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Home Blog Chikaming Open Lands Protects 31 Acres in Royalton Township

Chikaming Open Lands Protects 31 Acres in Royalton Township

Posted on July 30, 2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 29, 2025

Chikaming Open Lands Protects 31 Acres Near the St. Joseph River

New Nature Preserve Will Offer Future Public Access in Royalton Township

BERRIEN COUNTY, MI — Chikaming Open Lands (COL) is proud to announce the successful acquisition of a 31-acre property near the St. Joseph River in Royalton Township. Adjacent to the Royalton Township Nature Trail property, this newly protected land, featuring forested ravines, wetlands, and a former vineyard, represents an exciting step in COL’s commitment to protecting open space throughout all of Berrien County.

Thanks to the generosity of former landowners Thomas and Eileen Chapman, who offered the land at a significantly reduced price, the property is now permanently protected and will remain natural and undeveloped for generations to come.

“This is a meaningful milestone for Chikaming Open Lands,” said Executive Director Ryan Postema. “It’s our first preserve in this area of the county and adds more than 30 acres of protected natural area to the St. Joseph River corridor.”

Protected land corridors like this one, especially those along river systems, are vital for supporting native plants and wildlife. They help maintain biodiversity, protect water quality, and contribute to a healthy, balanced ecosystem. Because this property sits next to the Royalton Township Nature Trail, it also creates exciting opportunities to expand public access for recreational use.


Highlights of the property include:

  • Mature forested ravines with beech, maple, and oak trees.

  • A former agricultural field and vineyard, which COL plans to restore to native habitat.

  • Expansion of an existing trail system, offering future public access and recreational use.

  • Conservation value as part of a natural corridor in a rapidly developing area.

While the purchase is now complete, COL is continuing to seek donations to support restoration, trail development, and long-term stewardship of the preserve.

“We’re deeply grateful to the Chapmans for their generosity, and to all of our donors who made this acquisition possible,” said Executive Director Ryan Postema. “Their support has enabled us to protect land and provide outdoor recreation opportunities for communities in a part of Berrien County that we hadn’t yet reached.”

To support this project and learn more, visit www.chikamingopenlands.org/pre...