“This special place connects the Pigeon River Country's iconic elk viewing to the cherished waters of Cornwall Flooding."
- Bryant Eddy, Habitat Project Manager

Located in Cheboygan County off Osmun Rd in the “Big Wild” of the Pigeon River Country State Forest is Inspiration Point. This warm-season grassland with views of Cornwall Flooding and wild elk has been undergoing careful management by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and Huron Pines since the early 2000s.

The site of a Civilian Conservation Corps camp in the 1930s, Inspiration Point is managed today as part of the Lower Peninsula’s largest expanse of public land. Known as the home of Michigan’s elk herd, this region has one of the most extensive grassland management programs of any DNR Forest Management Unit. Along with providing open habitat for elk, Inspiration Point attracts birders, hunters and tourists who come here to hike a short trail leading to an overlook of Cornwall Flooding.

Huron Pines works with the DNR to maintain the open grassland habitat here. Most of this work involves mechanically removing invasive species including Siberian crab apple, a stubborn woody shrub not as easily managed with prescribed fire compared to other species. Once planted as a food source for wildlife, this exotic species is now threatening to overtake this prairie habitat if not controlled. Piles of cut, dead Siberian crab apple at the intersection of Osmun and Clark Bridge roads may not look pretty now but they will be burned during the next prescribed fire, restoring the landscape and its scenic views. Through its collaboration with the DNR, Huron Pines has improved or reconnected over 100 acres of habitat at Inspiration Point.

This work is made possible through the DNR Wildlife Habitat Grant Program. If you are interested in this habitat restoration work consider attending a Huron Pines native seed collection volunteer day. To learn how to volunteer, visit our volunteer page.