Announcing the name chosen for the 10 Mile Park:

ANNIS FISH HATCHERY PRESERVE

William Annis D.D.S. was a well known dentist in Rockford. Due to the fact that he was having difficulties getting minnows for fishing, he decided to develop this property into a fish hatchery. Mr. Annis was the second owner of this property. The first property owners were the Zimmerman family. 

After the passing of William Annis D.D.S the property was sold to Asa Wright and then Courtland township purchased it to secure green-space for our community. 

Please stay tuned for a grand opening ceremony yet to be scheduled.

We are always looking for volunteers to help on the Parks Committee. If you are interested in getting involved please contact the township office.

Update: The nature park is almost complete BUT we need your help with naming it. Please submit your suggestions to clerk@courtlandtwpmi.gov before the end of day, Tuesday, June 6th. All suggestions will be presented to the township board for their final decision. Once a name is chosen, we will schedule a grand opening. 

Thank you for your participation and I look forward to receiving your suggestions. 

On Saturday October 29, volunteers from the Kent Conservation District, Courtland Township, and the Rogue River Watershed Partners showed up at the 10 Mile Hatchery project to help remove invasive plants, and to plant native ones.  The day began chilly at 36 degrees, but volunteers quickly worked up a sweat cutting and removing honeysuckle, autumn olive, and buckthorn bushes.  The cut stumps were treated with herbicide, and the woody stalks were later shredded by a contractor.  Volunteers then planted dozens of native shrubs and flowers along the banks of the one of several ponds at the old hatchery site.

Look for a grand opening in the spring of 2023 at the 10 Mile Hatchery site.

_________________________________________________________________

In the fall of 2017, Courtland Township acquired 17 acres of property at 5437 10 Mile Road, just east of Rockford.  This acquisition was possible because of a grant from Ducks Unlimited.  Made up largely of wetlands, this parcel had been developed into a small fish hatchery decades ago – but had fallen into disrepair since.

Courtland is in the process of developing the parcel for public enjoyment.  Two of the ponds will be improved as well, for purposes of wildlife habitat and nature viewing.  Approximately 1,275 feet of footpath will be installed, along with a short boardwalk, parking area, and entrance drive.  Significant eradication of non-native species, and planting of native species, are also in process.  

Some of this is happening with the help of local grant-funded programs.

So far, Japanese Knotweed and garlic mustard have been killed off, rubble from an old building removed, and a truck chassis recycled.   

Check the Township website for further news on this developing project!