Al Vanderberg, Ottawa County Administrator, has been appointed by Gov. Rick Snyder to serve on the newly created Child Lead Exposure Elimination Commission.

“One of our beliefs in Ottawa County is that this won’t be a great county for any of us until it is a great county for all of us, which is adapted from a Theodore Roosevelt quote. We have a zip-code area in Ottawa County where children have high lead levels. There are other areas in West Michigan where this is true, as well. I believe that it is good government to find and eradicate sources of lead contamination so that West Michigan can be great for all residents, especially children,” said Al Vanderberg.

The multi-disciplinary team will focus on implementing strategies to eliminate lead exposure in children and monitoring the state’s progress toward that target. Vanderberg will serve a three-year term, expiring December 15, 2019.

Al Vanderberg also serves as Chair of the Grand Valley Metropolitan Council. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan and a master’s of public administration from Michigan State University. In the past, he has held posts leading local governments in Greenville, South Haven, and Kent County.

Inspired by the success of the recent Poor Farm Sesquicentennial Celebration in October, a documentary film on the facility was created and will premiere this spring in Holland and Grand Haven.

When the Ottawa County Poor Farm received its first resident in 1866, no one could have imagined the benefits it would provide over the decades. The Poor Farm was a haven for indigent people who, due to the happenstance of birth, misfortune, or poverty, were in dire straits and needed a place to call home—a sanctuary staffed with people who could nurse them to better health. Now, as Eastmanville Farm County Park, it provides hiking and equestrian trails to outdoor enthusiasts.

The Poor Farm: A Documentary, was made in association with the Ottawa County Parks Foundation and Ferris State University. Co-producers Assistant Professor, Joshua Pardon and local historian, Marjie Viveen gathered additional research following the October Sesquicentennial celebration event and many of the re-enactors who participated in that event were also interviewed for the film. FSU students edited the film to profile the iconic property and its amazing people.

Poor Farm Sesquicentennial event attendees viewing an exhibit in the barn

Viveen has dedicated the last year to recruiting a volunteer committee and planning the very successful Sesquicentennial event, researching more stories from the farm, and coordinating with the film crew to preserve the memories and the legacies of the people who worked and lived there. “The words ‘Poor Farm’ conjure up stereotypical images and beliefs in many people,” says Viveen. “‘Poor folks’ may not seem as smart or hardworking as we perceive ourselves, but years of researching the individual lives of Poor Farm residents has erased any ill-conceived notions I might have held. One need only ask, ‘Who would I become if I were unable to live independently?'” She thinks these stories might change your mind too, which is why the documentary project is so important to her.

“I entrusted the life stories of Poor Farm residents to Ferris State University film-maker Joshua Pardon. The resulting documentary is respectful, honest, heartfelt, and masterfully produced – a testimony to the professionalism of Joshua and his dedicated students. Every life is a story and a lesson. These will not be forgotten,” says Viveen.

There will be a special movie premiere event in both Holland and Grand Haven. At each event, guests can expect light snacks and a beer and wine cash bar. There will be a small silent auction and live music. The documentary will be introduced by the co-producers and its run time is about a half an hour. DVDs will be available for sale.

Tickets for the premiere events are now on sale ($10) on the Ottawa County Parks website: miOttawa.org/OCPEvents. All proceeds benefit the Ottawa County Parks Foundation.

Holland Movie Premiere: May 24, 6-8 pm

Park Theater, 248 S River Ave, Holland, MI 49423

Grand Haven Movie Premiere: May 31, 6-8 pm

Grand Haven Community Center, 421 Columbus Ave, Grand Haven, MI 49417

New Study from Center for Healthcare Research and Innovation Documents Dramatic Cost Savings

(LANSING, Mich. – March 21, 2017) – The Center for Healthcare Research and Innovation, the research arm of the Michigan Association of Community Mental Health Boards (MACMHB) today released a new study underscoring the cost-effectiveness of Michigan’s behavioral health system.

