With the dam and spillway removed and the area restored, this stretch of the Kalamazoo River in Plainwell now supports native vegetation, restored wetlands and improved floodplain function.
Once restricted with deteriorating infrastructure, a stretch of the Kalamazoo River in Plainwell, in southeast Allegan County, has returned to a thriving, free-flowing ecosystem.
Federal, state and local partners, community members and others gathered last Thursday near the riverbank, just northwest of where M-89 crosses U.S. 131, to mark the moment, see the sights and talk about what they’ve learned and what’s ahead.
The Plainwell Dam Removal and River Restoration Project, a $7 million multiagency initiative, removed aging infrastructure and revitalized nearly a mile of river and surrounding habitat. It’s an effort that will enhance safety, improve fish and wildlife habitat and provide recreational and economic opportunities for the surrounding community.
Michigan Department of Natural Resources Director Scott Bowen said the DNR manages more than 200 dams across the state, and outcomes like this are exactly what the agency strives for with removal/replacement projects.
“Dams are a big challenge for the state of Michigan and for the DNR, especially when many dams weren’t designed for their current uses or to current construction standards,” Bowen said. “The thorough partnership approach to the Plainwell Dam Removal and River Restoration Project and the commitment from all to protect public safety, conserve natural resources and boost outdoor recreation opportunities is a model I hope we can replicate.”
He also noted that the project shows what is possible with proper investment, acknowledging the $15 million Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has proposed in her budget for the next fiscal year to help address some of the state's high-priority dams.
“We appreciate that support from the governor and from legislators as we continue the urgent work of assessing the condition and sustainability of these dams,” Bowen said.
The Plainwell Dam project was not a quick fix, and ventures of this complexity require multiple partnerships.
Jennifer Tewkesbury, Area of Concern Coordinator with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, said the Kalamazoo River was designated as an Area of Concern in 1987 due to the contamination by PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) as a byproduct of the operation of multiple paper mills and paper recycling industries along the river.
“While these industries provided good jobs and benefits to the local economy, that prosperity came at a cost to the natural resource,” she said. “Further, the multiple dam structures that provided power for these facilities became physical barriers to a naturally functioning river system.
“EGLE would like to recognize our sister agency, the Michigan DNR, for taking the lead role on this project, as well as the EPA’s Great Lakes National Program Office for their support of the Kalamazoo River Area of Concern and the funding provided through the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative.”
An ecological transformation, the project:
• Restored 0.8 miles of river channel.
• Stabilized more than a mile of riverbank.
• Reestablished 15 acres of native riparian habitat.
• Expanded the floodplain by 6 acres and dramatically increased the river's capacity to store floodwaters, reducing downstream flood risk.
• Strategically placed more than 325 “rootwads” – large tree trunks with attached roots – to protect banks and provide vital fish and wildlife habitat.
Already, signs of ecological recovery are emerging, with increased sightings of smallmouth bass, turtles, osprey and other native species.
Mark Mills, regional supervisor in the DNR’s Wildlife Division, said the project was driven by agencies coming together with a shared purpose: “We weren’t just removing a dam, we were reimagining how this stretch of river could function ecologically and socially. The result is a safer, healthier and more accessible river for the people and wildlife of southwest Michigan.”
This intricate restoration is the result of a unique collaboration among local, state and federal agencies, but united by a single goal of restoring the Kalamazoo River. In addition to the DNR and EGLE, project partners include the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency – Great Lakes National Program Office; the U.S. EPA Superfund program and potentially responsible parties; the Michigan Department of Technology, Management and Budget, and the Kalamazoo River Natural Resource Damage Assessment and Restoration Program.
Funding was provided through a combination of sources:
• $1.9 million – Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, administered by the USEPA.
• $2 million – Kalamazoo River Natural Resource Damage Trustees.
• $2.6 million (including a $600,000 Dam Management Grant) – Michigan DNR.
• $600,000 – USEPA Superfund Site Responsible Parties.
"The completion of the Plainwell Dam restoration marks a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to the Great Lakes,” said EPA Regional Administrator and Great Lakes National Program Director Anne Vogel. “Supported by a $1.9 million grant from the EPA, this success underscores the power of partnership and collaboration in preserving these vital environmental, recreational and economic resources."
The DNR’s Mills agreed.
“The river is already telling us this was the right move,” said Mills. “We’re seeing several fish species returning to the water, osprey overhead and natural river processes reestablishing themselves. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how science, smart investment and cross-agency collaboration are bringing Michigan’s rivers back to life.”
