8
Outdoors OTTAWA COUNTY OTTAWA COUNTY PARKS QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER | SUMMER 2018 Tunnel Park, courtesy of Mike Lozon Subscribe to our e-newsletter: miOttawa.org/Connect [email protected] • miOttawa.org/parks Main Office: 616-738-4810 • Nature Center: 616-786-484 7 Ottawa County Parks & Recreation Commission David VanGinhoven, President Ray Statema, Vice President Philip Kuyers, Secretary Joe Bush Tom Elhart Matthew Fenske James Holtvluwer Roger E. Jonas Kelly N. Rice Tom Werkman Greg DeJong, Chair Roger Bergman, Vice Chair Joe Baumann Matthew Fenske Francisco C. Garcia James Holtvluwer Kelly Kuiper Philip Kuyers Activities and programs are brought to you by the Ottawa County Board of Commissioners. miOttawa.org/Parks Allen Dannenberg Mike Haverdink Don Disselkoen Parks Permits Parking fees are collected from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day at the following parks: Tunnel Park • Rosy Mound Natural Area Olive Shores • North Beach Park Kirk Park An annual motor vehicle permit is required at the Riverside Park boat launch Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Did you know... Ottawa County Parks developed a water trail along the Grand River? Check out water trail maps, access points, points of interest, and plan your trip down the Grand River: Don't have a kayak? Join us for a trip this summer! Details on page seven. Annual Permit Pricing Resident: $15 / Resident Seniors (60+): $7 Resident multi-vehicle: Annual pass + $5 Resident hang tag: $20 Resident senior hang tag: $12 Non-resident (incl. seniors): $25 Annual permits may be purchased at the Nature Education Center, the Parks Office, most lakeshore park entrance gates during the summer, and the Oaklea Store (near Riverside Park). The Michigan State Recreation Passport is not valid at Ottawa County Parks. Did you know Bridge Card holders may receive free parks passes? There is still time to sign your child up for a nature summer camp! Take a look at page seven to see what were offering. Summer Camps miOttawa.org/OC_GRHT Along the Grand River there are four universally accessible kayak launches: Grand River Park Grand Ravines Eastmanville Bayou Connor Bayou Coming soon: Historic Ottawa Beach (learn more on page three)

Outdoors - miottawa.org · Joe Baumann Matthew Fenske ... Annual pass + $5 • Resident hang tag: ... “I chose this project to help kids and families who live with autism

  • Upload
    vocong

  • View
    214

  • Download
    0

Embed Size (px)

Citation preview

Outdoors OTTAWA COUNTY

OTTAWA COUNTY PARKS QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER | SUMMER 2018Tunnel Park, courtesy of Mike Lozon

Subscribe to our e-newsletter: miOttawa.org/[email protected] • miOttawa.org/parksMain Office: 616-738-4810 • Nature Center: 616-786-4847

Ottawa County Parks &Recreation Commission

David VanGinhoven, PresidentRay Statema, Vice PresidentPhilip Kuyers, SecretaryJoe BushTom Elhart

Matthew FenskeJames HoltvluwerRoger E. JonasKelly N. RiceTom Werkman

Greg DeJong, ChairRoger Bergman, Vice ChairJoe BaumannMatthew Fenske

Francisco C. GarciaJames HoltvluwerKelly KuiperPhilip Kuyers

Activities and programs are brought to you by the Ottawa County Board of Commissioners.miOttawa.org/Parks

Allen DannenbergMike HaverdinkDon Disselkoen

Parks PermitsParking fees are collected from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day at the following parks:

• Tunnel Park • Rosy Mound Natural Area• Olive Shores • North Beach Park• Kirk Park

An annual motor vehicle permit is required at the Riverside Park boat launch Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.

Did you know...Ottawa County Parks developed a water trail along the Grand River?Check out water trail maps, access points, points of interest, and plan your trip down the Grand River:

Don't have a kayak? Join us for a trip this summer! Details on page seven.

