Chapter 21: Additional Resources

Save chapter as a PDF

21.P Natural Areas

Save section as a PDF

21.P.1 Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum (MBGNA)

The University of Michigan’s Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum provide a unique combination of public and University-related conservation, education, and research programs at the Matthaei Botanical Gardens property at 1800 N. Dixboro Road as well as at the Nichols Arboretum site at 1610 Washington Heights. Additional research preserves include Horner’s Woods and Mud Lake Bog.

Matthaei offers more than 350 acres of gardens and natural terrain, includes an extensive multi-climate conservatory containing plants of botanical interest from all parts of the world, and provides a wide variety of special events, lectures, workshops, classes and volunteer opportunities.

  • W.E. Upjohn Peony Garden in Nichols Arboretum  The “Arb” is a 123-acre living collection that includes wetland, prairie, and woodland ecosystems and many special collections including peony, lilac, and Appalachian plants. Special events and programs that include poetry walks, outdoor theatre performances, tours, classes, and volunteer opportunities are offered.

For information on the James D. Reader, Jr. Urban Environmental Education Center and various programs, visit the MBGNA website.

21.P.2 Forests/Reserves

The University of Michigan owns several natural forestry research properties that are operated under the direction of the School of Environment and Sustainability (SEAS) and are open to the public:

Edwin S. George Reserve
5650 Doyle Road, Pinckney

Newcomb Tract (shared by LSA and SEAS)
8420 Strawberry Lake Road, Dexter

Saginaw Forest
3900 W. Liberty

Stinchfield Woods
9401 Stinchfield Woods Road, Pinckney