The restoration of this stretch of the Kalamazoo River brings the state and partners closer to the long-term goal of returning 47 miles of river – from Morrow Dam to Lake Allegan – to a more natural, healthier condition. In addition to ecological benefits, this work supports vibrant outdoor recreation opportunities such as paddling, fishing and wildlife viewing, all of which contribute to local tourism and the regional economy.
Plainwell Kayak Company owner Lois Heuchert, a member of the project’s community advisory group, said she’s been impressed by how effectively local, state and federal government and the trustees have worked together.
“With every stretch of river restoration that gets completed, those areas become another part of a gorgeous trip through there,” Heuchert said. “The work hasn’t been just about the pollutants being taken out, it’s about making sure the entire area is enhanced. Every time they’ve taken on a project, they leave it so much better than you could have imagined.”
With this stage of river restoration complete, Heuchert looks forward to sharing the experience with more paddlers on the Kalamazoo.
“To be able to run a business like this, that brings families together, that has kids putting away their phones for a few hours – people are almost transformed by the end of their floats,” she said. “They enjoy nature, they enjoy relaxing. Providing that kind of service, getting people out into all that beauty, that’s what makes our job fun.”
Federal, state and local partners, community members and others gathered last Thursday near the riverbank, just northwest of where M-89 crosses U.S. 131, to mark the moment, see the sights and talk about what they’ve learned and what’s ahead.
The Plainwell Dam Removal and River Restoration Project, a $7 million multiagency initiative, removed aging infrastructure and revitalized nearly a mile of river and surrounding habitat. It’s an effort that will enhance safety, improve fish and wildlife habitat and provide recreational and economic opportunities for the surrounding community.
Michigan Department of Natural Resources Director Scott Bowen said the DNR manages more than 200 dams across the state, and outcomes like this are exactly what the agency strives for with removal/replacement projects.
“Dams are a big challenge for the state of Michigan and for the DNR, especially when many dams weren’t designed for their current uses or to current construction standards,” Bowen said. “The thorough partnership approach to the Plainwell Dam Removal and River Restoration Project and the commitment from all to protect public safety, conserve natural resources and boost outdoor recreation opportunities is a model I hope we can replicate.”
He also noted that the project shows what is possible with proper investment, acknowledging the $15 million Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has proposed in her budget for the next fiscal year to help address some of the state's high-priority dams.
“We appreciate that support from the governor and from legislators as we continue the urgent work of assessing the condition and sustainability of these dams,” Bowen said.
The Plainwell Dam project was not a quick fix, and ventures of this complexity require multiple partnerships.
Jennifer Tewkesbury, Area of Concern Coordinator with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, said the Kalamazoo River was designated as an Area of Concern in 1987 due to the contamination by PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) as a byproduct of the operation of multiple paper mills and paper recycling industries along the river.
“While these industries provided good jobs and benefits to the local economy, that prosperity came at a cost to the natural resource,” she said. “Further, the multiple dam structures that provided power for these facilities became physical barriers to a naturally functioning river system.
“EGLE would like to recognize our sister agency, the Michigan DNR, for taking the lead role on this project, as well as the EPA’s Great Lakes National Program Office for their support of the Kalamazoo River Area of Concern and the funding provided through the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative.”
An ecological transformation, the project:
• Restored 0.8 miles of river channel.
• Stabilized more than a mile of riverbank.
• Reestablished 15 acres of native riparian habitat.
• Expanded the floodplain by 6 acres and dramatically increased the river's capacity to store floodwaters, reducing downstream flood risk.
• Strategically placed more than 325 “rootwads” – large tree trunks with attached roots – to protect banks and provide vital fish and wildlife habitat.
Already, signs of ecological recovery are emerging, with increased sightings of smallmouth bass, turtles, osprey and other native species.
Mark Mills, regional supervisor in the DNR’s Wildlife Division, said the project was driven by agencies coming together with a shared purpose: “We weren’t just removing a dam, we were reimagining how this stretch of river could function ecologically and socially. The result is a safer, healthier and more accessible river for the people and wildlife of southwest Michigan.”
This intricate restoration is the result of a unique collaboration among local, state and federal agencies, but united by a single goal of restoring the Kalamazoo River. In addition to the DNR and EGLE, project partners include the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency – Great Lakes National Program Office; the U.S. EPA Superfund program and potentially responsible parties; the Michigan Department of Technology, Management and Budget, and the Kalamazoo River Natural Resource Damage Assessment and Restoration Program.