Annual Permit Pricing• Resident: $15 / Resident Seniors (60+): $7• Resident multi-vehicle: Annual pass + $5• Resident hang tag: $20• Resident senior hang tag: $12• Non-resident (incl. seniors): $25

Annual permits may be purchased at the Nature Education Center, the Parks Office, most lakeshore park entrance gates during the summer, and the Oaklea Store (near Riverside Park).

The Michigan State Recreation Passport is not valid at Ottawa County Parks.

Did you know Bridge Card holders may receive free parks passes?

There is still time to sign your child up for a nature summer camp!

Take a look at page seven to see what we’re offering.

Summer Camps

miOttawa.org/OC_GRHT

Along the Grand River there are four universally accessible kayak launches:

• Grand River Park• Grand Ravines• Eastmanville Bayou• Connor Bayou

Coming soon: Historic Ottawa Beach (learn more on page three)

Idema Explorers TrailFinal paving of the 3.9-mile segment in Robinson Township is now complete; signs and other amenities are being added. The trailhead parking lot at the intersection of North Cedar Drive and M-231 offers easy access to the trail, as well as the pedestrian bridge crossing to the Spoonville Trail.

Sensory trail at Grand River ParkTheodore (Tas) Stoetzner of Boy Scout Troop 354 of Jenison completed his Eagle Scout project by constructing the park system’s first sensory trail in May.

“I chose this project to help kids and families who live with autism enjoy the parks and be outside more. When I was learning about trails, I learned that autistic children sometimes have challenges with senses and decided that I should help them with four stations to help them hear, see, and feel different things in nature,” said Tas.

Grand River Greenway

The sensory stations1. At two listening stations, users can identify

the local birds and their calls. 2. At the walk through station, users will walk

on pinecones, stones, woodchips, and logs to feel different textures.

3. At the manual dexterity station, children can dig and find 15 hidden paving stones, each with different textures.

4. The yoga station is intended to help users stretch their bodies and enjoy their surroundings.

Adopt-a-ParkRecognizing that this trail would need extra attention and upkeep, the Parks Department required Tas to recruit a local organization or business to adopt the trail. Tas connected with Autism Support of West Shore, and they agreed to sign on as Adopt-a-Park volunteers.

”Having sensory trails in parks throughout West Michigan makes parks more accessible. Many children with autism have sensory challenges, either under or over stimulation, and these trails allow children to engage their senses in a safe, natural setting. Those who seek extra movement like running or extended walks can also utilize the trail, with the added bonus of the sensory input.

Our children are often not successful in what would be considered child-friendly places for play and enjoyment. The Autism Support of West Shore board saw this as an opportunity for children on the spectrum to have a place to go and enjoy the outdoors providing them a unique sensory experiences in nature.

Autism Support of West Shore is proud to collaborate with Tas and Ottawa County Parks on this unique venture.”

— Linda Ellenbaas, Autism Support of West Shore

P igeon River GreenwayPublic observatoryThe Shoreline Amateur Astronomical Association (SAAA) is raising funds for West Michigan’s first public observatory! The $65,000 observatory is planned for Hemlock Crossing County Park, near the Nature Education Center. Plans can be found online.Friends of Ottawa County Parks and the Ottawa County Parks Foundation have each donated $2,500, and Ottawa County Parks donated $5,000 toward the effort, pushing them just over half way to their goal. They have raised approximately $35,000.If you are interested in supporting this endeavor, please visit the SAAA online: holland-saaa.org

Grant FundingThis spring a state Aquatic Habitat Grant for restoration work at Riverside Park was approved. Learn more about this project on page four.

Two acquisition projects funded by the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund are underway:

• Appraisals are in process for the Bend Area acquisition and will be submitted to the DNR upon completion.

• Environmental and appraisal work will begin on the Stearns Creek acquisition after the legislature appropriates the funds and there is a formal grant agreement in place.

More information about these projects can be found online.

“To install the stations, I had 24 volunteers help me,” said Tas.

Ottawa Sand updateProject recap:

• Last fall the current owner offered to sell the property based on an appraisal of $11.2 million. The owner also offered to donate 25% of the land value to serve as match in a grant proposal to the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund.

