase in population each 5 years.

The population age groups of Whitefish Township are shown in Table 2-3 and Chart 3.

Table 2-3 Populations by Age Group, Whitefish Township, 1990-2010 1990 2000 2010 Percent Percent Percent Age Group Number of Twp Number of Twp Number of Twp Under 5 21 4 21 4 15 3 5-19 93 18 75 13 66 11 20-34 85 16 50 9 28 5 35-54 117 23 167 28 162 28 55-74 171 33 217 37 236 41 75 and Older 30 6 58 9 68 12 Totals 517 100 588 100 575 100

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

Chart 3 – Whitefish Township Population by Age Group

250

200

150 1990

100 2000 2010 50

0 Under 5 5-19 20-34 35-54 55-74 75 and Older

2.2 ECONOMY

The economy in Whitefish Township is primarily tourist‐based. With major tourist attractions nearby, the Township depends quite heavily on the tourist traffic that passes through. Tourist and forest related recreational activities (camping, hiking, biking, etc), as well as summer residents, make up the economic base of the township.

2.3 PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS

Climate

The climate in Whitefish Township is similar to other townships throughout the Eastern Upper Peninsula. Total snowfall averages 150‐200 inches per year, and annual precipitation yields 30”. Relief from freezing and sub‐freezing temperatures usually lasts four and one‐half months: from mid‐May to October.

Transportation (Map 2)

The primary route through the Township is state highway M‐123. A system of national forest, state forest, and county roads provides access to and from the township. There is no rail, bus, or air service currently in the Township.

Land Use (Map 3)

Primary land use throughout the township is residential, with most commercial use around the village of Paradise. Township zoning is in place.

Community Services/Facilities

The Whitefish Township Fire Department and EMS provide fire and emergency service to the Township. Other Township services include a library, health clinic (Helen Newberry Joy Hospital), credit union, several churches, and a transfer station (which also has recycling available). The Village of Paradise also has a community foundation.

Whitefish Township Community Center

Whitefish Township

Community Library

Whitefish Township Emergency Services 8

2.4 OTHER CHARACTERISTICS

Township students attend the Whitefish Township Community School, which has a current enrollment of 23 students*. The Whitefish Township Community School provides the only playground facility within the Township.

Utilities provided to the Township include telephone, telecommunications, and electricity. No municipal sewer or water system exists.

Major lakes in the township include Sheephead, Clark, (Piatt and Johnson, private lakes), Andrus, and the Shelldrake impoundment. Sheephead and Clark do not have vehicle access, but are open to foot traffic.

Located in a natural and remote area, Whitefish Township has abundant year‐round fishing opportunities, wildlife, and plant life. Whitefish Point, in the northern tip of the area, is a major flyway and migration point for thousands of birds and waterfowl and encompasses over 50 acres of open public land part of the Whitefish Point Unit - Seney National Wildlife Refuge and Michigan Audubon property. The Audubon Society operates the Whitefish Point Bird Observatory at Whitefish Point, which is visited by bird watchers from all over the world during spring and autumn migrations.

*”The state of Michigan has had a 17% decrease in school aged children over the past three years due to the economy. Whitefish Township is no exception. Currently there are five seniors and zero, Pre-K and kindergarteners. There is one first grader at this time. Next year (using the state wide projections) we will be at 15-18 students Pre-K through 12.” John Prescott, Whitefish Township Community Schools Corporation, Superintendent, 1/29/2015

Other nearby recreation attractions include the Tahquamenon Falls State Park, as well as miles of snowmobile trails, cross‐country ski trails, hiking and nature trails, and ORV trails

Whitefish Township is also the location for many community events, such as; the Tahquamenon Hike Between da Falls, the Wild Blueberry Festival, Tahquamenon Trail 25K Run, Fish Boil, Tahquamenon Wilderness Canoe Race, Great Lakes Endurance Tahquamenon Snowshoe Race, Whitefish Point Marathon, Whitefish Point Run for the Light, community flea market, a local fishing contest, and several others.

3.0 ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE

Whitefish Township has no formal park and/or recreational board. The Township Planning Commission may advise the Township Board on matters relating to recreational development. The Township Board may appoint a special committee to assess recreational development plans. Special committees were used for the original Township Recreation Plan in 1978 and for the updates in 1988, 1994, and 1999.

