Whitefish Township Recreation Plan 2008 - 2012
Prepared for Whitefish Township and Whitefish Township Community School
Prepared by the Eastern U.P. Regional Planning & Development Commission 524 Ashmun Street, P.O. Box 520, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783 TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 INTRODUCTION...... 1
2.0 COMMUNITY DESCRIPTION...... 1 2.1 POPULATION...... 2 2.2 ECONOMY ...... 5 2.3 PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS...... 5 2.4 OTHER CHARACTERISTICS...... 6
3.0 ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE ...... 8
4.0 RECREATION INVENTORY...... 10
5.0 DESCRIPTION OF THE PLANNING AND PUBLIC INPUT PROCESS...... 12
6.0 GOALS AND OBJECTIVES ...... 12
7.0 RECREATIONAL NEEDS...... 15
8.0 RECREATIONAL PRIORITIES...... 15
9.0 ACTION PROGRAM ...... 17
APPENDICES
APPENDIX A – WHITEFISH TOWNSHIP SURVEY APPENDIX B – PUBLIC COMMENTS DURING REVIEW PERIOD
MAP INDEX
MAP 1 – LOCATION
MAP 2 – TRANSPORTATION
MAP 3 – LAND USE
MAP 4 – ELEVATION
MAP 5 – RECREATION INVENTORY 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. 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 great tourist location, situated near major area attractions, such as Tahquamenon Falls State Park and historic Whitefish Point.
Whitefish Township Community Center
1 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 has seen a steady increase the past thirty years, 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 Population Trends, 1970‐2000 1970 % Change 1980 % Change 1990 % Change 2000 Whitefish Twp 354 33.3 472 9.5 517 13.7 588 Chippewa Co 32,412 ‐10.4 29,029 19.2 34,604 11.3 38,543 Source: U.S. Census Bureau
Chart 1 - Whitefish Twp Population
700
600
500
400
300
200
100
0 1970 1980 1990 2000
2 Chart 2 - % Change in Population
40
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
0 1970-1980 1980-1990 1990-2000 -5
-10
-15
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, 2005‐2020 Year Population 2005 617 2010 700 2015 749 2020 801 Source: U.S. Census Bureau
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The population age groups of Whitefish Township are shown in Table 2‐3 & Chart 3.
Table 2‐3 Population by Age Group, Whitefish Township, 1990‐2000 Age Group 1990 2000 Number Percent of Twp Number Percent of Twp Under 5 21 4 21 4 5‐19 93 18 75 13 20‐34 85 16 50 9 35‐54 117 23 167 28 55‐74 171 33 217 37 75 and older 30 6 58 9 Totals 517 100 588 100 Source: U.S. Census Bureau
Chart 3 - Whitefish Twp Population by Age Group
250
217
200
171 167
150
117
100 93 85 75
58 50 50 30 21 21
0 Under 5 5-19 20-34 35-54 55-74 75 and older Age Group
1990 2000
4 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.
5 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 Hall & Fire/EMS
2.4 OTHER CHARACTERISTICS
Township students attend the Whitefish Township Community School, which has a current enrollment of 54 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.
6 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. 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.
Other nearby recreation attractions include the Tahquamenon 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 Falls Hike, Annual Blueberry Festival, Tahquamenon Trail 25K Run, Fish Boil, Canoe Race, Mardi Gras de Snow Festival, a local fishing contest, and several others.
Whitefish Twp Community School
7 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.
Whitefish Township Board
Whitefish Township Recreation Advisory Committee
Whitefish Township Whitefish Township Supervisor Community School Board of Education
Recreational Superintendent Maintenance Staff
Diagram 1: Whitefish Township Recreation Organization Chart
8 Whitefish Township has budgeted the following for Township recreation:
2006 – 2007: $3,775.00 2007 – 2008: $4,737.50
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.
Whitefish Point Underwater Preserve
9 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.
