Inside this issue:
OTPRC Response to COVID-19 1
What’s New in the Parks Virtual Programming
2
Interactive Park Map 3
Kayaking 4
Tai Chi 5
Yoga 5
Nature Programs 6
Archery Programs 7
Lost Lake Open Houses 8
Outdoor Skills Camp Photo Contest Winner
9
Clean Water and Wildlife 10
Stewardship Events 11
Phragmites Outreach 12
Cranberry Lake Farm Historic District
13
Striding on the Surface 14-15
Paint Creek Trail News 16
PCT Scavenger Hunt 17
Parks Map 18
Registration Information 19
Commissioners, Staff Back Cover
The Mission of Oakland Township Parks and Recreation Commission is to provide a sustainable system of parks, trails, programs, amenities, and services which create memorable experiences and a sense of place, contributes to the economic value of the Township and preserves the historical and natural heritage of the landscapes for existing and future generations.
Oakland Township Parks and Recreation Commission Newsletter
(June 16, 2020)
Oakland Township Residents and Friends:
Oakland Township Parks and Recreation has made operational changes that are in the best interest of the health and safety of the public and our employees to limit the spread of COVID-19. Our COVID-19 Preparedness and Response Plan, which represents these best practices, is available on the Parks and Recreation page of our website (www.oaklandtownship.org).
ALL Oakland Township parks, trails, playgrounds, basketball courts, fishing/ kayak docks and portable restrooms are open for use by the public. We have increased the frequency of facility cleaning. Visitors are asked to follow recommended social distancing guidelines.
This summer we are offering, by registration only, lower-risk outdoor activities including nature, archery, yoga, tai chi, and kayaking classes as well as shorter duration day camps. Our team of staff and instructors are trained in safety protocol that follow CDC Guidelines and are equipped with Personal Protective equipment.
This summer we will also continue to offer virtual classes and videos through our website (www.oaklandtownship.org) and our Facebook link.
The Parks and Recreation offices are now OPEN to the public between 10am and 2pm, Monday through Friday. Visitors who wish to do business in-person are asked to wear a mask and complete our COVID-19 self-screening procedure before entering the office area. Social distancing policies continue to apply.
We hope that we everyone can participate in Oakland Township Parks and Recreation summer activities and enjoy our parks, trails, and recreation features!
We are sorry to announce the cancellation of our 2020 Music in the Meadows summer concert series and Goodison Good Tyme fall festival due to the uncertainties surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. This difficult decision was not made lightly, or easily. Yet the current situation makes it impossible for us to safely plan and execute these events for all of the people who come together to make them the wonderful experiences you have come to expect. We are deeply saddened at having to make this decision, but the health of our community is our priority. THANK YOU for your patience and support.
Gallagher Creek Park, By Hank VanAgen
2 Parks and Recreation Newsletter July - August 2020 www.oaklandtownship.org
Virtual Nature and Activity Center Our virtual programming provides fun, fitness, crafts, nature education, recreation and enrichment through these unprecedented times. We are committed to ensuring our community has the resources to help facilitate health and well-being. Visit our website: https://www.oaklandtownship.org
Categories to explore:
Fitness and Wellness: Check out our on-demand and live streaming opportunities to participate in programs to keep you feeling your best.
Explore Nature at Home: Discover on-demand programs about the best of Michigan’s Great Outdoors including plants, animals, and habitats. Check out videos by our partner, Dinosaur Hill Nature Preserve as well as other fantastic organizations and resources that value nature as much as we do.
Explore our Parks: Here, you’ll discover what our parks are all about, with links to interactive maps, learn about volunteer opportunities you can join, and informational nuggets that showcase what make our parks so special.
Special Interest and Online Resources: Find unique and fun activities in this section, such as challenges, contests, and more!
Share Your Ideas! If you have an idea for a virtual program or resource that you’d like us to offer, please let us know! Contact us at [email protected], or call (248) 651-7810.
Upcoming Virtual Programs
Planet Gazing (All ages)
Tuesday, August 11, 2020 8:00pm – 9:30pm Register by Monday, August 10 www.oaklandtownship.recdesk.com Go To Meeting. Link provided via email within 24 hours before program.
Share a family evening with the Amateur Astronomers of Rochester's Oakland Astronomy Club (oaklandastronomy.net). We'll help you be comfortable with the bright stars and planets of tonight's summer sky, and get you ready to enjoy the August 12th Perseid Meteor Showers. You will have the opportunity to ask questions of the instructor during the program.
Residents: FREE Non-residents: FREE
All Levels Yoga (Adults 12+ )
Every Wednesday through 7/15/2020 12:30pm -1:30pm Zoom—Link will be available on our Facebook page one hour prior to class.
Free Yoga Class! Yoga instructor Pavel Bednarski, RYT-200, and Oakland Township Parks and Recreation are teaming up to bring you FREE virtual yoga classes. Grab your yoga mat, towel, or blanket. Be sure to join 10 minutes early to make any adjustments to your device. Can't make it but want to enjoy? Link will be available for one week to catch the replay on the Facebook post. No registration required.
Residents: FREE Non-residents: FREE
Beginner Tips to Archery Basics
(Available on-demand, see the Virtual Nature and Activity Center page on our website.)