The Whitefish Township Board appointed the current Recreational Planning Committee (comprised of representatives from Whitefish Township Community School, Senior Citizens, Businesses, and two at‐large representatives) to assess current recreation facilities and make recommendations for the Township’s 2008‐2012 Recreation Plan. A collaboration of community members updated and carried over the 2008 objectives in the 2015 – 2019 plan update.

Diagram 1: Whitefish Township Recreation Organization Chart

Whitefish Township has budgeted the following for Township recreation:

2006 - 2007 $3,775.00

2007 - 2008 $4,737.50

2008 - 2009 $5,700.00 2009 - 2010 $921.00 2010 - 2011 $1,138.50 2011 - 2012 $1,150.00 2012 – 2013 $1,636.26 2013 – 2014 $13,554.00 2014 - 2015 $13,014.75

Projected budgets have not yet been determined by the Township. The Township may also accept donations at any time throughout the year to help with recreational costs. The Township also welcomes any volunteers to help with recreational upkeep.

The Township Board directly controls all township‐owned recreation facilities. The Township Supervisor oversees the maintenance staff assigned to the upkeep of recreation facilities.

The Township Board will make all policy decisions regarding Township owned and operated facilities.

4.0 RECREATION INVENTORY (Map 5) The Whitefish Township Recreational Planning Committee, with help from the Eastern Upper Peninsula Regional Planning Commission, developed the following list of recreational facilities, parks, campgrounds, and areas. Any other recreational points of interest are also listed here alphabetically.

Recreational Facilities, Parks, Campgrounds, and Areas

Name Park Type Ownership Description/Facilities Size Service Area *Accessibility

Village, Andrus Lake Natural 25 rustic camp sites, vault 2 - Meets Township, State Forest Resource State of Michigan toilets, beach, picnic area, hard N/A Some Counties, Campground Area surface boat ramp Guidelines State

Village, Natural 1 - Meets Includes 38 miles of hiking 19,000 Township, Betsy Lake Resource State of Michigan None of the trails. Acres Counties, Area Guidelines State

Village, Great Lakes Complex of Great Lakes 2 - Meets Outdoor recreation area, gift Township, Shipwreck Historical Shipwreck Historical N/A Some shops, beach area, & tours Counties, Museum Buildings Society Guidelines State

Private Property, Village, 1-Meets None Lake Superior Water Trail Whitefish Access Points and Needs are in 40 Township, of the Shoreline Access Township, State of process of discernment. Miles Counties, Guidelines Michigan State Village, Paradise - Non- Cyclists can use the bike lanes 1-Meets None 11 Township, Whitefish Point Motorized Chippewa County along Whitefish Point Road to of the Miles Counties, Bike Pathway Trail System ride between Paradise and Guidelines Whitefish Point. State

Groomed non-motorized trails. Village, Non- 1-Meets None Paradise Parking area at the trail head; 8.4 Township, Motorized State of Michigan of the Pathways groomed by the Tahquamenon Miles Counties, Trail System Guidelines Country Pathways Association State Wilderness hiking trail stretching for approximately Village, Non- Federal 4,600 miles crossing 7 states, 1-Meets None North Country 122 Township, Motorized Government & from New York to North of the Trails Miles Counties, Trail System State of Michigan Dakota. Maintained by the Guidelines State Hiawatha Shore-to-Shore Chapter. Groomed trails, connects to the Village, Whitefish 1-Meets None Motorized U.P. wide trail system; groomed Township, ORV-ATV Trails Township, State of N/A of the Trail System by the Paradise Area ATV Counties, Michigan Guidelines Association State

Parking area, picnic area, 2 - Meets Sawmill Creek Community 4.25 Village, Whitefish Township nature trail, vault toilets, Some Park Park Acres Township informational kiosk Guidelines Shelldrake Natural Village, 2 - Meets Impoundment Resource Off-shore fishing, and hard 850 Township, State of Michigan Some Site & State Area State surface boat ramp Acres Counties, Guidelines Forest Park State

*Handicapped Accessibility Details on p. 14. 12

Recreational Facilities, Parks, Campgrounds, and Areas Name Park Type Ownership Description/Facilities Size Service Area Accessibility Approximately 109 miles of 16 Whitefish Village, groomed trails, connects to the 1-Meets None Snowmobile Trail Motorized Township & Township, U.P. wide trail system; groomed 109 Miles of the System Trails State of Counties, by the Paradise Area Night Guidelines Michigan State Riders Village, Tahquamenon - Non- 1-Meets None State of Township, Clark Lake Loop Motorized Cross-Country, Hiking Trail 5.6 Miles of the Michigan Counties, Trail Trail Guidelines State

