Released on 7/20/20  |  View the Full Draft Plan

The Lake Huron Community Forest is located on the shores of Lake Huron near De Tour Village in Chippewa County, Michigan. The parcel is located in the St. Mary’s Watershed (USGS Hydrologic Unit Code: 04070001) and includes 17 acres of freshwater forested/shrub wetland and old growth northern forest bordered by 1,687 feet of Lake Huron shoreline. Land use/cover types include forested uplands (including old growth white pine); forested, emergent, and rare fen wetlands; and Lake Huron sand beach. Located in an area where costal development pressures are at an all-time high, the parcel will serve to preserve important coastal ecosystems and to provide educational and recreational opportunities for area residents and tourists. The SWP acquired the $777,000 parcel using $400,000 in Community Forest Program funds.

The Community Forest Program (CFP) is a competitive grant program that provides financial assistance to tribal entities, local governments, and qualified conservation non-profit organizations to acquire and establish community forests that provide community benefits. Community benefits can include economic benefits through active forest management, clean water, wildlife habitat, educational opportunities, and public access for recreation.

SWP has developed a DRAFT Community Forest Plan for the Lake Huron Community Forest and is soliciting public input. Public comments regarding the plan will be accepted through email or mail at the following address until August 14th, 2020.