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Learn about new draft management plan for Walter J. Hayes State Park at Aug. 10 public meeting
July 30, 2026
Join the Michigan Department of Natural Resources at a public meeting Monday, Aug. 10, to learn about and share feedback on a new draft general management plan for W.J. Hayes State Park, primarily located in Lenawee County.
The meeting will take place 6-7:30 p.m. at the Addison Fire & EMS Regional Training Center, 16590 US-12 in Cement City. No meeting registration is required.
The meeting will include staff presenting an overview of the draft plan, proposed park improvements and the planning process, followed by an opportunity for people to ask questions and provide comments. Additionally, staff will share details of a new natural resources stewardship plan for the park, identifying areas for conservation and related natural resource management strategies.
The DNR uses general management plans to define a long-range planning and management strategy that protects the resources of a park while addressing recreation and education needs and opportunities.
"Last March, we gathered insightful input from visitors, community members and stakeholders through an online survey," said Debbie Jensen, park management plan administrator with the DNR Parks and Recreation Division. "We're excited to walk through the draft at the August meeting and garner even more feedback."
About the park
W.J. Hayes State Park, one of Michigan’s oldest state parks, is set along Wamplers and Round lakes in the scenic Irish Hills, about an hour's drive south of Lansing. This region is celebrated for its lush, rolling landscapes and vibrant natural beauty. With modern camping, tiny houses, mini cabins, trails, picnic areas and premium lake access – including a buoyed swimming area, two boating access sites and a fishing pier – the park serves as a premier destination for locals and tourists, particularly during the summer season.
Can’t attend the meeting?
For those unable to attend the meeting, an interactive online public input survey is available through Aug. 28 to provide feedback.
A link to the project website, including the draft general management plan, public input survey and other planning resources, is available at Michigan.gov/Hayes.
For more information about the Aug. 10 meeting or the draft plan, contact Debbie Jensen at JensenD1@Michigan.gov. Anyone needing additional accommodations to effectively participate in this meeting is asked to contact Jensen at least five business days before the meeting.
Note to editors: Accompanying photos of Hayes State Park are available below for download.