Village, Non- 1-Meets None Tahquamenon State of Township, Motorized Cross-Country, Hiking Trail 1 Mile of the Emerson Trail Michigan Counties, Trail Guidelines State Paved parking area, picnic area, Natural Village, Tahquamenon hiking trails, groomed cross- Resource State of Township, 4 - Meets All Falls State Park -- country ski trails (3.8) 4 miles 224 Acres Area/State Michigan Counties, Guidelines Upper Falls Unit hiking trail between Upper and Park State Lower Falls Paved parking area, picnic area, Natural Village, Tahquamenon river bend site campground (81 Resource State of Township, 4 - Meets All Falls State Park -- sites) overlook site 228 Acres Area/State Michigan Counties, Guidelines Lower Falls Unit campground 87 sites, boating Park State facilities, hiking trails Parking area, picnic area, Natural Village, Tahquamenon campground (72 Modern and Resource State of Township, 4 - Meets All Falls State Park -- 36 Rustic sites), flush toilets, N/A Area/State Michigan Counties, Guidelines Rivermouth Unit hiking trails, hard surface boat Park State ramp

Village, Non- 1-Meets None Tahquamenon- State of Township, Motorized Cross-Country, Hiking Trail 3.5 Miles of the Giant Pines Trail Michigan Counties, Trail Guidelines State

Village, Non- 1-Meets None Tahquamenon - State of Township, Motorized Cross-Country, Hiking Trail 1 Mile of the Nature Trail Michigan Counties, Trail Guidelines State

Village, Non- 1-Meets None Tahquamenon - State of Township, Motorized Cross-Country, Hiking Trail 4 Miles of the River Trail Michigan Counties, Trail Guidelines State

National Paved shoulder along state Village, Tahquamenon 2 - Meets Scenic State of highway is used as bike path Township, Scenic Heritage 63 Miles Some Cultural Michigan (extends from Piatt Lake to Counties, Byway M-123 Guidelines Byway Tahquamenon Falls) State Tahquamenon Village, Heritage & Historically & Cultural 2 - Meets Scenic Heritage Whitefish Township, Cultural Representation of a Native N/A Some Trail Learning Township Counties, Facility American Learning Lodge Guidelines Lodge State

Recreational Facilities, Parks, Campgrounds, and Areas Name Park Type Ownership Description/Facilities Size Service Area Accessibility Village, Tahquamenon- Non- 1-Meets State of Cross-Country, Hiking Township, Wilderness Motorized 7.4 Miles None of the Michigan Trail Counties, Loop Trail Trail Guidelines State Public beach access to Village, 3 - Meets Whitefish Bay Roadside State of Lake Superior with two Township, N/A most of the Roadside Park Park Michigan vault toilets, paved, Counties, Guidelines grills, benches and tables State Village, Whitefish Point Scientific Michigan Focal point for spring 2 - Meets Township, Bird Research Audubon and autumn bird N/A Some Counties, Observatory Facility Society migration Guidelines State Whitefish Point Village, National US Fish and 2 - Meets Unit - Seney Focal point for spring Township, Wildlife Wildlife 53 Acres Some National and fall bird migration. Counties, Refuge Division Guidelines Wildlife Refuge State Whitefish Building contains a large Township multi-purpose room with 2 - Meets Community Whitefish Village, Community a stage, kitchen, book N/A Some Property Township Township Center & exchange, restrooms, Guidelines Recreation Area and township offices

The library provides a Whitefish number of reading, Public 2 - Meets Township Whitefish photography, and other Village, Library N/A Some Community Township hobby exploration Township Facility Guidelines Library programs for youth and adults. Whitefish Softball field, Township Township Whitefish playground, indoor Village, 2 - Meets Community School Township gymnasium/basketball Township, N/A Some School Recreational Community court, outdoor Surrounding Guidelines Recreation Area School basketball court, Townships Facilities quarter-mile track Village, 1-Meets Whitefish Point State of Amenities include: vault Township, Boat Harbor 5 Acres None of the State Dock Michigan toilet and launch Counties, Guidelines State A state-designated Village, Whitefish Point Protected Approximately 1-Meets State of underwater preserve Township, Underwater Area for 376 Square None of the Michigan with 23 dive able Counties, Preserve Research Miles Guidelines shipwrecks. State

