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G RAND ME RE ACEG-S0= Or Cd, AT el 0 SN
Box 140
Stevensville, Michigan

 

St. Joseph
Dune characteristics, previous ”
shorelines and the developmental
status of the three lakes record
the natural history of Grand Mere
from the last glacial period some

14,000 years ago.

  
   

Grand Mere lakes provide ex- g ville
cellent habitat for migrating ducks
coots, gallinules, herons and var-
ious other water birds, in addit-
ion to warblers, thrushes, fly-
catchers, vireos,sparrows , finches
and many more. Dozens of species
of birds actually nest in the area,
It is home also to raccoon, fox, Ay
opossum, deer, squirrel and other y
mammals whose natural habitat be- s

  
     
 
  

South

Lake
comes more scarce with every pass- (Cranberry
ing year. Bog)

The area is rich in botanical
life - unusual mosses, ferns in
variety, countless wildflowers in-

        
           
     

 

 

cluding xvare native orchids, dune
grasses, vines, shrubs and trees ~ pune Wooded |
the total species numbering in the - ye
hundreds. =
Lowland |
Beautiful dunes and magnifi- <= | uv
cent beaches create one of the out- Gilio bri Bridgman
standing scenic wonders in S$, W: gee
Michigan.

A varied topography makes Grand Mere ideal as a unit for public enjoyment and
education. Hiking, camping, swimming, and a number of other outdoor activities
are possible, in addition to research study areas and wildlife sanctuary sites set
aside to preserve the biological values.

If the owner's’ proposal to industrialize and commercialize Grand Mere proceeds,
the dunes will be removed, the lowland filled, and at some nebulous point in the
future commercialization begun. It has been estimated that it will take 15 years
to level the dunes, during which time the area will be in the state of chaos now
existing at previous sand mining operations along I 94 and Red Arrow Highway. Large
areas denuded of trees and protective vegetation that stabilized the sand - the en-
tire site a wasteland! The time has passed when our natural resources are no longer
a matter for public concern. We must act NOW to preserve unique natural areas such
as Grand Mere for our children and future generations to enjoy - as we have enjoyed

them.