View tips on how to properly and safely handle a bow. Presented by Nick DiCresce Jr.,
archery instructor and coach at Marsh View Park Archery Range.
Residents: FREE Non-residents: FREE
3 Parks and Recreation Newsletter July - August 2020 www.oaklandtownship.org
This map does not include parks managed by other agencies, including Bald
Mountain State Recreation Area (Michigan DNR), Stony Creek Metropark (HCMA),
and private parks within subdivisions.
Oakland Township Parks & Recreation
4393 Collins Road, Rochester, MI 48306
Phone: 248-651-7810
www.oaklandtownship.org
Enjoy our new interactive map of Oakland Township’s parks!
With this web app, located at https://bit.ly/3g0GaRs, use the ready-to-go bookmarks to locate all of the parks and natural areas in the Oakland Township park system. Click on the name of each park to see a brief description. You can also change the base map, show your location, and measure distances or area.
New Online
Park Map!
Scan with
your phone
to view
the map!
https://bit.ly/3g0GaRs
4 Parks and Recreation Newsletter July - August 2020 www.oaklandtownship.org
As part of Oakland Township’s Parks and Recreation commitment to help
protect our patrons we wanted to share with you the precautions we are
taking in response to the coronavirus. We are implementing additional
health and safety measures recommended by the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Oakland County Health Department.
These measures include requiring self-screening for COVID-19 symptoms,
wearing PPE, limiting programs to small groups, implementing social
distancing practices, and increased cleaning of parks and program facilities
and equipment.
Oakland Township resident registration starts NOW! Non-resident
registration begins one week prior to the program registration deadline date.
Register online at: oaklandtownship.recdesk.com
Fun Basics of Kayaking - Ages 10 and up
Draper Twin Lake Park, 1015 Inwood Rd., Rochester, MI 48306*
Sunday, June 28, 2020 12:00pm - 2:00pm Register by June 22
Saturday, July 11, 2020 6:00pm - 8:00pm Register by July 3
Friday, August 14, 2020 6:00pm - 8:00pm Register by August 7
This clinic is taught both on land and in the water and will focus on safety and introductory stroke techniques. Learn basic kayaking safety skills such as fitting your life jacket, what clothing to wear and getting into and out of your kayak from a dock. Basic paddling skills include forward, reverse, and turning strokes. Designed for new paddlers and anyone who would like formal instruction. Draper Twin Lake is an open calm flat water with-out jet skis and motor boats.
Residents: $20 Non-residents: $35 Maximum 10 registrants.
*Draper Twin Lake is a calm water lake. The distance from the parking lot to the dock, which has lake access, is approximately one-half mile via accessible path.
Items to bring: water bottle, water shoes or light weight sneakers, sunglasses, bug repellent, and wear synthetic clothing. At the time of registration we will ask you for your approximate height and weight so that we may size you with the proper gear. We paddle in light rain (it is a water sport). However, if there is a 60% or greater chance of thunderstorms 2 hours prior to the clinic we will contact you to cancel with a full refund issued or reschedule the clinic.
5 Parks and Recreation Newsletter July - August 2020 www.oaklandtownship.org
Tai Chi Beginners - Adults 18+
Tuesdays 6/16/2020 – 8/4/2020 6:00pm – 7:00pm
Register for any number of desired sessions
Cranberry Lake Farm, 388 W. Predmore, Oakland, MI 48363
Find peace and serenity from a busy, stressful day through Tai Chi. Tai Chi exercises the mind and body by increasing wellbeing and improving balance, coordination and strength. Students will learn the basic forms and elegant movements of the Yang Style Short Form Tai Chi. Students should be able to support their weight while standing or bring a chair if unable to stand. Students should wear loose and comfortable clothing and shoes. No flip flops or sandals. Traditional Tai Chi shoes are optional. Bring water bottle. Led by Marci Jenkins.* 8 weeks. *Marci has over 20 years of Tai Chi training and practice.
Residents: FREE Non-residents: FREE Maximum 10 registrants.
All Levels Yoga - Adults 12+
Sundays, August 2 - September 6, 2020 10:00 - 11:00am Register by July 27
Cranberry Lake Farm, 388 W Predmore Road, Oakland, MI 48363
Free Yoga Class! Yoga instructor Pavel Bednarski, RYT-200, and Oakland Township Parks and Recreation are teaming up to bring you FREE in-person yoga classes on the lawn at Cranberry Lake Farm. Bring your yoga mat, towel, or blanket. Led by Pavel Bednarski, RYT-200. All Levels. 6 week session. All in-person classes will take place on the lawn.
Residents: FREE Non-residents: FREE Maximum 10 registrants.
First Steps to Wellness - Adults 12+
Tuesdays, July 14 - August 4, 2020 9:30-10:30am Register by July 7 Bear Creek Nature Park, 740 W. Snell Road, Rochester, MI 48306
This beginning wellness class is a 4-week program designed for adults of all abilities and fitness levels. Learn evidence-based and research-oriented fundamentals of nutrition and exercise, how your mindset impacts your health, and injury prevention techniques at the beginning of each class. Then, apply what you’ve learned as you walk with the group around beautiful Bear Creek Nature Park. Upon completion, this program will prepare you to take on your next level of fitness. Continue your fitness journey and enjoy our beautiful parks with your walking group even after this program ends! This program is guided by Dr. Jack Moses, D.C., who leads his peers in working to integrate the latest research in spine care with movement, nutrition, and in collaboration with best practices in neurology, orthopedics, and chiropractic care. 4 week session. Note: Participants should have clearance by their primary care provider to begin a new exercise program.
