Project Profile
Whiting Forest had a vision to expand and enhance appreciation of the forest environment by its local residents. Construction began in June 2016 on the 54-acre parcel to bring this vision to reality. Great care was taken to protect the forest environment – elaborate construction pathways were installed through the forest to protect the forest floor and fencing installed to protect trees & wetlands. Specialized forestry equipment was brought in to execute construction activities, custom wagons were fabricated to haul materials, and vacuum trucks were utilized to excavate foundations; thinking outside the box for every construction activity required. New amenities included: a quarter-mile long elevated walkway in the tree canopy – with unique visitor experiences built in along its length; two pedestrian bridges to tie Whiting Forest to its sister property Dow Gardens and Discovery Square – allowing visitors to explore on ADA compliant pathways, ramps, walks, and bridges; a forest classroom with indoor and outdoor class space; a nature-inspired play area; a re-purposed & re-furbished Alden B. Dow home to house the new Visitor Center; an apple orchard that goes back to the very roots of the Whiting family heritage; and restoration of Snake Creek to its properly functioning hydrology and ecosystem.
Features:
- Longest ADA Canopy Walk in US
- Nature-Inspired Play Area with water fall and toddler beach
- ADA pathways constructed of materials to protect tree roots
- Reflecting pond with natural stone benches
- Council Fire Ring
- Forest Classroom
- Visitor Center
