Hull Island Set To Become Nature Preserve

Thanks to efforts by local conservation group, Huron Pines, a 42 acre property in Oscoda Township will now be under permanent protection. Julia Butch, Huron Pines land protection coordinator closed the deal today and said, “What we’re doing is pre–acquiring the property while we work in partnership with Oscoda Charter Township while they receive grant funding through the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Program. So they’ve submitted their grant application and we’re awaiting funding awards granted next week and then eventually transferring the property to the Charter Township of Oscoda.”

The property, known as Hull Island, has thirty three hundred feet of AuSable river frontage and high conservation value for wildlife protection and water quality protection. With its prime river frontage, it was used as a lumber mill in the eighteen hundreds and is now undeveloped. Together Huron Pines and the Oscoda Township are working to create a plan to make this site accessible for all. “In our talks with the township, they’re looking to develop it somewhere in between a traditional nature preserve and municipal park,” said Butch. “They’re using Duck Park in Alpena as an example of what the property will be one day. We will continue to work with them and advise them as things develop.”

While these plans may take time to develop, Huron Pines will make the space available soon. “We’re going to have some guided opportunities available while we hold the property temporarily,” said Butch, “then once its transferred eventually to the township it will be fully open to the public.” Updates can be found on the Huron Pines website and Facebook page.