Saugatuck-Douglas Historical Society's next monthly program visits Saugatuck's "Hidden Gem", the Mildred A. Peterson Nature Preserve and Interurban Trail, on Wednesday, July 8, at 7 p.m., starting from a next-door residence at 799 Simonson Drive (near corner of Simonson Drive and Mill Street.). Admission is free and public attendance is invited.

The program will begin with a brief outdoor stand-up introduction by members of the original Peterson Preserve committee -- including co-chairs Vic Bella and Karen Spoerl, R.J. Peterson, Ruth Johnson, Debbie Topliff and Linda Kinnaman -- who will overview the development, history and area of the wetland site along with its inhabitant flora and fauna. Presenters then will lead a walking tour through key portions of the Preserve and answer questions.

"Saugatuck is truly fortunate to have a pristine nature preserve tucked away within city limits", Bella notes. "It's always a pleasant surprise to find a nearby place like this for peaceful walks, bird watching and contemplation of wildlife and pond creatures during all seasons of the year, and we're proud to give it some well-deserved attention with this program."

The one-hour program will offer chairs for those needing them during the talk, he adds, and the Preserve has a hard-surface path that affords wheelchair access in the tour area.

This month’s program is sponsored by Society members Monty Collins and Jerry Dark.

July 8 Historical Society program will tour and discuss Saugatuck's Mildred A. Peterson Preserve
and adjoining Interurban Trail.