The study, titled Bending the Healthcare Cost Curve: The success of Michigan’s public mental health system in achieving sustainable healthcare cost control, details the monetary and health-quality savings that the state of Michigan has realized from its public mental healthcare system. This study can be found at: https://www.macmhb.org/sites/default/files/attachments/files/Bending%20the%20cost%20curve-rev.pdf

Critical components from the report included:

• When compared against Medicaid rate increase in the rest of the country, Michigan’s public mental health system saved over $5 billion dollars ($5,273,089,686) since 1998, when this public system became the managed care organization for the state’s Medicaid mental health, intellectual/developmental disability, and substance use disorder services benefit

• When compared against the rate increases of commercial health insurance companies, Michigan’s public mental health system saved over $13 billion dollars ($13,992,156,714) since 1998, when this public system became the managed care organization for the state’s Medicaid mental health, intellectual/developmental disability, and substance use disorder services benefit

The new study shows how Michigan’s public community mental health system – the state’s Community Mental Health centers, the public Prepaid Inpatient Health Plans (PIHPs, formed and governed by the CMHs), and its provider network – delivers exceptional benefits while using sound and creative methods to keep costs significantly below national Medicaid per enrollee costs and those of commercial health insurers. These methods include:

• Very low administrative costs
• Comprehensive and closely aligned provider networks
• Applying person-centered planning approaches to care
• Addressing a range of social determinants of health through a whole-person orientation by working closely with a range of healthcare and human services in the consumer’s home community
• Weaving the services offered by the CMH and provider network with the care that families and friends provide
• Using other consumers as peer supports and advocates on behalf of the persons served
• Using an array of both traditional (psychiatric care, psychotherapy, inpatient psychiatric care) and nontraditional services (housing supports, employment supports, homebased services).

The Ottawa County Agricultural Preservation Board is pleased to announce the results from its recently released Farms – Food – Forever fundraising campaign. To-date, $26,125 has been donated in support of farmland preservation in Ottawa County. 

The Board’s short-term goal is to raise a total of $36,000 in order to help permanently preserve its second local farm.  The more money that is raised, however, will allow more local farming operations to be preserved.

The Board permanently preserved its first farm in September 2016, which was a 35 acre hog and cattle farm in Polkton Township. The second farm that has applied to be preserved as part of the County’s farmland preservation program is a 55 acre operation in Chester Township.  

The County’s Purchase of Development Rights (PDR) Program, which is administered by the Preservation Board, is a voluntary program that preserves farmland through the purchase and donation of development rights for actively farmed property. The PDR Program is funded through individual and corporate donations, as well as contributions from foundations and federal grant awards. Without these sources, the Program would not be able to continue to preserve and protect local farmland. 

“It has never been more important that we provide future generations with a legacy of productive farmland that will continue to supply fresh, quality local food,” stated Cliff Meeuwsen, Chair of the Ottawa County Agricultural Preservation Board and President of Zeeland Farm Services.  This need is underscored by the fact that Ottawa County is not only the fastest growing county in the State of Michigan in terms of population growth, but also the most agriculturally diverse county in the State as well as ranked in the Top 100 of all counties nationwide for its value of agricultural products sold.

If you would like to make a tax-deductible donation to the Ottawa County Farmland Preservation Fund, contributions can be made online at www.cfhz.org.  The Fund is managed by The Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area.

Ottawa County’s Adult Drug Treatment Court Nationally Recognized for Exemplary Practices.

The 20th Circuit Court has given Ottawa County another reason to boast. Its Adult Drug Treatment Court, a specialty program for non-violent felony offenders with substance use disorders, has been selected as a “mentor court” by the United States Department of Justice and the National Association of Drug Court Professionals. This distinction is awarded to high-performing drug courts that demonstrate exemplary practices and operate with fidelity to the drug court model. Only 9 of 3,000 courts in the US were chosen for this award.

An award ceremony will be held on Thursday, April 13 at 11AM in Courtroom 3B of the Ottawa County Grand Haven Courthouse. The ceremony is open to the public.

“With thousands of drug courts in operation across the United States, this honor really speaks to the quality and integrity of the work our drug court is doing,” said Judge Mark A. Feyen. “Even more affirming is that this award comes on the heels of being nationally recognized by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration in 2016 in a webinar discussing how drug courts are leading the way in criminal justice reform,” said Feyen.

The drug court will hold the “mentor court” distinction for the next three years. “As a mentor court we will have the opportunity to host other drug court programs from around the United States, provide consulting and technical assistance to drug courts, and participate in national drug court planning and policy initiatives,” said Drug Court Coordinator, Andy Brown. “This is an outstanding opportunity to showcase the work of our drug court and advance the reputation of Ottawa County and the 20th Circuit Court,” said Brown.

The Ottawa County Adult Drug Treatment Court is an alternative to traditional incarceration or probation and is eligible for only certain offenders. The method saves money, lowers recidivism and changes lives. A study conducted by Grand Valley State University in 2014 demonstrated the adult drug treatment court significantly reduced new crime and repeated drug and alcohol use among offenders. Drug court participants were 73% less likely to commit a new crime within three years of discharge from the drug court when compared to a similar group of people who were sentenced to traditional probation.

