Happy New Year!





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OCPbanner-centered

*Ottawa County Parks & Recreation offers programming and volunteer opportunities year-round. **Visit the Program & Events Calendar [ [link removed] ] or continue scrolling to explore this month's offerings! Call our Nature Center at Hemlock Crossing Park for more information: 616-786-4847.*

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Announcements
January

Scroll down to find information about ways to get outside this winter, as well as upcoming programs, events, and much more. "*Thank you for reading!*"

"Did someone forward you this message? Click here to sign up for your copy." [ [link removed] ]

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Major Reconstruction Project to Close Musketawa Trail Section in Ottawa County Starting January 6, 2025

The Michigan DNR will be closing the Ottawa County portion of the trail for a period of approximately 12 months beginning on Monday, January 6, 2025.

The trail will be closed starting at the Marne (8th Avenue) trailhead heading west and ending at Squires Road. Both the Marne and Conklin trailheads will also be closed during this time frame. This work includes 11 culvert replacements, one bridge replacement, trail repaving, and extensive tree clearing work. Follow Friends of the Musketawa Trail [ [link removed] ] for updates! 

"This project is made possible thanks to a proposed $12.5 million in federal relief funding from ""Gov. Whitmer's Building Michigan Together Plan" [ [link removed] ]". This specific trail segment project totals about $7 million. "View the MDNR’s interactive nonmotorized trail map [ [link removed] ] and interactive snowmobile trail map [ [link removed] ] for more details." " 

If you have any questions, please email them to [email protected].

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Spring Break Camp Registration is NOW OPEN

Apr 7-11 • 8 AM - 5:30 pm • Hager Park

Join us for an adventure at Ottawa County Parks' Spring Break Camp [ [link removed] ]! Perfect for young explorers aged 6-14, this camp offers a week packed with exciting outdoor activities and hands-on learning that will spark curiosity and foster a love for nature. 

*Camp Pricing: *


* $200/$225 resident vs non-resident 
* 10% discount for each additional sibling
* 5:30-6 pm aftercare available for $15

>> Secure your spot at bit.ly/OCPcamps [ [link removed] ] <<

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Visit Every Park Challenge

Discover the stunning landscapes of Ottawa County by taking on the challenge to visit each of the county’s parks and open spaces throughout the year. With over 40 unique parks, more than 7,400 acres of natural beauty, and 150+ miles of trails waiting to be explored, the “Visit Every Park Challenge [ [link removed] ]” is the perfect way to embrace the great outdoors while working towards your New Year goals. *#OttawaParksExplorer*

"Keep scrolling to discover our featured park for this month!"

*Get Started* [ [link removed] ]


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Good News for Greenways: Land Acquisition, Trail Connections, and More!

*LAKE MICHIGAN COASTAL GREENWAY* 

*Rosy Mound Natural Area Acquisition - *A significant milestone has been reached with the acquisition of the Rosy Mound Expansion property, finalized on December 20, 2024. This 127-acre acquisition nearly doubles the size of Rosy Mound Natural Area to 291 acres, completing a vision that has been in place since 1989. This acquisition was funded with $3.29 million in grants from the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund, a significant donation of value by the landowner, funding from the Ottawa County Parks Foundation [ [link removed] ], and the Ottawa County Parks millage. This expansion is a critical step in achieving our vision of creating a connected system of natural communities for public enjoyment.

Learn more at news.miottawa.org/rosy-mound-expansion [ [link removed] ]

Rosy Mound Expansion site

The Rosy Mound Expansion acquisition is a critical step in achieving our vision of creating a connected system of natural communities for public enjoyment. "This would not be possible without the MNRTF, the generosity of the landowner, donors to the OCPF, and the residents of Ottawa County." - OCPRC Director, Jason Shamblin

*GRAND RIVER GREENWAY * 

*Bass River Segment - *The first three miles of the Bass River Segment of the Idema Explorers Trail are planned for construction next year, connecting Riverside Park and the Bass River State Recreation Area in Robinson and Allendale townships. This project is being done in partnership with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) through a management agreement that allows for the construction of the Idema Explorers Trail in the 1,665-acre property. Eventually, the Bass River Segment will be over 7.4 miles from Riverside Park to Eastmanville Bayou Open Space. 