Residents: Free Non-residents: Free Maximum 10 registrants.
Registrat ion detai ls on page 19.
Click here for Article on Health Benefits of Tai Chi
Click here for Article on Health Benefits of Yoga
6 Parks and Recreation Newsletter July - August 2020 www.oaklandtownship.org
A Letterboxing Adventure at Cranberry Lake Park - Families Sunday, July 19, 2020 12:00 - 1:30pm Register by: July 12 Cranberry Lake Park, 388 W. Predmore, Oakland, 48363
Existing in a very specific area between scavenger hunts and geocaching is the hobby of letterboxing. This exciting activity turns participants into active treasure hunters by giving them clues and locations to try and find hidden cashes of goods and we can’t get enough of it! Join a Dinosaur Hill naturalist as they explain the fundamentals of letterboxing before giving families a clue-sheet to scout the ground of Cranberry Lake to decipher five riddles on the trails. We will have prize pouches available to all families that completely solve the riddles.
Residents: $5 Non-residents: $7 Maximum 10 families.
Check out National Geographic Kids Letterboxing webpage here: National Geographic Kids
Birds of A Feather - K - 5th graders Tuesday, August 11, 2020 4:30 - 6:00pm (5-7 year olds) Register by: August 4
Tuesday, August 11, 2020 6:30 - 8:00pm (8-10 year olds) Register by: August 4
Lost Lake Nature Park, 846 Lost Lake Dr., Oakland, 48363
We find that it’s difficult to imagine a summer hike without the constant chattering of birds hidden in the branches above, defending their territories. Although many of our feathered friends conceal themselves in clever camouflage some choose to be bright and showy! Join us as we talk about some of our favorite chirpers up in the trees before putting together and decorating our own binoculars to take on the trails (and home!). We will even be putting together some feathered masquerade masks to try and blend in with the birds on the trails.
Residents: $5 Non-residents: $7 Maximum 5 children per session.
One of the best websites for birding information is the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Check out their Online Bird Identification Guide here: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/news/
Seasonal Adult Hikes: Owling 101 Friday, August 21, 2020 9:00 - 10:30pm Register by August 14 Cranberry Lake Park. Predmore, Oakland, 48363
Throughout the year we have an abundance of nocturnal life patrolling the forest floors, skies, and riversides under the canopy of darkness, but none more famous than the apex predators of the black night: the owl. Although difficult to locate, these elusive after-dusk birds are fun living scavenger hunt for any night owl looking for an evening activity. Join us at Cranberry Lake Park as we learn a little about owls before heading out on the trails to see if we can locate them, the tools that you’ll require, and provide you with an entertaining and educational evening at one of our favorite parks! Participants will even be given owl fact sheets to take home to continue their searches in their own neighborhoods.
Residents: $5 Non-residents: $7 Maximum 10 registrants.
Check out the Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s Owl page here: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/news/
Cranberry Lake Park. The north trail from the farm site strewn with apple blossom petals. By Cam Mannino
Please social distance while enjoying the parks!
7 Parks and Recreation Newsletter July - August 2020 www.oaklandtownship.org
Marsh View Park, 3100 East Clarkston Road, Oakland, MI 48363
Beginning Archery - All Ages (Ages 8 - Adult)
Looking for something new and fun to try on a beautiful summer day? This fun class is for you and your family! Our instructors will cover safety, equipment and basic fundamentals of shooting. Individual sanitized equipment provided for each registrant.
Saturdays June 27 - July 25, 2020 10:00 - 11:00am Register by June 21 (4 weeks)
Wednesdays July 8 - August 12, 2020 6:00 - 7:00pm Register by July 1 (5 weeks)
(no class August 5)
Saturdays August 1 - August 29, 2020 10:00 - 11:00am Register by July 24 (5 weeks)
Residents: $45 Non-Residents: $60 for 4 week class Maximum 10 registrants. Residents: $60 Non-Residents: $75 for 5 week class Maximum 10 registrants.
Open Range Shoot - Ages 8 - Adult “FREE” to the Public - Pre-registration Required
Prior archery experience necessary. No instruction provided. No crossbows or broadheads. Children between 8 and 17 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. Range supervised by certified USA Archery Instructors. No bows or arrows supplied. Targets are cleaned between sessions. Must pre-register online. 5 Sessions every Saturday to choose from:
Saturdays 6/27/2020 – 11/7/2020 Maximum 10 registrants per session.
11:30am - 12:15pm, or 12:30-1:15pm or 1:30-2:15pm or 2:30-3:15 or 3:30-4:15pm
Wednesdays, July 8 - August 12, 2020
7:30 - 9:00pm (1 session per date - No session August 5)
No Open range Shoot on July 4 or September 5, 2020 Maximum 10 registrants.
