Stewards of Kleinstuck Preserve schedule open house

KALAMAZOO—Kalamazoo's 48-acre Kleinstuck Preserve will be celebrated during a public gathering from 5 to 7 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 22.

Regardless of the weather, the event will take place on the grounds of the Kazoo School, 1401 Cherry St. It is being organized by the Stewards of Kleinstuck to celebrate recent accomplishments and bring the community together on behalf of the preserve.

There will be a short program and guided walks through the natural area. Those who attend also will be treated to music as well as refreshments that include cider, apples and doughnuts.

About the Kleinstuck Preserve

Kleinstuck is owned and managed by Western Michigan University. It is one of the last remaining open spaces in Kalamazoo. This unique ecosystem is home to a wide variety of plants and animals and includes upland forest, swamp forest, shrub carr and marshland.

The property is open to the public for passive recreation and is used by WMU and other institutions for research and education. Although WMU has maintained the property as a safe and accessible preserve, it has not had the resources to manage for a healthy ecosystem. The property suffers from invasive non-native plant species as well as erosion. For more information, visit wmich.edu/kleinstuck.

About the Stewards of Kleinstuck

Several neighbors and land management experts formed the group in 2007 to involve the community in restoring Kleinstuck's ecological health. It's ultimate goal is to create a healthier, more diverse and beautiful ecosystem for the benefit of wildlife and the local community.

With the support of WMU, the Stewards of Kleinstuck, stages numerous special events and activities throughout the year. They are open to any interested party and include frog and bird walks as well as work sessions to plant native vegetation and remove invasive vegetation.

For more information, visit stewardsofkleinstuck.org.