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| NPS |
| Ranger Peg Burman identifies migratory birds in the park. |
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Date: March 18, 2009
Contact: Lisa Myers, 231-326-5134
Whether a new or frequent visitor, spring is an excellent time to enjoy Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Detect glacial remains. Observe the winter-bound and migratory waterfowl. Discover the history of hidden farms. Join a park ranger as they share some of their favorite places during “Saturdays at the Lakeshore” in April.
Every Saturday afternoon at 1:00 p.m., a park ranger awaits you at the Visitor Center in Empire off of M-72 to introduce a topic and then lead a car caravan a short distance to where the walk will begin. Each week, a park ranger features a different topic and location.
April 4- The Great Melt Down –The melting of the winter snowpack provides an opportunity to travel back in time and investigate the melting of the great continental glaciers. Scientists have called Sleeping Bear Dunes, “The most complete record of glacial history preserved in the National Park Service.” Let the sands, rocks, and topography reveal the very foundation of the Lakeshore.
April 11 - Wonderful Waterfowl – Some birds have been here all winter and some are just returning, but all are wonderful! Spend some time viewing the Lakeshore’s ducks, geese, and swans. Learn their names and habits. If you have binoculars, bring them along, but the Lakeshore will also have pairs to loan.
April 18– A Hidden Treat –Just as wildflowers and wildlife emerge after tough Northern Michigan winters, so too did the early settlers. Discover a hidden 1880s farm and appreciate the hardships and life of farming settlers.
April 25- National Junior Ranger Day! – Special morning and afternoon activities for everyone to earn their Junior Ranger badge. Details on this and other National Park Week celebration events will be announced separately.
Participants need only purchase the park entrance pass or have an annual pass to join in the fun. Reservations are not required, but are suggested if you wish to bring a group. Please call 231-326-5134, extension 328, for details.