Explore Archery Camp (Ages 8 - Adult)
Explore Archery is a news and innovative archery education program focused on introducing beginners to the lifelong sport of archery. In Explore Archery, campers earn achievement awards through active participation in individual and team building activities that require fundamental skills, competitive edge and a bit of creativity and not based on campers’ athletic abilities or their capabilities to shoot a perfect score. It is fun, rewarding, developmentally aggressive and most important - safe.
July 20 - 24, 2020 10:00am - 12:30pm Register by July 13
Residents: $100 Non-residents: $120 Maximum 10 registrants.
Private Group Programs
Book your birthday, special event, celebration, work group or scout badge with a focus on archery at Marsh View Park Archery Range. Equipment provided with all group events.
Rental Opportunities
If your archery league or club is interested in renting our facility please contact the Parks and Recreation Department for fees and availability.
8 Parks and Recreation Newsletter July - August 2020 www.oaklandtownship.org
Lost Lake Open Houses
Pre-registration Required
Oakland Township Parks and Recreation and Dinosaur Hill Nature Preserve have partnered to bring Oakland Township residents and others exciting new programs at Lost Lake Nature Park! Family, friends and neighbors are invited to explore everything this partnership has to offer at one of these FREE open houses. Open to all ages! We will be offering 2 sessions for each 'open house' that'll take place in our reserved spot of the park by the docks and picnic tables. Each session will be 1.5 hours (12-1:30pm, and 2-3:30pm) and be limited to 10 active participants. As our survey indicated a greater demand for children's and family programs, these lend themselves perfectly for those needs. We can return to our typical open-house format once some normalcy returns to the world. Must pre-register through https://oaklandtownship.recdesk.com/.
June 28th, 12-1:30pm or 2-3:30pm - The Bounty of Summer – Summer is one of the most active times to be surrounded by nature. There's the feeling of life all around you as you venture through the woods this time of year, with bright flowers and green foliage with the blue sky the backdrop for birds singing, frogs croaking and animals slowly sneaking through the woods. Join us as we spend a little bit of time talking about the transference of energy from the sun to the plants, while putting together our own animal webs at our own distanced spots outdoors at the picnic tables lakeside at Lost Lake Nature Park. We will even take a short hike on the trails to learn about how energy moves from the sun to every living thing!
July 26th, 12-1:30pm or 2-3:30pm - The Skinny on Pond Dipping – Ponds, shallow lakes, and any other unassuming body of water in our state are integral portions of our local ecosystem and harbor life within that are frequently overlooked by casual observers. Join us as we take a close look at the lifeforms that can be found in the kettle lake by sweeping the lake bottom with nets and examining the specimens we find. We will also be putting together our own magnetic fishing pole game at the picnic tables, safely spaced apart.
August 30th, 12-1:30pm or 2-3:30pm - Traffic in the Sky – If ever there was a rush-hour for our avian friends it would be the end of August moving into fall. As the day lengths begin to shift, nature is cued in on an instinctual urge to head south. This great migration lasts from mid-August through October. Numerous species of gulls begin their descent from Canada and the U.P. around the middle of August, and the warblers are not far behind. Join us as we take a look at the journey that these birds take, their stops along the way, and figure out how they navigate without compasses. We will even be putting together some natural bird feeders to hang at home to provide these commuters some much needed energy!
All programs on this page take place at Lost Lake Nature Park. The park is located west of Rochester Rd south
of Predmore: 846 Lost Lake Trail, Oakland Township.
For more information visit: www.dinosaurhill.org
9 Parks and Recreation Newsletter July - August 2020 www.oaklandtownship.org
Outdoor Skills Camps Marsh View Park, 3100 E. Clarkston Rd., Oakland, 48363 Set your kids’ imaginations and adventurous spirits free as they learn about the natural environment and the important skill of survival. Shelter, water, fire and food. Equipment and supplies will be sanitized and restricted to one user. Social Distancing will be adhered to. This is a great way to pull your kids away from the television, computer, and electronic devices, and get them excited about the outdoors.
Outdoor Skills Camp - Grades 5 - 9 Monday - Friday July 13 - 17, 2020 10:00am - 12:30pm
Register by July 6
This camp introduces a variety of fun outdoor activities including archery, kayaking, and fishing (catch and release). This course also covers basic survival skills like reading a map and recognizing your surroundings, fire starting, shelter building, obtaining drinkable water, wild plant identification and animal observation.
Resident: $100
Non-resident: $120
Maximum 10 registrants.
Next Step Outdoor Skills Camp - Grades 5 - 9 Monday - Friday July 27 - 31, 2020 10:00am - 12:30pm
Register by July 20
An extension of Outdoor Skills Camp, activities range from archery refresher skills through target shooting games and beginning bow hunting, gun safety including handling and basic shooting skills at Bald Mountain Gun Range (taught by NRA certified instructor), kayaking and fishing, animal identification and tracking, plant identification and edibles, land navigation, and a Survival Day finale. Prerequisite: Either taken our Basic Outdoor Survival Skill Camp or similar course. Maximum 10 registrants.
Resident: $100 Non-resident: $120
Congratulations to Laura St. Clair on her winning photo for our Walk and Win Photo Contest! This beautiful photo at Cranberry Lake won her a $100 gift card to Piechnik's Greenhouse!
