Christopher Burnett and a participant look at a wildflowers plant identification book. The Upper Peninsula Land Conservancy hosted a Wildflower Hike at the Chocolay Bayou Nature Preserve Saturday morning. UPLC Executive Director Christopher Burnett guided participants through the newly created nature and recreational area pointing out native and non-native plant species. (Journal photo by Corey Kelly)

MARQUETTE — The Upper Peninsula Land Conservancy hosted a Wildflower Hike at the Chocolay Bayou Nature Preserve Saturday morning.

UPLC Executive Director Christopher Burnett guided participants through the newly created nature and recreational area, pointing out native and non-native plant species.

The 15-acre parcel is home to a diverse range of wildlife and is accessible from the Welcome Center and the Iron Ore Heritage Trail.

“It’s a recreational sight and wildlife habitat. It is so close to town and is important to waterfowl and other bird species,” Burnett said.

In 2016 UPLC and more than 150 local organizations, businesses, and foundations worked together to raise $165,000 to purchase the property. Since then, the preserve has come under the management of the UPLC. The organization has developed trails, built a boardwalk and erected interpretive signs designed by Northern Michigan University’s Center For Native American Studies in the preserve.

Burnett and the rest of the UPLC team are working on other features to add to the visitors’ experience. Plans include a floating dock on the bayou, a small parking area off of Main Street, and better signage from the road.

“We recently received a CUPPAD grant to get a sign on Main Street and bike racks near the bike path,” said Burnett.

Community members who want to get involved can join The Chocolay Bayou Preservers. Burnette describes the group as, “Local people who like this place and want to take care of it.”

Volunteers met every third Thursdays at the Chocolay Brewery to organize the needs of the preserve. One event that the group is busy planning is the Chocolay Bayou Paddle Classic on Aug. 25. This event celebrates the second year of operation for the preserve and serves as a significant fundraiser for long-term financial needs of the area.

Event festivities include canoe races, live music, guided plant and history hikes, kid-friendly games and a potluck dinner.

For more information, visit uplandconservancy.org or call 906-225-8067.

Corey Kelly can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 243.