saginaw basin - sblc-mi.org bands for conservation october 17 • 7 pm saturday arbeitoer hall, bay...
TRANSCRIPT
HEARTLANDBANDS FOR CONSERVATION
OCTOBER 17 • 7 PMsaturdayARBEITOER HALL, BAY CITY MI
1304 S. WENONA STREET
A MUSICAL FUNDRAISER FOR SAGINAW BASIN LAND CONSERVANCY
livemusic
$15 TICKETS AVAILABLE IN ADVANCE & AT THE DOORGO TO SBLC-MI.ORG/HEARTLAND OR VISIT OUR OFFICE TO PURCHASE YOUR TICKET TODAY!
VALENTIGERBRITES • THE REIVERS
HEARTLAND IS SPONSORED BY:
And Canoe & Kayak Launch
Bay CityRowing Center
T A B L E O FContentsIntroduction 2
The Long View, Short Essay 4
The Saginaw Bay Birding Trail 5 Bay County 8 Saginaw County 14 Arenac & Iosco Counties 20 Tuscola & Huron Counties 26
Becoming a Member 32
Outdoor Urban Recreation 35
Our Mission & Values 38
Kids in Nature 41
Saving Land 43
Acknowledgements 47
Saginaw Basin Field Guide • 2
IntroductionThis is your guide to the Saginaw Bay Birding Trail and the protected lands of the Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy.
Welcome to the Saginaw Basin Field
Guide. This document is designed
to convey the vast beauty of the
places, wildlife, and people of our
landscape. Hopefully it provides a
road map to adventure right here in
our community.
The Field Guide contains a lot
of useful information about the
amenities, best birds, and locations
of the amazing sites on the Saginaw
Bay Birding Trail. This 40-site trail
was developed to highlight the
incredible bird habitat situated
along the Lake Huron Shoreline
and those special conserved
lands surrounding them. With the
information in this book, the reader
is armed with the best and most
current information describing the
many amazing places birds call
home in Saginaw, Tuscola, Huron,
Bay, Arenac, and Iosco counties.
Further, the Field Guide provides
information about the Conservancy and
the many lands it protects. It describes
the sites recently developed by the
Conservancy as part of the Outdoor
Urban Recreation (O.U.R.) Bay City
Project, which is designed to connect
people with the land through their
favorite outdoor activity.
We have also filled this document
with photography from places
across the Watershed. We hope
they will leave you curious- or
inspired- and optimistic about this
region and these special places we
have protected close to home.
Saginaw Basin Field Guide • 4
The Long Viewby zachary branigan
Dirt roads. Deep-rooted trees.
Wildflowers. Old barns. Slow streams
and placid ponds. Trails and beaches
and rocks. Soft wind, soaking rain,
and deep quiet snow. People. Brick
buildings and rusty swing sets. Two
cylinder tractors and a landscape
flush with corn. These are the images
of my childhood in the Saginaw Basin.
This region has always had a deep
connection with the land. Our old
familiar industries, like logging and
farming and fishing, relied on hard work
and the generosity of the natural world
and the fertile soils of the watershed.
Our land is what makes us who we
are. It forms our communities, feeds us,
captivates, and gives us all we need for
heart, mind, and body. If we honor our
land, it honors us back.
The Conservancy is an institution
made up of our community, to
honor our community. It is a coming
together of dedicated donors and
volunteers and workers all behind
the preservation of those unique
characteristics that make us who
we are. The Conservancy is here to
ensure that our home remains our
home forever.
“Our land is what makes us who we are.”
Au Gres
Bay City
Saginaw
Sebewaing
Port Austin
East Tawas
Bayport
Unionville
Caseville
Standish
Pinconning Saginaw Bay
Birding Trail Site
City
Tuscola & Huron P. 26
Look for the blue signs at each SBBT Site!
SaginawP. 14
BayP. 8
Arenac & IoscoP. 20
Saginaw Basin Field Guide • 6
Au Gres
Bay City
Saginaw
Sebewaing
Port Austin
East Tawas
Bayport
Unionville
Caseville
Standish
Pinconning Saginaw Bay
Birding Trail Site
City
Tuscola & Huron P. 26
Look for the blue signs at each SBBT Site!
SaginawP. 14
BayP. 8
Arenac & IoscoP. 20
Covering a diverse array of habitats
throughout the Saginaw Bay Watershed,
the Saginaw Bay Birding Trail presents
both beginning and veteran birders
with an excellent variety of birds and
wildlife to observe throughout the year.
The following pages highlight the sites in
each area and provide you with details
about what you might expect at each
site. Whether it’s watching warblers
drip from the trees during the height of
spring migration at Tawas Point State
Park or watching waterfowl delight in
the dead of winter at Middlegrounds
Island in Bay City, the Trail has a wealth
of great birding experiences in store
for you. Just look for the blue signs!
Saginaw BayBIRDING TRAIL
THE
Bay City State Recreation Area-B6
Bay City
Pinconning
Linwood
Wigwam Bay State Wildlife Area
Nayanquing Point State Wildlife Area-B7
Hampton TownshipNature Trail-B5
Wah Sash Kah Moqua Nature Preserve-B10
Pinconning Nature Preserve (west)-B9Pinconning County Park (east)-B8
Quanicasee State Wildlife
Area-B4
Beaver Rd.
