“In keeping with guidance from CDC and the State of Michigan, the grand opening of the John D. Dingell Jr. Visitor Center scheduled for May 9th, 2020, is postponed until further notice.”
A new regional asset to enjoy on the Detroit River
This was not a huge surprise, but I had planned to attend the grand opening at the Refuge Gateway Property at the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge and was really looking forward to it.
Despite the temporary disappointment that the Visitor Center and programming must remain closed for now, the refuge is a wonderful place to walk, bike, fish, or just sit and watch the river. This is why I took the earliest opportunity to visit after it opened on October 1 in limited capacity for self-guided recreation.
The Wildlife Refuge is a true gem. Established in 2001 as a result of bi-national efforts from elected leaders (including the late Congressman John Dingell), conservation leaders, and local communities, this regional asset exists to build a sustainable future for the Detroit River and western Lake Erie ecosystems. I felt tremendous pride as I visited the refuge with my family and reflected on the role of the Metropolitan Affairs Coalition (MAC) and SEMCOG in establishing this unique regional asset.
MAC was a key partner in American Heritage River Initiative activities for more than a decade, leveraging more than $45 million for environmental and habitat improvements along the river. MAC also served as fiduciary and helped facilitate construction of the Visitor Center at the Refuge Gateway that today provides fishing, nature tourism, and conservation-based learning experiences.
SEMCOG has ensured federal funding secured for the Wildlife Refuge is available for its intended purpose. Recent action by SEMCOG includes approval of funding for acquisition of additional land for wetland mitigation and habitat restoration.
For more information and to plan your visit to the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge, visit https://www.fws.gov/refuge/detroit_river/
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