Name Park Type Ownership Description/Facilities Size Service Area Accessibility Whitefish N/A Whitefish Building contains a large N/A Village, 2 – meets Township Township multi‐purpose room with Township some Community a stage, kitchen, book guidelines Center & exchange, restrooms, Recreation and Township offices Area Whitefish Community Whitefish Picnic/swimming area on 13 Village, 1 – meets Township Park Park Township Lake Superior acres Township none of the guidelines Whitefish School Park Whitefish Softball field, N/A Whitefish 2 – meets Township Township playground, indoor Township some Community Community gymnasium/basketball School, guidelines School School court, outdoor basketball Village, Recreation court, quarter‐mile track, Township, Facilities ice skating rink Surrounding Townships Tahquamenon Natural State of Paved parking area, N/A Village, 4 – meets all Falls State Park Resource Michigan picnic area, hiking trails, Township, guidelines – Upper Falls Area/State groomed cross‐country Counties, Unit Park ski trails (3.8 miles), 4 State mile hiking trail between Upper and Lower Falls Tahquamenon Natural State of Paved parking area, N/A Village, 4 – meets all Falls State Park Resource Michigan picnic area, Riverbend Township, guidelines – Lower Falls Area/State Site campground (81 Counties, Unit Park sites), Overlook Site State campground (87 sites), boating facilities, hiking trails Tahquamenon Natural State of Parking area, picnic area, N/A Village, 4 – meets all Falls State Park Resource Michigan campground (72 modern Township, guidelines – Rivermouth Area/State and 36 rustic sites), flush Counties, Unit Park toilets, hiking trials, hard State surface boat ramp Betsy Lake Natural 38 miles of hiking trails 20,000 Village, 1 – meets Resource acres Township, none of the Area Counties guidelines Andrus Lake N/A State of 25 rustic camp sites, N/A Village, 2 – meets State Forest Michigan vault toilets, beach, Township, some Campground picnic area, hard surface Counties, guidelines boat ramp State
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Name Park Type Ownership Description/Facilities Size Service Accessibility Area Great Lakes N/A Great Lakes Outdoor recreation N/A Village, N/A Shipwreck Museum Shipwreck area, gift shops, beach Township, Historical area, & tours Counties, Society State Whitefish Point N/A Audubon Focal point for spring N/A Village, 1 – meets Bird Observatory Society and fall bird migration Township, none of the Counties, guidelines State Snowmobile Trail N/A Whitefish Approx. 109 miles of N/A Village, N/A System Township groomed trials, Township, & State of connects to U.P. wide Counties, Michigan trial system State Sawmill Creek Park Community Whitefish Parking area, picnic N/A Village, 2 – meets Park Township area, nature trail, vault Township some toilets, informational guidelines kiosk Whitefish Point N/A State of A state‐designated Approx. Village, N/A Underwater Michigan underwater preserve 376 Township, Preserve with 23 diveable square Counties, shipwrecks miles State State Highway M‐ N/A State of Paved shoulder along N/A Village, N/A 123/Tahquamenon Michigan state highway is used Township, Scenic Heritage as bike path (extends Counties, Route from Piatt Lake to State Tahquamenon Falls). Paradise Pathways N/A State of Approx. 5 1/2 miles of N/A Village, 1 – meets Michigan groomed cross‐country Township, none of the skiing trails and hiking Counties, guidelines trails State North Country Trail N/A Federal & Wilderness hiking trail N/A Village, 1 – meets State of that stretches for Township, none of the Michigan approx. 4,600 miles Counties, guidelines crossing 7 states, from State New York to North Dakota. Shelldrake N/A State of Vault toilets, off‐shore N/A Village, 2 – meets Impoundment Site Michigan fishing, hard surface Township, some & State Forest boat ramp, 17 rustic Counties, guidelines Campground campsites 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
11 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.
During the review period, only one written comment was received. Several verbal comments were conveyed to Committee members. Whitefish Township adopted the plan on July 3, 2008. The Whitefish Township Community School Board adopted the plan on July 8, 2008.
The plan was then transmitted to the Regional Clearinghouse.
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.
12 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 fees 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.
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.
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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.
14 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.
*Bicycle Path (M‐123) Outdoor Ice Indoor Swimming Swimming Beach in Modernize Public Rink Pool Downtown Area Restrooms Playground Equipment Cross‐country Fishing Sites Boating Facilities and Rifle and Archery Ski Trails* in‐town Marina2 Range Golf Course Tennis Courts ATV Activities Whitefish Point Visitor Information Underwater Preserve*4 Center Skateboard Facilities Summer Youth Sledding/Toboggan Ski Trail/Snowmobile Recreational Activities Hill Trailhead Facilities Airplane Landing Program Strip Cross‐country Ski Trail Multi‐purpose Mountain Biking near Rivermouth trail Trails Campground
8.0 RECREATIONAL PRIORITIES
The Whitefish Township Recreational Planning Committee discussed the recreational needs of the Township, and developed the following four 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 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.