*Accessibility Ranking 1 = none of the facilities/park areas meet accessibility guidelines 2 = some of the facilities/park areas meet accessibility guidelines 3 = most of the facilities/park area meet accessibility guidelines 4 = the entire park meets accessibility guidelines 5 = the entire park was development/renovated using the principles of universal design

5.0 DESCRIPTION OF THE PLANNING AND PUBLIC INPUT PROCESS

A Township Recreation Plan was first developed in 1978 and updated in 1988, 1994, and 1999. The Whitefish Township Board recognized the need to update the 1999 plan and authorized a recreation plan update committee to spearhead the effort in 2006.

The Recreation Planning Committee held a series of workshops. Through a process of visioning, identifying community assets, and prioritizing objectives, it became clear that many of the community’s needs centered on further developing the community’s recreation facilities to both improve residents’ quality of life and to promote tourism. The updating process began with the results from the previous recreation plans, which identified the community’s priorities for recreational development. Copies of the 1999 Recreation Plan were circulated and discussed among the Recreation Planning Committee members. Committee members then developed a schedule of improvements for a five‐year time frame. A list of recreational needs was identified by survey (see Appendix A) in 1987, re- evaluated in 1993, 1999, and again in 2003.

Subsequently, the Eastern Upper Peninsula Regional Planning & Development Commission was contacted for the development of the updated plan and maps for the 2008 update. During the review period, only one written comment was received. Several verbal comments were conveyed to Committee members. Whitefish Township Board adopted the 2008 plan on July 3, 2008. The Whitefish Township Community School Board adopted the 2008 plan on July 8, 2008. The plan was then transmitted to the Regional Clearinghouse.

The 2015 revision was an update of census data, a verification of ownership of the listed assets and their characteristics, and a review with updates by the stakeholders in Whitefish Township. The written comment in 2008 was addressed and applied to the 2015 plan. Appendix B includes the 2008 comment and contributions made in 2015. The Whitefish Township Board approved the 2015 update to the plan on February 5, 2015. The plan was then made available for public review at the Whitefish Township Community Library, and Whitefish Township Community Schools. The 2015 Updated plan was presented to the Whitefish Township Community School board and approved on February 17. 2015. The updated plan was presented to the Whitefish Township Planning Commission and approved March 4, 2015. The Whitefish Township Planning Commission held a public hearing, June 3, 2015. The Commission reviewed comments from the community, applied edits, and submitted the updated plan to the Whitefish Township Board for adoption, June 4, 2015 with the recommendation that in 2018 the Township conduct a series of community workshops followed by a minimum of one survey to reassess the Recreation goals and objectives of the community in preparing for the 2020 Recreation Plan.

6.0 GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

A set of workable goals and objectives should be used as guides for recreation related decision‐making. Consideration of recreational objectives should lead the community toward the attainment of its long and short‐range goals.

Specific development projects and programs should be evaluated with respect to the recreation goals and related objectives of Whitefish Township. The proposed goals should not be considered as hard and fast rules for development of recreation facilities, but as guidelines for evaluating specific proposals.

Goal 1 Provide a wide variety of recreational activities for the full spectrum of age groups that visit or reside in Whitefish Township.

Objectives A. Projects should be accessible to all Township residents, including the elderly and handicapped. B. Whenever and wherever possible, facilities should be multiple and/or year‐round use. C. User donations should be established where feasible to help defray maintenance costs at specific facilities. D. Proposed projects should be directed toward the elimination of the deficiencies of this plan. E. Programs should be developed for facility use whenever possible and where applicable. F. Make full use of state and federal assistance programs to acquire or develop or rehabilitate recreation areas and facilities. G. Coordinate recreation planning and implementation activities to avoid duplicity of services and effort to make optimal use of financial and other resources. H. Every Project will consult an advocacy organization such as the Michigan Protection and Advocacy Service, Inc.

Goal II: Make optimal use of new and existing resources and facilities.

Objectives A. Facilities should be capable of accommodating multi‐jurisdictional needs where economically feasible. B. Facilities should be of a type which minimizes vandalism. C. Sites selected for development of facilities or parks should be suitable in terms of population served (existing and future) and physical properties of the site. D. Detailed site plans should be developed to guide new development at township‐owned as well as other rural recreational sites by the unit of government with primary responsibility for the site. E. Cooperative or joint development of facilities by adjoining communities is encouraged.