• In December 2017, the MNRTF Board recommended that a $4.2 million grant be awarded with encouragement to submit a phase two grant request for the remaining $4.2 million needed to finalize the purchase in 2019.

• The grant recommendation is awaiting approval by the State Legislature and Governor.

Property appraisals are complete and the Land Conservancy of West Michigan plans to assist in the purchase of the second parcel of land after the legislature appropriates the funds and the formal grant agreement is in place for the initial parcel.Following the agreement, the Land Conservancy will help raise approximately $200,000 to cover their interest and other holding costs.

Grant awarded for universal kayak launch on Lake MacatawaOttawa County Parks has been awarded a Coastal Zone Management grant for a fifth universal kayak launch. The new launch will be located at Historic Ottawa Beach, situated near a dock at the future Ottawa Beach Marina. Construction on the marina will begin in the fall. Plans for the new marina will include some kayak storage.

Paw Paw Park playgroundMake sure to plan a visit to the new playground at Paw Paw Park (West) in Holland with your kids or grand kids!

Macatawa River Greenway

Lake Michigan C oastal GreenwayBRIDGING COMMUNITY TO NATURELEARN MORE | DONATE | GET INVOLVED

ottawacountyparksfoundation.org

Progress continues to be made on fundraising for the Grand River Greenway and the Idema Explorers Trail with a $50,000 gift from the Consumers Energy Foundation.

“We appreciate the Consumers Energy Foundation’s support of the Grand River Greenway,” said Monica Verplank, co-chair of the Grand River Greenway Committee. “Recent studies continue to illustrate the positive affect even a brief dose of nature has on our overall well being. As community leaders we have a responsibility to encourage and support healthy lifestyle options for our community members. Providing access to green space and connecting our communities with the Idema Explorers Trail is a key piece of our vision. We couldn’t do it without the support of our partners.”

Gold Leadership Sponsor Dickson Wright

This spring the Ottawa County Parks Foundation hosted two fundraising events. The local companies and individuals listed below sponsored these events. We are grateful for their support!

BREAKFAST AT THE PARK

EVENT SPONSORS

OTTAWA COUNTY

PARKS FOUNDATION

Leadership Sponsor & Adopt-a-Park Company

Tyson FoodsCommunity Sponsors

BairdBarber Ford of Holland

Prein&NewhofTim & Jane Stoepker

Community Sponsors & Adopt-a-Park Company

Chow Hound Pet SuppliesFriend SponsorsGEI Consultants

Kennari ConsultingScott & Julie Reenders

David & Barb VanGinhoven

New Pump House Exhibit

Over the summer, the Pump House Museum will host a new exhibit:Big Red: From Aid to Navigation to Cultural Icon

The exhibit will highlight all Lake Michigan lighthouses and how museum visitors can help preserve them. Also featured will be a recent donation to the Museum, the only surviving original guest register from the Hotel Ottawa.

Open house dates are available online: historicottawabeachsociety.org

Historic Ottawa Beach Parks

Identify Report Take Action Learn More

saveMIhemlocks.org

Riverside RestorationThis spring, the Aquatic Habitat Grant program approved funds for a restoration project at Riverside Park. The two-phased project will improve aquatic habitat quality and fish passage along the Grand River by restoring the connection between Kirby Bayou and the river.

In the first phase of the project, a perched culvert that currently impedes fish passage will be replaced with a larger culvert that will be sunk and lined with natural material. A similar culvert will be installed on the east side of the park to re-connect the bayou. Frequent visitors to Riverside know that the road near this bayou is frequently closed due to flooding. These culverts will help!

Prescribed Browsing ProjectThe eco goats have returned for another year!

This summer they will call Riverside Park home and will munch on woody invasives and poison ivy.

Many of the goats gave birth this spring, so the crew has expanded! You may visit, but be careful if you touch them... poison ivy oils stay on their fur.

Thank you to Paul Busman, the volunteer veterinarian who donated time and material to the pre- and post-natal care of the mothers and baby goats!