The drug court is funded by time-limited grants annually awarded by the Michigan Supreme Court, Department of Justice, and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

Ottawa & Allegan County, lace up your walking shoes & get ready for a free 6-week walking challenge.

Ottawa and Allegan Parks and Recreation and Department of Public Health are teaming up to bring the community another Step it Up! Walking Challenge this spring.

Parks Naturalist, Kelly Morrissey, leads a walking group at Paw Paw County Park in Holland. Last spring, over 800 participants walked 106,609.6 miles – four times around the world!

This spring, participants will “virtually walk” 240 miles along regional trails in Michigan. The challenge begins on Monday, April 3!

This free, 6-week program is designed to help participants spring into fitness and get moving after a cold winter. Participants of all fitness levels are invited to join – weekly prizes are available.

Optional group walks will be offered for those interested in getting their weekly steps in with a group while checking out Ottawa & Allegan County Parks (schedule below). Each walk will be led by a naturalist guide. Different pace groups will be available.

Participants will be able to track their individual progress online, including their cumulative steps taken. The Ottawa County GIS Department designed a map to watch progress along the virtual trail. “When you login to track your steps, you’ll be able to see the weekly goal markers and also track your individual progress. It was great to team up with GIS again to create an interactive component,” said Parks spokesperson Jessica VanGinhoven.

Ottawa County will also release its new and improved tracking system for participants that was developed over the winter. “Participants will be able to track their progress on a weekly basis, just like before, but we’ve added the option to track progress daily,” said VanGinhoven. “The tracking program is also mobile-friendly, so you can record your activity from your phone. These changes were made based on participant feedback and should make tracking activity much easier.”

The county is hoping for another successful year of the Step it Up program. “We were so pleased with the results of Step it Up last year,” said Ottawa County Department of Public Health educator, Amy Sheele. “It really motivated participants to get moving and visit more parks. Of the individuals that completed our program surveys, nearly 40% reported an increase in their level of physical activity from the beginning of the Step It Up Challenge to the end! The average participant walked 216 miles over seven weeks.”

Past participants also enjoyed the program. In a survey following the program walk participants reported:

•  Great program to encourage people to exercise and use the county park system.
•  I loved this program! It motivated me to get walking again! I moved back to Holland two years ago and I learned a lot about the parks in Ottawa County through this program! I will be buying a pass and keep visiting our parks! Thank you very much!
•  It has helped us lose weight and feel so much better.
•  Prior to this challenge my daily steps were closer to 5,000 and since doing program I’m between 7,000-10,000 and some days way more. It challenged me to park further away and keep pedometer with me when walking around my house for a true count of my steps. Thanks for the motivation.

Registration is now open- register today!

URL: http://www.miottawa.org/parks/stepitup.htm

Registration closes April 10.

Group Walk Schedule

April 8: Pine Bend Park, 10-11 AM

April 8: Outdoor Discovery Center, 10-11 AM

April 13: New Richmond Bridge Park, 10-11 AM

April 13: Rosy Mound Natural Area, 5:30-6:30 PM

April 22: Riley Trails, 10-11 AM

April 22: Bysterveld Park, 10-11 AM

April 27: Grand Ravines (North), 5:30-6:30 PM

May 2: Hemlock Crossing, 5:30-6:30 PM

May 6: Kirk Park, 3-4 PM

May 8: Allegan Sports Complex, 10-11 AM

May 11: Connor Bayou 5:30-7 PM – This walk will be followed by a family-friendly party at the Connor Bayou cabin!

Ottawa County – Where You Belong

Operations, improvements and programs are funded by grants and a parks millage. If you own a $150,000 home, you pay $26 annually investing in opportunities for outdoor recreation and nature education today and for future generations. Thank you. Learn more about the 6,530 acres of park land in Ottawa County at miOttawa.org/Parks

On Monday the office is cold. Call maintenance. On Tuesday the office is hot. Call maintenance. On Wednesday, John says the office is hot and Jane says the office is cold. Call maintenance. Surely it takes a special personality to successfully carry out the role of Maintenance Technician at West Olive’s Fillmore Complex, serving hundreds of demanding customers. Meet Tom Camburn.

Similarly, a unique demeanor is required to fill the role of Environmental Health Food Service Specialist. Inspections are required to ensure that food service establishments are adhering to safety standards designed to protect public health. As you can imagine, not every food service employee is delighted to see an inspector walk through the front door. Some inspectors, however, have just the finesse it takes to balance educating and inspecting. Those who have this skill put their customers running busy, past paced kitchens at ease. Meet Jessica Voglewede.

