Natural Areas Preservation Program
Administered by WCPARC since 2001

If the first half of 2006 is any indication, the County's Natural Areas Preservation Program is in for a busy year. Four properties from last year's Round 5 were recommended for purchase by the Natural Areas Technical Advisory Committee (NATAC), and Round 6 already includes ten nominated properties, two of which have also been recommended. The acquisition process is currently under way for all six properties, as approved by the Parks Commission. One of the most exciting potential acquisitions is the Kosch Property in Superior Township. Representing continued collaboration with the Southeast Michigan Land Conservancy (SMLC), this 160-acre parcel includes grand scenic vistas and significant wetland and forest habitats. In addition, it adjoins SMLC's Springhill Nature Preserve, 30 acres of protected land. Development pressure is high on the Kosch property since much of the land is currently cropland. From a preservation perspective, this presents opportunities for wildlife conservation plantings and habitat restoration that would further protect the high quality natural areas found there.

In other NAPP News, the program recently received an award from the National Association of County Park and Recreation Officials (NACPRO) which recognizes and honors excellence in recreation and park facilities to encourage outstanding efforts in planning that provide benefits to the community. The award will be presented to WCPARC this August at NACPRO's annual meeting in Chicago.

Lynn Berni, Park Planner