Thank you to all who submitted photos and everyone who took the time to vote for a winner. We hope you enjoyed exploring our parks this spring and that you'll invite a friend next time and spread the word!
10 Parks and Recreation Newsletter July - August 2020 www.oaklandtownship.org
Clean Water and Wildlife Habitat!
When I travel around Oakland Township, I appreciate peaceful scenes of rolling farm fields framed by forests
and wetlands. This rural feel with lots of open space and natural areas is what makes Oakland Township special
to many of us. Much of our township was farmed through the 1960s and 1970s, and those hardworking folks
shaped the land so that they could eat and make a living.
Unfortunately, clearing trees, straightening streams, draining wetlands, and plowing
on steep hills left a legacy that we’re still working to understand today. The
nutrients that feed the Lake St. Clair and Lake Erie algae blooms start right here on
our lawns and farm fields. The numbers of colorful migrating birds are crashing
because their stopover habitat, right here in Oakland Township, isn’t there when
they need it most after migrating from the Caribbean or South America. Not to
mention the declines in bees, butterflies, and other pollinators….
But the good news is that we know how to help, and we are restoring habitat in our
parks every year! In the township parks we’ve identified wetlands and steep areas in
certain areas of our farm fields that send nutrients and sediment downstream. We
worked with biologists from the US Fish and Wildlife Service to map those areas
and develop a restoration plan that we hope to put into action start in early fall 2020
at Blue Heron Environmental Area, Watershed Ridge Park, and the Stony Creek
Ravine Nature Park expansion. Farming will continue in many of the fields at Blue
Heron and Watershed Ridge, but we are now farming smarter in these areas.
In wet areas we’ll focus on restoring how the water moves (hydrology). In the past,
farmers created ditches and drains to get the water off their fields quickly so that
they could grow crops. Our work will try to reverse that, slowing down the water,
allowing it to soak in. In some areas we will use low berms to re-create shallow pools perfect for migrating
ducks and shorebirds in the spring in fall. In other spots we will strategically plug ditches to slow down the
water.
The dry areas around the restored wetlands and nearby steep slopes will be planted
to a beautiful mix of native grasses and wildflowers. These native plants will hold
valuable soil and nutrients in place while providing food and homes for birds,
butterflies, and other insects. This transformation will occur slowly over three to
five years as the wildflower seedlings mature and begin to flower.
All of this work is supported by you through our Land Preservation Millage! We
leveraged our millage funds to secure $31,977 from the US Fish and Wildlife
Service through their Partners for Fish and Wildlife program, which covers some
seed costs, planting seed, and earthwork for wetland restoration. This is a cost-share
grant program, so we will contribute labor for site preparation, purchasing of
additional seed to supplement the base mix from US Fish and Wildlife Service to increase the diversity and
seeding rate, maintenance mowing during the establishment phase, and
invasive species control during the establishment phase of the plantings.
Stay tuned for updates as we work on these habitat restoration projects!
By: Dr. Ben VanderWeide, Natural Areas Stewardship Manager
Prairie restoration at Charles Ilsley Park that we completed
with a 2014 USFWS grant.
Muddy water runs from the farm fields into the wetlands at Watershed Ridge Park each spring. Our restoration work will help slow and filter that water, making the habitat healthier for the frogs, salamanders and other wildlife in our wetlands.
11 Parks and Recreation Newsletter July - August 2020 www.oaklandtownship.org
Natural Areas Information at your Fingertips!
Have you checked out our blog recently? The Natural Areas Notebook has the latest about what’s happening in the parks, news about the latest stewardship work, and up-to-date information about stewardship events. Find this and much more at oaklandnaturalareas.com.
Natural Areas Stewardship Events Please come out and join us for one of these events! Updated information and any last minute changes
to these events can be found on our Natural Areas Notebook website at oaklandnaturalareas.com.
Weekly Bird Walks - Pre-registration Required
Join us every Wednesday through the end of August for our weekly bird walks. We want to document the bird species using our parks so that we can work to improve their habitat. Walks will start at 8:00 am. Bring your own binoculars. This summer, walks will be limited to 10 participants per walk, and pre-registration is required. Pre-register at https://
oaklandtownship.recdesk.com/. All participants will need to follow social distancing and other safety rules. Walks may be cancelled due to COVID-19.
1st Wednesday of month – Bear Creek Nature Park
2nd Wednesday of month – Cranberry Lake Park
3rd Wednesday of month – Charles Ilsley Park
4th Wednesday of month – Draper Twin Lake Park
5th Wednesday of July – Lost Lake Nature Park
Volunteers Needed!
Would you like to learn new skills, work with a great team, and get more involved in local conservation? Our natural areas stewardship volunteers help with bluebird nest box monitoring, native seed collecting, prescribed fire, invasive species control, photo monitoring, pollinator garden maintenance, outreach, and more! We fit opportunities to your availability and interests. No special skills required. We’ll provide all training and tools you’ll need. To learn more contact Natural Areas Stewardship Manager Ben VanderWeide ([email protected]).