F. Existing facilities should be upgraded before new facilities are built. G. Proper maintenance should be assured for facilities by responsible units of government. H. Volunteer efforts by citizens and/or service clubs are encouraged whenever and wherever feasible in all aspects of operations and maintenance of recreational areas.

Goal III: Facilities should be developed to enhance the cultural, historic, and natural characteristics of the area or site.

Objectives

A. Preservation/restoration of historic sites is encouraged. B. Site planning should consider natural topographic and scenic characteristics when planning new facilities or rehabilitating existing ones. C. Identification of meaningful historic areas in the Township should continue. D. Tourist related development should be encouraged, especially in areas already experiencing such use and traffic. E. Information should be easily accessible to travelers in the Township at new or existing sites to inform the public of available amenities and facilities. F. Every Project will consult an advocacy organization such as the Michigan Protection Advocacy Service, Inc.

7.0 RECREATIONAL NEEDS

A list of recreational needs was identified by survey (see Appendix A) in 1987, re‐evaluated in 1993, 1999, and again in 2003. Some of the activities are already in place, but the Township Recreation Planning Committee feels these activities could be enhanced and improved. Two major Township needs that have remained consistent throughout the years has been: 1) Public access to the waterfront in Paradise and 2) Preserving more green‐space in Paradise and developing that space for various types of recreation.

The following is a list of needs developed from past Township surveys. This list does not reflect project priorities, but simply lists future projects/activities Township residents would like to see. Please note several of these have been implemented (but may require improvements), and are marked with an asterisk*. Numbers represent referral to recreational priority list.

Visitor Bicycle Path Mountain Biking Tennis Courts Information (M-123) Trails Center Summer Youth Swimming Public Recreational Playground Activities Beach in Airplane Landing Equipment Program Downtown Area Strip Boating Facilities Multi-Purpose Modernize Public Golf Course and in-town Trail Restrooms Marina2

Whitefish Point Skateboard Indoor Rifle and Archery Underwater Facilities Swimming Pool 4 Range Preserve* Cross-Country Ski Trailhead Sledding/ Fishing Sites Trail Rivermouth Facilities Toboggan Hill Cross-Country Outdoor Ice Rink ATV Activities* Ski Trails*

8.0 RECREATIONAL PRIORITIES The Whitefish Township Recreational Planning Committee discussed the recreational needs of the Township, and developed the following six projects based on priority and resident impact. 1. Implementing the 2004 Visual Enhancement Plan, starting on Whitefish Point Road at the North side of the Lakeview Cabins property, extending west on M‐123 to the West side of the Village Fabrics & Crafts Shop property, then south on M‐123 to the Birch Hill area. Incorporated into this plan should be a multi‐purpose trail on the 18

West side of M‐123 from Birch Hill to the intersection of Whitefish Point Road, then on the North side of M‐123 approximately ½ mile to State land. 2. Develop a Downtown waterfront park, centrally located in the Business District that includes a full‐service marina, public restrooms, and a visitor information center to create public awareness of recreational opportunities in the area. 3. Develop a pavilion in the Community Center area. This open pavilion would have removable sides, for use in both summer and winter seasons. This pavilion would be used for many different community events and would have several different uses. 4. Encourage development of the Whitefish Point Underwater Preserve, with an on- shore interpretation center located in Paradise, near the proposed marina. This would encourage and promote underwater archeological studies, development of underwater trails, glass‐bottom boat tours, a buoying system for shipwrecks, and expanding the Preserve area. 5. Encourage and participate in trail enhancement and development of such trails as Scenic Byway Trails, North Country Trails, and the Paradise Pathway Trails. 6. Public Restrooms in the town of Paradise.

In 2008 the Whitefish Township Recreational Planning Committee developed the following list of long‐term projects:

A. Pave the parking area in Sawmill Creek Park, installing improved toilets, outdoor playground equipment, and enhance picnic facilities. B. Develop Enhance the multi‐purpose trail on the West side of Whitefish Point Road and State Route M-123, extending from the Tahquamenon River mouth to Whitefish Point. This could run parallel to the road where feasible, but separated with a buffer from the road. C. Develop a multi‐purpose building near the Community Center to serve the increasing population of Senior Citizens. D. Enhance existing outdoor playground equipment and facilities, and install new equipment where needed.