Kitchen Rd.
Pinconning Rd.
Rashott Rd.
Old State Rd.
Bay-Arenac Line Rd.
Cody-Estey Rd.
Euclid Ave.
N. Euclid Ave.
State Park Dr.
Henry St.
Johnson St.
Salzburg &Lafayette Ave.
Center Ave.
Knight Rd.
Cotter Rd.Washington & Garfield Ave.
Discovery Preserve-B1 Middlegrounds Island-B2
GolsonNature
Area-B3Nebobish Rd.
S. Huron Rd.
S Y M B O L S K E Y
SBLC Site
OUR Site
Songbirds
Waterfowl
Shorebirds & Waders
Woodland Species
Raptors
Saginaw Basin Field Guide • 8
Woodland Species
B1 - Discovery Preserve at Euclid Park (Trail Hub)
Formerly known as the Euclid Linear Park,
Discovery Preserve is an oasis of nature in
urban Bay City! Serving as the “hub” of the SBBT,
Discovery Preserve is a 12-acre, family-friendly
learning landscape where you can find all the
resources you need to tackle the SBBT. The site is
a great birding spot all on its own, where you can
find the usual urban species and see our Chimney
Swift structure, Wood Duck nesting boxes,
Chickadee houses, and Eastern Bluebird boxes.
The wetlands at Discovery Preserve are home to
many waterfowl, as well as Great Egrets, Green,
Great Blue, and Black-crowned Night Herons.
Make Discovery Preserve, just a few miles off I-75,
your first stop on the Saginaw Bay Birding Trail!
B2 - Middlegrounds Island
With a City of Bay City park, the Bay City
Rowing Center, and the Michigan Sugar Trails
mountain biking network, Middlegrounds Island
is an outdoor recreation haven. Just south of
Lafayette Street, the Michigan Sugar Trails
site provides excellent opportunities to view
warblers and other spring migrants. Although
designed for mountain biking, the single-track
trails are excellent for a birding hike right in the
middle of the City. During the winter months, a
small pocket of open water, created by a warm
water discharge, located on the eastern channel
of the Saginaw River provides a daily distraction
for birders all winter long. When the Saginaw
River is frozen, sightings in all months of the
winter at this location include many Mergansers
(Common, Hooded, and Red-breasted), Mallards,
American Black Ducks, and occasionally Horned
Grebes, Northern Pintails, Canvasbacks, and
other traditional Michigan ducks. The adjacent
woodlands are also home to Bald Eagles. Views
of the river from the Bay City Rowing Center and
Bigelow Park, located north of Lafayette Street,
allow excellent views of gulls, terns, waterfowl,
Great Egrets, and Great Blue and Black-crowned
Night Herons.
B3- Golson Nature Area
Two Bald Eagle nests and over 1,000 feet of
undeveloped Saginaw River frontage makes
Golson an unusual pocket in the center of Bay
City. Near Downtown, Golson is also right around
the corner from Tri-City Brewery, and just across
the River from the U.S.S. Edson. With excellent
parking, a large gazebo shelter, and a network
of trails and boardwalks, the 26-acre Golson
Nature Area is a fun stop to see woodpeckers,
gulls, nesting songbirds, and the resident Bald
Eagles throughout the year. Overwintering
Eastern Bluebirds make the winter go by faster,
and a pocket of open water on the opposite side
of the River, near the Edson, make for interesting
sightings when the River is frozen.
Bay CountySaginaw Bay Birding Tra i l S i tes
Amenities: Restrooms, Viewing Structure, Parking, Trails
Amenities: Restrooms, Viewing Structure, Parking, Trails
Amenities: Restrooms, Viewing Structure, Parking, Trails
9 • Saginaw Basin Field Guide
B4- Quanicassee State Wildlife Area
Located just off of M-25, Quanicassee State
Wildlife Area is 1,922 acres of grassland and
wetland along Lake Huron. The area is specifically
managed for Bobolinks, Mallards, and Ring-
necked Pheasants. Nearly 100 species have been
recorded here, including: Black-crowned Night-
heron, Sora, Willow Flycatcher, Northern Rough-
winged Swallow, Bay-breasted Warbler, Clay-
colored Sparrow, and Yellow-headed Blackbird.
B5- Hampton Township Nature Trail
Completed in 2013, the Hampton Township
Nature Trail provides three access points and
covers over two miles on firm paved or crushed
rock surface through a coastal wooded habitat
known for exemplary warbler flocks during
migration. An undiscovered gem for birders, this
new trail is an exciting amenity for Bay County
and should be on every birder’s spring and fall
warbler hotspot list.
B6- Bay City State Recreation Area
The Bay City State Recreation Area contains more
than 1,000 feet of sandy beach and is made up of
2,800 acres with 7 miles of well-groomed trails to
check out. The birding in this area is particularly
distinguished in the spring and fall migratory
seasons, and with a documented collection of 235
species viewed here, it is a notable birding hot spot.