Funding was provided through a combination of sources:
• $1.9 million – Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, administered by the USEPA.
• $2 million – Kalamazoo River Natural Resource Damage Trustees.
• $2.6 million (including a $600,000 Dam Management Grant) – Michigan DNR.
• $600,000 – USEPA Superfund Site Responsible Parties.
"The completion of the Plainwell Dam restoration marks a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to the Great Lakes,” said EPA Regional Administrator and Great Lakes National Program Director Anne Vogel. “Supported by a $1.9 million grant from the EPA, this success underscores the power of partnership and collaboration in preserving these vital environmental, recreational and economic resources."
The DNR’s Mills agreed.
“The river is already telling us this was the right move,” said Mills. “We’re seeing several fish species returning to the water, osprey overhead and natural river processes reestablishing themselves. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how science, smart investment and cross-agency collaboration are bringing Michigan’s rivers back to life.”
The restoration of this stretch of the Kalamazoo River brings the state and partners closer to the long-term goal of returning 47 miles of river – from Morrow Dam to Lake Allegan – to a more natural, healthier condition. In addition to ecological benefits, this work supports vibrant outdoor recreation opportunities such as paddling, fishing and wildlife viewing, all of which contribute to local tourism and the regional economy.
Plainwell Kayak Company owner Lois Heuchert, a member of the project’s community advisory group, said she’s been impressed by how effectively local, state and federal government and the trustees have worked together.
“With every stretch of river restoration that gets completed, those areas become another part of a gorgeous trip through there,” Heuchert said. “The work hasn’t been just about the pollutants being taken out, it’s about making sure the entire area is enhanced. Every time they’ve taken on a project, they leave it so much better than you could have imagined.”
With this stage of river restoration complete, Heuchert looks forward to sharing the experience with more paddlers on the Kalamazoo.
“To be able to run a business like this, that brings families together, that has kids putting away their phones for a few hours – people are almost transformed by the end of their floats,” she said. “They enjoy nature, they enjoy relaxing. Providing that kind of service, getting people out into all that beauty, that’s what makes our job fun.”
Small Boat or Shore-bound Salmon Fishing
Jack Payne and Harv Woodard show off a catch from just inside the mouth of the river.
Photo courtesy Jack Payne
By Jack Payne
Feet planted tight to the floor, leaning hard into the side of the boat, three-to-five-foot rollers, and you are attempting to reel in a fish. This is not my idea of fun. Been there a few times. Fishing from a larger boat is tolerable, but not enjoyable. In a smaller boat, this is a case of nausea and agony.
Within a few weeks, anglers will have the opportunity to fish closer to the piers and even from a dock. Once the late summer run starts, anglers can double down and fish the local rivers or fish the drowned river mouths.
As the weather cools, salmon will concentrate near the river mouths. Many times, anglers will find pods of fish near the piers and out in fifty to seventy feet of water.
Depending on the year, this migration might start as early as mid-August or as late as the end of August or early September. This is a trolling bite, and not wanting to sound like an expert on this, let’s just say it takes equipment that I no longer own.
Downriggers, lead core, copper, dipsey divers, and such are used in some form of combination. I still own dipsey divers and planner boards, and that’s about it. Luckily for me, I have friends with the required equipment.
Once the fish move in closer, similar to the early season brown and coho jacks in April and May, then my equipment is more than adequate. We enjoy trolling planner boards with snap weights.
A combination of spoons and body baits such as the Husky Jerks, Thunder Sticks, and Flatfish work well. Many times, we will add a strip of a sardine or smelt to the belly of a Flatfish.
Pier fishing from any of the piers connecting to Lake Michigan is fun. Only a minimal tackle is required, and something in the glow-in-the-dark patterns produces well.
There is something that I just love when casting a Little Cleo spoon. Counting the spoons down to a certain depth and varying the speed of the retrieve gets my blood going. You can feel the side-to-side wobble of the spoon.
Casting a Husky Jerk is another fine way to success. Adding a piece of glow tape to the side helps. In most cases, it pays to verify your receipt. Reel fast, then slow down. Reel slow and then crank it up. Reel and stop for a second or two. Mix it up and shy away from the old steady simple retrieve.
As the fish move into the drowned river mouths, such as White Lake, Muskegon Lake, and Lake Macatawa, it can be done via three methods - Trolling, vertical jigging, and casting Husky Jerks.
