“Since
childhood, Grass River Natural Area and accompanying land has been a special space of serenity.
It is a place to both honor and share - now, my children
enjoy it as much (and even more) than I do...”
Summercampersshowingofftheirnaturalboats madeofsticksandleavesastheypreparetolaunch them down Finch Creek
Megan
Irving, a lifelong visitor of Grass River Natural Area, has been bringing her children to Summer Camp for several years. For her, the camp is more than just a summer activity; it’s a key part of her family’s relationship with nature. Watching her sons learn, explore, and connect with Grass River has been deeply meaningful to Megan. She believes the camp has made a lasting impact on her children, shaping how they view their relationship with the earth. Grateful for the memories and adventures,
Megan shared that her sons loved the camp and can’t wait to return.
This past summer, Megan decided to deepen her own connection with Grass River by swimming its entire length— something she had long dreamed of. While her children were having fun at camp, Megan swam the full 2.5-mile stretch of the river. The journey, both physically and emotionally challenging, symbolized her personal achievement and strengthened her bond with the place her family cherishes.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2024
• Charlie Polzin, Board Chair
• James Hook, Vice Chair
• Mindy Lewin, Treasurer
• Chris Hale, Secretary
• Gillian Cobb Niemisto
• James Costello
• Joe Fischer
• Gary Knapp
• Rachel Payne
• Steve Springsdorf
STAFF
• Jenn Wright, Executive Director
• James Dake, Education Director
• Sean Callahan, Conservation Director
• Laurie Boccia, Finance and Administration Manager
• Lee Maynard, Development Coordinator
• Brian Thelen, Land and Facilities Steward
• Sarah Simon, Education & Outreach Coordinator
• Anne Drake, Naturalist
• Kate Hofmann, Naturalist
• Arlene Westhoven, Naturalist
• Karen Michelac, Summer Naturalist
2024 ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION INTERNS
• Sydnie Uphoff, Michigan State Uni.
• Kennedy Case, Alma College
• Mitch Pietryga, Oakland University
COUNTY LIAISON
• Terry VanAlstine
“Ichosetoswimtheriverthissummer because I sought revitalization. It was a transcendental and tranquil experience - I could do nothing but observe. Completely immersed in such spectacular beauty, my mind quieted, and my body felt restored. WhileIhavespentmanyhoursonthe area land, being below the surface offeredanewperspective–thewater currents rocking and rolling me, the varied flora and fauna, the changes in the sediments and temperature fluctuations - all clear, all quiet, I was abletobeallpresent.” - Megan
gained a fresh perspective on its natural beauty. From the gentle currents to the rich variety of plants and animals beneath the surface, the swim was almost meditative.
Irving
With a support crew, including Dennis Whitener and Ray Figueroa Sr., Megan completed the swim—a feat of endurance and determination. The experience not only challenged her but also gave her a new appreciation for Grass River’s tranquility. Fully immersed in the water, Megan
Though Megan had spent countless hours on land at Grass River, being submerged in the water offered a completely different connection. Observing the changing currents, fluctuating temperatures, and varied landscapes beneath the surface was calming and revitalizing, leaving her feeling deeply restored. Her journey through the river is a reminder of the profound ways nature can touch us—whether hiking the trails, attending camp, paddling the waters, or, in Megan’s case, swimming through the heart of it all.
2025 Summer Camp Registration Opens
Wednesday March 12 at Noon! www.grassriver.org/summer-camp
MeganIrvingswamtheentirelengthoftheGrassRiver
Our conservation efforts are strengthened by partnerships with local, state, and academic organizations. In 2024, we began an exciting goal to document the remarkable plant life within our borders. Over the next few years, GRNA will collect and press plant specimens to be archived at the University of Michigan Herbarium. These specimens will provide invaluable resources for researchers, helping us understand GRNA’s biodiversity and track changes over time. This initiative is not just about cataloging plants but ensuring the long-term protection of these ecosystems for future generations.
This project underscores GRNA’s commitment to conservation and scientific collaboration. Herbarium specimens will offer future researchers insights into past plant life, aiding in the study of climate change, invasive species, and other factors impacting GRNA’s wetland and
forest ecosystems. It’s a key step in preserving the biodiversity of the region and leaving a legacy of conservation knowledge.
With hundreds of plant species, this project is a major endeavor. We recently kicked it off with botanical voucher walks, where GRNA staff and volunteers worked together to collect and press specimens. These walks mark the start of an important conservation effort and foster a sense of community around preserving the land.
We were also honored to host a two-day training led by Dr. Tony Reznicek, Curator Emeritus of the University of Michigan Herbarium. In collaboration with the Michigan Wetlands Association, this training brought together GRNA, EGLE, Michigan DNR, and other organizations focused on wetland ecology. Together, we spent two days in the field learning to identify and document wetland flora for future study.
This collaboration reflects GRNA’s dedication to building partnerships and working alongside scientists and organizations to protect vital ecosystems like the Grass River watershed. Through projects like the herbarium collection and botanical voucher walks, GRNA continues to strengthen its role as a leader in conservation, ensuring that our natural spaces remain protected and appreciated for generations to come.
As of fall 2024, we are excited to announce the completion of the next phase of our new boardwalk segment, enhancing the accessibility and experience of our unique wetland ecosystem. Stretching 2,050 feet (0.39 miles), this newly constructed boardwalk provides vital access to the Grass River dock and includes a brand new overlook at the mouth of Finch Creek.
GRNA features 7.5 miles of trails, with 1.26 miles comprising boardwalks designed to offer visitors and program participants safe access to our
diverse wetland habitats. The newly completed boardwalk includes an ADA-accessible walkway with two ramped observation platforms, allowing visitors to engage with the stunning surroundings. A bridge and seating area span Finch Creek, creating a scenic resting point for explorers. Additionally, an enlarged dock offers a universally accessible kayak launch, ensuring everyone can enjoy our waterways.
The upgrades made to the small loop of the Sedge Meadow boardwalk in 2018 set a precedent for these enhancements, with many visitors noting the safety and ease of access the new surface provides, especially for those with limited mobility. The widened boardwalk also facilitates group interactions, creating an inviting environment for all ages and abilities. This initiative for universal access addresses a
community-driven desire for high-quality access to nature, ensuring that everyone can enjoy our beautiful surroundings. Over time, the previous boardwalk surfaces had deteriorated, becoming uneven and slippery.
This completion of Phase 2 of the Grass River Access project marks a significant milestone in our mission to provide safe, inviting experiences for all who visit GRNA. As we move forward, we look forward to updating the remaining .63 miles of boardwalk, ensuring that Grass River Natural Area remains accessible and enjoyable for generations to come.
Grass River Natural Area is proud to announce the addition of 10.43 acres along the northeast corner of Lake Bellaire, generously donated by the Wilson Family. This acquisition brings the total protected acreage of Grass River to an impressive 1,502 acres.
The newly acquired property was part of the Earl and Daisy Wilson Family Estate. Earl passed away in 1982, and Daisy, who lived to the remarkable age of 107, passed in 2020. It was Daisy’s wish that the 500 feet of Lake Bellaire frontage be entrusted to GRNA to ensure its protection from future development. For generations, this property served as the backdrop for countless Wilson family summer memories. GRNA is honored to preserve this special piece of Antrim County history and to uphold the Wilson family’s legacy by safeguarding the land for future generations
to enjoy. This parcel is contiguous with Village of Bellaire land and GRNA land, adding 500 feet of protected shoreline on the north end of Lake Bellaire.
PO Box 231 Bellaire, MI 49615
www.grassriver.org
Please consider making a donation at grassriver.org to help us fulfill our mission.