15 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.
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 a multi‐purpose trail on the West side of Whitefish Point Road, extending from Paradise 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.
16 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 Local, DNR, Donations, Private, MDOT 2008 Determine funding sources 2009 Construction Downtown waterfront park – Local, DNR, Donations, swimming beach Grants 2008 Obtain options on property 2009 Acquire land and design layout 2011 Construction Downtown waterfront park – Local, DNR, Donations, marina Grants 2008 Obtain options on property 2009 Acquire land 2010‐ Construction 2012 Downtown waterfront park – Local, DNR, Donations, visitor center Grants 2008 Determine location 2009‐ Design and construction 2012 Multi‐purpose Building near Local, DNR, Donations, Community Center Grants 2008 2009‐ 2012 Underwater Preserve Local, DNR, Donations, Grants, Private 2008 Expand Preserve area 2009 Develop plans for building; Determine funding sources 2010‐ Construction 2012 Summer youth activities Local, DNR, Donations On‐ Going
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Project Year Activity Funding Sledding hill with off‐street parking Local, DNR, Donations, Private 2008 Construction Cross‐country ski trail – State Park Local, DNR, Donations Rivermouth site 2008‐ Determine funding; 2009 Construction Airplane landing strip Local, DNR, Donations 2008 Acquire land 2009 Construction On‐shore fishing and access sites Local, DNR, Donations 2008‐ Develop and improve 2012 Cross‐country ski trails Local, DNR, Donations 2008‐ Expand and improve 2012 Skateboard Park Local, DNR, Donations 2009 Construct Public Rest Rooms Local, DNR, Donations, Grants, Private 2009 Determine funding sources 2010 Design and Construction Outdoor ice rink Local, DNR, Donations, Grants, Private 2009‐ Design and Construction 2010 Trailhead facilities Local, DNR, Donations, Grants 2009‐ Develop and improve 2011 ATV Activities Local, DNR, Donations 2008‐ Develop ingress and egress to 2009 the community 2010‐ Develop and construct trails 2012 and trailheads Bicycle Path and Multi‐purpose trail Local, DNR, Donations, on Whitefish Point Road Grants, MDOT, Private 2008‐ Development 2012
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Project Year Activity Funding Whitefish Township Community Local, DNR, School – Soccer Field Donations, Grants 2008‐ Improvements/Upgrades – Safety, Seating, 2012 Grass/landscaping Whitefish Township Community Local, DNR, School – Baseball Field Donations, Grants 2008‐ Improvements/Upgrades ‐ Safety 2012 Whitefish Township Community 2008‐ Improvements/Updates – Safety and ADA Local, DNR, School – Playground 2012 Donations, Grants
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APPENDIX A 1. Background Information 1st 2nd
a) Indicate your residency status: Year-round [ ] [ ] Seasonal [ ] [ ] Non-resident [ ] [ ]
b) Indicate your property interests: Own Home [ ] [ ] Own Business [ ] [ ] Rent Home [ ] [ ] Own Land [ ] [ ]
c) How long have you owned property in 0-10 years [ ] [ ] the Township? 11-20 years [ ] [ ] Over 20 years [ ] [ ]
d) How long have you lived in the 0-10 years [ ] [ ] Township? 11-20 years [ ] [ ] Over 20 years [ ] [ ]
e) What is your primary occupation (one answer per person)?
