By Meg Peters
Review Co-Editor
The Friends of Bald Mountain Recreation Area Board, which went dormant in 2006, has experienced resurgence in membership and activities since the beginning of 2015.
Janine Saputo, secretary of the Friends, said the revival is a result of local community members stepping forward to increase activities and events at Bald Mountain Recreation Area and to improve the maintenance of the park amenities.
The Friend’s biggest goals are to increase membership and funds to help generate new activities within the state park.
‘We are looking into possibly bringing back camping to the Bald Mountain Recreation Area, and some additional sports we can use on the open fields like disc golf,? Saputo said. ‘Our staff is also interested in improving kids? play equipment on the beach.?
So far between 20 to 30 residents of the surrounding communities have expressed interest in joining the Friends group.
‘I’m just so glad we have a major state park right here in our local area, and it’s one of the most well attended state parks because of its location. We are doing everything to promote and encourage people to use it,? Saputo said.
Upcoming events include the Meteors and Marshmallows on Friday, August 14 in the late evening, where participants will be searching for the annual Perseid Meteor Shower. Dark skies from the new moon August 14 creates the best circumstances to see the Perseids. ?
Saputo also encourages interested future Friends to attend the Dine to Donate Fundraiser at G’s Pizzeria Tuesday, August 18 at 2775 S. Lapeer.
Saputo said Friends have been popping up booths at local events, including last week’s Lake Orion Farmers Market downtown, speaking about unique ways to preserve and protect the natural resources abundant at Bald Mountain.
According to their website,’friendsofbaldmountain.com, approximately?4,637 acres of state park are available in Addison, Oakland and Orion Townships.
Visit the Friend’s website, or contact them through their facebook page’Friends’of’Bald’Mountain’Recreation’Area’for more information on how to join.