Jeptha Lake Fen

Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy acquired this preserve in an effort to protect the high quality wetlands found along the shores of Upper and Lower Jeptha Lakes.  The high alkalinity and low nutrients of the spring fed fens support showy and unusual wildflowers such as pitcher plants and marsh blazing stars.  A boardwalk allows visitors close-up views of this wetland system preventing wet feet while protecting the fragile soils of the fen.

In addition to fens, this preserve has a narrow strip of rich wet forest and large old fields with seasonal pools that are home to a variety of wildlife, including some unusual grassland birds such as bobolinks and savanna sparrows.  In all, 148 species of wildflowers, 97 species of birds, 26 species of butterflies, eight species of frogs, and all sorts of other wildlife and plants have been found at Jeptha Lake Fen. 

"Jeptha Lake Fen has the best display of blazing stars I've ever seen.  The thousands of purple stalks with butterflies everywhere is an inspiring experience.  Now with our new boardwalk, it is available for everyone to see." - Nate Fuller, SWMLC stewardship specialist.

Directions:  From M-43 exit at 50th St. (about 4 miles west of Glendale and 4 miles east of Bangor).  Turn north and go to 20th Ave./CR 380 (50th St. will jog slightly to the left before you reach 20th Ave.).  Turn east onto 20th Ave./CR 384.  When 20th Ave. turns at 49th St., continue straight ahead onto a gravel driveway and park in front of the yellow gate to your right in the yard.  The preserve entrance is just beyond the gate.