Invasive Shrub Workdays at Bear Creek Nature Park
July 11, July 27, and August 6, 9 am to 12 pm
We will be removing invasive shrubs such as buckthorn and autumn olive to help native species thrive in the northern marsh at Bear Creek Nature Park. Wear solid boots, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt and bring water and a snack. Tools and training will be provided. All workdays are 9 am to 12 pm. This summer workdays will be limited to 10 participants, and pre-registration is required. Please pre-register at oaklandtownship.recdesk.com. Meet at the Snell Road parking lot at 740 W. Snell Road.
Why remove invasive shrubs?
Buckthorn and autumn olive are invasive shrubs that threaten our natural resources. Leafing out earlier and holding their leaves longer, they out-compete native plants for nutrients, light and moisture, thus degrading wildlife habitat and changing soil hydrology. This displaces critical food chain components, especially for invertebrates in marshy areas.
More information may be found through the Oakland County CISMA group.
CommonBuckthorn1_517364_7; Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org
12 Parks and Recreation Newsletter July - August 2020 www.oaklandtownship.org
Natural Areas Stewardship Volunteers: Kathleen Dougher ty, Louise Har tung, Tom Korb, Cam Mannino, Laurie Peklo, Donna Perkins, Jon Reed, Stacey Smith,
Recreation Volunteers at Winter Carnival! Emily Barkham, Cathy Rooney, Hank Van Agen, Annalia Schoenherr
Support your local businesses. They will support you! Thank you to our local Oakland
Township Hungry Howie’s, 4930 Adams Road, for being a generous sponsor of Oakland Township Parks and Recreation’s annual Winter Carnival five years running. Hungry Howie’s store manager, Narune Phach, and his team provided free pizza to approximately 675 hungry festival goers throughout the event. We sincerely appreciate your continued support!
Thank You! Thanks to our
Volunteers and Donors!
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13 Parks and Recreation Newsletter July - August 2020 www.oaklandtownship.org
Cranberry Lake Farm is open for your enjoyment, relaxation, and exercise. Walk the grounds and see the treasures on display with old implements, stone barbeques, picnic areas, and historic surroundings. Located at 388 West Predmore Road in northern Oakland Township. The sixteen acre historic district is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and represents a rural farmstead’s evolution into a recreational retreat.
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Watch for the Plein Air painter’s sharing their creative talents from painting the landscapes at the farm. Watercolor of the Hen House and Hatchling House courtesy of Janet Almstadt-Davison.
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The Bee programs are on a temporary hold. There are bee swarms set up to attract the bees and when they are ready to capture, we will email anyone interested. Leave contact info [email protected].
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Calling all gardeners Friday June 26, 2020 11am to 12:30pm for a fun-filled program / tour learning about volunteer recruitment ideas for the farmstead. Our Farm is Your Farm, and your ideas will help us manage the community historical center to cherish for future generations. Cancelled if raining. Please RSVP to above contact information.
Cranberry Lake Farm—A historic park, at your fingertips—sanitized please!
Cranberry Lake Farm Historic District
A community historical center - work in progress for you. Come out to the farm! For more information contact the Historic District Commission office 248-608-6807
Check the website www.oaklandtownship.org or Facebook: Cranberry Lake Farm Historic District
Photo Credit of the Flumerfelt Barn by
Jennifer Hawley Photography on Facebook.
14 Parks and Recreation Newsletter July - August 2020 www.oaklandtownship.org
We know that the birds love Lost Lake and we know that the fish and the turtles do too. Have you ever
wondered what other interesting creatures and critters make Lost Lake their home? Let’s take just one
example…one of my absolute favorites from my childhood spent growing up with a pond in my backyard here
in Oakland Township…the water strider!
I have always been fascinated by these alien looking insects that so easily travers the surface of the water.
Some people think that water striders are spiders since they clearly share a similar body shape. Water striders
are actually true insects from the infraorder Gerromorpha. What makes this group of insects unique? They are
known as semiaquatic because they spend most of their days on the surface and shores of the water. What is
even more cool is how these insects get around. They are called ꞌskatersꞌ (ꞌslow walkers on surface filmꞌ for
those who want to be very specific) in that they can scoot across the surface of the water. How the heck do they
pull off this cool trick?
To understand how they walk on the water, we also have to understand the idea of
surface tension. While we may not think about it much, water does have a skin on top of
it that is created by the attraction of the molecules to each other – particularly where
exposed to air. You can observe this phenomenon by filling a glass full of water. Once
you think it is full, try slowly adding more and more water. Eventually you will see that
you can actually make the level of the water at the center of the glass higher than the
edge of the glass itself…the surface tension will keep the water from simply pouring
over the side of the glass. Cool eh? This tension provides a surface for our water strider
to successfully walk. Water striders have three pairs of legs. Their front and middle
legs are covered in water repellent velvety hairs. These hairs are
covered in tiny grooves that serve to trap air making strider buoyant. They use the air
trapped by their leg hairs to help keep them afloat on the surface of the water. Also
notice the shape of the strider with their long legs that stretch out around them. This
shape helps to spread their body weight out over a greater area. They are so efficient at
this trick that it has been estimated that they can support up to 15 times their body
weight and still say afloat! On the other hand, if their legs slip below the surface of the
water it can be very difficult for them to recover (remember that surface tension only
exists on the surface of the water).
Life for the water strider doesn’t start off this way though. Like other insects, the undergo a complex life cycle.
