OSCODA- A 42-acre forested tract along the Au Sable River near downtown Oscoda is under permanent protection following its acquisition by conservation nonprofit Huron Pines.
Known as the Hull Island property, the dynamic parcel is home to mixed hardwood and pine forests, sudden elevation changes, and 3,300 feet of river frontage. Along with having high conservation value for wildlife habitat and water quality protection, the historic site holds great potential for recreation and Huron Pines plans to transfer the property to Charter Township of Oscoda as a public nature preserve.
The urgency to preserve and ensure public access to undeveloped lands has increased as the demand for waterfront real estate continues to grow across the region. Oscoda Township officials reached out to Huron Pines earlier this year for assistance in acquiring and protecting the Hull Island property along the east bank of the Au Sable River.
Huron Pines closed on the property Dec. 5 for a purchase price of $325,000. Oscoda Township has applied for a Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) grant which, if awarded, will be used to help reimburse Huron Pines for the acquisition.
Huron Pines has no plans to develop public access infrastructure before the transfer to Oscoda Township which is expected to occur sometime in 2024. Guided public tours and events will be advertised at huronpines.org/events.
Julia Butch is Land Protection Coordinator for Huron Pines and has been working with township officials on the acquisition and transfer. She said the diverse landscape combined with its closeness to Oscoda makes the Hull Island property an ideal place for a public nature preserve.