A fine locale for observing shorebirds, gulls, terns,
and herons. Passing and nesting songbirds make
the deep adjacent forest their haunt throughout
the year, with Carolina Wren and Prothonotary
and Hooded Warbler among the more interesting
records from this part of the park.
B7 - Nayanquing Point State Wildlife Area
Nayanquing Point Wildlife Area is one of the most
visited areas in Saginaw Bay for water birds.
It is also home to one of the oldest and largest
colonies of Yellow-headed Blackbirds in the state.
In the spring and fall, Nayanquing is home to huge
numbers of migrating waterfowl and smaller
numbers of gulls and shorebirds. Such finds as
Trumpeter Swan, Greater White-fronted Goose,
Cinnamon Teal, Arctic Tern, Little, Franklin’s,
Laughing and Lesser Black-backed Gulls, and
Long-tailed Jaeger have been noted in recent
years. Many waterfowl are seen in the summer
months as this area also hosts a wide variety of
nesting ducks. Additional interesting residents
include Pied-billed Grebe, Black-crowned Night
Heron, American and Least Bitterns, Common
Moorhen, Black and Forster’s Terns, Marsh and
Sedge Wrens, and Willow Flycatcher.
Bay CountySaginaw Bay Birding Tra i l S i tes
Amenities: Parking, Trails
Amenities: Parking, Trails
Amenities: Restrooms, Viewing Structure, Parking, Trails
Amenities: Viewing Structure, Parking, Trails
Saginaw Basin Field Guide • 10
B8 - Pinconning County Park
Pinconning County Park offers a good vantage
point of the lake and woodlot area and hosts a
variety of nesting birds and migrant passerines.
Trails cut through the majority of the park. The
trails that head south from the parking area pass
through oak uplands and wet forest bottom land,
and resident species found here include Ruffed
Grouse, Brown Creeper, and Wood Thrush. The
trails work their way to the Pinconning River
mouth. Check the channel markers for gulls and
terns. Forster’s Terns are common, and Little Gulls
have also been seen here in migration. The trails
just west of the picnic area travel through woodlots
that are still wet in May and host a good variety of
warblers. There is an observation tower located
just north of the picnic area where waterfowl may
be viewed. Tundra Swans, dabblers, and divers
may be seen here in October and November.
B9 - Pinconning Nature Preserve
Pinconning Nature Preserve is comprised of 38.5
acres that provide significant natural habitat
including a variety of wetland ecotypes providing
important benefits for wildlife and water quality. The
habitat allows for biodiverse vegetation, birds, fish,
and terrestrial animals. In addition, the corridor
wetlands and upland wildlife habitats serve as a
connection for wildlife movement and create a
natural “greenway” within a ¼ mile of Lake Huron.
The property is home to many species of wildlife
common to Michigan including songbirds, waterfowl,
white-tailed deer, amphibians, and reptiles. A 1.1
mile trail system leads through the Preserve to
the river. The Preserve is also designated by the
MDEQ as an Environmental Area.
B10 - Wah Sash Kah Moqua Nature Preserve
Wah Sash Kah Moqua Nature Preserve is on Bay-
Arenac County Line Road, a few miles southeast of
Standish. A former farming location, the 123 acres
now provide a mix of grassland and emergent
wooded habitat. Nesting Northern Harriers
are common at Wah Sash, and the mature
windbreak treeline is a combination of mighty
oaks, cherries, and maples, providing cover
and food for songbirds. Many nesting Eastern
Kingbirds along the south boundary of the main,
central parcel often provide an entertaining
show for visitors. Flocks of Cedar Waxwings are
omnipresent, along with the resident Eastern
Bluebirds and Tree Swallows (there are many
habitat boxes along the trail network). Great
Horned Owls nest on the property periodically,
and Red-shouldered Hawks have been sighted
here during migration. A fantastic road-end
provides clear views to the Saginaw Bay
shoreline for gulls, terns, and waders at the end
of Bay-Arenac County Line Road.
Amenities: Restrooms, Viewing Structure, Parking, Trails
Amenities: Parking, Trails
Amenities: Viewing Structure, Parking, Trails
It is important that we maintain a connection with the
land. If we lose that connection, we ultimately risk losing
the land itself. The Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy
offers people in our region the opportunity to maintain
and establish crucial connections to the world around us.
- Michael StonerMember of SBLC’s Board of Directors
Bay City
Saginaw
St. Charles
Green PointEnvironmental
Learning Center-S5
Crow IslandState Game
Area-S2
VeteransMemorialPark-S1
RingwoodForest-S10
ShiawasseeNationalWildlife
Refuge-S8
Shiawassee River State
Game Area-S9Price
NatureCenter-S6
Haithco Park-S3
Schust Rd.ImermanMemorialPark-S4
Saginaw Valley Rail Trail-S7
Moore Rd.
Curtis Rd.Bishop Rd.
Ring Rd.
Sheridan Rd.
Court St.
Michigan Ave.Center Rd.
River Rd.
Stroebel Rd.
ImmermanPark Blvd.
Bay Rd.
Maple St.
Prior Rd.
