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Community Corner

Treasures of Oz Highlights Natural Wonders

Nature tour returns for second year, celebrating Ozaukee County's magnificent shoreline.

“The lake is a wonderful resource,” said Ozaukee County Parks and Planning executive director Andrew Struck, and for this reason Lake Michigan is the primary focus of this year’s Treasures of Oz nature tour.

On June 18, individuals are invited to seven lakeside parks throughout the county to explore the ecological treasures the area has to offer.  

Treasures of Oz was started last year by a group of dedicated volunteers. Event coordinator Marjie Tomter said, “The mission is to raise awareness of the environmental treasures in Ozaukee County.” 

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Tomter, Struck and other volunteers will be present at Sauk Creek Nature Preserve, Lion’s Den Gorge, Virmond Park, Donges Bay Gorge, South Beach Boat Launch, Forest Beach Migratory Preserve and Harrington Beach State Park to show visitors the natural wonders located close to home.

Struck said that the tour, now in its second year, “highlights the green spaces wonderfully.”  

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The seven sites this year provide visitors with ample trails to wander, and Tomter said that the event is “perfect for people who like hiking.”

However, she said the locations are ideal for avid birdwatchers as well.  Several sites, especially the Forest Beach Migratory Preserve in Belgium, lie in different birds’ migratory paths.  

But the lake is the star of many of the sites, like Harrington Beach State Park in Belgium and Port Washington’s own South Beach Boat Launch.  The launch is a great a resource for kayakers, according to Tomter.  The location is along Lake Michigan’s water trail, a safe passage of water that follows the coast. 

Last year Tomter said that 700 individuals visited the various sites, and she hopes that this year’s collection of outdoor spaces draws a similar crowd.  

When it comes to choosing a favorite, Tomter said, “All these spots are amazing.  I can’t favor one.”

Treasures of Oz will be held from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m June 18.  A silent auction, food and music will be provided at the end of the day at the Forest Beach Migratory Preserve.

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