Migrations (Sugarwood Forest Preserve)

Description

Have you been paying attention to the skies lately? Maybe you’ve noticed the loud noises coming from high above. Yes, the Sandhill Cranes are on their northern migration. Join the Harbor Country Hikers, led by President Pat Fisher, on an adventure through the new and amazing Chikaming Open Lands preserve, appropriately named Sugarwood Forest Preserve. Pat will explain the differences between migration, brumation, hibernation and dormancy and a little about the local and passers-through that use these freezing weather protections.
 
Sugarwood Forest Preserve is a plateau of uplands bisected by deep ravines. The northern portion of the preserve boasts an old growth beech-maple forest as well as a ravine with a Galien River tributary, a groundwater seep, and a unique plant community. The rest of the wooded uplands are considered mid-successional mesic southern forests in various stages of regrowth after a history of grazing. The southern ravine system contains floodplains with an impressive number of pawpaw trees. The southern corner is a former agricultural field being restored to a native prairie. A mix of field, successional and old growth forests, and beautiful vistas you need to see through every season to fully appreciate.
 
HCH has an All-Terrain Rollator which may be reserved for use on our hikes. Reservations are made by Emailing harborcountryhikers@gmail.com on a first-come first-served basis. This will be a good hike to try our rollator.
 
In case of inclement weather, check our website/ FB page the day of hike for cancellation/ rescheduling notice. Dress in layers, a warm cap, and sturdy boots and bring plenty of water. Depending on the weather, there may be some muddy or icy areas. HCH hikers observe federal and state guidelines so mask wearing is optional.

Theme: Migrations
Venue: Sugarwood Forest Preserve
When: Saturday, March 18, 2023 @ 1 PM Eastern
Estimated Presentation Time: 10 minutes
Hike Leader: Pat Fisher, President HCH
Estimated Time: 2 hours
Hiking Distance: 1.2 miles
Physical Difficulty: Moderate
Location: 6813 W Elm Valley Rd, Three Oaks, MI 49128
Parking GPS: 41.827945, -86.617549 (DD)
 
Directions: From Red Arrow Highway, take Union Pier Road east to Lakeside Rd. Continue east on Elm Valley Road for about 2.7 miles. Watch for the fresh stone driveway and parking lot on your left (after Warren Woods SP entrance). We will be gathering in the parking area.
From Three Oaks Road take Elm Valley Road west for about 0.7 miles, watch for the fresh stone driveway and parking lot on your right (before Warren Woods SP entrance). We will be gathering in the parking area.