Red Cedar River, River system in Ingham and Livingston Counties, Michigan
The Red Cedar River is a river system flowing through Ingham and Livingston Counties in Michigan, stretching roughly 50 miles from Cedar Lake northwest through Fowlerville and surrounding communities. The waterway passes through varied landscapes with forested sections and open banks along its course.
The waterway was originally called Cedar River until 1966, when the Federal Geographic Board officially changed the name to Red Cedar River. This change came after a request from the Michigan Water Resources Commission to clarify the water system's identity.
The river flows through Michigan State University's campus and appears in the university's traditions, connecting to the academic life around it. Local communities use the banks for recreation and to connect with the natural environment.
The water is accessible year-round, though quality temporarily drops after heavy rainfall. Visitors should check weather conditions before planning activities to find the best time for their visit.
The W.J. Beal Botanical Garden was established in 1873 along the river's banks and is the oldest continuously operating botanical garden in the United States. This long-standing garden offers visitors a chance to explore rare plants and see how gardens have been maintained over generations.
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