Land donated to DNR to expand Barry State Game Area

HASTINGS, Mich. (WOOD) — The Barry State Game Area is expanding thanks to a new donation by the Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy.

A 200-acre property that was previously home to a camp owned by the Boys and Girls Club of Kalamazoo will join the fold, one that the Michigan Department of Natural Resources says enhances biodiversity and habitat connections in the region.

“We are thrilled to welcome this property into Barry State Game Area,” Mark Mills, regional supervisor for the DNR Wildlife Division, said in a statement . “Conserving land is an important step in our ongoing efforts to enhance wildlife habitat, biodiversity and hunting opportunities in the region.”

The Barry State Game Area already covered more than 16,000 acres south of Middleville. The camp property shared part of the BSGA’s western boundary and tucks between two other nature preserves, the Audubon Warner Sanctuary to the north and the SWMLC’s Freese Preserve to the south.

SWMLC Land Protection Director Kaleigh Winkler said the property has been on the organization’s radar for years. The purchase was finally completed earlier this spring.

The property includes several acres of wetlands, access to Podunk Creek and Glass Creek and is considered a key piece to protecting the Glass Creek Watershed.

“The addition of the property not only protects vital wetland ecosystems but also strengthens our commitment to conserving Michigan’s natural resources for future generations,” Mills stated. “We’re grateful to have worked closely with the Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy and other partners to ensure this area’s ecological integrity is maintained and hunting and outdoor recreational opportunities can be enjoyed by all.”

The DNR is hosting an event from 2 to 4 p.m. Monday, July 15 at the property to celebrate the addition. Officials will make some brief remarks and offer guided walks on the property.

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