Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge Master Plan and Restoration Guidelines for the Taylor Unit

Abstract

Our client, the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge, recently acquired a forty-three acre parcel of land from donors Clive and Clarice Taylor. The Taylor Unit is located in the Berlin Charter Township and Pointe Mouillee State Game Area, off of Labo Road. The site has several constructed ponds and wetlands, a small woodland, and fallow agricultural fields. This project developed a master plan for the site, educational guidelines, and restoration guidelines for the Taylor Unit. A site analysis and field work was done for this site, examining existing ecological diversity. Despite having several environmental stresses, the Taylor unit has a large amount of biodiversity on site relative to its surrounding agricultural context. In addition to ecology, this project also looked at the design potential of the site, analyzing views, the integrity of the trail system, and where rest areas should be placed. The master plan was created to capitalize on the existing trail system, views, and biodiversity of the site, while providing educational programming. A parking lot which accommodates bus parking and a demonstration garden were added in the entrance. The trails were restored and a boardwalk was added for visitors to gain access to the back of the property. Planting suggestions were made for several parts of the site, including the fallow field and grassland areas, as well as the riparian areas along the ponds and wetlands. Finally, a pavilion rest area was added at the center of the site. The goal is that this master plan be a useful tool in updating and developing the Taylor Unit in the future.