*Eastmanville Connector - *Another portion of the Idema Explorers Trail is also in line for grant funding. In December, a $400,000 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) grant for the Eastmanville Connector in Allendale Township was recommended for funding. Once proposed funding is approved by the state legislature, construction can begin (anticipated for late fall 2025). This 2.3-mile project will connect neighborhoods in Allendale Township to Eastmanville Bayou Open Space and includes nearly 0.7 miles directly along the Grand River, further enhancing our trail network.

For more on the 2024 MNRTF recommendations, see this MDNR press release. [ [link removed] ] 

*MACATAWA RIVER GREENWAY* 

*Upper Macatawa Natural Area - *In December, a $347,500 LWCF grant from the MDNR was recommended for funding that will assist with the construction of a modern, year-round restroom facility at the 84th Avenue access site at the Upper Macatawa Natural Area. This facility will include showers for mountain bikers and a water collection system, with design and permitting currently underway. This project is expected to go to bid in mid-2025. For more on the 2024 LWCF recommendations, see this MDNR press release. [ [link removed] ] 

This initiative is part of the larger Middle Macatawa project which would further develop and connect the Macatawa Greenway. For more information, see this blog page [ [link removed] ]. 

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Register Now for the Grand Explorers' Trail Race [ [link removed] ]

June 21, 2025 @ 8:00 AM - Grand River Park to Grand Ravines

The 3rd Annual Grand Explorers’ Trail Race [ [link removed] ] is now open for registration! 

*Run through two beautiful Ottawa County Parks in one race #2parks1race*

The "*Ottawa County Parks Foundation [ [link removed] ]*" and "*Ottawa County Parks [ [link removed] ]*" are excited to host this fun, family-friendly run/walk and celebrate the recently completed Idema Explorers Trail that connects Grand River Park to Grand Ravines Park. Come and enjoy nature, community, and some post-race treats. 

*Learn More* [ [link removed] ]


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Winter Operations at Pigeon Creek

Pigeon Creek Park [ [link removed] ] offers groomed cross-country ski trails, a lit sledding hill, ski and snowshoe rentals for adults and children, and both cross-country and skate ski lessons ("keep scrolling for a full schedule"). 

Pigeon Creek Lodge will be open throughout the season during good ski conditions offering equipment rental, concessions, and a warm fire. *Reminder: *Hiking and dogs are *not allowed* at Pigeon Creek Park once winter operations begin. Horses are *not allowed* starting December 1. 

Helpful Links to Bookmark: 

* Check trail conditions & equipment rental hours: miottawa.org/trails [ [link removed] ]
* For detailed info about winter operations: miottawa.org-winter/rec [ [link removed] ]
* View a livestream of the sledding hill: miottawa.info/hillcam [ [link removed] ]

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OCP-Fall-SpecialEvents-2024
Coffee with the Birds [ [link removed] ]

January 11 **• **9:30 am - 12 pm **•** Hemlock Crossing 

Enjoy coffee and baked goodies as you watch and learn about the birds at the feeders with Curtis Dykstra. Bring your bird questions, curiosities, and stories, and don't forget your favorite mug! These programs are FREE and everyone is welcome to attend. 

Choose from two sessions: 9:30 AM or 11:10 AM. Plus, catch a quick presentation on birding in the Great Room at 10:30 AM!


* 9:30 - 10:20: Coffee with the Birds - Feeder Watching Session 1
* 10:30 - 11:00: Birding Tidbits Presentation*
* 11:10 - 12:00: Coffee with the Birds - Feeder Watching Session 2

Can’t make it in person? The first feeder watching session and birding tidbits presentation will be livestreamed to our YouTube channel here: [ [link removed] ]. A big shoutout to Rick Veldman of Kestrel Imagery for the awesome live streaming services!

*Sign Up* [ [link removed] ]


*Mug Club Membership*

Membership supports the Coffee with the Birds programs and feeding the birds at the Nature Center. Perks for members include the exclusive, limited edition mug with photo contest winner on it, event reminder magnets, and more! Click here [ [link removed] ] to purchase your membership online. 

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Family Nature Day: Winter Fun!