Manager [ ] [ ] Laborer [ ] [ ] Professional [ ] [ ] Homemaker [ ] [ ] Farmer [ ] [ ] Student [ ] [ ] Clerical/Sales [ ] [ ] Unemployed [ ] [ ] Skilled Trades [ ] [ ] Retired [ ] [ ] Other [ ] [ ]
f) What is your age? 18-25 years [ ] [ ] 26-40 years [ ] [ ] 41-65 years [ ] [ ] Over 65 years [ ] [ ]
g) What is your gender? Male [ ] [ ] Female [ ] [ ]
h) Do you have children (ages 0-18) Yes [ ] [ ] living at home? No [ ] [ ]
Please provide additional comments relating to this section: ______
2. Environment (How important are the following resources to the future of the Township): Very Not Important Important Important
a) Water quality of inland streams, lakes & rivers: [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ]
b) Quality and quantity of ground water available for private wells: [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ]
c) Preservation of wetlands and flood plains: [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ]
d) Air quality: [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ]
e) Forests: [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ]
f) Fish, fowl and wildlife: [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ]
Comments (Please provide comments here about the environment.) ______
3. Land Use/Development (Do you feel that the Township should . . . ) No Yes No Opinion
a) . . . support residential development? [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ]
b) . . . support group home/assisted living [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] development?
c) . . . support government-assisted, low- [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] income housing?
d) . . . support condominium or apartment [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] complex development?
e) . . . support home trailer park development? [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ]
f) . . . support construction of hotels, motels, [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] lodges or inns?
g) . . . support in-home business operations? [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] (flower shops, hair salons, pet care, craft & arts, etc.)
h) . . . encourage small industrial development? [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ]
i) . . . encourage development of retail shops/stores? [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] (sports shops, clothing stores, gas stations, etc.)
j) . . . encourage development of restaurants, night [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] clubs/lounges?
k) . . . encourage development of tourism and recreational opportunities for residents (specifically):
1 -extending bicycle pathways along [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] M-123?
2 - outdoor ice rink (winter/at school)? [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ]
3 - indoor pool? [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ]
4 - downtown swimming area/waterfront [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] enhancement?
5 - boating facilities ? [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ]
6 -rifle and archery range? [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] (winter & summer)
7 - golf course? [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ]
8 - downtown beautification? [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ]
9 - downtown parking/sidewalks? [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ]
10 - charter boat facilities? [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ]
11 - off-road, non-motorized trails for [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] x-country skiing, snowshoeing, hiking?
12 - snowmobiling & ORV? [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ]
13 - welcome center w/public restrooms? [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ]
k) . . . support development of an airport? [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ]
l) . . . support timber management and harvest-related development? [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ]
m). . .support alternative snowmobile routes [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] that would by-pass downtown Paradise?
What other land use facilities and activities would you consider important for the Township to develop? ______
4. Community/Government Services No Yes No Opinion
a) Are you satisfied with the quality of police [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] protection in the Township?
b) Would you support a millage for additional [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] law enforcement?
c) Are you satisfied with the quality of fire [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] protection service in the Township?
d) Would you support a millage for additional [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] fire protection in the Township?
e) Are you satisfied with the quality of [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] ambulance service in the Township?
f) Would you support additional millage for [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] the Township ambulance service?
g) Are you satisfied with the quality of [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] education in the Township?
h) Would you support millage for a new school? [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ]
i) Are you satisfied with the road maintenance [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] and condition of roads in the Township?
j) Would you support a millage which would be [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] used to maintain two existing Township parks?
k) Should the Township consider purchasing [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] property for development of another Township-owned park for use by residents and tourists?
l) Is current access to library services in the [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] Township adequate?
m) Are there enough appropriate social and [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] recreational activities for children ages 5-12 years?
1 - List in order of importance social and recreational activities you would like for children ages 5-12 years: ______
n) Are there enough appropriate social and [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] recreational activities for teenagers?
1 - List in order of importance social and recreational activities you would like to have for teenagers: ______o) List in order of importance the recreational and social activities that you and the members of your household enjoy the most: ______
p) List in order of importance the recreational and social facilities that you and the members of your household would like to have in your Township: ______
q) List any other public services you would like to see improved or initiated in the Township: ______
5. Economics and Local Business No Yes No Opinion
a) Should the Township encourage employers [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] to locate here?
b) Does the Township need more employment [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] opportunities?
c) What industries would prosper in Whitefish Township?
1 - Logging/Lumbering [ ] [ ] 2 - Manufacturing [ ] [ ] 3 - Tourism/Recreation [ ] [ ] 4 - Farming/Agriculture [ ] [ ] 5 - Other ______
d) What specific business(es) would benefit the Township? ______
e) Would the Township benefit from [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] cooperative working relationships with local business and entities to obtain grants and low-interest loans?
f) Should the Township support applications for [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] funding from groups and organizations which are developing their enterprises?
g) Cultural and historical activities and sites are a major part of activities in Whitefish Township. Should the Township . . .
