Nature-based placemaking has multiple benefits, protecting wildlife habitats and natural resources while enhancing our well-being and quality of life. Passively observing the sights and sounds of nature, taking a hike, fishing, or kayaking can all relieve us of the everyday hustle and bustle of our lives.
The Detroit International Wildlife Refuge is the perfect place to explore nature and unwind. The area includes islands, coastal wetlands, marshes, and waterfront lands along the Detroit River in the City of Trenton. SEMCOG members recently took a tour, experience a place that boasts natural beauty and a unique history.
In 2001, Congress established the refuge as a result of efforts by U.S. and Canadian politicians, conservation leaders and local communities to build a sustainable future for the Detroit River and western Lake Erie ecosystems. In recognition of this collaboration, the refuge was given international status, making it the first and only of its kind in North America, right here in Southeast Michigan.
Let’s Take a Tour Wildlife Refuge Gateway and Visitor Center
We started our visit at the Refuge Gateway area adjacent to Humbug Marsh. This 44-acre industrial brownfield was the home of a Chrysler automotive plant until 1990. Today it is mostly owned by Wayne County, except for four acres owned by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service where the John D. Dingell Jr. Visitor Center is located. The impressive visitor center is a “green” LEED certified building with interactive displays, classrooms, and a gift shop.
Humbug Marsh
We took a walk along trails to Humbug Marsh, a 405.16-acre area on the lower Detroit River – a hotspot of nature surrounded by an urban landscape. In 2004, the property was purchased by the refuge after a group of local supporters stopped development that would have forever changed the face of the river and the surrounding area. In 2010, Humbug Marsh was designated as Michigan’s first Wetland of International Importance. The area is mostly forested with some areas that were clear-cut in 1998. The beautiful coastal wetland has a variety of native grasses, cattail, and invasive phragmites. It provides habitat for a number of species, including a variety of migrating birds. It also serves as a spawning and nursery for many native fish species. We were fortunate to see a group of swans basking in the sun!
Fishing Pier
We passed people relaxing at picnic tables, walking their dogs, and launching kayaks as we made our way to the busy fishing pier. The International Wildlife Refuge Alliance helped raise $3.5 million to build the impressive 740-foot-long fishing pier and boat dock. This area of the Detroit River has diverse fish species and is world famous as part of the “Walleye Capital of the World.” The new dock will host the Michigan Sea Grant school ship to make use of the river and refuge as an educational laboratory for school children around the region. The view of the Detroit River is fantastic!
Natural areas provide many benefits including wildlife protection and recreational opportunities. The Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge is a great place to explore and unwind. Thank you to the refuge staff and the City of Trenton for a wonderful tour.
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