Seven Mile Point Closed To Public, Over 1,200 Acres Of Woodland Added To Gratiot River Conservation Area

Spring is finally here, and many outdoor enthusiasts are itching to get out into nature.

The Keweenaw Natural Areas board released updates on some publicly accessible land.

After long deliberation, Seven Mile Point is no longer open to the public, even on a limited basis. The area has been handed over to a private sanctuary group, who will keep the land undeveloped and protect the habitats and species occupying the area.

Ultimately, Keweenaw Natural Areas could not raise the funds to continue the monthly payments, or find grants to keep the land.

In terms of good news, the KNA received donor-directed funding to add to the Gratiot River Conservation Area, including another small parcel containing more of the river, and 1,220 acres of woodlands and several small creeks, including Hills Creek.

All land is contiguous with existing Natural Areas.

We will update you on details about the formal opening of the area, which as of now is expected to be announced for the late summer.

The final funding for the Missing Linkage project that was announced in 2021 will finally arrive.

Including other parcels, there will now be nearly 2 miles of permanently protected beach access.