HWA Task ForceSurveys continue for Hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA). So far, the pest is still limited to known areas between Fennville and Mears.

The contractor for treatment on private land has been hired, and treatment will be prioritized by from north to south, since there is a much greater population of hemlock trees in northern Michigan.

If you think your hemlock trees may be infested with HWA, there is still time to contact the task force for treatment recommendations. Use the contact form online: saveMIhemlocks.org.

Do you live in a subdivision or homeowner’s association? Consider gathering your neighbors to check for the pest. One of our partner organizations, the Ottawa Conservation District, can join you on-site to help you and your neighbors survey and identify HWA.

Blocked, raised culverts make fish passage impossible.

Flooding across the road is not only frustrating for park users, but also wildlife who use the flooded area to lay eggs, only to have it dry up too soon for the eggs to hatch.

Ottawa County Parks applied for a National Fish & Wildlife grant to cover the cost of the second phase of this project: stabilizing 500' of riverbank using natural shoreline techniques. Stabilization of the river bank will reduce the sediment load into the river.

Funding for phase two has not been approved, but the use of grant funds and the county’s match to complete phase one should illustrate our committment to the project.

STOP THE SPREAD

Grose Park After Restoration

Improvements & outcomes at Grose Park:• Decreased mowing area by 3,000 sq. ft.• Planted native flowers, trees, and

shrubs, creating a buffer between the shore and recreation area

• Stronger, more stable shoreline

Focus: Social SustainabilityIn an effort to increase inclusiveness in the parks system, as well as welcome more visitors, Ottawa County Parks will be translating summer camp promotional material and scholarship forms to Spanish. We are also committed to increasing awareness of our Parks Permit Waiver for individuals whose income qualifies them to receive benefits through Health & Human Services (valid Bridge Card is required).

Focus: Environmental SustainabilityIn July we will host two blitz cleaning events at Riverside Park. The blitz events give boaters tips and simple cleaning techniques to prevent the introduction and spread of aquatic invasive species, like zebra mussels. Plus, it’s a free boat cleaning!These events are hosted in partnership with the Lower Grand River Organization of Watersheds.

Focus: Environmental SustainabilityWe will continue to review our mowing plan to determine where we can decrease mowing, helping to save money on fuel and potentially increase shoreline/bank stability.

We want to hear from you!Are you trying to become more sustainable at home or work? We want to hear your stories!Please share your Sustainability Story (and photos!) with us: [email protected].

Shorelines of inland lakes in Michigan lack trees, shrubs, and plants, but many of

the things residents love about lake-front living depend on this natural vegetation! Within the parks system, we are continuously trying to improve our shorelines. In 2012, we implemented

major improvements along the inland lake at Grose Park. Prior to restoration

work we were mowing right up to the shoreline, had nearly no native vegetation, and

were experiencing continous issues with erosion. The improvements were completed many years

ago, and the work is paying off!

june july

august

Do you live on the water? Did you know you can improve habitat by decreasing mowing & adding native plants along the waterfront?

View the full five-year plan online: miOttawa.org/Parks/park-plan.htm

How are native plants and natural vegetation along a shoreline more sustainable?

• Helps keep the lake clean by slowing and filtering runoff• Allows more water to be absorbed into the ground• Provides needed shade for keeping the water cooler for

fish and other wildlife• Protects lake edge from wave and ice erosion, especially

when there is a good mixture of native plants both on the land and in the water

Information adapted from: mishorelinepartnership.org

Gro

se P

ark

Befo

re R

estoration

Grose Park After Restoration

Parks Sustainability

Environmental Sustainability Protecting our natural land

Social Sustainability Keeping our community

engaged & healthy

Economic Sustainability Ensuring that funds exist

for the future

Summer Sustainability Checklist

STARGAZING9-11 pm • Hemlock CrossingJoin the Shoreline Amateur Astronomical Association (SAAA) for an informal night with the stars. Telescopes will be available. If you have them, bring binoculars and a lawn chair.

