Often called the "coral reefs" of the forest, these wetlands support a high concentration of rare, threatened, and endangered species. They are considered keystone ecosystems because their influence on the surrounding landscape is much greater than their size suggests. Learn some facts about these pools from Amy Gillan, Berrien County Vernal Pool Patrol (VPP) Coordinator, and Pat Fisher, HCH President, as they explain how the vernal pools fit into our ecosystems, why they are endangered, and how community science is helping protect them. An extra mile hike is optional on drier ground.

The NBAS Nature Study Trails (NST) in combination with the adjacent Turtle Creek Preserve (TCP), a Chikaming Open Lands (COL) preserve, has over 4 miles of trails and nearly 70 acres of forested and wetland habitats. If all the trails are visited, you will see a large assortment of native flora and fauna living in harmony with ancient beachheads, wide ravines, streams, a planted prairie, marshes, floodplains, hardwood forests and seasonally wet flatwoods filled with shrub wetlands, pit and mound topology, windblow, vernal pools and rivulets. The trails are maintained by students & staff, volunteers, and the many trail structures have been added by scout members and neighborhood volunteers

• Theme: “Coral Reefs” of the Forest

• Venue: NBAS Nature Study Trails

• When: Saturday, March 21, 2026 @ 1 PM ET

• Estimated Presentation Time: 15 minutes

• Hike Leaders: Dr. Amy Gillan, Berrien County Vernal Pool Patrol Coordinator; Pat Fisher, President HCH

• Estimated Time: 2.25 hours

• Hiking Distance: 2.0 or 3.0 miles

• Physical Difficulty: Moderate, wet areas.

• Location: 12291 Lubke Rd, New Buffalo, MI 49117

• Parking GPS: 41.78247, -86.757002 (DD)

  Directions: From US-12 in New Buffalo head south on South Eagle Street, at the second stop sign turn right onto West Detroit Street which turns into Lubke Road at the curve. After the curve, watch for the school on the right. We will gather in the parking lot near the road.

Dress in layers, a warm cap & sturdy boots, and bring plenty of water. Depending on the weather, there may be some muddy or icy areas. Light precipitation and hot or cold weather don’t ordinarily lead us to call off hikes, but health-threatening temperature extremes and dangerous road conditions can be causes for cancellation. In case of inclement weather, the day of the hike, check our website, harborcountryhikers.org, or our Facebook page for notice of cancellation or rescheduling.