9.0 ACTION PROGRAM Recreation priorities were identified according to the current and projected needs of Whitefish Township, and have been addressed in the following five‐year capital improvement schedule. Whitefish Township understands this Capital Improvement Plan should be followed as closely as possible; however, circumstances may prevent certain projects from being completed on schedule.

Project Year Activity Funding Visual Enhancement Plan 2015 Segment Plan, Submit Proposal 2016 Start 1st segment, Submit 2nd Local, DNR, Donations, 2017 Start 2nd segment, Submit 3rd MDOT 2018 Start 3rd segment, Submit 4th 2019-2020 Start & Complete 4th segment Downtown Waterfront Park – Swimming Beach 2015 Obtain options on property Local, DNR, Donations, 2016 Acquire land and design layout Grants 2017 Grants for Construction 2018 Construction Downtown Waterfront Park – Marina 2015 Obtain options on property Local, DNR, Donations, 2016 Acquire land and design layout Grants 2017 Grants for Construction 2018-2020 Construction Downtown Waterfront Park – Visitor Center 2015 Obtain options on property Local, DNR, Donations, 2016 Acquire land and design layout Grants 2017 Grants for Construction 2018-2020 Construction Multi‐Purpose Building Near Community Center Emergency Services Building was 2008 completed. The former firehouse

is currently being used as a multi-purpose building Underwater Preserve 2015 Grant Acquire Land 2016 Expand Preserve Area Local, DNR, Donations, 2017 Develop plan for building Grants 2018 Grants for Construction 2019-2020 Construction Whitefish Township Community Library Summer Youth Activities 2015 Determine Needs/Funding Local, DNR, Donations, 2016 Apply Improvements Grants 2017-2020 On Going Cycle Sledding Hill with Off-Street Parking 2015 Design/Layout Local, DNR, Donations, 2016 Raise Funds Private 2017 Construction

Project Year Activity Funding Cross-Country Ski Trail--State Park Rivermouth Site Local, DNR, 2015 Determine Funding Donations, Grants 2016 Construction Airplane Landing Strip 2017 Grants for Land Acquisition Local, DNR, 2018 Acquire land and design layout Donations, Grants 2019 Grants for Construction 2020 Construction On-Shore Fishing and Access Sites 2015 Identify Improvements Local, DNR, 2016 Determine Funding Donations, Grants 2017 Apply improvements 2018-2020 Educate, Share Information Cross-Country Ski Trails 2015 Identify Improvements/Grants Local, DNR, 2016 Apply Improvements Donations, Grants 2017 Maintain improvements Skateboard Park 2015 Design/Layout Local, DNR, 2016 Acquire Funding Donations, Grants 2017 Construction Public Rest Rooms 2015 Identify Needs/Design/Bids Local, DNR, 2016 Acquire Funding Donations, Grants 2017 Construction Outdoor Ice Rink Local, DNR, 2015 Identify Location/Design/Bids Donations, Grants 2016 Construction Trailhead Facilities 2015 Acquire Bids Local, DNR, 2016 Submit Grant Proposals Donations, Grants 2017 Construction

Project Year Activity Funding ATV Activities

2015 Local, DNR, Develop ingress and egress to the community Donations, Grants 2016 Acquire Funding 2017 Construction Bicycle Path and Multi-Purpose Trail on Whitefish Point Rd 2016 Evaluate Enhancement Feasibility Local, DNR, 2017 Determine Funding & Apply for said funds. Donations, Grants 2018 Construction Lake Superior Water Trail 2015 Determine ingress and egress points Local, DNR, 2016 Access Needs/ Acquire Funding Donations, Grants 2018 Apply Needs Whitefish Point State Dock 2015 Determine Needs to Update Local, DNR, 2016 Acquire Funding/Apply Needs Donations, Grants 2017 Apply Needs Whitefish Township Community School-- Soccer Field 2015 Determine Improvements Local, DNR, 2016 Evaluate Safety Donations, MDOT 2017 Acquire Funding 2018 Construction Whitefish Township Community School --Baseball Field 2015 Determine Improvements Local, DNR, 2016 Evaluate Safety Donations, Grants 2017 Acquire Funding 2018 Construction Whitefish Township Community School --Playground 2015 Determine Improvements Local, DNR, 2016 Evaluate Safety Donations, Grants 2017 Acquire Funding 2018 Construction