Many anglers troll downriggers with J-Plug style lures, flies, or spoons. The same techniques used in front of the piers can be used inside the drowned river lakes.
However, a growing trend and one that I enjoy is vertical jigging spoons. Hopkins Spoons are very popular. This is one of our favorites. Vertical jigging with your standard walleye tackle just might be the most exciting method of all time.
The strikes are vicious, and the battles are intense. Make sure that your reels have plenty of line because these fresh-run kings will make long runs, testing your drag.
Another favorite spoon is the Flutter Spoon. This is a Do-it-Mold spoon. Mention the battle and the strike on a spoon. This spoon falls erratically.
Depending on the depth of the water, kings will suspend or be nearly tight to the bottom. Casting Husky Jerks smack dab in front of the river mouth, where the river just starts forming the lake, is crazy productive. Many times, this is a shallow water fishery with a depth of between five and ten feet of water. Try it, it works!
River anglers can fish for spawn, cast spoons, or body baits. Perhaps my favorite river fishing method would be casting spinners. Think of a Mepps or a Blue Fox. We make our own, and we use lots of orange-colored beads.
Stop in at Bob’s Gun and Tackle Shop for your late summer products.
Feet planted tight to the floor, leaning hard into the side of the boat, three-to-five-foot rollers, and you are attempting to reel in a fish. This is not my idea of fun. Been there a few times. Fishing from a larger boat is tolerable, but not enjoyable. In a smaller boat, this is a case of nausea and agony.
Within a few weeks, anglers will have the opportunity to fish closer to the piers and even from a dock. Once the late summer run starts, anglers can double down and fish the local rivers or fish the drowned river mouths.
As the weather cools, salmon will concentrate near the river mouths. Many times, anglers will find pods of fish near the piers and out in fifty to seventy feet of water.
Depending on the year, this migration might start as early as mid-August or as late as the end of August or early September. This is a trolling bite, and not wanting to sound like an expert on this, let’s just say it takes equipment that I no longer own.
Downriggers, lead core, copper, dipsey divers, and such are used in some form of combination. I still own dipsey divers and planner boards, and that’s about it. Luckily for me, I have friends with the required equipment.
Once the fish move in closer, similar to the early season brown and coho jacks in April and May, then my equipment is more than adequate. We enjoy trolling planner boards with snap weights.
A combination of spoons and body baits such as the Husky Jerks, Thunder Sticks, and Flatfish work well. Many times, we will add a strip of a sardine or smelt to the belly of a Flatfish.
Pier fishing from any of the piers connecting to Lake Michigan is fun. Only a minimal tackle is required, and something in the glow-in-the-dark patterns produces well.
There is something that I just love when casting a Little Cleo spoon. Counting the spoons down to a certain depth and varying the speed of the retrieve gets my blood going. You can feel the side-to-side wobble of the spoon.
Casting a Husky Jerk is another fine way to success. Adding a piece of glow tape to the side helps. In most cases, it pays to verify your receipt. Reel fast, then slow down. Reel slow and then crank it up. Reel and stop for a second or two. Mix it up and shy away from the old steady simple retrieve.
As the fish move into the drowned river mouths, such as White Lake, Muskegon Lake, and Lake Macatawa, it can be done via three methods - Trolling, vertical jigging, and casting Husky Jerks.
Many anglers troll downriggers with J-Plug style lures, flies, or spoons. The same techniques used in front of the piers can be used inside the drowned river lakes.
However, a growing trend and one that I enjoy is vertical jigging spoons. Hopkins Spoons are very popular. This is one of our favorites. Vertical jigging with your standard walleye tackle just might be the most exciting method of all time.
The strikes are vicious, and the battles are intense. Make sure that your reels have plenty of line because these fresh-run kings will make long runs, testing your drag.
Another favorite spoon is the Flutter Spoon. This is a Do-it-Mold spoon. Mention the battle and the strike on a spoon. This spoon falls erratically.
Depending on the depth of the water, kings will suspend or be nearly tight to the bottom. Casting Husky Jerks smack dab in front of the river mouth, where the river just starts forming the lake, is crazy productive. Many times, this is a shallow water fishery with a depth of between five and ten feet of water. Try it, it works!
River anglers can fish for spawn, cast spoons, or body baits. Perhaps my favorite river fishing method would be casting spinners. Think of a Mepps or a Blue Fox. We make our own, and we use lots of orange-colored beads.
