Tobico Marsh
A Brief History
Bay City State Park is important for biodiversity conservation and includes unique and vulnerable ecosystems. Tobico Marsh is a part of the Bay City State Park and is managed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Tobico Marsh is one of the largest Great Lakes coastal wetlands within Saginaw Bay. It is connected to the bay which allows fish to access it for spawning, nursery, and foraging. Large coastal wetlands are also important to waterfowl, herons and egrets, marsh birds, and raptors, such as ospreys and bald eagles. Species such as the yellow-headed blackbird, ruddy duck, and redhead have also been sighted here. The marshes are adjacent to lakeplain oak openings, a globally imperiled ecosystem that is dependent on periodic fire. Due to these features, DNR has been prescribed burning and managing invasive species in the most critical areas for over 15 years.
A 3.3 mile walking trail with two observation towers enjoyed by many circles the marsh, providing views of the marsh, lake, and abundant wildlife.
The Project
Saginaw Bay CISMA, is working with Michigan Natural Features Inventory, Michigan Tech, and DNR Parks and Recreation Division to begin a three-year project to enhance habitat for wildlife and rare species. We will be monitoring and treating the invasive species Phragmites that has taken over the area for several years. Invasive buckthorn, which can quickly take over large areas, will also be managed inside the marsh.
While much of the work will be done inside the park, we will also map and treat Phragmites on adjacent properties, free of charge during the project period.
How To Get Involved
There are many ways to get involved in this project. If you are a landowner and you have received notification that you are in the project area, be sure to return your signed landowner permission form to Saginaw Bay CISMA so we can conduct monitoring and treatment at your site. Landowners and anyone enjoying Tobico Marsh can also take pictures to help us record our progress.
Perhaps the most important thing anyone can do to help is to practice decontamination when entering or leaving Bay City State Park or any natural area. This involves practices such as brushing dirt out of your shoe and tire treads, cleaning and draining watercraft and trailers, and cleaning fishing gear and apparel.
Partners for Fish and Wildlife
Au Gres Shoreline Management
Through funding provided by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program, we are assisting private landowners along the Saginaw Bay shoreline with invasive Phragmites management. This project is funded for two years and focuses on restoring coastal habitats while improving access to the Bay for both landowners and wildlife. Currently, funding is being used to address a large infestation along the Bay shoreline in Au Gres. The project area includes approximately 68 acres of dense, monoculture Phragmites, as shown in the photo.
In the first year of management, aerial treatment was completed across the entire 68-acre site using helicopter and drone applications provided by AURA LLC. This effort represents a major step toward reducing the infestation and restoring native coastal habitat. Participation from affected landowners has been strong, demonstrating a shared commitment to improving shoreline conditions and regaining access to the Bay.
As we move into the second year of management, we are excited to continue this work and build on the progress made. This project will not only benefit private landowners but will also enhance habitat for wildlife and contribute to the long-term health of the Saginaw Bay ecosystem.
