Partnerships Grow Benefits for Parks & Employees

Written by: Ben Beversluis

Martin Harris has something extra to look forward to when he bikes the Idema Explorers Trail this spring.

Harris was part of a team of Herman Miller employees who this fall planted some 2,500 wildflowers and native grasses to create a Monarch Waystation at the M-231 trailhead. Come spring, the blooms and butterflies should be colorful.

The plantings were a continuation of the partnership between the Ottawa County Parks Foundation and Herman Miller Cares through their support of  a section of the 36-mile Idema Explorers Trail that will connect Grand Rapids to Grand Haven through the Grand River Greenway.

Harris, an avid biker, skier and parks user, was delighted to help. “We’re excited to be able to go back in the spring and see what we helped create flourish,” he said.

The plantings create critical habitat for migrating butterflies, and Herman Miller Cares support will help construct a two-mile section of trail along Green Street and 128th Avenue in Robinson Township.

“Corporate partnerships are a great opportunity for employees of companies to get involved in the local community,” said Angela Miller-Niarhos, manager of the Ottawa County Parks Foundation. That independent non-profit supports the parks, with a current focus on the Grand River Greenway.

Partnerships’ benefits extend beyond plantings and donations.

Read the full article.

Calling all county residents!

Ottawa County parks is preparing their five-year Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Plan that will be released in 2021. The completion of this plan ensures that they are eligible for state grant funds and provides a road map for park and trail development. Part of that process is surveying both residents and park users. If you are an Ottawa County resident, please help by taking the survey before, May 1.