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TYPES
OF HABITAT
Single
Species Stands. The old farm fields
were planted with white, red, and scotch pine, white and blue spruce, and
black walnut trees. Turkeys like the open ground under the evergreens so
they can see you coming.
Natural Forest Succession.
Not
all the forest was planted. Some of the healthiest parts of the land are
where mature trees have grown back naturally on former fields.
Ponds, Stream, and
Wetlands. There are two ponds containing ducks, turtles, and
some fish. A stream runs across the entire property. The wetlands provide
habitat for birds and act as a filtration system for water.
Meadow. Deer,
rabbits, groundhogs, fox and coyotes eat here and sleep among the invasive
autumn olive bushes.
ENVIRONMENTAL
EDUCATION
Tree and Shrub Identification.
Along
the trails are 29 different tree species labeled with signs. There are
many more species of trees and shrubs to be identified and labeled.
Butterfly and Hummingbird
Garden. This flower garden is being
designed to attract different types of butterflies and hummingbirds. All
the plant species used will be native to this area.
Exposure to Wilderness.
To
really appreciate the forest is to see it and be inspired by it, taking
only pictures and leaving only footprints.
VISITORS
AND VOLUNTEERS ARE
WELCOMED
Doris Sutherland bought this property in
the 1960s and had trees planted to help nature begin to heal itself after
a century of logging and farming. It was formally dedicated as a Nature
Sanctuary on Earth Day, 1999. Two trails have already been made through
the land, and a picnic table, grill and water are available for visitors.
Volunteers are needed to help lay more trails
and other improvements that will make the land more accessible to individual
visitors, school groups, and the general public. If you would like
to help with projects at the Sutherland Nature Sanctuary or would like
to arrange for a visit or tour, please contact:
Ed and Sharon Dunsmore
3838 Diehl Road
Metamora, Mi 48455
(810) 797-4643
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