Sutherland Nature Sanctuary

3960 Diehl Rd., Metamora, MI 48455 (Click for Yahoo Map)

In the 1960's, Doris Sutherland had a vision. She purchased a working farm and had trees planted to help nature heal the land after a century of logging and Farming. She gave 75 acres to the Great Lakes Bioregional Land Conservancy on Earth Day in 1999. It was dedicated as a nature sanctury and land stewardship center.

Today Sutherland Nature Sanctuary provides a pavilion with picnic tables and over three miles of trails. Hikers can visit wetlands, ponds, meadows and streams. Bridges span streams and there are benches for rest and reflection. Visitors may see birds, deer, ducks, turtles, fish, wildflowers and scenic points of interest.

Types of Habitat

• Single Species Stands: Old farm fields were planted with white, red, scotch and jack pine, white and blue spruce, and black walnut trees. Turkeys like the open ground and the evergreen trees so they can see you coming
• Natural Forest: Not all the forest was planted. Some of the healthiest parts of the land are where trees have grown naturally into old growth forest
• Ponds, Streams, Wetlands: Two ponds are home to ducks, turtles, and fish as well as many aquatic plants and animals. A natural stream runs across the property. Wetlands provide habitat for birds, reptiles, amphibians, aquatic insects, and a variety of moisture loving plants. Wetlands provide water filtration for surface run off.
• Meadow: Invasive autumn olive is being removed to improve meadow habitat for deer, rabbits, woodchucks, fox, and coyote. Wildflowers flourish spring, summer and fall as well as field-loving birds and insects.

Environmental Education

• Tree and Shrub Identification: Along the wood chipped trails are rustic signs that identify 29 different tree species.
• Butterfly and Hummingbird Gardens: Gardens are planted and maintained by sanctuary volunteers and Master Gardeners to attract butterflies and hummingbirds.
• Friendship Garden: This garden features plants donated to the sanctuary by neighbors and friends, and is maintained by volunteers throughout the summer.
• Classes/Events: Join us for guided bird walks, frog walks, summer strolls, bonfires & fun. These special events are open to the public. Dates and times are announced in local news media and the GLBLC newsletter.
• Guided Tours: Volunteers are available to lead a group tour when arranged in advance. School groups, homeschoolers, church groups, and scouts have enjoyed the learning experiences of these guided events.

Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteers are always needed to help with improvements, maintenance, and programs. If you would like to help with projects at Sutherland Nature Sanctuary, please call the stewards, Ed and Sharon Dunsmore, at (810) 797-4643.