APPENDIX A

APPENDIX B

2015 Whitefish Township Recreation Plan

Whitefish Township Board Requested Revisions Applied

02.05.2015 p. 4 Table 2-1 Percentage Chippewa Country Population Declined

Designate those numbers from the census and those that are projected, use same percentage change as p. 5 Table 2-2; 2015, 2020, 2025 used in the original document. Remove source note: p. 5 Chart 2 Needs to reflect change in Table 2-1 p. 9 paragraph 3 Clark, (Piatt and Johnson, private lakes), Andrus

Remove Campground reference and Vault toilets, p. 12 Shelldrake verify acreage p. 12 Paradise Pathway Verify Trail length p. 12 Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum Owned by GLHS p. 13 Tahquamenon-Clark Lake Loop Add “Trail” to the title

Whitefish Point Unit – Seney National p. 14 Omitted needs inserted Wildlife Refuge

Tahquamenon Falls State Park, Upper and p. 13 Alter miles to acres where appropriate. Lower Falls p. 14 Whitefish Township Park Remove p. 14 Tahquamenon Wilderness Loop Add “Trail” to the title

Whitefish Township Community School p. 14 Remove Ice Skating Rink ; per Superintendent Recreation Facilities p. 14 Whitefish Point Bird Observatory Complex MI Audubon Society

June 4, 2015

Final Revisions to Whitefish Township Recreation Plan

Introductory Page: Added Adoption Notation.

P. 15, paragraph 5.

Review the items listed on the attached document which is added to Appendix B, pages 37 - 39

For Planning Commission consideration

2015 – 2019 Recreation Plan

The following notes were submitted by Whitefish Township Supervisor, Bill Mangham. The Whitefish Township Planning Commission reviewed, discussed and evaluated these notes. Final conclusions are noted in italics after each comment. The Whitefish Township Planning Commission appreciates the time and thoughts provided here by the Whitefish Township Supervisor.

Page 12

Footnote* to explain what “Accessibility” guidelines means A brief note is added at the bottom of p. 12 to refer to the end of the table on p. 14 for details.

Page 15

4th paragraph – 5th sentence “adopted” should be changed to “approved”. Adopton can only occur after public hearing and by resolution This suggestion was accepted and completed.

Page 16

Objective “H” –Should read “Michigan Protection and Advocacy Service, Inc” This suggestion was accepted and completed.

Page 19

(B.) Effectively completed. It is now noted that these objectives were developed in 2008, the Commission chose to modify this project from developing to enhancing the multi-use trail as listed on p. 21

Page 20

(Multi-Purpose Building ) Effectively done when new ES Building was completed. Use of old firehouse now multi-purpose bldg. This suggestion was accepted and so noted.

(Underwater Preserve) Not within township control. By resolution the Township will not handle GLSHS grants. The WT Planning Commission determined that this project is of value to the Whitefish Township community and chooses to work in a partnership capacity in determining needs and seeking project funding to support the project.

Page 21

(Cross-Country Ski Trail-State Park Rivermouth Site) is fully under control of the State Parks. The Township is not involved. The WT Planning Commission determined that this project is of value to the Whitefish Township community and chooses to work in a partnership capacity in determining needs and seeking project funding to support the project.

Page 22

(Bicycle path and Multi-Purpose Trail…) Effectively done. The Commission chose to modify this proposed project from developing to enhancing the multi-use trail.

(Whitefish point State Dock) Docks leading out onto water from State land belong to the State. We have no control. The WT Planning Commission determined that this project is of value to the Whitefish Township community and chooses to work in a partnership capacity in determining needs and seeking project funding to support the project.

Respectfully submitted by Bill Mangham 4/3/2015

Reviewed and noted by the Whitefish Township Planning Commission, June 3, 2015

2015 -2019 Recreation Plan

Public Hearing, June 3, 2015

Whitefish Township Planning Commission

Whitefish Township Community Center

Paradise Michigan

7:30 PM

This Public Hearing was publicized through notices on community bulletin boards, the Whitefish Township Community website, and public notices in the Soo Evening News. A hard copy of the Whitefish Township Recreation Plan was available to the public for review beginning February 5, 2015.

Attendees of the meeting signed in and an opportunity made for comment regarding the plan.

The suggestion was made that enhancements to the multi-use trail along Whitefish Point Road to Whitefish Point be extended along Michigan State Route M-123 from the Tahquamenon Rivermouth through Paradise to Whitefish Point Road. A general discussion followed as to the inclusion of MDOT in such plans and that enhancements should be made to include visibility and safety.

APPENDIX C