Wege Foundation Natural Area - Lowell, Michigan - Public Access Lands on Waymarking.com

Taken from their website:"Wege Foundation Natural Area a well-established system of trails leads hikers through diverse habitats on the preserve, including mature hardwood forests, young mixed woodlands, and old fields undergoing restoration. Tired hikers can cool their feet in Lee Creek, a coldwater tributary of the Grand River, then extend their hike by exploring trails on the Lowell Area Schools property immediately to the west of the preserve.
History

Much of this property has a history of intensive use. By the 1930s, the western half of the property had been clearcut and was likely used as a pasture. The eastern half of the property remained more intact, but was partially logged.

In 1960, Reg Cridler purchased the property and soon afterward planted several acres of pine in the old pasture. Along with his daughter Anne, he built a small log cabin that remains on the preserve today. Mr. Cridler also dug two ponds adjacent to Lee Creek in the northwest corner of the property. A now-defunct system of pipes and pumps diverted water from the creek and adjacent wetlands to a nearby house on Vergennes Street. Despite the changes in the land, Mr. Cridler appreciated the property for its natural character and rustic feel.

The property remained in the Cridler family until 1999, when the family sold the land to the Wege Foundation. The Land Conservancy worked with the Wege Foundation to acquire ownership of the property, creating the Land Conservancy’s first nature preserve in the Lowell area."

Estimated size of the public land (in regional measurement standard: hectares, acres, kms, etc.): 62 acres Is there a trail system?: Yes If there is a trail system, please describe length, terrain, etc.: There is about 5 miles of marked trails with trail maps at intersecting points. What points of interest are there?: Hsrdwood Swamp Lee Creek What activities are available?: Hiking Cross Country Skiing Dogs on Leashes Hours of accessibility?: Dawn to Dusk List of known hazards (cliffs, snakes, poison plants, etc.): Poison Ivy Dogs Allowed?: Yes Is a permit/fee required?: No Please supply the website of the land if available: [Web Link] If a permit/fee is required please describe in detail how to get one, how much, etc.: Not listed

Visit Instructions:
Visitors are encouraged to supply a picture of either themselves or their GPS at the trailhead and/or signage of the public access lands - describe your experience there and what you saw - tell us why other folks should come visit!

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