“From August days in waders addressing phragmites, to spreading native seed in the snow, you can see the difference made year after year.” Logan Hawley, Ecologist

Located 10 minutes northwest of the community of Oscoda, Tuttle Marsh is a 5,500-acre wetland complex that is a key nesting area for threatened Blanding’s turtles and an important stopover site for migratory birds along the Lake Huron coastal flyway. This important wetland also helps filter contaminants from stormwater runoff before they reach Tawas Lake and Lake Huron.

The management and protection of Tuttle Marsh is a shared priority for the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) and Huron Pines for its high ecological value and the quality birding opportunities it provides. Since 2019, Huron Pines has been working to manage invasive species along recreational pathways and has established a long term plan in collaboration with the USFS  to support restoration efforts for years to come.

Among the biggest threats to Tuttle Marsh is phragmites, a tall invasive plant which severely disrupts the native ecosystem, hinders the movement of wildlife, and impairs views and recreational access. Seasonal mowing maintained visibility along the access road but impacted native milkweed populations during critical monarch breeding periods. Huron Pines has treated over 200 acres for invasive species, and has surveyed and mapped another 1,500 acres for future efforts. Additionally, Huron Pines staff have replanted 4 acres along the roadway with a diverse mix of native plants and dispersed 84 pounds of seed to establish habitat for butterflies and other pollinators.

Huron Pines will continue the effort to control invasive species and restore native ecosystems in collaboration with the USFS, the local garden club and Iosco County. Huron Pines would like to recognize the USFS for making this restoration possible. To learn how to volunteer to assist with projects like these visit our volunteer page.