My Role: Lead Landscape Architect and Project Manager
Client: Ottawa County Parks, Michigan
Project Cost: $2.3 million
Funding Source: Michigan Department of Natural Resources Trust Fund, County General Fund

Scope of Work

Rosy Mound Natural Area was an undeveloped property previously owned by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. The property was leased to Ottawa County for $1 with the understanding that the property would be developed as a low impact community park and would serve as a place for public beach dune and beach access. The classic rolling beach ecosystem includes high wooded dunes, foredunes, beach and beach blowouts that traverse the 164 acre site along Lake Michigan.

To create responsible access to this largely untouched natural area, we created 2.2 miles of nature trail, stairs, overlooks, and boardwalks bridging over dune ravines. We created signage that interprets the dune ecosystems and two threatened endangered species. An accessible multi-purpose trail linked to the Ottawa County trail along Lakeshore Drive make it easy for non-vehicle traffic to reach the park. Bicycle parking, and picnic grounds were also included in the design to complete the user experience. Barrier free parking and trails were woven into the design of the park where appropriate. We established public restrooms at both the trail head and at the beach for year round use. Working with the architects, we also created a landmark shade structure that gives the park its unique and memorable characteristic.

Unique Circumstances

The unique beauty of this park property presented itself as both a delight and construction challenge.

• To reduce construction impact on the blowout area, we brought in building materials by barge from Lake Michigan.

• Since we would be building around and through some delicate landscapes, we acquired a Michigan Department of Environmental Quality Critical Dune Permit prior to construction.

• Very minimal tree trimming and removal were necessary with the careful placement of site elements to respect the ecology and threatened endangered species present in the area.

Results

The end product demonstrates how development is possible on an ecologically sensitive property when you balance human desires with the natural resources. As intended, park users would not recognize that there were any disturbances to the environment as a result of development. Rosy Mound is one of Ottawa County’s most treasured park destinations that creates lasting memories for locals and visitors alike for year round enjoyment.