Retired Kent County teacher finds success as park ranger
Retired Kent County teacher Kim Pitsch is enjoying her second career as a year-round Allegan County park ranger. And she was recently honored for her work.
Trails and Greenways
$5M grant for tree planting in GR can help ‘correct a historic injustice’
Stacy Bare understands the power of green space. As the executive director of Friends of Grand Rapids Parks, he’s leading the effort to build out the city’s green infrastructure with more trees and trails in neighborhoods where they haven’t been available.
DNR fund drive helps make state nation’s leader in accessible track chairs
Michigan now offers more track chairs for public use than any other state parks and recreation system.
‘It really opened up my world’: Users welcome health benefits of accessible trails
The Land Conservancy of West Michigan worked closely with Disability Network West Michigan to develop an accessible trail system that gives visitors like Jeffrey VanDyke access to the health benefits of being in nature.
All-terrain wheelchair loan program opens outdoors to more users
The GRIT wheelchair can go across all terrains standard wheelchairs can’t, and a West Michigan family who knows the constraints of conventional wheelchair use has created a program to allow the public borrow two of them.
Drones set to join Lake Michigan beach cleanup crews
Muskegon is participating in the Great Lakes Plastic Cleanup Program and will serve as home to the Pixie and BeBot drones, made possible thanks to a $1 million donation from retailer Meijer.
Accessibility to waterways becoming a priority in state and local parks
Recent projects in Spring Lake and Grand Rapids are examples of how accessibility to waterways is becoming a priority in state and local parks. Increasing accessibility is a priority for the state, which is providing grants for these projects.
Making Michigan’s beaches accessible to everyone
“It has been wonderful to hear the stories of families being able to enjoy the beaches and trails together for the first time. The stories go on and on,” says Michelle O'Kelly, coordinator for DNR Fund and Resource Development.
‘Wonderful collaboration’ transforming Spring Lake waterfront park
Construction begins this week on Tanglefoot Park in Spring Lake. The overhaul of the waterfront park, which has been in the works for about three years, is expected to be completed in May, according to village officials.
What to do in November? 7 activities to enjoy along the Lakeshore
Even as the weather turns chilly, there are still plenty of fun things to do along the Lakeshore. Whether you want to get outside or stay home, there are enjoyable ways to explore Ottawa and Allegan counties. This list includes options for everyone, regardless of age, ability, or interest.
