Stewart Farm on Harsens Island

Today our excursion desires led us to Harsens Island to explore Stewart Farm, a Michigan Historical Site. Dating back to 1815, it is the oldest operating farm on the island owing its name to the original owner, New Yorker Harvey Stewart. He married the granddaughter of Jacob Harsen, who had settled on the island in the 1700's. Owner Bob Williams invited the public today to walk the mowed paths in his 53 acre woodlands and meadow paradise to view the birds, wildlife and the gorgeous array of wildflowers.

Pointe Mouillee Wildlife Refuge

They call Pointe Mouillee a spit of a piece of land in Monroe County near Rockford.  It's a long skinny finger that juts out into Lake Erie that is great for birders, joggers, bikers and hikers. The French fur trappers named it, meaning Wet Point. The whole area consists of 4000 acres and the US Army Corps of engineers have built dikes to help preserve the wetlands for the huge migrations of fowl that use this area.  The 65th annual Waterfowl Festival takes place September 8-9 here where you'll find hip boot races, duck and goose calling contests as well as beautiful wildlife art displays and duck carvings.

Change our state bird to the chickadee?

The tiny black-capped chickadee is a bird that lives year round in Michigan and has often been bantered about as the winged creature that should represent our state, rather than the robin which flees south at the first hint of frost. The robin was chosen in 1931.  It's hard to reverse a ruling that has been standing 72 years. But, that little chickadee sure is cute.

Negwegon State Park near Black River

Like dummies, we ventured into Negwegon State Park near the town of Black River, without any background information. We found out afterwards that 4-wheel drive vehicles are recommended.  Not too many visitors venture into this vast wilderness on Lake Huron.  We almost got stuck in the sandy road approaches and probably would have been marooned there for some time. But, hey, we love adventures and this natural, serene park is a gem just waiting to be explored! Not only are there eight miles of sandy beaches, four rustic campsites, 12 miles of foot trails (one of which is the old stagecoach path from Harrisville to Alpena) amidst its 3700 acres, but we hear tell there is an ancient 5,000 year old stone wall within the park and indian burial grounds.  Look for the endangered Pitcher's thistle while hiking here, as well as the Hines emerald dragonfly and it's a paradise for birders and kayakers. The park was named after the Chief of the Chippewa tribe who hunted and fished here. The boulder's plaque is in honor of C. Hazlett Kramer, humanitarian and conservationist.

Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge

" National Wildlife Refuge" this exit was all it took to make us detour off I-75. We are so happy we did. The Refuge has over 9600 acres of marsh, bottomland hardwood, grasslands and agricultural lands that are protected. The refuge has walking trails where you can see up to 250 species of bird. There is a driving trail for all of you that do not like to leave your car. All this and knowledge staff to guide you on your way and answer questions. The driving trail is temporarily closed due to Bald Eagles nesting near the roadside. What a great find! Can't wait to go back.