January 18 **• 10 am **- 4 pm **•** Hemlock Crossing 

Got "Cabin Fever"? Get out to the park to get some fresh air and have some fun with the family! You'll be challenged with various simple and entertaining winter activities designed to tune your senses toward nature and give you ideas that you can do at your own home in the snow! Family Nature Day activities are available for your family anytime between 10am and 4pm. Come when it's convenient for you!

*Sign Up* [ [link removed] ]


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Ottawa Sands Documentary Banner [ [link removed] ]
Ottawa Sands Documentary Premiere

February 22 at 6:30 pm **•** Hemlock Crossing 

Join us for the Ottawa Sands Documentary Premiere [ [link removed] ] on February 22 at 6:30 pm. This short film, directed by Scott Vandenberg, tells the story of the unique and complex acquisition, conservation efforts, accessibility improvements, and more. There is no cost to attend but a donation is welcomed. This premiere is supported by the Ottawa County Parks Foundation [ [link removed] ]. 

Following the film there will be time for Q & A with the director of the documentary and interviewees. 

*Save your Spot* [ [link removed] ]


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OCP-Stewardship-Banner
Volunteer with us Every 3rd Saturday of the Month

* 1/18 - Non-native Pine Removal at Van Buren Street Dunes  [ [link removed] ]
* 2/15 - Native Seed Processing at Hager Park [ [link removed] ]
* 3/15 - Invasive Plant Removal at Grand Ravines North [ [link removed] ]

*Learn More* [ [link removed] ]


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Native Seed Sowing Workshop [ [link removed] ]

January 29 **• 5-7 **pm **•** Hemlock Crossing 

The Ottawa Conservation District and Ottawa County Parks will be hosting a Native Seed-Sowing Workshop [ [link removed] ] on Wednesday, January 29th at 5pm. This workshop will focus on germinating native seeds for use in restoration projects and landscaping. Attendees will learn how to winter stratify native seeds using milk jugs and about sustainable seed collection. Materials will be provided and the event will be capped at 15 participants. Registration is required.

We want your jugs!

In collaboration with the Ottawa Conservation District, we need milk jugs, orange juice jugs, or other similar containers for a native seed sowing workshop on January 29th. These containers will be used to mimic winter conditions and help seeds germinate.

Jugs need to be clean, plastic, and transparent. No opaque containers, please! Jugs can be dropped off at the Ottawa Conservation District office (16731 Ferris St., Grand Haven) Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM. If you have any questions please contact the District at 616-842-5852 x 5.

*Register Here* [ [link removed] ]


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OCP-Spotlight-Banner
Pine Bend County Park

Pine Bend offers 239 acres of woods and wetlands along the Pigeon River. Over six miles of trails for hiking and cross country skiing meander through bottomland and upland forest, old pine plantations and along the river. Trails connect to Hemlock Crossing [ [link removed] ] on the east end of this property. Pine Bend is also the site of beautiful ceremonial trellis and the Weaver House [ [link removed] ], a restored 1901 home that is available to reserve for business meetings, weddings and other activities. 

Pine Bend

*Learn More* [ [link removed] ]


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OCP-Fall-Programs-2024
January

*Click on a program date to be redirected to our registration page for that program! *

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Into Nature

Naturally Speaking: A Beaver's Role

*Registration encouraged *• FREE **• *Ages 12+*

Beavers are an iconic wetland creature that the mention of can evoke a variety of responses. So, what is their role in the ecosystem? How do they function in that role and how can humans live alongside this important "keystone" species? Join us to uncover the fascinating world of beavers!


* Jan 9, 7-8:30 pm - Hemlock Crossing [ [link removed] ]

Coffee with the Birds

**Registration encouraged • **FREE** **• *All Ages*

Enjoy coffee and baked goodies as you watch the birds at the feeders. Bring your bird questions, curiosities, and stories, and don't forget your favorite mug!


* Jan 11, 9:30 am-12 pm - Hemlock Crossing [ [link removed] ]

Winter Walk

**Registration encouraged • **FREE** **• *All Ages*

Join us for a walk to explore the winter scenery while enjoying community connection with fellow walkers. 


