The public is invited to provide input on a draft general management plan that will help guide the future of Lime Island State Recreation Area, located on the eastern tip of Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources will host a public meeting Thursday, July 25, 6 to 8 p.m. at the Raber Township Hall, 16315 E M48 in Goetzville.

General management plans are used to define long-range planning and management strategies that protect a state park's resources while addressing recreation and educational needs and opportunities. Public input is a critical component of the planning process.

The July 25 meeting will begin with a short overview of the draft plan, followed by an open house during which the public is invited to review planning materials, provide feedback and talk to DNR staff. For those not able to attend, comments on the draft general management plan also may be sent through Aug. 9 via email to Debbie Jensen, DNR park management plan administrator, at JensenD1@Michigan.gov.

A link to Lime Island's draft general management plan and information on DNR management planning can be found at Michigan.gov/ParkManagementPlans.

The park encompasses the 932-acre Lime Island, which sits in the St. Marys River, just over 2 miles from the eastern tip of the U.P., and 6.5 acres on the mainland in the community of Raber.

The park's location in the St. Marys shipping lane has helped shape the island’s rich history as an industrial complex and refueling depot. Today, visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, swimming and hunting, along with watching the large freighters pass by in the major shipping lane. This quiet retreat also offers a boat dock, historical interpretive buildings, rental cabins powered by solar panels and tent camping on wooden platforms.

For more information, contact Debbie Jensen at 517-284-6105 (TTY/TDD711 Michigan Relay Center for the hearing impaired) or JensenD1@Michigan.gov, or Corey Butcher, park supervisor, at 906-248-3422 or ButcherC@Michigan.gov.

Contact: Debbie Jensen, 517-284-6105 or Corey Butcher, 906-248-3422