Garfield Commons Natural Area - North and west of the barn's property - subarea 7
Vision Statement
Restore, maintain, and enhance the natural systems and historically significant aspects of the Grand Traverse Commons Natural Area such that it remains perpetually protected and accessible to the public for education and quiet recreation.
Desired Future Conditions
Preserve and enhance this natural area, providing a passive recreation space for present and future generations to connect with place, self, and others. A place that presents opportunities to learn and appreciate the beauty of nature, where human impact has been minimal.
User Groups
The grounds and trails of the Commons Natural Area are intended to provide for those activities that are considered as “passive recreation”. Passive recreation, in this case, would be defined as non-consumptive of the resource and non-organized. The opposite of passive would be active recreation, which would include things such as soccer and baseball. The Commons is home to many different users including but not limited to:
- Hikers
- Cross Country Skiers
- Birders
- Dog Owners
- Trail Runners
- Mountain Bikers
Area Rules
- Camping is prohibited in the Commons Natural Area.
- Fires are prohibited within the natural area except in designated areas.
- All trail users must stay on designated improved trails, and must respect any special access restrictions.
- Off-road or other motorized vehicles shall be prohibited in the natural area except for directly authorized management purposes.
- Dogs are permitted within the Commons, but must be kept on a leash (coinciding with the Grand Traverse County Reasonable Control and Confinement of Dogs ordinance). Pet owners will be required to clean up after their pets.
- Hunting and trapping is not allowed on the property. Fishing, on the other hand, is allowed in accordance with the laws of the State and the rules of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
- No person shall at any time bring into or have in their possession in the natural are, any firearm or other weapon that discharges projectiles either by air, explosive substance, or any other force. Provided, however, that this section shall not apply to any peace officer or other duly appointed law enforcement officer while carrying out the duties and responsibilities of their position.
- No plants or other specimens are to be removed from the Commons Natural Area unless authorized by management.
- Littering is strictly forbidden. All refuse must be placed within the provided receptacles.
- No person shall damage, deface, or destroy any public owned property within the Commons Natural Area.