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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
To help develop the draft plan, visitors, community members, stakeholders and others interested in sharing their opinions, ideas and experiences are encouraged to participate in an online survey, available through Aug. 16.
The DNR will also host a public meeting once the new plan is drafted, providing opportunities for people to review and provide comments.
Resources
Contact
For more information, contact Debbie Jensen, park management plan administrator for the DNR Parks and Recreation Division, at JensenD1@Michigan.gov.
