DNR seeks input on Yankee Springs Recreation Area management plan

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 31, 2015

Contact: Andru Jevicks, 269-795-9081


DNR seeks public input on Yankee Springs Recreation Area management plan

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources recently announced it is seeking public input on a new General Management Plan to guide the future of Yankee Springs Recreation Area (Barry County). People are invited to share their opinions and ideas through an online survey, available through May 7 at www.surveymonkey.com/s/Yankee_Springs_Recreation_Area.

Yankee Springs Recreation Area is a 5,200-acre park that provides many forms of recreation, as well as important wildlife habitat and geological formations such as the Devil’s Soupbowl. Recreation opportunities and resources include modern and rustic camping, rustic cabins, hiking, mountain biking, equestrian and cross-country ski trails, swimming, fishing, boating and hunting. Learn more about the park at www.michigan.gov/yankeesprings. Camping reservations are available at www.midnrreservations.com.

“Public input is an important part of the planning process for Yankee Springs Recreation Area” said DNR park management plan administrator Debbie Jensen. “Through this survey we want to learn more about public-use patterns, users' likes and dislikes, and any improvements people would like to see in the future.”

The General Management Plan for Yankee Springs Recreation Area defines a long-range (10-20 years) planning and management strategy that will assist the DNR Parks and Recreation Division in meeting its responsibilities to 1) protect and preserve the site’s natural and cultural resources, and 2) provide access to land- and water-based public recreation and educational opportunities.

This survey is the first of several opportunities for the public and stakeholders to be involved in the planning process. The DNR also will host a public open house later this year, providing an opportunity for review and comment on the draft plan.

Additional information on the DNR’s General Management Plan process is available at www.michigan.gov/parkmanagementplans.

For more information about the Yankee Springs Recreation Area survey or the proposed plan, contact Park Supervisor Andru Jevicks at 269-795-9081 (TTY/TDD711 Michigan Relay Center for the hearing impaired) or via email at JevicksA@michigan.gov.