Nicholson Nature Center
There’s a secret hideout in Clinton Township that local and county officials hope will be discovered by residents near and far for the foreseeable future.
On Sept. 18, the James B. and Ann V. Nicholson Nature Center Floodplain Conservation Easement was rededicated to recognize a partnership between Clinton Township and Macomb County — a brand-new start for preservation, access and peace of mind.
It is the first county-owned property to contain a conservation easement.
The township entered into a shared maintenance and operations agreement with the county in May after being approached by Macomb County Public Works Commissioner Candice Miller. Since the land was rarely utilized, the township saw an opening to take over the property, located at 21417 Dunham Road, behind the Macomb County Public Works Office.
In 2009, the Nicholson benefactors donated $150,000 to protect the sprawling 33-acre easement that contains numerous species of plants and trees, as well as an array of wildlife, such as whitetail deer, foxes, raccoons, rabbits, blue herons and other birds.
It is probably one of the most beautiful parks that we have in Macomb County, and yet it has been sort of a hidden secret here — sort of a wonderful jewel that needs people to even understand that it’s back here.
Along with the conservation aspects, an on-site pavilion can be booked through the township for youth and charitable groups and the like.
There are some very nice trails to walk and enjoy nature. Bathrooms are seasonal.