GRAND HAVEN, Mich. -- Ottawa County Parks & Recreation says the recent acquisition of 127 acres of coastal greenway in Grand Haven nearly doubles the size of the Rosy Mound Natural Area.
The property is now 291 acres. The expansion was funded with about $3.29 million in grants from the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund. And also, through a donation by the landowner, money from the Ottawa County Parks Foundation and the Ottawa County Parks millage.
Here are more details from an Ottawa County Parks & Recreation Commission news release:
A significant milestone has been reached with the acquisition of the Rosy Mound Expansion property, finalized on December 20, 2024. This 127-acre acquisition nearly doubles the size of Rosy Mound Natural Area to 291 acres, completing a vision that has been in place since 1989. This acquisition was funded with $3.29 million in grants from the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF), a significant donation of value by the landowner, funding from the Ottawa County Parks Foundation (OCPF), and the Ottawa County Parks millage. This expansion is a critical step in achieving our vision of creating a connected system of natural communities for public enjoyment.
"This acquisition represents our commitment to providing high quality natural resources and recreational opportunities to residents and visitors of Ottawa County while ensuring that this beautiful coastal dune ecosystem thrives for generations to come. This would not be possible without the MNRTF, the generosity of the landowner, donors to the OCPF, and the residents of Ottawa County." - OCPRC Director, Jason Shamblin
The upcoming 2024 Master Plan update for Rosy Mound will integrate this new expansion area, focusing on ecological enhancements and improved visitor access. The preliminary plan calls for recreational improvements on only 2.5% of the expansion area, ensuring that 97.5% of the land remains in its natural state or receives ecological enhancements. Proposed features include paved parking, picnic spots, and an expanded trail system.