Voglewede and Camburn, along with other Ottawa County employees are trained to present a friendly, professional demeanor treating customers with integrity and respect. This behavior is what earned both Camburn and Vogelwede each Outstanding Customer Service Awards from leaders in Ottawa County.

You can read the nominations which earned each recipient an award plus learn more about them at miOttawa.org

“Tom daily demonstrates the power of a cheerful smile, a positive outlook, dedication to his craft and a sincere joy of working with the many customers he serves. Tom Camburn truly exemplifies the Ottawa County Way,” said John Borgerding, Buildings and Grounds Supervisor.

“Jessica always maintains a patient and empathetic attitude and a high level of professionalism. Jessica has been nominated approximately 20 times for this award which further demonstrates how outstanding her customer service is,” said Spencer Ballard, Environmental Health Team Supervisor.

Implemented in 2012, the Customer Service initiative is one of the County’s Four C’s, along with Communication, Cultural Intelligence and Creativity. Customers can nominate an Ottawa County employee for an Outstanding Customer Service award at miOttawa.org.

Access county services and learn more at miOttawa.org, facebook.com/miottawa or @miOttawa on twitter.

Tom Camburn	Jessica Voglewede

It’s cold today, let’s take a break to think about future beach days!

Of the 38 parks and open spaces in the Ottawa County Parks system, only five require a parking fee during the summer season and a sixth requires a boat launch fee.

Parking fees are collected at North Beach Park, Kirk Park, Tunnel Park, Olive Shores and Rosy Mound Natural Area from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. A boat launch fee is collected at Riverside Park from May 1 through Labor Day.

An annual motor vehicle permit is an economical choice for frequent visitors or launch users. Annual permits may be purchased at park entrance gates when fees are in effect (limited annual permit sales available at Rosy Mound and Olive Shores trail heads when park attendant present; day passes always available), at the Nature Education Center or from the county parks office. Boat launch permits can be purchased at the Oaklea Store, near Riverside Park.

Park users are invited to attend a free open house before the summer season at the newly renovated Kirk Park Lodge on May 6 from 2-5 pm. The lodge is available to rent for events in the summer and for organized groups to rent for overnights in the off-season. Park passes will be available for pre-sale at the open house. “We encourage park users to buy their passes early, so the lines move quicker on nice summer days,” said Parks spokesperson Jessica VanGinhoven.

Wondering why Ottawa County Parks charges fees at the lakeshore parks and boat launch?

“The boat launch and lakeshore parks are so busy during peak season that they require more supplies, maintenance, and on‐site staff,” said VanGinhoven. “County residents receive discounted rates as they are contributing to the parks millage. These fees also give non-residents a way to support the parks system, since they often use our parks in the summer, but do not contribute to the county millage.”

Annual Permit Pricing for 2017

• Resident: $15
• Resident Seniors: $7
• Resident multi-vehicle*: Annual pass + $5
• NEW! Resident hang tag**: $20
• Non-resident: $25
• Daily passes are available

*Only one additional multi-vehicle permit will be issued per family. Residents only. 

**Hang tags are new in 2017! These are great options for families with multiple vehicles, rental cars, or anyone hosting guests in the summer months. They do not affix to the windshield like permits do, but they must be displayed in the vehicle when the vehicle is at the park. Residents only. 

Please note that a Michigan State Recreation Passport is not valid at Ottawa County Parks.

“All-Season” roads are those that have been designed and built with the appropriate width and pavement thickness to withstand truck traffic loads all year long. Thus they are not subject to the Seasonal Weight Restrictions that are placed on most roads during the early spring.

Roads not constructed to “All-Season” standards are subject to a reduction in allowable loading and speeds. During spring, thawing of the ground below these roads softens the roadbed and makes the surface susceptible to damage from heavy loads.

As a general rule, primary roads are constructed to all-season loading standards. However, there are a few primary roads that require reduced loading during Seasonal Weight Restrictions. All residential subdivision streets, most local roads, and all gravel surfaced roads in Ottawa County are subject to a 25 percent reduction in allowable loading when Seasonal Weight Restrictions are in effect.

Seasonal weight restrictions are legal limits placed on the loads trucks may carry. During late winter and early spring, when seasonal thawing occurs, the maximum allowable axle load and speed is reduced to prevent weather-related deterioration of roads.

