Houghton Lake Flats Flooding State Wildlife Management Area, Wildlife management area in Lake Township, Michigan, US
The Houghton Lake Flats Flooding State Wildlife Management Area is a protected region of restored marshes and wetlands separated into northern and southern sections. The landscape features open water bodies, reeds, and grasslands that create diverse habitats for birds and fish.
The area was formed when the Reedsburg Dam was constructed in 1940, creating a reservoir called Dead Stream Flooding in this location. The restoration of wetlands in later years transformed it into a dedicated wildlife protection area.
This protected land serves as a vital stopover and home for migratory birds and waterfowl that depend on its seasonally changing habitat. The observation deck allows visitors to witness the seasonal movement of birds without disturbing their natural behaviors.
Access this area via U.S. Route 127 exits at 194 and 201, with parking available near the observation decks. Spring and fall offer the best viewing times when bird activity is most active.
The site operates through a controlled flooding system that adjusts water levels strategically to support fish populations like northern pike and largemouth bass. This active water management approach shows how land can be shaped to benefit wildlife populations.
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