1 - support cultural tourism activities [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] by participating with groups that develop these types of program?
2 - support the development of cultural [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] and historical properties that will encourage tourism in the area?
6. Comments and Suggestions a) What do you like most about Whitefish Township? ______b) What do you dislike the most about Whitefish Township? ______c) In general, how do you like Whitefish Township as a place to live? ______d) Do the people of Whitefish Township share a sense of community and why or why not? ______e) Is the Township government responsive to your needs; how can they better serve you? ______f) Please make any other comments or suggestions on next page.
Thank you for taking time to complete this survey. Please fold the survey in half; remove your name(sticker); secure the fold with tape only and mail (pre-paid mailing).
APPENDIX B
Map 1 - Whitefish Township Location
Whitefish Township
Ontario
LUCE ALGER
CHIPPEWA
SCHOOLCRAFT
MACKINAC
DELTA
EMMET CHEBOYGAN
PRESQUE ISLE
CHARLEVOIX
ALPENA OTSEGO MONTMORENCY 0 40 ANTRIM Miles LEELANAU 1 inch = 36 miles KALKASKA CRAWFORD OSCODA ALCONA
Minnesota Legend Ontario Whitefish Township Michigan Chippewa County States Canada Wisconsin I
Michigan
Iowa
Illinois 0 200 Indiana Ohio Miles Missouri 1 inch = 146 miles Map 2 - Whitefish Township Transportation Network
WILDCAT RD36 31 32
02 01 06 OAK RIDGE RD 04 03 02 03 Browns Lake 01 06 05 04 05 POND RD DOE LK RD 07
08 09 10 08 09 10 11 12 07 12 07 11 VERMILLION RD 13 15 14 14 13 18 17 16 18 17 16 MAPLE BLOCK RD 15
Betsy River 20 21 22 23 19 20 21 22 23 24 19
26
29 28 27 30 29 28 27 26 25 30
BEAR LK RD
32 33 34 31 32 33 34 35 36 31 Legend 05 04 03 06 05 04 BETSY RIVER RD 02 01 06 03 Lakes
09 10 10 11 12 08 07 08 09 07 FARM TRUCK TR WIDEWATERS RDFARM TRUCK TR Rivers
16 15 Sheephead Lake 16 15 14 13 18 17 Sections
WHITEFISH PT RD 18 17 Twp Boundary 19 20 21 22 19 20 21 22 23 24 STATION SOUTH RD PREACHERS LAKES RD Clark Lake 30 Roads 29 27 28 27 26 25 28 30 29 M123 M123 State Trunkline
M123
31 32 33 34 31 32 33 34 35 36 County Primary
k e r La County Local e 05 04 03 06 05 04 03 b 01 06
m i 02 T Camp Ten Lakes Other Road 08 09 10 08 09 10 11 12 07 07 TAHQUA TR Federal Forest Service Roads 13 17 16 15 18 17 16 15 Tahquamenon River 18 14
23 22 21 NORTHWEST RD 20 19 20 21 22 23 24 19
CURLEYS BLVD
25 30 30 29 28 27 26 M123 GRAHAMS RD 29 28
CONNOR RDCONNOR
34 35 36 32 33 31 32 31 Miles 33 0 1 2 3 4 5 03 05 04 06 05 04 03 02 01 06 "CURLEY LEWIS HWY" SCENIC LAKESHORE DR 1 in = 3 miles 10 10 11 12 07 08 09 07 08 09 11 EAST WEST RD EAST-WEST RD 13 14 13 18 17 16 15 18 17 16 15 14
M123
21 22 23 24 20 21 22 23 24 19 19 20
NORTH HULBERT RD 27 26 25 25 30 29 28 Duck Lake 30 29 28 27 26