S Y M B O L S K E Y
SBLC Site
OUR Site
Songbirds
Waterfowl
Shorebirds & Waders
Woodland Species
Raptors
Saginaw Basin Field Guide • 14
Saginaw CountySaginaw Bay Birding Tra i l S i tes
S1 - Veteran’s Memorial Park
Located on M-13 three and a half miles north of
the Zilwaukee Bridge along the Saginaw River,
Veteran’s Memorial Park offers a mile and a half
of river access. This is a good place to check
for waterfowl and offers stopover habitat for
migratory songbirds.
S2 - Crow Island State Game Area
Crow Island State Game Area is 3,638 acres of
forest and wetland and is divided into an east and
west unit by the Saginaw River and M-13. Access
into the State Game Area is limited, but the dike
systems can be used as hiking trails for improved
observation. The Michigan DNR manages
the area for American Bittern, Mallard, Ring-
necked Pheasant, and Wood Duck, using wildlife
management techniques to improve habitat. Crow
Island has had over 100 species recorded in recent
years including: Tundra Swan, Northern Shoveler,
Eared Grebe, Common Gallinule, Black Tern, Marsh
Wren, and Rusty Blackbird. The Saginaw Valley
Rail Trail passes along the west edge of the SGA
for an additional vantage point. This area is open to
hunting, so please be mindful of hunting seasons
and regulations prior to birding.
S3 - William H. Haithco Park
If you’re driving on I-675, check out William H.
Haithco Park. Located just off the highway, the
park features a 40-acre manmade lake that offers
views of waterfowl throughout the year. This is a
good spot to check for Ruddy Ducks, Northern
Pintails, Northern Shovelers, and common
waterfowl. Dogs are not permitted. Please visit
their website at www.saginawcounty.com/
parks/ for up-to-date hours of use.
S4 - Imerman Memorial Park
Imerman Memorial Park provides access to the
Tittabawassee River and is a good location to
find warblers during spring migration. The park
features over a mile of hiking trails, canoe rentals,
and picnic pavilions. Please visit their website at
www.saginawcounty.com/parks/ for up-to-date
hours of use.
Amenities: Restrooms, Parking
Amenities: Parking, Trails
Amenities: Restrooms, Viewing Structure, Parking, Trails
Amenities: Restrooms, Parking, Trails
15 • Saginaw Basin Field Guide
S5 - Green Point Environmental Learning Center
Located along the Tittabawassee River corridor, the
82-acre Green Point is a great place to find migrating
warblers that tend to use the site as a stopover on
their journey north. Nearly 150 bird species have
been observed here! Over 2 miles of hiking trails
wind through mixed hardwood and bottomland
forest habitat. Check out the Center’s wildlife viewing
room and environmental programming, too!
S6 - Price Nature Center
Located on Sheridan Road, just one mile east of
M-13 and Curtis Road, Price Nature Center is open
year-round and features 3 miles of hiking trails
through 186 acres of beech and maple forest.
Spring is a great time to visit as it is good spot to
find spring wildflowers and migrating warblers.
S7 - Saginaw Valley Rail Trail
The Saginaw Valley Rail Trail features 9.55
miles of abandoned rail corridor, stretching
from St. Charles to Saginaw. The trail bisects
a variety of habitats including rivers and
wetlands, and provides numerous access
points, viewing platforms, and bridges that
make the trail birder-friendly. Restroom
facilities are located at the Van Wormer
parking lot. Parking is available at 6225
Stroebel Rd., 2998 Van Wormer Rd., and 401
East Water St.
S8 - Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge
The Refuge is 9,800 acres of marsh,
bottomland hardwood forest, and grasslands
that attract more than 270 species of birds.
Four trails and a seasonal auto tour route
provide visitors opportunities to view a
plethora of birds and a variety of other
wildlife. Be sure to check out the Ferguson
Bayou Trail and the Wildlife Drive, as they
offer three wildlife observation decks, two
with spotting scopes. The Refuge is a year-
round bird hotspot and is often the go to
place to see Long-eared Owls during the
winter. Other good finds at the Refuge in
recent years include: Glossy Ibis, American
Avocet, Red Knot, Gray Kingbird, and Le
Conte’s Sparrow.
Saginaw CountySaginaw Bay Birding Tra i l S i tes
Amenities: Restrooms, Viewing Structure, Parking, Trails
Amenities: Restrooms, Viewing Structure, Parking, Trails
Amenities: Restrooms, Viewing Structure, Parking, Trails
Amenities: Parking, Trails
S9 - Shiawassee River State Game Area
The Shiawassee River State Game Area is 9,852
acres of wetland managed for Canada Geese,
Wood Ducks, Mallards, and American Bittern.
Public access is limited to walking and biking (the
Saginaw Valley Rail Trail passes through the Game
Area). Ducks, geese, and swans can be viewed
throughout the year with largest concentrations
in the spring and fall. Wading birds and shorebirds
are also commonly found across the Game Area.
If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you can
canoe or kayak through the Game Area for great
warbler observation! Boats can be launched at
the end of Hulien Rd. and then taken out at Miller
Rd., located on the north end of the Game Area.
This area is open to hunting; please be mindful of
hunting seasons and regulations prior to birding.
