Chris Thompson Memorial Preserve
Access: Open to the public
Acreage: 49 acres
Trail Length:
Recreational Activities:
Directions: Located on the south side of Warren Woods Road in Chikaming Township, MI. From Red Arrow Highway, travel east on Warren Woods Road for approximately 2 miles to the preserve entrance. From Three Oaks Road, travel west on Warren Woods Road, approximately 1.5 miles to the entrance.
Parking: A gravel parking area is located at the entrance on Warren Woods Road.
Natural Features:
This 49-acre parcel contains an old field being restored to native prairie and forest, mature forested areas, and frontage on the Galien River. Together with nearby public and private properties, a large continuous corridor of relatively undeveloped natural area, often called a “greenbelt,” extends along much of the Galien River in Chikaming Township.
History:
Chikaming Open Lands dedicated the Preserve in memory of the organization’s late executive director, Chris Thompson, who passed away unexpectedly on June 3, 2016. Thompson's vision was to connect people to the land by offering outdoor experiences that make them healthier and happier, and that vision is reflected in the Preserve. Restoration of the old field to native prairie, savanna, and forest is currently ongoing. The Preserve also features a hiking trail system with loops through the field, forest, and along the Galien River.
Chikaming Open Lands acquired the property in October 2018. The acquisition was accomplished with the support of more than 125 individuals and organizations, including grant funds from The Pokagon Fund and The Carls Foundation.