Johnson Lake Piatt Lake 36 31 32 33 34 35 31 33 34 35 36 32 NORTH RD Map 3 - Whitefish Township Land Cover
WILDCAT RD36 31 32
02 01 06 OAK RIDGE RD 04 03 02 03 Browns Lake 01 06 05 04 05 POND RD DOE LK RD 07
08 09 10 08 09 10 11 12 07 12 07 11 VERMILLION RD 13 15 14 14 13 18 17 16 18 17 16 MAPLE BLOCK RD 15
Betsy River 20 21 22 23 19 20 21 22 23 24 19
26
29 28 27 30 29 28 27 26 25 30
BEAR LK RD
32 33 34 31 32 33 34 35 36 31
05 04 03 06 05 04 BETSY RIVER RD 02 01 06 03
09 10 Legend 10 11 12 08 07 08 09 07 FARM TRUCK TR WIDEWATERS RDFARM TRUCK TR Lakes Rivers 16 15 Sheephead Lake 16 15 14 13 18 17
WHITEFISH PT RD Sections 18 17 Twp Boundary 22 23 24 19 20 21 19 20 21 22 Roads STATION SOUTH RD PREACHERS LAKES RD Clark Lake 30 State Trunkline 29 27 28 27 26 25 28 County Primary 30 29 M123 M123
M123 County Local
31 32 33 34 Other Road 31 32 33 34 35 36 Federal Forest Service Roads k e r La e 05 04 03 Land Cover 06 05 04 03 b 01 06
m i 02 OPEN WATER T Camp Ten Lakes 08 LOW INTENSITY RESIDENTIAL 09 10 08 09 10 11 12 07 07 TAHQUA TR COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL/TRANSPORTATION
13 BARE ROCK/SAND/CLAY 17 16 15 18 17 16 15 Tahquamenon River 18 QUARRIES/STRIP MINES/GRAVEL PITS 14 TRANSITIONAL 23 22 21 NORTHWEST RD 20 19 20 21 22 23 24 19 DECIDUOUS FOREST EVERGREEN FOREST CURLEYS BLVD
25 30 MIXED FOREST 30 29 28 27 26 M123 GRAHAMS RD 29 28 WETLANDS
CONNOR RDCONNOR GRASSLANDS 34 35 36 32 33 31 32 31 PASTURE/HAY 33
03 ROW CROPS 05 04 06 05 04 03 02 01 06 "CURLEY LEWIS HWY" SCENIC LAKESHORE DR 10 09 10 11 12 07 08 09 07 08 11 Miles EAST WEST RD EAST-WEST RD 13 0 1 2 3 4 14 13 18 17 16 15 18 17 16 15 14
M123 1 in = 3 miles 21 22 23 24 20 21 22 23 24 19 19 20
NORTH HULBERT RD 27 26 25 25 30 29 28 Duck Lake 30 29 28 27 26
Johnson Lake Piatt Lake 36 31 32 33 34 35 31 33 34 35 36 32 NORTH RD Map 4 - Whitefish Township Elevation
WILDCAT RD36 31 32
02 01 06 OAK RIDGE RD 04 03 02 03 Browns Lake 01 06 05 04 05 POND RD DOE LK RD 07
08 09 10 08 09 10 11 12 07 12 07 11 VERMILLION RD 13 15 14 14 13 18 17 16 18 17 16 MAPLE BLOCK RD 15
Betsy River 20 21 22 23 19 20 21 22 23 24 19
26
29 28 27 30 29 28 27 26 25 30
BEAR LK RD
32 33 34 31 32 33 34 35 36 31
05 04 03 06 05 04 BETSY RIVER RD 02 01 06 03 Legend
09 10 10 11 12 08 Lakes 07 08 09 07 FARM TRUCK TR WIDEWATERS RDFARM TRUCK TR Rivers 16 15 Sheephead Lake 16 15 14 13 18 17
WHITEFISH PT RD 18 17 Sections
19 20 21 22 Twp Boundary 19 20 21 22 23 24 STATION SOUTH RD PREACHERS LAKES RD Clark Lake 30 Roads 29 27 28 27 26 25 28 30 29 M123 M123 State Trunkline
M123
31 32 33 34 County Primary 31 32 33 34 35 36 County Local k e r La e 05 04 03 06 05 04 03 b 01 06 m Other Road i 02 T Camp Ten Lakes 08 09 10 Federal Forest Service Roads 08 09 10 11 12 07 07 TAHQUA TR
13 Elevation 17 16 15 18 17 16 15 Tahquamenon River 18 High : 1100 14
23 22 20 21 19 20 NORTHWEST RD 21 22 23 24 19