Roads thaw out from the top down each spring and moisture is trapped on the surface. Heavy loads cause the deterioration of gravel and bituminous surfaces during this thawing period.

Seasonal Weight Restrictions are very important for the longevity of roads. The Road Commission employs two weighmasters for enforcement of Seasonal Weight Restrictions on county roads.

For more information on Seasonal Weight Restrictions in Ottawa County and throughout Michigan, visit www.micountyroads.org.

The acquisition of this 80-acre parcel by Ottawa County Parks is part of a property exchange spearheaded by Spring Lake Township.

On Thursday, January 12 Ottawa County Parks closed on an 80-acre parcel expanding North Ottawa Dunes in Spring Lake, increasing the total acreage of the park to 593 acres.

The additional land is located on the eastern edge of the park and surrounded on three sides by park property. Because of its geography and natural features, it has been considered an integral piece to add to the park by both Ottawa County Parks and Spring Lake Township for a decade.

“This expansion has been part of our planning for some time now and we couldn’t be more pleased to complete this park. We also want to recognize the all of the effort John Nash, Spring Lake Township Supervisor, and his board have made over the years to help secure this land for the public,” said Parks Director, John Scholtz.

Land to establish North Ottawa Dunes was acquired in late 2005 and trails and parking were completed in 2009. Ottawa County Parks will survey the new property in early 2017 and plans to develop and mark the trails during the spring and summer. The new addition is approximately one-mile in length.

The land was acquired by way of a property exchange between Spring Lake Township and David C. Bos Homes, a negotiation spearheaded by Spring Lake Township. Ottawa County Parks contributed $400,000 from their millage for the property.

The property is primarily backdune forest dominated by sugar maple, American beech, Eastern hemlock and red oak. Over thousands of years, these dunes have changed from bare sand to lush forest through a process called succession. North Ottawa Dunes features tremendous topography with a number of dunes exceeding 175 feet in height.

More information about North Ottawa Dunes:

North Ottawa Dunes is part of a unique freshwater dune system that extends along the Lake Michigan shoreline from Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore in the southern end of Lake Michigan to Wilderness State Park just south of the Mackinaw Bridge. Immediately south of P.J. Hoffmaster State Park, the two parks are some of the largest wooded dune assemblages remaining in central West Michigan. These dunes are the biggest and most extensive freshwater dunes anywhere in the world. They formed over the last 5,000 years as westerly winds moved the large amounts of sand on shore where beach grasses stabilized the sand and began the dune building process.

Rin Tin Tin blazed a trail on television in the late 1950’s as a heroic figure in children’s programming and became a household name. Rin Tin Tin, however, was not a popular name among licensed dogs in Ottawa County. “Bella” and “Max” were the most common names on licenses purchased in 2016. The top names of 2016 were:

1. Bella
2. Max
3. Lucy
4. Charlie
5. Sadie
6. Buddy
7. Molly
8. Bailey
9. Sophie
10. Maggie & Daisy (tied)

In addition to compiling the list of top dog names, Slagh’s office also compiled a list of the more creative names licensed in 2016. “We have a number of dogs licensed in Ottawa County with names that are a bit more out of the ordinary,” said Brad Slagh, Ottawa County Treasurer. Some of those names were Tuna, Pavlov, Worf, Hawkeye, Miracle, and Astrid Fransworth. 

Michigan Law requires that all dogs have a current county license with the tag displayed, yet the Ottawa County Treasurer’s office estimates that less than half of all dogs in the county are licensed. 

“Licensing your dog is one of the most important things you can do as a pet owner. The health of our community and our pets is protected when all dogs are licensed,” said Slagh. “A license lets everyone know that your pet is not homeless or a stray, and it helps quickly reunite you and your pet should your dog become lost. A license also helps to protect the public from rabies, since licensed dogs must have a proof of vaccination.”

Not only is having a license for your dog the law, it can save time, money and emotional distress. In the event that a dog is lost, the license will make the return of the pet much smoother. When a stray is reported, an animal control officer will respond. Animals who are wearing their license tag will be returned quickly their owner. Very few taxpayer resources are used during this reunion. If the dog is unlicensed or does not wear its tag, the officer will bring the animal to the shelter. Not only are the owners of an unlicensed pet at risk for a citation, the shelter will require the owner to pay a redemption fee of $50-$190. Additional fees could be added to the redemption fee for boarding, vaccines and vet services. If an owner is not identified, the animal may be put up for adoption in just four days. A three-year dog license can cost as little as $25. Having dogs licensed and the tags displayed is best for the owner, the dog and the community.