S10 - Ringwood Forest
Located 2 miles south of St. Charles and 2
miles west of M-52 on Ring Rd., Ringwood
Forest features 160 acres and 3 miles of
hiking trails through old pine forests. The
park also features a pavilion and a canoe/
kayak launch on the Bad River. The Forest
is a good place to find woodpeckers,
warblers, traditional woodland species, and
occasionally waterfowl.
Amenities: Viewing Structure, Parking, Trails
Amenities: Restrooms, Viewing Structure, Parking, Trails
We have not inherited this earth from our parents
to do with it what we will. We have borrowed
it from our children and we must be careful
to use it in their interests as well as our own.
- Moss Cass
Au GresOmer
East Tawas
Tawas PointState Park
I4
Singing Bridge DNRPublic Access Site-A7
Pressprich Nature Preserve-A6
Au Gres Delta Nature Preserve-A4
Wigwam Bay State Wildlife Area-A3
Standish Nature Preserve-A2Saganing Nature Preserve-A1
Au Gres River DNR Boat Launch-A5
Gateway Park-I1Shoreline Park-I2
Tawas Lake-I5
Tuttle Marsh-I6
East Tawas State Dock
I3
Old State Rd.
Bordeaux Rd.
Worth Rd.
Stover Rd.
Santiago Rd.
Tonkey Rd.
Turner Rd.
Tawas Beach Rd.Newman St.
Tawas Lake Rd.Rainbow Dr.
Wilber Rd.
To get to Tuttle Marsh from Wilber Rd., turn right onto Galion Rd., left onto Sherman Rd., right onto May Rd. , right onto Brooks Rd., left onto Swan Creek Rd., left onto Davidson Rd., then left onto Tuttle Marsh Rd.
Manor Rd.
S Y M B O L S K E Y
SBLC Site
OUR Site
Songbirds
Waterfowl
Shorebirds & Waders
Woodland Species
Raptors
Saginaw Basin Field Guide • 20
Arenac & Iosco CountiesSaginaw Bay Birding Tra i l S i tes
A1 - Saganing Nature Preserve
The Saganing Nature Preserve is home to a
dense woodland area and the delta wetland of
the Saganing River, which can be accessed on
foot from the parking area. The southern half of
this Preserve is thick, wetland habitat with no
established trails. Primarily held to help increase
water quality by filtering stormwater runoff
before it enters the Saginaw Bay, the wetland
habitat is an important sanctuary for migratory
birds, plants and animals. The Preserve has a trail
from the parking area out along the River.
A2 - Standish Nature Preserve
The Standish Nature Preserve is one of the oldest
Preserves owned by the SBLC. It is a beautiful,
mature hardwood forest with a series of wetlands
and a pond that make it home to many varieties of
birds and wildlife.
A3 - Wigwam Bay State Wildlife Area
More than 900 acres of wetlands occur
on this 3,023-acre state wildlife area. An
extensive network of gravel-topped dikes
in the wetlands is open to foot traffic all
year. The remainder of the site is primarily
undeveloped hardwood forest and small
forest openings. Wigwam Bay is an
outstanding site for viewing shorebirds,
wading birds, waterfowl, and gul ls. Unique
or rare wetland bird species such as Black
Terns, Forster’s Terns, Caspian Terns,
Yel low-headed Blackbirds, American and
Least Bitterns, Sandhil l Cranes, Common
Moorhens, and Northern Harriers are also
found here. Bald Eagles nest here, and are
often seen soaring or sitt ing in perches
along the dikes. Come in the spring for
an excel lent opportunity to see nesting
snapping turtles.
A4 - Au Gres Delta Nature Preserve
The Au Gres Delta Nature Preserve is located
in the city of Au Gres, Michigan. It is composed
of 97.5% National Wetlands Inventory
designated wetlands bordering the west
shore of the Saginaw Bay of Lake Huron
and adjacent to the Au Gres River. This site
is rustic, and is in the process of being
restored to a Lakeplain Prairie. Explore the
site on foot and enjoy the vast, wide open
space available there.
Amenities: Parking, Trails
Amenities: Parking, Trails
Amenities: Parking
Amenities: Parking, Trails
21 • Saginaw Basin Field Guide
A5 - Au Gres River DNR Boat Launch
The Au Gres River DNR Boat Launch offers
views of the Au Gres River mouth, Lake Huron,
and a plethora of waterfowl, raptors, gulls, and
shorebirds. Recent sightings have tallied nearly 90
species with highlights including: Tundra Swan,
Ruddy Duck, Horned Grebe, Broad-winged Hawk,
Rough-legged Hawk, Bonaparte’s Gull, Great
Black-backed Gull, and White-winged Crossbill.
A6 - Pressprich Nature Preserve
Pressprich Nature Preserve is a 48.2-acre
property composed mainly of wetlands, which
improve water quality by filtering pollutants.
It serves as a ground water recharge area and
provides a special habitat for a variety of species.
Pressprich serves as an excellent landfall spot for
migrating songbirds in the month of May and as
an excellent stopover habitat for the huge influx of
warblers that cruise up the Lake Huron shoreline.
