Guided nature walk planned for revitalized Max Brandon Park in Flint

FLINT, Michigan — The Woodlands, Wetlands, and Wildflowers Guided Nature Walk at Max Brandon Park will highlight the unique ecological features inside Max Brandon Park, a 107-acre urban forest also known as Forest Park. 

The guided tour is set for 5:30-7 p.m. May 16 and is being offered through the work of the Genesee Conservation District and the Friends of Max Brandon Park. It is free and open to the public. Participants will meet in the Pasadena Avenue parking lot. Closed-toe shoes are recommended. 

The Friends of Max Brandon Park group was created about 10 years ago as part of the Crim Fitness Foundation’s work in the Healthy Kids, Healthy Communities initiative — which works to revitalize neighborhood parks by encouraging community engagement in policy and environmental advocacy. 

Max Brandon had suffered from years of neglect because of a lack of funding, but through the Friends’ effort restoration efforts began. In 2014, the park became the focus of an eco-park restoration initiative — which included removal of invasive species, creation of sight lines across Max Brandon Park, restoration of a natural wetland system, and infrastructure and landscape improvements. It is one of many parks in the city of Flint now being cared for and maintained by Genesee County Parks. 

A boardwalk also has been installed to allow visitors to walk into the wetlands for a better view. Chess and checkers tables also have been installed in the park.