Dogs must be licensed at four months of age. In Ottawa County, dog licenses can be purchased at any time but are issued to expire the month of the dogs’ rabies vaccination. New licenses are available for either one or three years and will expire in the month of the rabies vaccination.  

Dog licenses can be purchased quickly and easily from the online miOttawa Service Center, by mail, or in person at the Ottawa County Treasurer’s office, many township and city offices or at participating veterinarian offices. See the complete list and print mail-in forms. Online, you can also change the information associated with your dog’s tag or look up owner information if you find a lost dog wearing a license.

Thank you for working to keep alcohol & tobacco from minors!

The Ottawa County Department of Public Health, Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office, Grand Haven Police Department, Holland Police Department and members of the ROADD Coalition recruit and train underage youth to go into establishments that sell alcohol and/or tobacco to attempt to make a purchase.

These compliance checks, partially funded by the Lakeshore Regional Partners, are an ongoing effort in Ottawa County to prevent the sale of alcohol and tobacco to minors. They help law enforcement and partnering agencies identify areas within the county that may need additional support, education and monitoring. The checks also serve as a tool for establishments to identify needs for additional staff training.

Sixty-six compliance checks were conducted countywide, during the last round. Twenty of the 29 checks in Holland passed and 35 of the 37 checks in Grand Haven passed. The locations that did not pass the alcohol check received a fine, and so did the staff member(s) who sold the alcohol. In addition, the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC) was also notified of the alcohol sale. For the locations that did not pass the tobacco check, the clerk was fined and the MLCC was notified if the establishment also sells alcohol.

“Our goal is to support establishments in their effort to responsibly sell alcohol and tobacco. We value these partnerships and they are critical to keep alcohol and tobacco out of the hands of minors,” said Health Promotions Supervisor Rebecca Young with the Ottawa County Department of Public Health.

Parks PSA: Avoid bittersweet in your holiday wreaths

It’s festive, but it’s a “gift” that keeps growing

Wouldn’t it be great if all of the invasive plants we work to eradicate were terribly unattractive? It certainly would make the job easier.

One of the most popular plants for holiday decor is the very lovely, but very invasive, Oriental bittersweet.

Birds will eat the berries, but they can’t fully digest them. When they dispose of the partially digested berries, it spreads the plant to other places.

Eastmanville Bayou is one of our properties where Oriental bittersweet has flourished. It grows rapidly, wrapping itself around trees, girdling them. It is so strong it can choke out and bring down a full grown tree.

The plant is so prolific there, it inspired our Prescribed Browsing Project. Luckily, the goats think it’s delicious.

There is a native bittersweet, but it can be difficult to find and identify. There is only one American bittersweet recorded in our park system, and it has only flowered once in five years.

Below is a photo of Allendale Middle School students attempting to remove bittersweet at Eastmanville Bayou and a guide to identify bittersweet berries.

Is there hope in fighting invasive plants?

Yes, only because of our volunteers!

Our volunteers and school groups help us fight the worst infestations in the county. Without volunteers, treatment of these larger infestations would be incredibly expensive and time consuming. Sometimes it may feel as though the battle against invasive plants is hopeless, but invasive species are a threat that all individuals can do something about.

What is EDRR?

Early detection, rapid response is a nationally-recognized strategy used to manage and treat invasive plants. Detecting invasive plants early significantly decreases the time and cost of treatment.

We employ a dedicated staff, the Stewardship Crew, who focus on early detection and treatment. One of their most important tools is a GPS unit they use to constantly survey and map-out where invasives pop up. They then turn to volunteers to start pulling.

Success stories
Over the summer our Stewardship Crew detected a small patch of buckthorn at Hiawatha Forest. Buckthorn is one of the worst invasives in the state, but through monitoring and removal of small infestations, we have been successful at keeping it in the early detection stage in Ottawa County

Before: Honeysuckle taking over Olive Shores

After: Olives Shores has been managed by volunteers from Harbor Industries and Consumers Energy for three years, nearly all of the honeysuckle has been removed.

View a pdf of the newsletter by clicking here

Park News

Historic Pumphouse Renovations

Improvements continue at the historic pumphouse building. Ash wood floors were added late in the fall, with a total of $30,000 in funding assistance from Park Township and the Historic Ottawa Beach Society.

View a pdf of the newsletter by clicking here

Announcements

Calling all artists & park lovers!

