On the Trail
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A new trail (The Pine Loop) was mapped out and submitted to the DNR for approval.
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The bridge at Spring Bank Creek between trail marker #1 and #2 was repaired and reopened
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The brush was cleared around the bridge to provide a better view of the creek. The DNR installed a picnic table and a bench to take advantage of the new view of the creek.
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The DNR also installed split rail fencing to prevent riders from attempting to cross the creek in non designated areas north and south of the bridge.
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New trail signs were installed to provide better directions on the trails and back to the campground and day use area.
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Trees and brush were cleared from trails for 5 events during the year
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Harry’s Hideaway/Kids Loop & Adventure Course was completed between the campground and day use area.
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The DNR trail maintenance survey for all of the noon-motorized trail in the Ortonville Recreation Area.
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Several trails to Fox Lake Road were cleared to provide emergency vehicles access to the trails.
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OREA organized and coordinated two work bees to clear trails and create the Adventure Course.
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The DNR installed a split rail fence to protect riders from a sink hole next to the trail north of the bridge to trail 3A.
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The DNR installed a culvert on the bypass trail between marker 1 and 2.
In The Campground
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Corrals were built on campsites 11 & 12.
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Several new highline poles were installed and others relocated at various campsites.
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The area around all new and existing highline poles were cleared of brush and trees in the campground and day use area to allow horses free movement while on the highline.
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A manure bunker was constructed in the campground.
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The DNR repaired the corral at campsite 16 that was damaged by a fallen tree.
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The campground drive was graded to provide better drainage.
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The DNR installed a new wooden fence at the campground entrance.
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The DNR installed a solar well to allow easier access to water.
In the Day Use Area
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The day use area was expanded to allow parking on the east side by and under the power lines.
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Three additional overflow campsites were created in the day use area.
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The underground vault was installed for the future restroom in the day use area.
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THE DNR and OREA have been working on the walls and roof for the vault toilet. This will be put together when the weather permits
2025 Activies with OREA!
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Engaged hundreds of attendees at the 2025 Michigan Horse Council Horse Expo!
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Enjoyed a Memorial Weekend campover with a Poker Ride!!
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The DNR Fall Harvest Fest sold out the Campground again!!! Trail rides including a night ride, campfires, and other activities provided fun for all!
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Hosted WHAM campout and Judged Trail Ride!
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Introduced a new group of riders to the joys of camping with their horses with the DNR Ride Into Camping event!!!
Association Improvements and Planning
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Held Facebook Fundraiser for pavilion electrical.
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Created monthly articles for Saddle Up magazine.
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Safety concern at Hadley and Fox Lake Road.
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Created a petition and gathered signatures
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​Equine Community Support:
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Board members worked with the MHTA, MHC Trails committee, and DNR ETS to support other associations and the Equestrian activities throughout the state of Michigan and promote our campground.
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Helped WHAM with their Judged Trail Ride April 26th
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The Waterloo Green Lake Ride May 2nd -4th
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The MHC/Hungerford Spring Kickoff May 9th-11th.
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Participated in the Elba work bee and campout July 25th – 27th
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MTRA work bee
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MHTA Camping weekend with the MTRA August 5th – 10th
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Attended and supported MHTA and MTRA at the August 18th, 2025 Ausable Township Board meeting.
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Muskegon County Trail Riders Horses for Harbor Hospice September 19th -21st
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Addison Oaks Ride October 17th – 19th
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Developed plans & drawings to support the redesign of the Elba Equestrian Complex Campground​
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