According to the National Consortium for Physical Education and Recreation for Individuals with Disabilities, recreational activities contribute to an individual’s quality of life by:

  • Promoting physical activity as part of an active lifestyle
  • Developing fundamental motor skills necessary for participating in individual and team sports
  • Increasing physical independence and/or mobility
  • Enhancing self-esteem and self-image
  • Establishing friendships with peers of all abilities
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Michigan Department of Natural Resources Access to Recreation Project Locations Announced

The project locations are:

  • J. W. Wells State Park, Menominee County
  • Otsego Lake State Park, Otsego County
  • Rifle River Recreation Area, Ogemaw County
  • Port Crescent State Park, Huron County
  • Muskegon State Park, Muskegon County
  • Brighton Recreation Area, Livingston County
  • Dodge #4 State Park, Oakland County

According to Dan Lord, development planner for the Parks and Recreation Division, the main goal of the initiative is to go beyond the minimal standards set in place by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

"Universal access means more than just making a facility wheelchair-friendly," Lord said. "We're going beyond mobility issues to incorporate technology, materials and design considerations that will provide inclusion for all people in any case of a mobility, sight, hearing or mental disability."

The various recreation projects to be developed are as diverse as the locations themselves. Lord said the list includes:

  • Great Lake and inland lake access
  • Historical and natural interpretation
  • Themed and sensory-based playgrounds
  • Multi-use trails and overall location linkages
  • Wildlife observation and fishing structures
  • Hunting opportunities
  • Boat and kayak launches
  • Winter luge & adaptive equipment
  • Equestrian access

If you would like more information or provide input on any of these projects, please contact Dan Lord at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it . Information on the Access to Recreation Initiative also can be found at: http://www.accesstorecreation.org .

The DNR also has formed an Accessibility Advisory Council to help the department improve access to natural resources and outdoor recreation. For more information, go online to: http://www.michigan.gov/dnraccessibility

DNR Receives $3 Million in Grants from Kellogg Foundation to Provide Universal Access to Recreation

By The Michigan Department of Natural Resources

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