Ottawa County Parks is having a t-shirt design contest! Up to five designs from eligible entries will be chosen to print on shirts and sold at the Nature Education Center. One Grand Prize will be awarded. Read the official rules online: miOttawa.org/Parks

Pigeon River Public Hearing

Slow-no wake speed zones are established by local governments working through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR). Port Sheldon Township passed a resolution requesting a slow-no wake speed zone on the Pigeon River east of Lakeshore Drive and in the channel to Lake Michigan. As part of their investigation, MDNR has scheduled a meeting to hear public comment on the proposal for December 15 at 7:00 pm at the Port Sheldon Township Office: 16201 Port Sheldon St, West Olive, 49460. Following their investigation, MDNR will make a determination as to whether a slow-no wake speed zone is warranted.

We are hiring!

Have you ever considered working for Ottawa County Parks? We are currently searching for candidates interested in working outside over the summer. The opportunities would be perfect for students (18+) who are home on break, retirees who want to spend more time outside, or anyone interested in the parks and looking to make some extra money during the summer months.

The Parks Department will be hiring over 60 seasonal employees for the 2017 season. There are many lakeshore jobs available, but opportunities exist at parks throughout the County. Because of the large number of seasonal hires, the Parks Department will be hosting a job fair on:

Tuesday, January 3 from 9 am-12 pm at the Nature Education Center at Hemlock Crossing County Park. 

Interested candidates can expect immediate interviews with Parks Management. There is a potential for on-the-spot hires. Computers will be available for on-site online application, but candidates may review available positions and apply online before the job fair event. They will be posted online by Monday, December 12: https://www.miottawa.org/HRApp/Emp.jsp.

We encourage anyone who may not be able to attend, such as a high school senior who would be in school that day, to apply online in December.

View a pdf of the newsletter by clicking here

Park News

Grand River Greenway Update

Completion of the Robinson Township trail, a key component to the Grand River Greenway Explorers Trail, is expected this spring. The trail is a 3.9-mile paved path along the north side of North Cedar Drive, connecting Connor Bayou to Riverside Park. The path serves as the southern connection to the new M-231 bridge non-motorized trail crossing.

Ottawa County Parks is seeking a $1.24 million grant from the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) Transportation Alternative Program (TAP) to help fund the $1.85 million project. The grant proposal would potentially include funds for a parking area near the access point for the M-231 Grand River Bridge trail. The local match for the TAP grant would be provided through a $50,000 contribution by Robinson Township as well as $560,000 in funding from the Parks millage.

Grand River Explorers Trail

The Robinson Township trail will be one of the first completed segments of the Grand River Explorers Trail, an endeavor we anticipate completing in 2021. The trail will be 30 miles long and will connect Grand Haven to Grand Rapids, and a dozen parks along the way!

We are looking for community members who are interested in this project to be part of an outreach committee. The committee would speak on behalf of the trail at regional non-motorized trail meetings and other public events, as well as help guide us in our efforts. If you have interest in regional trails and the Grand River Greenway and would like to be part of this committee, please contact us: ocparks@miOttawa.org.

Check out the most recent news about the Explorers Trail!

View a pdf of the newsletter by clicking here

The facility offers ski and snowshoe rentals, refreshments, and warm hospitality by the fieldstone fireplace. There are no entry fees or trail fees, however those wishing to rent skis or snowshoes will pay between $5 and $8 for two hours of fun in the snow.

Pigeon Creek County Park offers over ten miles of cross-country ski and snowshoe trails which meander through deep-rooted pine plantations, hardwood forests and peaceful wetlands along the Pigeon River. A large, lit sledding hill is also available at the park.

“As Ottawa County residents, we have some of the best ski trails right in our backyard. Once the snow begins to fall, our trail groomers keep the classic and skate ski lanes in peak condition for as long as the weather will allow,” said Jessica VanGinhoven, Parks spokesperson.

While dependent on snow conditions, the ski lodge is generally open:

• Monday through Thursday from 4-8 pm
• Friday from 1-10 pm
• Saturday from 9 am-10 pm
• Sunday from 9 am-8 pm

During satisfactory snow conditions, the park is open from 7 am until 10 pm, with trails lit after dusk. Because Mother Nature dictates the hours, it can be tricky. Skiers should keep the Pigeon Creek hotline handy to stay informed on the ski conditions and lodge hours: 616-738-9531, option one.

Ski Lessons

“Cross-country skiing is an excellent way to stay in shape through the winter months,” said VanGinhoven. “All skill levels are welcome at Pigeon Creek, but if you want to brush up on your technique we offer lessons beginning in January.”