A7 - Singing Bridge DNR Public Access Site
This Public Access site features a large
parking area just off of M-23 and provides
views of the East Branch of the Au Gres
River mouth and Lake Huron coastline. A
perfect spot to find waterfowl, migrating
shorebirds, and gulls!
I1 - Gateway Park
Gateway Park located on M-23, just south
of Tawas, is 13 acres and is bordered by the
mouth of the Tawas River and Lake Huron.
The park provides access to the Lake Huron
coastal system and offers views of a variety
of waterfowl, gulls, terns, and swallows.
Over 100 species have been recorded
here including Horned Grebe, Red-necked
Phalarope, Bonaparte’s Gull, Little Gull, Caspian
and Common Terns, and Purple Martin.
I2 - Shoreline Park
Along M-23, just south of Tawas, Shoreline
Park is an 8.2 acre park featuring picnic
pavilions, a food concession stand, a
boardwalk along the beach, and a 450-foot
long pier for fishing and wildlife observation.
A fun place to stop and stretch your legs. Be
sure to hit the park early in the summertime
before the crowds arrive to check the beach
for shorebirds!
Arenac & Iosco CountiesSaginaw Bay Birding Tra i l S i tes
Amenities: Restrooms, Parking,
Amenities: Parking, Trails
Amenities: Restrooms, Parking,
Amenities: Restrooms, Viewing Structure, Parking
Amenities: Restrooms, Viewing Structure, Parking
Saginaw Basin Field Guide • 22
I3 - East Tawas State Dock
East Tawas State Dock is a marina operated
by the Michigan DNR and offers views of
over 100 species including waterfowl, gulls,
terns, swallows, and warblers. A popular
area for summertime tourists, fishermen,
and waterfowl.
I4 - Tawas Point State Park
Tawas Point State Park is undoubtedly the
best migrant trap in the Watershed. Birding
is best during times of rapid migration such
as during strong south winds in spring and
strong north winds in fall. The spring migrants
tend to follow the lakeshore and actually
migrate south for a time to the tip of the point
which faces southwest. Bad weather after a
prolonged high pressure situation also tends
to ground many migrants in the park. Soon
after these conditions subside, the spring
migrants slowly work their way northward
out of the park. Equally impressive migrations
occur in the fall. Tawas State Park has an
excellent campground and beach facilities,
has a restored lighthouse with daily tours, is
home to nesting Piping Plovers, and is a classic
Michigan weekender’s spot all year.
I5 - Tawas Lake
Tawas Lake is a 1600-acre lake with a public boat
launch and parking. The lake has historically been
the nesting site of Black Terns. The public access
provides a limited view of the lake, so bring a kayak
or canoe to fully explore and scope out the area!
I6 - Tuttle Marsh Wildlife Area
Tuttle Marsh, a 5000-acre wetland complex
surrounded by Huron National Forest, is a popular
location for bird watchers looking to observe
secretive marshbirds, waterfowl, and shorebirds.
The wetland dike systems act as hiking trails for
visitors. Spring and fall migration are the prime
times to visit, as water levels are high in the spring,
inviting a variety of waterfowl, and low in the fall,
exposing mudflats that attract herons, marshbirds,
and shorebirds. Notable species observed here
include American and Least Bitterns, Virginia
and Sora Rails, Purple and Common Gallinules,
Caspian, Black, Common, and Forster’s Terns,
Eastern Screech, Great Horned, Snowy, Barred,
Short-eared, and Northern Saw-whet Owls, Olive-
sided Flycatcher, Blue-winged, Golden-winged,
and Black-throated Blue Warblers, Bobolink,
Meadowlarks, Rusty Blackbird, Orchard Oriole,
and Pine Grosbeak.
Amenities: Restrooms, Viewing Structure, Parking, Trails
Amenities: Restrooms, Parking
Amenities: Viewing Structure, Parking, Trails
Amenities: Restrooms, Parking
Sebewaing
PortAustin
Bayport
Unionville
Caseville
Fish Point State
Wildlife Area
T1
Sand Point Nature Preserve-H1
Albert E. Sleeper State Park-H3
Port Crescent State Park
H5
HuronCountyNatureCenter
H4
Port Austin State Harbor
H6
Caseville Municipal Marina-H2
Ringle Rd.
Dunn Rd.
Dock St.
Oak Beach Rd.
Loosemore Rd.
Preserve parking off M25
S Y M B O L S K E Y
SBLC Site
OUR Site
Songbirds
Waterfowl
Shorebirds & Waders
Woodland Species
Raptors
Saginaw Basin Field Guide • 26
Tuscola & Huron CountiesSaginaw Bay Birding Tra i l S i tes
T1 - Fish Point State Wildlife Area
Fish Point is a popular spot in the Saginaw Bay
Area for observing thousands of Tundra Swans
and Canada Geese each spring. There is no
one secret spot to direct those wishing to see
birds at Fish Point because the food supplies
in many of the fields varies from year-to-year.
The best strategy is to drive the roads in search
of large feeding flocks in the corn stubble that
is left from the previous year. Some areas are
worth a look each year because they provide
views of extensive field habitat or contain
other interesting habitats which attract non-
waterfowl species consistently.
