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The DNR, in partnership with Macomb County, is in the process of developing a new general management plan for W. C. Wetzel State Recreation Area. The process typically takes one year to complete and is in the beginning stages. The project is facilitated by Beckett & Raeder Inc., of Ann Arbor. Public and stakeholder input will be a critical part of the process.
This new plan will replace a phase 1 general management plan completed in 2008.
A park's general management plan defines a long-range (10- to 20-year) planning and management strategy to protect and preserve the site’s natural and cultural resources and provide access to land- and water-based public recreation and educational opportunities.
About the park
Spanning 913 acres, the largely undeveloped W.C. Wetzel Recreation Area offers a rugged escape highlighted by 3.3 miles of hiking trails, expansive wetlands and a dedicated radio-controlled airplane field. The park contains expansive created wetlands, 146 acres of wet-mesic flatwoods – a globally rare natural community - and the East Branch Coon Creek. The landscape, bisected by the winding East Branch of Coon Creek, provides a scenic backdrop for bird-watching, hiking, fishing and hunting for waterfowl and white-tailed deer. The park is named in honor of Walter Cline Wetzel, a WWII U.S. Army soldier and Medal of Honor recipient.
It's the only state park in Macomb County, created in 1969 when the state legislature appropriated funds to establish a state park in the area to meet recreational needs.
Public input
Thanks to everyone who shared feedback via our online survey this past August. We are currently reviewing comments and feedback and will use these insights to shape the draft general management plan. Once the draft is ready, the DNR will host a public meeting to share the updates and provide another opportunity for public review and feedback.
Resources
Contact
For more information, contact Debbie Jensen, park management plan administrator for the DNR Parks and Recreation Division, at JensenD1@Michigan.gov.
