Thomas Township is developing the 67-acre island preserve and the building at 6660 Gratiot Road into The Thomas Township Nature Center and Preserve.
Thomas Township acquired the preserve area in the mid-2000s, and the nature center building in 2018. Locals will remember the old Hidden Hollow Lounge, Restaurant and Golf Course that was built in 1968 or maybe the Heritage Insurance Agency.
Since then, we’ve been busy. We’ve raised a lot of funds from a variety of sources (almost $3 million so far), we have worked with several nature experts that have given invaluable guidance, we have formulated concept plans for the Nature Center and Preserve based on that guidance, and we’ve put in a lot of heart and soul (and some elbow grease) to ensure the success of this project. Here are the concept plans for what the public can expect in the years to come after the Thomas Township Nature Center and Preserve opens.
The Nature Preserve Concept Plan is to plant a variety of native plants that can thrive in a full-sun floodplain that will provide food sources and habitat areas for a variety of wildlife. Invasive species will be managed, especially Siberian Elm and Buckthorn (the first wave of removal has 
happened as you may have noticed the tree removal by the building). Trails will be woven through the planting areas, and a 1.3-mile trail along the berm with observation areas will allow visitors to observe the natural world. The proposed planting areas include a floodplain forest, a shore-bird area, a sunflower meadow, a floodplain prairie, a children’s interactive area, a pollinator garden, and a serenity garden. The trails will be for human hiking only. No bikes, other vehicles, or pets are allowed in order to protect the wildlife habitat areas. We have learned a lot about farming and planting this year and hope that coming years show a lot more growth.
The Nature Center Concept Plan includes interactive displays of local history, science-based displays and activities, a habitat area that will highlight the contents of the preserve, indoor observation areas, a small meeting space, a small kitchen area, and restrooms. Programs for nature lovers of all ages and community events will be offered.
We welcome nature enthusiasts of all ages. It will take a few years to fully develop the concept plans, but we are making great progress, and are thankful for all the support and assistance we have received so far. Teamwork makes the dream work! If you would like more information about the development of the Thomas Township Nature Center and Preserve please contact me, Lynda Thayer, at naturecenter1@thomastwp.org, call the nature center phone at (989) 245-0801 or call the Thomas Township Parks Office at 781-0151.