ONEKAMA ‒ A recent initiative led by the Onekama Township Parks and Recreation Committee will increase the accessibility and enjoyment of Carden Park, according to a press release from a committee member.
The 1.1-acre park, located behind the Manistee County Fairgrounds and accessible via Kay Street, was treated for non-native, invasive species in a project described as “transformative” in the release.
A view of Schimke Creek was obstructed by non-native, invasive shrubs. Oriental honeysuckle, Japanese barberry and multi-flora rose were removed during the project. The committee also removed trees affected by the non-native, invasive insect emerald ash borer.
The effort was led by Conservation Specialist Tyler Dula, of the Manistee Conservation District, who is also a member of the township parks committee.
“As we evaluated the vegetation at Carden Park, it became evident that the non-native species were not only blocking views but also threatening the health of the creek ecosystem,” Dula said. “Removing these invasive plants was a crucial step in restoring the natural balance of the area.”
According to the release, Schimke Creek is a recognized high-quality trout stream with a documented history of brook and brown trout. The cold-water creek also contains an abundance of woody debris used by aquatic insects and small fish for essential habitat, which supports a healthy ecosystem.
The project has resulted in “a significantly expanded viewing window of Schimke Creek, allowing park visitors to enjoy the scenic beauty and wildlife of the area more fully.”
During the project’s second phase, the banks of the creek will be replanted with native wildflowers and sedges to protect the view, limit the invasion of non-native species and keep the banks from eroding.
Future plans include the addition of an ADA-accessible picnic table and path.
A statement on a page of the Onekama Township Parks and Recreation Committee website indicates that Carden Park consists of two lots donated in 1994 to the township by members of the Carden family in honor of the late Clarence “Bud” Carden.
For more information about Carden Park and conservation initiatives, contact Tyler Dula at tyler.dula@macd.org.
Read more about Onekama parks HERE and Onekama HERE
