(Updated 11/5/2024)
Thomas Township has developed the 67-acre island preserve and the building at 6660 Gratiot Road into The Thomas Township Nature Center and Preserve.
Thomas Township acquired the preserve area in the mid-2000s, and the nature center building in 2018. Locals will remember the old Hidden Hollow Lounge, Restaurant and Golf Course that was built in 1968 or maybe the Heritage Insurance Agency.
In 2020, we developed a three-phased plan to develop the nature center and preserve concept. The first phase was raising the necessary funds and developing plans. We’ve raised funds from a variety of sources (almost $3 million so far), we worked with several nature experts that gave invaluable guidance, we formulated concept plans for the Nature Center and Preserve based on that guidance, and we put in a lot of heart and soul (and some elbow grease) to ensure the success of this project.
The first work that began as the concept plans were being developed included relocating the driveway, creating an exterior walkway on the eastern side of the building to allow for preserve access when the nature center is closed, building a large deck on the back of the building, and an accessible trail from the building to the Tittabawassee River.
The 2020 Nature Preserve Concept Plan included plans to plant a variety of native plants that can thrive in a full-sun floodplain that will provide food sources and habitat areas for a variety of wildlife. Invasive species need to be managed, especially Siberian Elm and Buckthorn (the first wave of removal has happened as you may have noticed the Siberian elm removal by the building and buckthorn removal along the trails). Trails will be woven through the planting areas, and a 1.3-mile trail along the berm with observation areas will allow visitors to observe the natural world. The proposed planting areas include a floodplain forest, a shore-bird area, a floodplain prairie, a children’s interactive area, and a serenity garden. The trails will be for human hiking only. No bikes, other vehicles, or pets are allowed in order to protect the wildlife habitat areas.
The 2020 Nature Center Concept Plan included interactive displays of local history, science-based displays and activities, a habitat area that highlights the contents of the preserve, indoor observation areas, a small meeting space, a small kitchen area, and restrooms. Programs for nature lovers of all ages and community events will be offered.
The second phase of the project was to renovate the nature center building and work in the preserve, as described in the 2020 Concept Plans. From 2020 to 2023, we worked hard to develop the concept plans into reality and to prepare to be open for the public. The nature center building interior was stripped bare and work began. The bathrooms were relocated to the front of the building, the heating/air conditioning and electrical systems were moved from the basement to the main level, the ceilings were painted, and a new electrical system was installed. In addition, windows were replaced, new windows were added to the back wall, drywall was repaired and painted, and flooring was installed. Then it was time to add the finishing touches. Rustic hickory furniture added to the nature center feel. Lightweight tables and chairs allow us to set up for a variety of programs. The habitat area was created and murals were painted on the walls. Displays that reflect the history of Thomas Township (included logging and Native American artifacts as well as Hidden Hollow memorabilia) were developed.
In the preserve, the rustic trail corridor was created along the berm and the observation deck was a community build project that was completed in 2022. 2023 was a learning year for us as we struggled with drought and weeds. 2024 was a much better growing year. Native seeds were planted throughout the preserve and were monitored to ensure proper care. Grant work was completed that included extending the accessible trail to the observation deck on the east side and to the breach in the berm on the west side, a fishing platform, multiple benches, and a picnic pavilion.
On August 24, 2023, an ribbon cutting ceremony was held to celebrate the progress of the project and our first day open to the public was Saturday, August 26. Since then, many programs, field trips, meetings, and community events have taken place. We are excited to see what the future holds.
We have accomplished a lot since the beginnings of this project, but there are so many possiblities yet to develop. We are making great progress and are so thankful for all the support and assistance we have received so far. Teamwork makes the dream work! This is a brief history of the project. Every single item mentioned has a story behind it-the people, funding, problems and solutions, you name it! If you would like more information about the development of the Thomas Township Nature Center and Preserve please contact me, Lynda Thayer, at naturecenter1@thomastwp.org, call the nature center phone at (989) 245-0801 or call the Thomas Township Parks Office at 781-0151.