H1 - Sand Point Nature Preserve
The Sand Point Nature Preserve is made up of
approximately 220 acres and includes 5 miles of
well established trails. The Preserve is home to
many dozens of bird species including: Sandhill
Cranes, Great Egrets, Wood Ducks, Great Blue
Herons, songbirds of all varieties, and Bald
Eagles. The adequate parking, improved trails,
boardwalk, and excellent wayfinding signage
make a hike in the Preserve a must-do for birders
in Huron County. Situated at the base of the Sand
Point peninsula, the Preserve experiences the
same kind of “migratory trap” phenomenon as
better known peninsulas on the west Saginaw
Bay coast. With two emergent wetlands, a
hemlock grove, an open meadow area, a 40-
acre lake, and a wide mix of deciduous and
coniferous habitats, there may not be a better,
more complex birding spot in the area. Bald
Eagles and Sandhill Cranes nest annually. In a
two-year study completed in 2013, the Sand
Point Nature Preserve was also found to be the
most biodiverse land under protection along the
Saginaw Bay shoreline in terms of herpetofauna
(snakes, turtles, and frogs).
H2 - Caseville Municipal Marina
The Marina is a gateway to the Saginaw Bay and
offers a jetty that can be used for lakewatching.
This area receives high traffic during Caseville’s
Cheeseburger Festival, held in August annually,
but offers great birding opportunities throughout
the year. Notable sightings in recent years include:
Little Gull, Red-necked Grebe, Surf Scoter, White-
winged Scoter, Black Scoter, Red-throated Loon,
Black-bellied Plover, and White-winged Crossbill.
A great place to check for migrating waterfowl,
raptors, and shorebirds.
Amenities: Viewing Structure, Parking, Trails
Amenities: Viewing Structure, Parking, Trails
Amenities: Restrooms, Viewing Structure, Parking
27 • Saginaw Basin Field Guide
H3 - Albert E. Sleeper State Park
Albert E. Sleeper State Park is located on M-25, just
a few miles northeast of Caseville. Encompassing
over 700 acres, this park hosts a wide variety of
habitats where woodland areas, dunes, wetlands,
and coastline are all within walking distance. A
wide variety of bird are here throughout the year,
but during the spring and fall, raptors frequent the
northern tip of the Thumb as they make their way
up or down the Mississippi Flyway.
H4 - Huron County Nature Center
The Huron Wilderness Arboretum is a 120-acre
tract that is part of the Huron County Nature Center
property. Its variety of habitats makes it an ideal
location to spot a variety of birds. Improved trails,
boardwalks, and interpretive signage support the
Arboretum, and the visitor center includes a gift
shop and educational materials.
H5 - Port Crescent State Park
Huron County’s best known birding location,
Port Crescent State Park, is renowned for
raptor observation during migration. The
location near the tip of the Thumb makes
this one of the SBA’s best birding hotspots. In
1991, an annual hawk count was established
at this location and continues to this day,
with a dedicated raptor observation deck
with interpretive elements. The park is also
excel lent for water birds and passerines.
Its unique location at the tip of the Thumb
means that good numbers of birds col lect
here in spring and fall. Snowy Egret, Prairie
Warbler, Henslow’s Sparrow, and Red
Crossbill have been detected here during
that time. More regular species of interest
include Forster’s Tern, Great Black-backed
Gull (which may be seen year-round) and
Glaucous Gulls (often lingering into late April
and early May).
H6 -Port Austin State Harbor
The Harbor is a marina operated by the
Michigan DNR and features a dog beach,
public restrooms, and a welcome center.
Over 135 species have been observed here,
including: Red-throated Loon, Spotted
Sandpiper, Ruddy Turnstone, Greater
White-fronted Goose, and many more.
A great place to look for shorebirds and
migrating waterfowl.
Tuscola & Huron CountiesSaginaw Bay Birding Tra i l S i tes
Amenities: Restrooms, Viewing Structure, Parking, Trails
Amenities: Restrooms, Viewing Structure, Parking, Trails
Amenities: Restrooms, Viewing Structure, Parking, Trails
Amenities: Restrooms, Viewing Structure, Parking
Saginaw Basin Field Guide • 30
As Native Americans we have a
long standing history of being
stewards of Mother Earth and the
wonderful benefits she provides to
our people. We have long believed
that what you take from Mother
Earth you give back in some form
or fashion. The Land Conservancy
embodies those beliefs and core
values. The Saginaw Chippewa
Indian Tribe is very proud to be a
partner on Conservancy efforts.
-Frank CloutierPublic Relations Director
Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe
Saginaw Basin Field Guide • 32
Becoming a Member
You can help make more
trails and wildlife habitat
conservation possible! As a
community-based nonprofit,
we depend on people like you!
Each year, with the support of
people from all walks of life,
we work to protect water,
wildlife, and open space.
Thank you for caring about
our local landscapes. It’s
because of people like you that
the natural lands featured in
this Guide exist.
Want to help the SBLC?
Call us at 989.891.9986
or visit our website at
www.sblc-mi.org/giving to
learn about how you can make
a difference.