* Jan 19, 1-2:30 pm - Hemlock Crossing [ [link removed] ]

Recreation & Health

Yoga at the Parks

*Registration required *• ****Resident-$12 / Non-Resident-$17** ****• *Ages 18+*

*Gentle Yoga:* Ease tension and lessen stress with Chrystal Drewitt of Metta & Shanti Wellness [ [link removed] ]. Participants need to bring yoga mat. A water bottle and journal are encouraged. 


* Jan 8, 6-6:45 pm - Hemlock Crossing [ [link removed] ]
* Jan 15, 6-6:45 pm - Hemlock Crossing [ [link removed] ]
* Jan 22, 6-6:45 pm - Hemlock Crossing [ [link removed] ]
* Jan 29, 6-6:45 pm - Hemlock Crossing [ [link removed] ]

*Flow Yoga:* Link breath to movement with Chrystal Drewitt of Metta & Shanti Wellness [ [link removed] ]. Participants need to bring a yoga mat, water bottle, and journal.


* Jan 8, 7-7:45 pm - Hemlock Crossing [ [link removed] ]
* Jan 15, 7-7:45 pm - Hemlock Crossing [ [link removed] ]
* Jan 22, 7-7:45 pm - Hemlock Crossing [ [link removed] ]
* Jan 29, 7-7:45 pm - Hemlock Crossing [ [link removed] ]

Moonlight Night Hike

*Registration required *• ****Resident-$5 / Non-Resident-$6** ****• *Ages 12+*

Experience your favorite parks in a whole new way as you explore by moonlight! There is an option to use snowshoes when conditions are favorable. Please be sure to complete the snowshoe questionnaire when registering. Meet at the Grand Ravines - South Dog Park kiosk.


* Jan 10, 7-9 pm - Grand Ravines South  [ [link removed] ]

Vision Boards

*Registration required *• ****Resident-$60 / Non-Resident-$75** ****• *Ages 18+*

Plan your wellness journey by crafting a beautiful vision board to take home. Bring a journal and pen; all other materials provided. Meet in the Great Room of the Nature Center. In collaboration with Meg Laidlaw of Profound Wellness [ [link removed] ].


* Jan 12, 2-4:30 pm - Hemlock Crossing [ [link removed] ]

Wild Herbal Wellness

*Registration required *• ******Resident-$25 / Non-Resident-$30** ******• *Ages 18+*

Learn about wild plants and herbs that have improved health & wellness throughout history. Adult class but caregivers welcome to bring children as long as they won’t distract from class. By Mel Deboer RN, ND Herbalist, of Rooted in the Wild [ [link removed] ]. 


* Jan 23, 6:30-8:30 pm - Hemlock Crossing  [ [link removed] ]
* Jan 25, 10 am-12 pm - Connor Bayou  [ [link removed] ]

Nature Journal Club: Nesting

*Registration required *• ******Resident-$5 / Non-Resident-$6** ******• *Ages 18+*

Winter is a great time to observe and explore a variety of nests. We’ll look at different types of nests we might see, the architect and builder of each, who may be in there now, and how to draw different nests simply and quickly in our journals. "*Journals are not provided."


* Jan 25, 10-11:30 am - Hemlock Crossing [ [link removed] ]

Introduction to Nature Journaling 

*Registration required *• ******Resident-$5 / Non-Resident-$6** ******• *Ages 18+*

Many of us seek ways to better connect with nature. Nature journaling helps us do this and you do not need to know anything about nature, drawing, or writing to begin! Learn how to start a nature journal, a few drawing basics, and some simple tricks to help you be successful.


* Jan 25, 1-2:30 pm - Hemlock Crossing [ [link removed] ]

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Kids & Families

Tuned into Nature

*Registration required *• **Resident-$5 / Non-Resident-$6** **• *Ages 2-4*

Kids ages 2-4 can bring their favorite grown up to sing songs, dance, and learn about nature together. We'll spend time making and moving to music based on a nature theme and go outside for a walk to explore it outdoors.


* Jan 15, 9:30-10:30 am - Hemlock Crossing [ [link removed] ]

Family Nature Day: Winter Fun! 

*Registration encouraged *• FREE **• *All Ages*

Got "Cabin Fever"? Get out to the park to get some fresh air and have some fun with the family! You'll be challenged with various simple and entertaining winter activities designed to tune your senses toward nature and give you ideas that you can do at your own home in the snow! Family Nature Day activities are available for your family anytime between 10am and 4pm. Come when it's convenient for you!