Stop in at Bob’s Gun and Tackle Shop for your late summer products.
Outdoor Truths
By Gary Miller
(Here’s one from a few years ago that I just needed to share again)
Next week I’m going on my annual trip to Missouri. I’ve been hunting deer there for years and have some wonderful friends there.
My memories are many. I think about everything from the times of extreme weather (one time I hunted without a shirt) to trying to find my lost deer with a famous deer dog, that happened to be a dachshund. I can remember seeing some monster bucks just out of range and missing some within range.
But no matter what the past held, I still look forward to going back each year. My present memory, however, is one of only a couple of years ago. I was a few weeks away from knee surgery to repair a torn meniscus. My memory is of constant pain, especially as I walked to and from my tree stand. Even though the walks were not long, the effort it took to make them seemed especially difficult and slow.
As I made those trips each day, I was always reminded of a title to a book I saw one time. It was called “Leading With A Limp.” And while I never read that book (I probably should), I imagined a plethora of subjects the author might be trying to convey. Here’s what leading with a limp means to me.
It means every leader is imperfect. We have difficulties, inabilities, failures, discouragements, disappointments, and insecurities. And while none of these stop us, they cripple us enough to cause us to lean on something we could not do without. They also humble us, making us realize the possibility of any success comes from places beyond ourselves.
Limping leadership also slows us done in order to make sure we never outpace those we are called to lead. After all, leaders are only leaders if they have followers. And limping leaders love more because we become more patient and understanding with everyone else’s disability.
Our example of this kind of leadership in the New Testament is Paul. He had a limp and asked God to take it away. God didn’t for some of the same reasons I mention above. Here’s how Paul recalls his prayer.
“Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” (2 Corinthians 12:8-10 NIV)
It is believed Paul wrote most of the New Testament. He did it with a limp. That means your limp does not disqualify you. It is the most important part of your resume.
—————
Gary Miller has written Outdoor Truths articles for 22 years. He has also written five books which include compilations of his articles and a father/son devotional. He also speaks at wild-game dinners and men’s events for churches and associations. Write to him at gary@outdoortruths.org.
(Here’s one from a few years ago that I just needed to share again)
Next week I’m going on my annual trip to Missouri. I’ve been hunting deer there for years and have some wonderful friends there.
My memories are many. I think about everything from the times of extreme weather (one time I hunted without a shirt) to trying to find my lost deer with a famous deer dog, that happened to be a dachshund. I can remember seeing some monster bucks just out of range and missing some within range.
But no matter what the past held, I still look forward to going back each year. My present memory, however, is one of only a couple of years ago. I was a few weeks away from knee surgery to repair a torn meniscus. My memory is of constant pain, especially as I walked to and from my tree stand. Even though the walks were not long, the effort it took to make them seemed especially difficult and slow.
As I made those trips each day, I was always reminded of a title to a book I saw one time. It was called “Leading With A Limp.” And while I never read that book (I probably should), I imagined a plethora of subjects the author might be trying to convey. Here’s what leading with a limp means to me.
It means every leader is imperfect. We have difficulties, inabilities, failures, discouragements, disappointments, and insecurities. And while none of these stop us, they cripple us enough to cause us to lean on something we could not do without. They also humble us, making us realize the possibility of any success comes from places beyond ourselves.
Limping leadership also slows us done in order to make sure we never outpace those we are called to lead. After all, leaders are only leaders if they have followers. And limping leaders love more because we become more patient and understanding with everyone else’s disability.
Our example of this kind of leadership in the New Testament is Paul. He had a limp and asked God to take it away. God didn’t for some of the same reasons I mention above. Here’s how Paul recalls his prayer.
“Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” (2 Corinthians 12:8-10 NIV)
It is believed Paul wrote most of the New Testament. He did it with a limp. That means your limp does not disqualify you. It is the most important part of your resume.
—————
Gary Miller has written Outdoor Truths articles for 22 years. He has also written five books which include compilations of his articles and a father/son devotional. He also speaks at wild-game dinners and men’s events for churches and associations. Write to him at gary@outdoortruths.org.
County Parks Hunting Permit Lottery Now Open
By Greg Chandler
Zeeland Record
Ottawa County Parks and Recreation have opened a lottery for special permits that will allow hunting in some of its parks and natural areas.
Six of the county’s properties, totaling more than 4,500 acres of county land, allow hunting with a special permit. Applications for the permits are being accepted through Aug. 31.
