Gahagan Nature Preserve

The Gahagan Nature Preserve, located just outside the Village of Roscommon in northern Michigan, began as a generous 10-acre land donation from conservation journalist Marguerite Gahagan. Today, it has expanded into a 115-acre preserve dedicated to public recreation, environmental education, and habitat preservation.

The preserve features a rich variety of ecosystems, including old-growth forest, wetlands, and upland forests. Nearly one-quarter of the land consists of old-growth forest, where trees—some estimated to be 150 to 200 years old—tower over the landscape. Dominant tree species include eastern white pine, red pine, red and pin oaks, and red maple, while the wetland margins host balsam fir, white cedar, eastern hemlock, and others. The Gahagan Nature Preserve also supports a vibrant array of wildflowers throughout the seasons, such as pink lady’s slippers and marsh marigolds, adding bursts of color to its diverse natural beauty. The preserve is also home to the beginnings of Tank Creek, which feeds into the South Branch of the Au Sable River.

The “Natural Area” portion of the property is being added to OGFN, ~15 of which is considered old-growth, with protections from the Conservation Easement and MOA. Desire to add more acreage and have it considered for Network forest with a management plan update for the DNR Wildlife Parcel. See management plan for map.