Dowagiac Woods, Protected area in Cass County, Michigan, US.
Dowagiac Woods is a nature sanctuary in Michigan covering about 384 acres of forest with hardwood swamps, floodplain forests, and various woodland types along the Dowagiac River. The land is crossed by trails and boardwalks that guide visitors across wet areas.
The sanctuary was founded in 1981 when the Michigan Nature Association purchased the initial forest areas to protect them from development. Additional woodland was added later to expand the protected region.
The name Dowagiac comes from the Potawatomi language and refers to a place where people traditionally gathered food and materials for survival. This heritage reflects the deep connection between the indigenous community and the forest's natural resources.
The site features about 2.5 miles of walking trails with wooden boardwalks that cross swampy areas and help visitors stay dry. Mountain bikes and dogs are not permitted to protect the natural environment.
This forest patch has never been plowed or clear-cut since the early 1800s, making it a rare reference for Michigan's original woodland. This uninterrupted forest cover has preserved nearly 50 native tree species found in the region.
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