Courtship for water striders is not the most romantic of affairs. The male taps the surface
of the water…this tapping is attractive to predators. Why would the males do this? The
females have a protective shield that guards against mating…it is thought that she is
motivated to not use this shield and allow the male to mate so that he will stop the predator
attracting tapping. Definitely NOT material for a romance novel. Eggs are laid by the
female strider on the surface of rocks and emergent aquatic vegetation in and at the edge of
the water. After the eggs hatch the nymphs look like tiny versions of adults and will
undergo multiple rounds of this stage. Eventually they have a final molt and emerge as
mature adults capable of reproducing. The fancy term for all of this is ꞌincomplete metamorphosisꞌ.
Striding on the Surface
By: Sue M. Neal, Executive Director, Dinosaur Hill Nature Preserve
Surface tension-paperclip floating; By Howard Perlman, USGS. Public domain.
Water Strider Molting; bugguide.net; Image © 2017 Kim Fleming
Water Striders Mating; wikiwand.com; Gerridae
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15 Parks and Recreation Newsletter July - August 2020 www.oaklandtownship.org
Hungry water striders are efficient hunters. First, they move extremely fast. If you extrapolate their rate of
travel relative to their side, an adult male would have to swim at about 400 mph to match the speed of a strider.
They use their front legs to capture mosquito larvae and other insects that accidentally
fall in to the water. The struggling insects make ripples on the surface of the water that
the water strider senses and follows. They sometimes even respond in packs. The prey
are subdued and the water strider uses a hollow, straw-like mouthpart which pierces the
insect or larvae and sucks out all of the juicy nutrients. Striders are also food for
hungry birds which pluck them off the surface of the water but, oddly enough, fish
don’t them to be very appetizing!
Water striders play a key role in the ecosystem of many of our
ponds, vernal ponds and small lakes here in Oakland Township.
They keep mosquito populations in check, provide food for the birds and are super fun to
watch. Scientists are studying the composition of their legs to see if they can learn some
of the secrets of the water repellent nature of their hairy legs. These guys can even fly
(some generations are born with wings through a process known as polymorphism)
sometimes. This helps them find new ponds where they attracted by the reflective surface
of the water. That explains why you can find striders in some pretty surprising areas of
standing water. I hope that the next time you spot one of these fascinating critters that
you will stop and take some time to watch them as they speed around the surface of the
water. Lost Lake is one great place to observe these as well as many other cool pond
critters!
Check out the Nature Center Pond Dipping Open House on page 8 to get a fist hand look at all of the cool
things in the water at Lost Lake.
Here are a few good resources to learn more about water striders:
https://www.nwf.org/Educational-Resources/Wildlife-Guide/Invertebrates/Water-
Striders
https://bugguide.net/node/view/163
https://www.sciencebuddies.org/stem-activities/build-a-water-strider
https://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Wikijunior:Bugs/Pondskater/Water_Strider
https://phys.org/news/2015-07-legs-striders-repel.html
http://soft-matter.seas.harvard.edu/index.php/
The_hydrodynamics_of_water_strider_locomotion
Striding on the Surface
By: Sue M. Neal, Executive Director, Dinosaur Hill Nature Preserve
Water strider diagram by Sheri Amsel; www.exploringnature.org
Water Striders Eating Honeybee; wikiwand.com; Gerridae
Water Strider Group; wikiwand.com; Gerridae
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16 Parks and Recreation Newsletter July - August 2020 www.oaklandtownship.org
New Trail Signage Coming Soon
In 2018, the Paint Creek Trailways Commission received a $25,000 Iron Belle Trail mini-grant from the
Michigan Department of Natural Resources to update signage along the trail. Later this year, new gateway,
kiosk, and wayfinding signage will be added to the trail replacing signage that in some cases is over thirty years
old. The signs will include the trail’s newly redesigned logo as well as the Iron Belle Trail logo. The Paint Creek
Trail is part of the Iron Belle’s biking route, which travels up the east side of the state. The new kiosks will
include an updated map highlighting trail amenities, local points of interest, Iron Belle Trail connections, and
the new trail extension into downtown Lake Orion. The new signage is being fabricated by the Rochester Sign
Shop in downtown Rochester and will be installed this summer or early fall.
Paint Creek Trailways Commission Unveils New Logo
As part of the Iron Belle Trail mini-grant, the Commission worked with the Lansing-based consulting firm
Landscape Architects & Planners, Inc. to develop designs for the new trail signage as well as update its logo.
The new design is similar in concept to the previous logo but has a fresh modern aesthetic to it. As in its
previous iteration, the logo includes a cross-country skier, cyclist, equestrian, and hiker representing the diverse
users who enjoy the trail year-round. In the latest version, the cyclist is now seen carrying a fishing pole to
symbolize the many anglers who utilize the trail to access the Paint Creek. The new logo is intended to better
define the Paint Creek Trail’s brand, serve as an effective identity of the Trail, and to better promote the Trail’s
mission “to provide trail users a natural, scenic, and educational recreation experience while preserving the
ecological integrity of the Paint Creek Trail for the enjoyment of present and future generations”.
