Hoffmaster State Park--Spring Blooms in the Dunes

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Meet at the Gillette Visitor Center.

The Spring Blooms in the Dunes includes a native plant sale, children's activities, a special presentation on native plants for birds and special hikes highlighting birds.

The native plant sale will feature spring woodland wildflowers such as Virginia bluebells, prairie trillium, bloodroot, Jack-in-the-Pulpit, and white trillium. The white trillium will go quickly; visitors are encouraged to shop early for best selection.

Another highlight of the event will be the presentation, "Native Plantings for Birds," by Hudsonville naturalist Craig Elston at 11 a.m. in the center's auditorium. Elston will share his many images, experience with native plants and knowledge of gardening for wildlife. He will highlight plantings that will attract birds to your yard. The formal presentation will be followed by a brief outdoor hike to look at plants that are beneficial to wildlife.

Other event activities include:

• Birds of the Dunes hike at 8 a.m. sharp. All participants should meet in the visitor center parking lot.
• Lunch with the Bluebirds at noon. Bring a brown bag lunch and your binoculars for this interactive hike and viewing opportunity.
• Children's Make-a-Trillium and Face Painting activity from 1-3 p.m.

All children attending programs must be accompanied by an adult. All programs are free. All programs are sponsored by the Gillette Nature Association. For more information, contact the Gillette Visitor Center at 231-798-3573.

A Recreation Passport is required for entry into all Michigan State Parks and Recreation Areas. Check "YES" when you renew your license plate. Learn more at www.michigan.gov/recreationpassport.

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