Properties where hunting is allowed with a permit include the Upper Macatawa Natural Area in Zeeland Township, as well as Crockery Creek Natural Area, Stearns Creek South, Stearns Creek North and North Ottawa Dunes/Ottawa Sands.
Lottery drawings are held prior to the hunting periods at each of these sites. Hunters may apply for each of the three lotteries but may submit only one application per lottery. Duplicate entries result in removal from the entire lottery system.
Upper Macatawa Natural Area, Crockery Creek Natural Area, and Stearns Creek South are open to archery deer hunting by special permit only, during specific periods by lottery-chosen hunters. Those parks remain open for hiking, fishing, and other recreational uses during the hunting season. Special hunting rules and regulations are in effect for these hunts; please review before you apply.
The fall archery deer season is Oct. 15-Nov. 15, while the winter archery deer season is Dec. 1, 2025-Jan. 1, 2026.
The online application for the permit must be completed by Aug. 31. Hunters may only apply once. Hunters whose names appear on more than one application will be disqualified.
All applicants will be notified of lottery results by e-mail in September. Hunters selected to receive a permit (either season) will be required to do the following:
• Complete and return a liability release form (will be sent by e-mail to those selected).
• Pay the non-refundable permit fee of $20 to the parks office.
• Read and agree to follow the rules for the hunt.
• Complete a post-season survey.
At Stearns North, a special permit is required for all game hunting per Michigan Department of Natural Resources regulations. There are two hunting seasons available on this property – the fall season from Oct. 15, 2025-Jan. 1, 2026 and the spring season from April 15-May 15, 2026. The park will remain open for hiking, fishing, and other recreational uses during the hunting season.
The online permit application must be completed by Aug. 31, 2025. Hunters may only apply once. Hunters whose names appear on more than one application will be disqualified.
All applicants will be notified of lottery results by e-mail in September. Hunters selected to receive a permit (either season) will be required to do the following:
• Complete and return a liability release form (will be sent by e-mail to those selected).
• Pay the permit fee of $20 to the parks office.
• Read and agree to follow the rules for the hunt.
• Permit holders may scout the property (off trail hiking) up to seven days prior to their season.
• Complete a post-season survey. Failure to complete this survey will result in being excluded from the opportunity for a special permit in the future.
The Lakeshore Wildlife Management firearms hunt will take place at North Ottawa Dunes and Ottawa Sands from Nov. 21-24; each participant will be scheduled for two of those dates.
Both parks will be closed to the general public on all four days. Special hunting rules and regulations are in effect for this hunt; please review them before you apply.
The online application must be completed by Aug. 31, 2025. Hunters may only apply once. Hunters whose names appear on more than one application will be disqualified. All applicants will be notified of lottery results by e-mail no later than Sept. 15. Selected hunters will be required to do the following:
Complete and return a liability release form (will be sent by e-mail to those selected).
• Pay the non-refundable permit fee of $20; due prior to the pre-hunt meeting.
• Attend a required pre-hunt meeting (in-person): either Saturday, Oct. 18 from 10-11 a.m. or Wednesday, Oct. 22 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at the Nature Center Classroom at Hemlock Crossing Park.
• Complete a post-season survey. Failure to complete this survey will result in being excluded from the opportunity for a special permit in the future.
For more information about hunting at Ottawa County parks and natural areas please visit miottawa.org/Parks/hunting.
Zeeland Record
Ottawa County Parks and Recreation have opened a lottery for special permits that will allow hunting in some of its parks and natural areas.
Six of the county’s properties, totaling more than 4,500 acres of county land, allow hunting with a special permit. Applications for the permits are being accepted through Aug. 31.
Properties where hunting is allowed with a permit include the Upper Macatawa Natural Area in Zeeland Township, as well as Crockery Creek Natural Area, Stearns Creek South, Stearns Creek North and North Ottawa Dunes/Ottawa Sands.
Lottery drawings are held prior to the hunting periods at each of these sites. Hunters may apply for each of the three lotteries but may submit only one application per lottery. Duplicate entries result in removal from the entire lottery system.
Upper Macatawa Natural Area, Crockery Creek Natural Area, and Stearns Creek South are open to archery deer hunting by special permit only, during specific periods by lottery-chosen hunters. Those parks remain open for hiking, fishing, and other recreational uses during the hunting season. Special hunting rules and regulations are in effect for these hunts; please review before you apply.
The fall archery deer season is Oct. 15-Nov. 15, while the winter archery deer season is Dec. 1, 2025-Jan. 1, 2026.