Paint Creek Trail News By Melissa Ford, Trail Manager [email protected]
Thank you to the crews who worked so hard to remove downed trees on the trail after June 10 th storm!
facebook.com/PaintCreekTrail twitter.com/PaintCreekTrail PaintCreekTrail.org
17 Parks and Recreation Newsletter July - August 2020 www.oaklandtownship.org
Join us for a scavenger hunt on the Paint Creek Trail - or even start in your own backyard.
Younger children can look for the simple items, older kids can dive into greater detail with
particular plants, animals or natural features. Remind kids to leave no trace, be sure to
leave treasures behind. Perhaps take photos of each item as you go.
By Color
□ Something brown
□ Something green
□ Something blue
□ Something yellow
□ Something red
By Touch
□ Something smooth
□ Something bumpy
□ Something slippery
□ Something prickly
□ Something fluffy
Things to Find
□ Little rock
□ Big rock
□ Pine Cone
□ Acorn
□ Bird’s nest
□ Bark
□ Leaf
□ Berry
□ Moss
Michigan Native Plants
□ Wildflowers
□ Prairie grass
□ Prairie flowers
□ Oak Trees
Michigan Animals
□ Deer
□ Owl
□ Snake
□ Frog
□ Turtle
□ Rabbit
□ Squirrel
□ Dragonfly
□ Butterfly
□ Robin
□ Cardinal
□ Fish
□ Animal Tracks
18 Parks and Recreation Newsletter July - August 2020 www.oaklandtownship.org
Check out our new
interactive park map!
https://bit.ly/3g0GaRs
19 Parks and Recreation Newsletter July - August 2020 www.oaklandtownship.org
Oakland Township resident registration starts NOW! Non-resident registration begins one week prior to the program registration deadline date.
Registration Options:
1. Register online at https://oaklandtownship.recdesk.com with a credit card (MasterCard, Visa, or Discover). For Cash or Check see options 2 and 3.
2. Fill out the form below and both a program release of liability waiver and a COVID-19 waiver for each participant, and drop in the drop-box at Township Hall, (4393 Collins Rd.) or mail to address below at your convenience. (Two waivers are needed for each person and each program. Find liability waivers at www.oaklandtownship.org, go to Township Departments, click on Parks and Recreation, click on Programs and scroll to the waivers that you need in center of page.)
Make checks payable to “Oakland Township Parks and Recreation ” and include with registration form and both signed waivers for each participant and address to: Oakland Township Parks and Recreation, 4393 Collins Rd., Rochester, MI 48306
3. Visit us at our office location to register in person. Credit cards (MasterCard, Visa, or Discover) Cash or Check. Paint Creek Cider Mill Bldg. (2nd Floor) 4480 Orion Rd, Rochester, MI 48306 Office Hours: Monday –Friday 10am - 2pm
Adult’s Name:
Address:
City/Zip: Emergency phone:
Home Phone: Cell Phone:
E-Mail Address:
(Circle one): Oakland Twp. Resident Non-Resident
(You pay taxes & vote in Resident Community)
Enrollee’s Name: Age (if child):
Program Name: Date and Time:
Program Name: Date and Time:
Amount Due:
Oakland Township Parks and Recreation Online Registration Available!
Additional registration forms and waivers are available to print from the park pages
at www.oaklandtownship.org
Oakland Township Parks and Recreation 4393 Collins Rd., Rochester, MI 48306
Online Registration Now Available!
Colin Choi, Chairman
Hank Van Agen, Vice Chairperson
Craig Blust, Treasurer
Emily Barkham, Secretary
Dan Bukowski, Commissioner
Cathy Rooney, Commissioner
Dan Simon, Commissioner
The Parks & Recreation Commission meets at 7 pm on the second Wednesday of every month in the Township Hall Boardroom. Please see www.oaklandtownship.org for meeting agendas and packets.
Office Hours and Location
Park permits, maps and descriptions are available at the Parks and Recreation Department office, located on the second floor of the Paint Creek Cider Mill, 4480 Orion Road. Check Parks & Recreation page at www.oaklandtownship.org for office hours.
Commission Meetings
Parks and Recreation Commission
Charter Township of Oakland
4393 Collins Road
Rochester, MI 48306-1670
Phone: (248) 651-7810
Fax: (248) 601-0106
www.oaklandtownship.org
Seal designed by Richard Krupp
PRESORTED
STANDARD
US POSTAGE PAID
ROCHESTER, MI
PERMIT NO 73
Parks and Recreation Commissioners
Parks and Recreation Director Melinda Milos-Dale Administrative Assistant Carol Kasprzak Clerical Assistant Deb Gallo Recreation Manager Becky McLogan
Recreation Program Assistant Julie Schoenherr Maintenance Foreman Doug Caruso Maintenance Technician Jeff Johnson Natural Areas Stewardship Manager Dr. Ben VanderWeide Stewardship Specialist Grant VanderLaan Maintenance and Recreation Staff Clif Selent, Robert Zbytowski
Oakland Township Parks and Recreation Staff
Oakland Township Park Rules are enforced by the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office.
FOR EMERGENCIES CALL 911
If you have information or questions concerning a reported crime or accident, call the substation at 248-652-4617 Monday-Friday, 8 am-4 pm. All other calls please use dispatch at 248-858-4950.