Jack and Tucker Harris Working Forest Reserve
All dogs must be on a leash!
And please clean up after your pooches while using the trails. Learn More
Size
640 acres
Frontage
1,500 feet along the Pigeon River, more than a mile along Wilkes Creek.
Land Description
This magnificent property lies within the Pigeon River Watershed and adjacent to the north and east ends of the Robert VanCampen / Helmers Dam Nature Preserve. It offers many different uplands and lowland habitat types and provides excellent wildlife habitat for many species. Plans include helping the land recover from overgrazing and the spread of invasive species. A combination of lowland conifers, mixed northern hardwoods, upland pine and aspen, and large openings exist.
Trail Description
A trail is in progress from the parking area to take visitors toward the beautiful wetlands and Pigeon River watershed.
History
An old farm homestead, this preserve was purchased from the Velma Varity estate with funding from Jack and Tucker Harris. The land was farmed for decades, and the primary homestead had fallen into disrepair. More than a dozen 40-yard dumpsters full of trash were removed from the property with volunteer and staff efforts.
Directions
ADDRESS: 7568 Montgomery Road, Afton, MI 49705 - From Indian River, take M-68 southeast for 8 miles and then turn right on Montgomery Road. Follow Montgomery Road 3 miles just past the Brasseur Road intersection. The Reserve will be on your right.
Check out the plants and animals found at this preserve using the iNaturalist guide below. Help us document more with iNaturalist.org and eBird.org.