H O W Y O U C A N H E L P
35 • Saginaw Basin Field Guide
Together, we have created an all-new
initiative, the O.U.R. Project (Outdoor
Urban Recreation), to help create a
culture of getting outdoors in nature in
the population centers of the Saginaw
Bay Watershed. We are dedicated to
providing fantastic access, excellent
programs, and learning opportunities
through the O.U.R. Project. We believe
that an active outdoor culture of trail
runners, cyclists, hikers, birders,
kayakers and more will add visibility
to the natural areas and high-quality
communities in our region, and play
a role in economic development by
attracting and retaining young people
to Bay City, Saginaw, and beyond!
The first phase of the O.U.R. Project
is O.U.R. Bay City. A new collection of
amenities that include a mountain bike
trail park, a paddling launch site, a new
interpretive pavilion, and a reimagined
pair of municipal parks make up the
successful O.U.R. Bay City Project. These
projects are designed to bring nature
closer to home, and they have become the
Conservancy’s most popular sites to date!
"What's been done here in Bay City is impressive;
having this natural land is productive. It increases
the quality of life, and it provides access for urban
residents to something that's natural and beautiful."
- Congressman Dan KildeeD-MI 5th District
Outdoor Urban RecreationSBLC-MI.ORG/OUR
Saginaw Basin Field Guide • 38
Our Mission
Our ValuesCommunity Relevance: The
Conservancy will engage in
meaningful community initiatives
by providing its charitable benefits
to the community in ways that
support broader goals.
Lake Huron Access: The
Conservancy will identify and pursue
opportunities to provide free
access to conserved natural areas
and the Lake Huron shoreline.
Respect Wildlife Habitat: The
Conservancy will conserve and
steward natural lands for the
purpose of providing habitat and
open corridors for wildlife.
Improve Water Quality: The
Conservancy will engage in
watershed protection and
outreach activities that protect
and restore natural waterways
and water bodies.
Historic and Cultural Resources:
The Conservancy wil l relate its
work to the community within
a broad context of cultural
growth and an appreciation for
col lective heritage.
To conserve land and water resources to
promote sustainable communities and a higher
quality of life in the Saginaw Bay Watershed.
Kids in NatureA lifelong love of nature starts at childhood! These activity pages are for the little ones (but everyone might scratch their heads a bit on our challenging word jumble!)
GRAB YOUR CRAYONS!
Indigo Bunting
Saginaw Basin Field Guide • 42
WORD JUMBLE
WORD BANK• Bittern• Cardinal• Chickadee• Crane• Crow• Duck• Eagle• Egret• Falcon
• Finch• Goose• Hawk• Heron• Jay• Loons• Oriole• Owls• Pelican
• Robin• Sparrow• Swallow• Swans• Tanager• Thrush• Warbler• Wren
The Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy has nearly
6,000 acres under permanent protection,
set aside forever. Among these are nine sites
highlighted in this guide as part of the Saginaw
Bay Birding Trail, and you can learn about them
in these pages. The Conservancy also has
two additional preserves, set further afield in
Shiawassee and Ogemaw Counties. You can
learn about all of the Conservancy’s nature
preserves at sblc-mi.org/nature-preserves.
The Conservancy also protects about 5,400
acres of land at 71 unique sites, in partnership
with 61 landowners, through a protective,
permanent covenant known as a conservation
easement. The Conservancy holds easements
across the entire 22-county Saginaw Bay
Watershed. The easements of the Saginaw
Basin Land Conservancy conserve
grasslands, wetlands, and stream
banks all across our region.
Saving Land
47 • Saginaw Basin Field Guide
Acknowledgements
Financial assistance for this Field Guide was also provided, in
part, by the Michigan Coastal Zone Management Program,
Office of the Great Lakes, Department of Environmental
Quality, under the National Coastal Zone Management
Program, through a grant from the National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce.
Consumers Energy is proud to support the efforts
of the Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy and this
Field Guide, which serves as a valuable resource
for connecting individuals and families to nature
in the Saginaw Bay Watershed. At Consumers
Energy we’re dedicated to improving the
quality of life in the communities we serve and
hope visitors to the trails enjoy nature’s beauty
and diversity along the Lake Huron shoreline.
This guide was designed by Erin Mitrzyk. Photographs were taken by Zachary
Branigan and Erin Mitrzyk. This guide was written by Trevor Edmonds and Zachary
Branigan. Illustrations on the inside covers were designed by Erin Mitrzyk, Trevor
Edmonds and Zachary Branigan. Maps were designed by Trevor Edmonds.
We hope you keep your Field Guide for many years. If you decide you no longer
need your copy, please consider passing it along to someone who may enjoy it!
If you must, please recycle this Guide. If you would like to share additional copies
with your friends, scan the QR code above or visit www.sblc-mi.org and learn how.
The pages of this book are printed on paper that is both FSC certified and recycled
(containing 35% post-consumer waste). The FSC logo identifies forest which have
been certified in accordance with the rules of the Forest Stewardship Council.
Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy • 1008 N. Johnson Street, Bay City MI, 48708 • 989.891.9986 • sblc-mi.org
• 2015 •