MSU Extension 4-H

Thanks to a donation from the Ottawa County 4-H Council, Michiganders will be able to experience nature close up between Grand Haven and Grand Rapids. The council recently gifted a parcel of land to the Ottawa County Parks and Recreation Commission that will help complete the Idema Explorers Trail, a 10-foot wide, paved trailed that allows hikers and cyclists access to over 9,000 acres of public lands along the Grand River Greenway in Ottawa County.

The Grand River Greenway is a model ecological and cultural corridor along the Grand River. It preserves significant natural, historical and cultural features as well as promotes healthier, happier and more vibrant communities. 

“The Grand River Greenway is the culmination of 40 years of effort and was built on the vision and work of so many. This contribution will have a lasting impact on the community for generations,” said Jason Shamblin, Ottawa County Parks and Recreation Commission Director. “This generous gift will allow us to complete the trail, so the property is fully open to those who wish to explore this area.”  

Tyler Lidgard, Michigan State University Extension 4-H program coordinator in Ottawa County, said that the 31 acres, valued at more than $265,000, has been in the hands of 4-H since 1959 when the Eugene and Ida Ten Brink family deeded the property to the 4-H Youth Development program in the area.

“4-H’ers used the land for rustic camping for many years, but it is now landlocked and difficult to access except by the trail,” Lidgard explained. “The 4-H Council wanted to honor the Ten Brinks’ request that the land only be used for recreational purposes. Donating it to help complete a section of the trail seemed like a great compromise. Once completed, 4-H families and others can access the land and explore the area as the Ten Brinks envisioned.”

Michigan 4-H Youth Development, a program of MSU Extension, is the state’s largest youth organization. 4-H provides thousands of young people ages 5 to 19 opportunities to grow their leadership and life skills through experiential educational opportunities that help them explore new interests and find their passion.