SOUTHWESTERN CHAPTER FIELD TRIP

Brewer Woods Nature Sanctuary

With MNA Steward Harold Gleaves

Saturday May 13, 2023, 10 AM to Noon

Dr. Richard Brewer, a Professor of Biology at Western Michigan University, acquired Brewer Woods in the early 1970s for ecological study and protection of the forest.  Prior to his ownership, the sanctuary had been logged in the 1960s by the previous landowner who harvested interior trees greater than 12 inches in diameter.  Despite the logging disturbance, the important ecosystem functions of the forest remained intact.  

Brewer Woods Nature Sanctuary consists of quality southern mesic forest.  Brewer Woods is almost entirely dominated by beech-maple forest and exhibits pit and mound topography, which results from wind-throw of canopy trees which results from shallow tree rooting that causes the soil to consist of shallow outwash over clay-rich glacial till.  The result is numerous shallow pits and low mounds that date back over centuries.  On the west side of the sanctuary, there is a lower elevation area of forest which includes species typically found in southern and northern hardwood swamps.

The sanctuary contains a beautiful array of spring ephemeral wildflowers that blanket the forest floor and offers an impressive sight to visitors.  There is also a vernal pool, which extends from adjacent land to the west.  The sanctuary is in the Portage River watershed, which flows to the St. Joseph River.

There may be ticks at this time of year.  Insect repellant, sunscreen, as well as suitable clothing are suggested.  The trip difficulty level is rated moderate.

Harold Gleaves is a volunteer conservation steward for Trillium Ravine and Brewer Woods, two Michigan Nature Association Plant Preserves.  He has a BS in Biology 2014, he is also a certified Master Gardener and beekeeper.  He is married to his wife Kathy and they live on 15 acres in Lawton, Mi.

Directions from the Kalamazoo area.  Take Portage Rd south past the airport and then turn left (east) on Romence Rd.  Romence Rd becomes Bishop Ave in Pavilion Twp and is also called East P Ave.  After a few bends in the road it becomes East PQ Ave.   At South 29th St turn right (south).  At East R Ave turn left (east) and travel about 0.8 miles.  The entrance is on the left (north).  The address is 8297 East R Ave, Scotts MI 49088.  Parking is permitted along East R Ave at the base of the driveway which is gated off to vehicles.