CURLEYS BLVD Low : 576
25 30 30 29 28 27 26 M123 GRAHAMS RD 29 28
CONNOR RD CONNOR
34 35 36 32 33 Miles 31 32 31 33 0 1 2 3 4 5
03 05 04 06 05 03 02 01 06 04 "CURLEY LEWIS HWY" 1 in = 3 miles SCENIC LAKESHORE DR 10 10 11 12 07 08 09 07 08 09 11 EAST WEST RD EAST-WEST RD 13 14 13 18 17 16 15 18 17 16 15 14
M123
21 22 23 24 20 21 22 23 24 19 19 20
NORTH HULBERT RD 27 26 25 25 30 29 28 Duck Lake 30 29 28 27 26
Johnson Lake Piatt Lake 36 31 32 33 34 35 31 33 34 35 36 32 NORTH RD Map 5 - Whitefish Township Recreation Inventory Whitefish Point
32 WILDCAT RD 31 23 1 4 02 01 OAK RIDGE RD 06 5 04 03 02 03 Browns Lake 01 06 05 04 05 POND RD DOE LK RD 12 07 11 08 09 10 07 08 09 10 11 12 07
VERMILLION RD 13 15 14 MAPLE BLOCK RD 17 16 18 17 16 15 14 13 18
Betsy River 20 21 22 23 19 20 21 22 23 24 19 7
26
29 28 27 6 30 29 28 27 26 25 30
BEAR LK RD 33 34 34 35 36 31 32 31 32 33 Inventory 03 04 03 Whitefish Township Park 1 05 04 01 06 05 06 02 BETSY RIVER RD Whitefish Point Shipwreck Museum/Recreation Area 2 Whitefish Point Bird Observatory 3 10 12 08 09 10 07 08 09 11 2 07 3 Whitefish Point 4 FARM TRUCK TR WIDEWATERS RD 31 32 FARM TRUCK TR Whitefish Point Harbor Sheephead Lake 4 5 15 14 13 18 17 18 17 16 15 Andrus Lake State Forest Campground 16 6 Shelldrake Dam WHITEFISH PT RD 05 7
20 21 10 22 Lower Falls - Tahquamenon Falls State Park 19 20 21 22 23 24 19 11 8 PREACHERS LAKES RD 06 Lower Falls Campground 9 Clark Lake 29 30 STATION SOUTH RD M123 M123 28 27 5 Pine Stump Junction Trailhead 10 30 29 28 27 26 25 12 Sawmill Creek Park 8 13 11 35 Whitefish Township School M123 34 12 9 36 31 32 33 31 32 33 34 M123 Whitefish Township Community Center 13 e Whitefish Bay Picnic Area La k 14 03 e r 03 b 01 06 05 04 06 05 04 River Mouth - Tahquamenon Falls State Park 15 m i 02 T Rivermouth Unit Campground 16 08 Camp Ten Lakes 09 10 Rivermouth Access Site 07 08 09 10 11 TAHQUA TR 17 12 07 13 15 14 17 16 15 18 17 16 Tahquamenon River 18 1617 15 14 22 23 Legend 21 20 21 22 23 24 19 20 19 Paradise Pathway (Cross-Country Ski Trail)
NORTHWEST RD
29 RDCONNOR Snowmobile Trails 30 29 30 27 26 25 M123 North Country Trail 28 28 CURLEYS BLVD Hiawatha Boundary 36 32 33 31 34 35 31 Betsy Lake Nature Area 33 32 GRAHAMS RD Tahquamenon Falls State Park
05 04 03 06 05 04 03 02 01 Whitefish Point Underwater Preserve 06 "CURLEY LEWIS HWY" SCENIC LAKESHORE DR Lakes
10 11 12 07 08 09 10 Rivers 07 08 09 11 Tahquamenon Rivermouth Sections 10 11 14 EAST WEST RD 13 13 18 17 16 15 Twp Boundary 18 17 16 15 14 EAST-WEST RD
14 Roads State Trunkline 19 20 21 22 23 24 19 20 21 22 23 24 NORTH HULBERT RD 14 County Primary 27 26 30 M123 25 County Local 25 30 28 Duck Lake 15 29 28 27 26 29 Other Road
15 Johnson Lake Piatt Lake Wide Shoulder (Bike Path) 31 32 33 32 33 34 35 36 34 35 36 31 16 17 NORTH RD Miles
14 0 1 2 3 4 5 1 in = 3 miles