ASTI Works With Six Rivers on Land Conservation Project

In 2020, ASTI was retained by Six Rivers Regional Land Conservancy to conduct a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) of four parcels of land on Lake George Road in Oakland Township, Michigan for purchase with funding from the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF). These parcels contain three residences, span 244 acres, and were formerly used as farmland and orchard areas. This 244-acre property stood out as a desirable property to acquire for conservation due to its one-of-a-kind natural features, proximity to an existing park (Lost Lakes Nature Park), proximity to a school (Oakview Middle School), its accessibility by local residents and school children, and the potential for amenities for park visitors.

The Oakland Township Lost Lake Nature Park Expansion property was found to have natural features considered “rare” and “irreplaceable” by DNR standards. These features include 281 observed plant species, black spruce bog, prairie fen, oak woodland, rich tamarack swamp, forested wetlands, and open fields. The plan is to create a park with a four-mile trail system connecting to Lost Lake with access to Stony Creek and multiple other lakes. Access to Clam Lake, Green Lake, Tamarack Lake, the West Branch of Stony Creek, and Black Spruce Bog is also planned. The project will offer many environmental benefits and amenities for Oakland Township residents to enjoy. There will be ecological links to the existing Lost Lake Nature Park, Addison Oaks Park, and Bald Mountain State Recreation Area. This project will also help to protect the West Branch of Stony Creek, Clam Lake, water resources, and sensitive habitats. Hiking, wildlife observation, hunting, and nature programs will also be offered.

Six River Regional Land Conservancy’s Conservation Vision is dynamic and multifaceted. Not only do they work to conserve natural areas, rivers, lakes, and wetlands, but they work to conserve lands that support local heritages as well. This Phase I ESA is one of several that ASTI Environmental has worked with Six Rivers Regional Land Conservancy to complete over the years as we not only support new development and brownfield redevelopment through our Phase I ESAs, but also assist with land preservation initiatives throughout Southeast Michigan.