• June 9 • August 11• July 14 • September 8, 7-8:30 pm - The Fall Sky (ages 12+)

WHISTLE OF THE WHIP-POOR-WILL $9-11 pm • Hemlock CrossingRegistration required, $5 fee/person; ages 12+A short presentation at the Nature Education Center will be followed by a moonlit field trip to a few of this summer whistler’s local haunts.

• June 8• June 15

NORTH OTTAWA DUNES THROUGH HIKE $June 16, 9:30 am-3:30 pm • North Ottawa DunesRegistration required, $10 fee/person; ages 12+Hike the length of this 500+ acre park as you climb up and down through the backdune forest. We will eat lunch at P.J. Hoffmaster State Park before making the return hike. Additional details will be emailed upon registration.

WEAVER HOUSE OPEN HOUSE1-3 pm • Pine BendJoin us for an open house event at the Weaver House, built in 1901. Volunteers will be available to share historical information. This event is hosted by the Friends of Ottawa County Parks.

• June 17• July 15• August 19

WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERSHemlock CrossingThe Wildlife Encounters series introduces participants to wildlife found in our region. These presentations are followed by an optional guided hike or outing. Each kids’ program includes activities, walk, and take-home craft. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required; ages 5-12.Turtles in a Nutshell

• June 17, 3-4:30pm – Kids! ☻• June 23, 3-4 pm

Dragonflies: Masters of the Sky• July 15, 3-4:30pm – Kids! ☻• July 21, 3-4 pm

The Buzz on Bees & Wasps• August 12, 3-4:30pm – Kids! ☻• August 18, 3-4 pm

FISHING FOR DRUM June 19, 8-10 am • Historic Ottawa Beach, Black Lake Boardwalk WestRegistration required; ages 13+Learn to catch big fish from shore! The drum is a native fish that eats invasive species like zebra mussels and round gobies. Michigan Sea Grant Fisheries Biologist and Educator, Dan O’Keefe, will lead participants in learning drum biology and how to catch, clean, and cook this tasty fish. A limited number of loaner rods will be available if you do not have your own fishing equipment. Participants ages 17+ must have a valid Michigan fishing license.

ECOTHERAPY AND BEING PRESENT7-8:30 pm • Hemlock CrossingHave you ever carried work/home stresses with you into the woods? Experience some “Ecotherapy” as you participate in some activities designed to get you in touch with nature and yourself.

• June 19• July 24

NESTING BIRDS FIELD TRIP $June 23, 6 am-12 pmRegistration required, $15 fee/person; ages 12+Migrant birds have passed, and the resident nesters have settled in. Visit several local hotspots to identify a variety of notable breeding songbirds and waterbirds.

PRAIRIE WILDFLOWER WALKS3-4 pm • Hemlock CrossingThe dazzling colors of the restored native prairie are a delight to experience! Come through the summer to see how it changes.

• June 24 • August 26• July 22 • September 9

NEWCOMB’S WILDFLOWER GUIDE WORKSHOP June 30, 9:30-11:30 am • Hemlock CrossingRegistration requiredLearn how to identify summer prairie wildflowers using the Newcomb’s Wildflower Guide. A brief, indoor workshop will introduce participants to the Newcomb’s guide, as well as introduce some of the local, later blooming wildflowers. Afterward, we’ll head outside. Guide books will be available for purchase ($25); loaners available.

DISCOVER THE DUNES Rosy Mound Natural Area*; ages 12+The iconic dunes of Lake Michigan are at their peak for exploration during summer. Encounter what life abounds in this harsh environment, and discover the story of how these dunes came to be. *A seasonal Parks permit is required.

• July 7, 10 am-12 pm• August 4, 10 am-12 pm

SUMMER PROGRAMS

miOttawa.org/Parks

Registration Required $ Program Fee ☻Just For Kids

DATE(S) TIME COST

(per session) PARK AGE*

Birding Camp June 11-15 9 am-4:30 pm $150 Hemlock Crossing 10-13We’ll encourage kids to develop their enjoyment of birds by building their birding skills and knowledge.