Whether you are new to cross-country skiing or a seasoned skier wishing to hone your skills, a ski clinic is for you! Space is limited and the cost is $8. Skis are not provided, but can be rented from the lodge for an additional fee. Register online: miOttawa.org/OCPEvents

Beginner: Learn about equipment and basic ski techniques. Those ten and older welcome. Every two children must be accompanied by an adult.

Intermediate: For experienced adult skiers wishing to refine their technique and ski more efficiently.

Ski Skating: For experienced adult skiers who want to learn several skate techniques. Skate skis are required and limited numbers are available to rent in the lodge.

Directions

Pigeon Creek Park is located at 12524 Stanton Street in West Olive.  From US-31, take Stanton and travel three miles east to the park entrance. From 120th Avenue, travel west on Stanton about a half mile. Learn more at miOttawa.org/parks.

 As a reminder to park visitors, dog walking and hiking are not allowed once the trails have been groomed. Snowboarding is not allowed on the sledding hill or anywhere at the park.

Park News

Expansion of North Ottawa Dunes

The Ottawa County Board of Commissioners and the Spring Lake Township Board approved
a revised agreement to acquire 80 acres of property for North Ottawa Dunes in 2016.

The land will be acquired by way of a property exchange between Spring Lake Township and David C. Bos of Spring Lake Development LLC, a negotiation spearheaded by the township. Ottawa County Parks will contribute $400,000 from the Parks millage for the 80-acre parcel, which has an estimated value of $1.3 million. We are especially grateful to the Spring Lake Township Board and John Nash, Spring Lake Township Supervisor, who have led the efforts to secure this land for North Ottawa Dunes.

Currently, the parcel is privately owned. It is located on the eastern edge of the park and surrounded on three sides by park property. Because of the parcel’s geography and natural features, it has been considered a key segment for the park by both Ottawa County Parks and Spring Lake Township for a decade. The additional land will increase the total acreage of North Ottawa Dunes to 593 acres and allow for expansion of the trail system.

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Winter Programs

Our program schedule does not slow down in the winter months! This season we are offering winter walks and snowshoe hikes, cross-country and skate ski lessons, Wildlife Encounters, Coffee with the Birds, art and astronomy classes, birding field trips and more!

See the full program calendar by clicking here.

As always, we are committed to keeping our programs free or affordable. You’ll find programs for children, adults, and families.

Featured Event

ICE FISHING! 

Feb 4, 9 am-1 pm • Location TBA

(Alternate date is Feb 11)

Registration encouraged

This free event is geared for children of all ages, accompanied by an adult. More details will follow. Registration is not required but is encouraged in case the event is moved to the alternate date.

This event is generously hosted by the Friends of Ottawa County Parks. Friends invites you to join the all volunteer organization! Through a multitude of activities and outreach events, they promote and assist the Parks. Join in their endeavor, enjoy the fellowship, and make new friends while helping support the Parks. 

Winter Wonderland

Popular destinations, equipment to rent

Pigeon Creek County Park offers groomed, lit cross-country ski trails, ski and snowshoe rentals, ski lessons, and sledding. The lodge opens for the season once a good base of snow has fallen. Visitors can rent skis and snowshoes as well as warm up with hot chocolate, hot dogs, or chili by the fire. Hours rely on the weather, so keep the hotline number handy. Visit our website for more information: miOttawa.org/Parks. Please remember that once snow falls, hiking, dog walking, and horseback riding are not allowed in the park.

Hemlock Crossing County Park offers snowshoe rentals for adults and children (4+) at the Nature Education Center. Guided walks are available throughout the winter; take a look at our program calendar for dates. Visitors are invited to warm up in front of a fire in the Great Room after their snowy outing!

Where to explore

Pigeon Creek and Hemlock Crossing are excellent winter destinations, especially if you need equipment, but there are many other beautiful places to enjoy and explore. Below are some of our favorites.

Infrequently, we pack and roll trails at parks other than Pigeon Creek. Keep an eye on Facebook for these announcements. 

>> Crockery Creek Natural Area in Nunica is a hidden gem, offering gorgeous winterscapes. Photo by Ed Post

>> Riley Trails in Holland is popular for cross-country skiing. The mountain bike trails are often used for fat tire biking. Photo by Instagrammer @bwcycling

>> In the Grand Haven area, North Ottawa Dunes has many miles of trail frequented by cross-country skiers.

>> Upper Macatawa Natural Area in Zeeland is a great place for a ski or snowshoe outing, or a winter hike!

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