* Jan 18, 10 am-4 pm - Hemlock Crossing [ [link removed] ]

StoryWalks

**No registration • **FREE** **• *All Ages*

Pages from a featured book will be posted along a path for your family to read during park hours. Thank you to our local libraries, Herrick District Library [ [link removed] ] and Loutit District Library [ [link removed] ], for making StoryWalks possible! 


* January 6-26 at Hemlock Crossing:" Thank You, Omu!/ Gracias, Omu!" by Oge Mora
* January 6-26 at Paw Paw East*: *"Snack, Snooze, Skedaddle: ""How Animals Get Ready for Winter "by Laura Purdie Salas

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Friday Public Viewing Nights

The observatory is open to the public on Friday evenings throughout the year whenever viewing conditions allow. These events are weather dependent and will be canceled if overcast. 

*Before heading to the park, m**ake sure to check the calendar for cancellations on this page: holland-saaa.org [ [link removed] ]*

* January 10, 7 pm - Public Observing
* January 17, 7 pm - Public Observing
* January 24, 7 pm - Public Observing
* January 31, 7 pm - Public Observing

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Ski Lessons

These lessons are weather dependent and will be canceled if there is not enough snow. All lessons are offered at Pigeon Creek. There are three options:

*Beginner: *Learn about equipment and basic cross-country ski techniques. ages 10+; one adult must accompany every two children. 

*Intermediate: *For experienced adult skiers wishing to refine their technique and ski more efficiently. 

*Skate Ski: *For experienced adult skiers who want to learn the basics of several techniques. Skate skis required; limited rental available. 


* Skate - Jan 9, 6-7:30 pm [ [link removed] ]
* Beginner - Jan 11, 10-11:30 am [ [link removed] ]
* Skate - Jan 14, 6-7:30 pm [ [link removed] ]
* Beginner - Jan 18, 10-11:30 am [ [link removed] ]
* Intermediate - Jan 23, 6-7:30 pm  [ [link removed] ]
* Skate - Jan 25, 10-11:30 am [ [link removed] ]
* Beginner - Jan 28, 6-7:30 pm [ [link removed] ]

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OCP-Fall-GetConnected-2024

*Show us how you enjoy your parks!*

*Connect with us on Instagram [ [link removed] ] by tagging your park photos @OttawaCountyParks [ [link removed] ] or #OttawaCountyParks [ [link removed] ]*

*OR*

*Follow us on Facebook and tag us @OttawaCountyParksandRecreation  [ [link removed] ]*

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Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page [ [link removed] ].

Parks logo

Ottawa County Parks & Recreation Commission | 12220 Fillmore Street, West Olive, Michigan 49460 | 616-738-4810

Visit miOttawa.org/parks to learn more about the 7,000 acres of parks and open spaces available for your enjoyment. Operations, improvements, and programs are funded by grants, private donations [ [link removed] ], and a parks millage. If you own a $150,000 home, you invest $26 annually in opportunities for outdoor recreation and nature education today and for future generations. *Thank you!** *

STAY CONNECTED: Visit us on Facebook [ [link removed] ] [ [link removed] ] Visit us on YouTube [ [link removed] ] Sign up for email updates [ [link removed] ]

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Linked In [ [link removed] ]



*
All programs & events are brought to you by the Ottawa County Board of Commissioners:*
The Ottawa County Board of Commissioners: Chairperson John Teeples | Vice-Chairperson Josh Brugger | Jordan Jorritsma | Jim Barry | Jacob Bonnema | Phil Kuyers | Doug Zylstra | Joe Moss | Sylvia Rhodea | Allison Miedema | Kendra Wenzel 

Questions? Contact Us <[email protected]>

SUBSCRIBER SERVICES:  Manage Preferences [ [link removed] ]  |  Unsubscribe [ [link removed] ]  |  Help [ subscriberhelp.govdelivery.com ]

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This email was sent to [email protected] using GovDelivery Communications Cloud on behalf of: Ottawa County, Michigan · 12220 Fillmore Street · West Olive, MI 49460 GovDelivery logo [ [link removed] ]