Cruis'n the Pigeon River June 19 9 am-4:30 pm $40 Hemlock Crossing 11-14

Explore the Pigeon River by kayak! After sampling for aquatic invertebrates, collecting aquatic vegetation, and searching for reptiles and amphibians, we’ll examine our specimens under microscopes and create an observation journal.

Helping Hands June 25 9-11:30 am $3 Hemlock Crossing 6-11This sensory exploration camp is designed for children with special needs and their caregivers. It will be held at the Nature Center during non-public hours to create a calm, quiet environment.

Crafting with Nature Session 1: July 10Session 2: August 10 9 am-12 pm $25 Hemlock Crossing 9-12

Kids will be provided natural materials and guidance to create handmade treasures of their own.

Crafting with Nature + Art in the Afternoon July 10 9 am-3 pm $45 Hemlock Crossing 9-12

After a morning of crafts, kids will have a lunch break before an afternoon of “artful” adventure.

Survival Camp Session 1: July 18-20 Session 2: August 1-3 9 am-4:30 pm $100 Pigeon Creek 11-14

Learn how to build a shelter, use a compass, start a fire, and much more! On the last day of camp, participants will showcase their skills by putting together a simple camp out meal for their parents/guardians.

Hike, Bike, Paddle Session 1: July 24Session 2: August 7 9 am-4:30 pm $35 Hemlock Crossing 11-14

Activities will provide an adventure experience, exploring the wild and natural areas along the Pigeon River.

Nature of Art July 25 1-4 pm $25 Hemlock Crossing 12-16Participants will learn tips and techniques to capture natural compositions on canvas and paper (sketching & painting). This camp is indoors/outdoors.

Biking Adventure! July 26 9 am-12 pm $15 Riley Trails 9-12After an introduction to mountain biking on beginner/intermediate terrain, we’ll cruise along the paved bicycle path to get ice cream. We’ll take a break before returning to our starting location. Participants will need their own bike and helmet.

Girls Adventure Program Aug 13-17 9 am-4:30 pm $60 Hemlock Crossing 12-14

Build confidence and skills through a variety of outdoor experiences and mentoring. Scholarships available!

Rosy Mound photo by Angela Walker via Instagram

Starry night sky by @williamoverbeeke via Instagram

PIGEON RIVER KAYAK TRIP $Hemlock CrossingRegistration is required; $8 per person (+$26 for kayak rental)Enjoy the sights and sounds of summer along the Pigeon River by kayak as you paddle the 3.5-mile stretch to Sheldon Landing. Return transportation is via carpool. Each trip includes a basic kayaking lesson. No experience is needed.

• July 13, 1-5 pm• July 28, 9:30 am-1:30 pm• August 25, 9:30 am-1:30 pm

OLD TIMES, PLACES, & FACES ALONG THE GRAND RIVER GREENWAYJuly 14, 10-11 am • Hemlock CrossingOttawa County Parks Foundation (OCPF) board member and local historian, Marjorie Viveen, will present stories from the Grand River Greenway. Hosted by OCPF.

MACATAWA WATER FESTIVALJuly 14, 9 am-1 pm • Windmill Island (Holland)Adventure on the Macatawa River like a voyager in the huge Gabagouache Canoe! Arrive early and get a ticket to ensure your spot on the boat!

SUMMER NIGHT SOUNDS $Registration required, $5 fee/person; ages 12+When darkness falls on the forest, sounds become unfamiliar. Join a naturalist to explore some of the sounds of nocturnal critters. A short presentation will be followed by a walk.

• July 27, Hemlock Crossing • 8:30-10 pm• August 24, Grand Ravines • 8:30-10 pm

EARTH ENCOUNTERS: PETOSKEY STONE POLISHINGAugust 11, 3-4:30 pm • Hemlock CrossingFollowing a short presentation, you will have the chance to polish your own Petoskey stone. This program is a collaboration with members from the Tulip City Gem and Mineral Club.

SHOREBIRDS FIELD TRIPS $Registration required, $10 fee/person; ages 12+Shorebirds are on their way south for the winter. Intercept and identify a variety of them on these half day field trip options. Please register for only one date.