The online application for the permit must be completed by Aug. 31. Hunters may only apply once. Hunters whose names appear on more than one application will be disqualified.
All applicants will be notified of lottery results by e-mail in September. Hunters selected to receive a permit (either season) will be required to do the following:
• Complete and return a liability release form (will be sent by e-mail to those selected).
• Pay the non-refundable permit fee of $20 to the parks office.
• Read and agree to follow the rules for the hunt.
• Complete a post-season survey.
At Stearns North, a special permit is required for all game hunting per Michigan Department of Natural Resources regulations. There are two hunting seasons available on this property – the fall season from Oct. 15, 2025-Jan. 1, 2026 and the spring season from April 15-May 15, 2026. The park will remain open for hiking, fishing, and other recreational uses during the hunting season.
The online permit application must be completed by Aug. 31, 2025. Hunters may only apply once. Hunters whose names appear on more than one application will be disqualified.
All applicants will be notified of lottery results by e-mail in September. Hunters selected to receive a permit (either season) will be required to do the following:
• Complete and return a liability release form (will be sent by e-mail to those selected).
• Pay the permit fee of $20 to the parks office.
• Read and agree to follow the rules for the hunt.
• Permit holders may scout the property (off trail hiking) up to seven days prior to their season.
• Complete a post-season survey. Failure to complete this survey will result in being excluded from the opportunity for a special permit in the future.
The Lakeshore Wildlife Management firearms hunt will take place at North Ottawa Dunes and Ottawa Sands from Nov. 21-24; each participant will be scheduled for two of those dates.
Both parks will be closed to the general public on all four days. Special hunting rules and regulations are in effect for this hunt; please review them before you apply.
The online application must be completed by Aug. 31, 2025. Hunters may only apply once. Hunters whose names appear on more than one application will be disqualified. All applicants will be notified of lottery results by e-mail no later than Sept. 15. Selected hunters will be required to do the following:
Complete and return a liability release form (will be sent by e-mail to those selected).
• Pay the non-refundable permit fee of $20; due prior to the pre-hunt meeting.
• Attend a required pre-hunt meeting (in-person): either Saturday, Oct. 18 from 10-11 a.m. or Wednesday, Oct. 22 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at the Nature Center Classroom at Hemlock Crossing Park.
• Complete a post-season survey. Failure to complete this survey will result in being excluded from the opportunity for a special permit in the future.
For more information about hunting at Ottawa County parks and natural areas please visit miottawa.org/Parks/hunting.
Annual Flowers That Take the Heat
By Melinda Myers
As temperatures rise, some annuals slow down or stop flowering due to heat stall. They will recover as temperatures cool but may leave your gardens or containers looking less colorful.
Take some time now to evaluate annual flowers that are thriving in your garden and those that may need to be left off the plant list for next year’s garden.
Start looking for more heat-tolerant plants and cultivars to use in the future. A visit to your local botanic garden and viewing gardens in your neighborhood can help provide insight and inspirations for plants suited to your summer weather.
Zinnias are known for their heat and drought tolerance. These long-blooming annuals come in a variety of colors and heights. Wheat, plume, and crested celosia not only add color, but also interesting flower shapes to gardens and arrangements.
Angelonias, also known as summer snapdragons, are upright plants that make great vertical accents and add season-long color to containers and gardens. Granvia strawflowers are taller, more vigorous plants with larger flowers than older strawflower varieties. Enjoy them in the garden and for months after in arrangements, dried wreaths, and other decorations.
Annual vinca, Catharanthus, with its shiny leaves and long-lasting flowers, thrives in hot, dry weather. The dainty flowers of the Soiree® Kawaii series and the fringed, ruffled flower petals of the Soiree® Flemenco series provide a unique flare. Include pentas with their star-shaped flowers to help attract and support butterflies. You’ll find plants with white, red, pink, lavender, violet, and bicolor flowers, and even a few trailing varieties.
Cupheas are not only heat tolerant but are magnets for hummingbirds. These season-long bloomers are covered with flowers and do not need deadheading. Mandevilla is another long-blooming, heat-tolerant plant that thrives in sunny locations. You’ll find upright, trailing, and tall climbing varieties to include in gardens, containers, and hanging baskets.
If you are looking for a heat-tolerant, trailing plant, consider bidens. The BeeDance® series is an earlier and continuous flowering variety. Moss roses and other portulacas are also trailing and low-growing plants that can be used as annual groundcovers, edging plants, and trailers in containers.
Look for more heat-tolerant cultivars of your favorite annuals that tend to stop blooming during hot weather. Heatopia™, Hot® Waterblue, Techno®, and Laguna® lobelias show more heat tolerance than many older lobelia cultivars. White Stream™, Snow Princess®, and Frosty Knight® are a few alyssum cultivars to consider. They tolerate the heat but prefer moist well-drained soil.
Hot Pak™ French marigolds have been bred for increased hot weather tolerance. The triploid marigolds like Endurance™ and Zenith™ are a cross between the African and French marigolds. They have the longer bloom time of the French marigold and the heat tolerance of the African species.
Don’t give up on heat stalled annual plants in your garden and containers. Continue to water the heat-stressed plants as needed but wait for them to recover before fertilizing if needed. Trim back leggy plants and once the temperatures cool, the plants will start flowering.
Continue to watch for, try, and evaluate new, more heat-tolerant additions for your gardens and containers. Finding the right plants for your growing conditions and garden design can help boost your garden’s beauty and your enjoyment even as temperatures rise.
—————
Melinda Myers has written more than 20 gardening books, including the Midwest Gardener’s Handbook, 2nd Edition and Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” instant video series and the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and her website is MelindaMyers .com.
As temperatures rise, some annuals slow down or stop flowering due to heat stall. They will recover as temperatures cool but may leave your gardens or containers looking less colorful.
Take some time now to evaluate annual flowers that are thriving in your garden and those that may need to be left off the plant list for next year’s garden.
Start looking for more heat-tolerant plants and cultivars to use in the future. A visit to your local botanic garden and viewing gardens in your neighborhood can help provide insight and inspirations for plants suited to your summer weather.
Zinnias are known for their heat and drought tolerance. These long-blooming annuals come in a variety of colors and heights. Wheat, plume, and crested celosia not only add color, but also interesting flower shapes to gardens and arrangements.
Angelonias, also known as summer snapdragons, are upright plants that make great vertical accents and add season-long color to containers and gardens. Granvia strawflowers are taller, more vigorous plants with larger flowers than older strawflower varieties. Enjoy them in the garden and for months after in arrangements, dried wreaths, and other decorations.
Annual vinca, Catharanthus, with its shiny leaves and long-lasting flowers, thrives in hot, dry weather. The dainty flowers of the Soiree® Kawaii series and the fringed, ruffled flower petals of the Soiree® Flemenco series provide a unique flare. Include pentas with their star-shaped flowers to help attract and support butterflies. You’ll find plants with white, red, pink, lavender, violet, and bicolor flowers, and even a few trailing varieties.
Cupheas are not only heat tolerant but are magnets for hummingbirds. These season-long bloomers are covered with flowers and do not need deadheading. Mandevilla is another long-blooming, heat-tolerant plant that thrives in sunny locations. You’ll find upright, trailing, and tall climbing varieties to include in gardens, containers, and hanging baskets.
If you are looking for a heat-tolerant, trailing plant, consider bidens. The BeeDance® series is an earlier and continuous flowering variety. Moss roses and other portulacas are also trailing and low-growing plants that can be used as annual groundcovers, edging plants, and trailers in containers.
Look for more heat-tolerant cultivars of your favorite annuals that tend to stop blooming during hot weather. Heatopia™, Hot® Waterblue, Techno®, and Laguna® lobelias show more heat tolerance than many older lobelia cultivars. White Stream™, Snow Princess®, and Frosty Knight® are a few alyssum cultivars to consider. They tolerate the heat but prefer moist well-drained soil.
Hot Pak™ French marigolds have been bred for increased hot weather tolerance. The triploid marigolds like Endurance™ and Zenith™ are a cross between the African and French marigolds. They have the longer bloom time of the French marigold and the heat tolerance of the African species.
Don’t give up on heat stalled annual plants in your garden and containers. Continue to water the heat-stressed plants as needed but wait for them to recover before fertilizing if needed. Trim back leggy plants and once the temperatures cool, the plants will start flowering.
Continue to watch for, try, and evaluate new, more heat-tolerant additions for your gardens and containers. Finding the right plants for your growing conditions and garden design can help boost your garden’s beauty and your enjoyment even as temperatures rise.
—————
Melinda Myers has written more than 20 gardening books, including the Midwest Gardener’s Handbook, 2nd Edition and Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” instant video series and the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and her website is MelindaMyers .com.