• September 1 Part 1: 7:30-11:30 am, Shoreline & Sod Farm Part 2: 12:30-4:30 pm, Wastewater Shorebirds • September 15 Part 1: 7:30-11:30 am, Shoreline & Sod Farm Part 2: 12:30-4:30 pm, Wastewater Shorebirds

SUMMER PROGRAMS

DATE(S) TIME COST

(per session) PARK AGE*

Birding Camp June 11-15 9 am-4:30 pm $150 Hemlock Crossing 10-13We’ll encourage kids to develop their enjoyment of birds by building their birding skills and knowledge.

Cruis'n the Pigeon River June 19 9 am-4:30 pm $40 Hemlock Crossing 11-14

Explore the Pigeon River by kayak! After sampling for aquatic invertebrates, collecting aquatic vegetation, and searching for reptiles and amphibians, we’ll examine our specimens under microscopes and create an observation journal.

Helping Hands June 25 9-11:30 am $3 Hemlock Crossing 6-11This sensory exploration camp is designed for children with special needs and their caregivers. It will be held at the Nature Center during non-public hours to create a calm, quiet environment.

Crafting with Nature Session 1: July 10Session 2: August 10 9 am-12 pm $25 Hemlock Crossing 9-12

Kids will be provided natural materials and guidance to create handmade treasures of their own.

Crafting with Nature + Art in the Afternoon July 10 9 am-3 pm $45 Hemlock Crossing 9-12

After a morning of crafts, kids will have a lunch break before an afternoon of “artful” adventure.

Survival Camp Session 1: July 18-20 Session 2: August 1-3 9 am-4:30 pm $100 Pigeon Creek 11-14

Learn how to build a shelter, use a compass, start a fire, and much more! On the last day of camp, participants will showcase their skills by putting together a simple camp out meal for their parents/guardians.

Hike, Bike, Paddle Session 1: July 24Session 2: August 7 9 am-4:30 pm $35 Hemlock Crossing 11-14

Activities will provide an adventure experience, exploring the wild and natural areas along the Pigeon River.

Nature of Art July 25 1-4 pm $25 Hemlock Crossing 12-16Participants will learn tips and techniques to capture natural compositions on canvas and paper (sketching & painting). This camp is indoors/outdoors.

Biking Adventure! July 26 9 am-12 pm $15 Riley Trails 9-12After an introduction to mountain biking on beginner/intermediate terrain, we’ll cruise along the paved bicycle path to get ice cream. We’ll take a break before returning to our starting location. Participants will need their own bike and helmet.

Girls Adventure Program Aug 13-17 9 am-4:30 pm $60 Hemlock Crossing 12-14

Build confidence and skills through a variety of outdoor experiences and mentoring. Scholarships available!

Adventure Camps Weekly Camps

Register online: miOttawa.org/OCPEventsCall with questions: 616-786-4847

☻$

Weekly Camp ThemesDates are online!

Underwater WondersCircles of Life

Nature’s Engineers

TIME COST AGE*Early Sprouts w/ caregiver at Hemlock Crossing 9:30-11 am $3 3-5

Outdoors Eastat Hager Park 9:30-11:30 am $3 5-6

Nature Budsat Hemlock Crossing 9:30-11:30 am $3 6-7

Young Discoverersat Hemlock Crossing 9:30-11:30 am $3 8-9

Junior Naturalistsat Pine Bend 9 am-12 pm $5 10-12

Cost for all camps are per session, per child*Child must be designated age by

June 1, 2018

Move it-Move itHide and Seek

Patterns in NatureTake Flight

Quarterly Newsletter | Sum

mer 2018

Outd

oors OTTAW

A COUNTY

Ottaw

a County ParksExplore you

r

miO

ttawa.org/Parks

Pictured: North O

ttawa D

unes

Ottawa County Parks & Recreation Commission12220 Fillmore StreetWest Olive, Michigan 49460

This newsletter is printed on 10% post-consumer waste recycled paper