Discovery Center Reports
May 23, 2017
Report status after the work bee on this date…
I was asked to provide a status report on the progress of creating the Pigeon River Country Discovery Center (PRCDC). As part of the report I am including a brief summary from the Steering Committee’s Concept Paper, pictures that illustrate some exhibit structure, an overall “plan graphic” and a brief comment reflecting the next step to be taken in each room.
When viewing some pictures you will notice white sheets of paper hanging on walls. These sheets reflect both the location and content of a graphic panel that will be fabricated soon.
On a weekly basis, the Steering Committee continues to work on a parallel track that is focused on a planned opening date in late August to mid September 2017. One track continues to be exhibit or exhibit structure construction, the parallel track being the specific exhibit pictures and message to be used on graphic boards.
OVERVIEW: The overall experience at the Pigeon River Country Discovery Center is one of adventure and exploration. Throughout, visitors are given the tools necessary for them to begin outdoor adventures in both the PRC and beyond. Themes of “mentorship” and a “history of the place” permeate the entire experience, connecting visitors to both past and present figures who each interacted with the Pigeon River Country in their own ways. Visitors will leave the experience with an understanding of:
To make best use of the historic structure, each room has a specific purpose and interpretive goal. Graphic compasses serve as wayfinding tools, guiding visitors to and from each room.
WELCOME: (the Living Room)
The living room serves both as an introductory space, as well as welcoming lounge—inviting visitors to sit, relax, and enjoy the historic building and begin the learning experience of why this forest is so special. Hand crafted Amish furniture wraps the fireplace area and graphic boards will be located on walls. A 50 inch flat screen TV will be installed over the middle shutter and provide a viewing platform of various “special places” within the Forest and can also be used as a screen for computer presentations. PICTURE: volunteers Sandy and Pat reviewing graphic panel content; shutter system on west wall. NEXT ACTIVITY: Stain shutters; install flush mounted floor plugs.
TODAY: (the Middle Bedroom)
This space presents the basics of getting outdoors, in a fun environment where exploration is encouraged. All four walls of this room will be covered with photographic murals, keyed to actual locations in the Pigeon River Country. A soundscape in the room allows visitors to hear different animal and bird sounds, and identify what is making the sound. PICTURES: Floor river mold and also a shelf system that will hold various pelts and animal skulls. NEXT ACTIVITY: create actual river bottom, sealing it under epoxy resin; creating river banks on either side of the floor river mold.
TOMORROW: (the Northeast Bedroom)
In this space, visitors meet various mentors from the Pigeon River Country, taking a deeper-dive into the wild experience that the forest provides. Mentors are both contemporary and historical, and offer different perspectives on their relationship with the Pigeon River Country. Each mentor station consists of rustic shelving, various props, photographs, and a conversation “tree” branching out from the mentor platform. PICTURES: Volunteers Judi, Kim and Rudi applying the final coat of paint to the display shelving that wraps all four walls of the room. NEXT STEP: create the log guide post for the center of the room; install a flat screen TV for mentor interviews and various photographs.
A LIFETIME: (the Northwest Bedroom)
Here visitors learn about the management plan that preserves and protects the Pigeon River Country. Activities in this room encourage visitors to think about the struggles of competing interests and the decisions that have been made to protect the Pigeon River Country. Historical and modern photos throughout the space encourage visitors to consider what the area might look like had conservationists not intervened. PICTURES: partially complete “Honor Forest” and the Cathedral Window overlooking the Pigeon River; display area that will hold a lectern that has a bound “Concept of Management Plan” fastened to it. NEXT STEPS: Create the “Forest Floor” at the base of the Honor Garden; once the bound “Concept of Management Plan” is received from the fabricators, build the lectern it sits upon.
FOREST HISTORY: (the Dining Room)
This room serves as the center of the PRCDC experience, detailing the history of the Pigeon River Country.
FOREST HISTORY: (the Forester’s Office)
Set up to be “as it was” when the house was occupied by the forester, this room is complete with props, historical maps, and other items to give visitors a glimpse into the past. PICTURE: forester’s desk, file cabinet, typing desk and 2 maps; volunteer Rick working on a desk drawer; volunteer Sandi refinishing the desk chair. NEXT STEP: repair map frames and hang maps on walls.
ACTIVITY: (the Kitchen)
The kitchen serves as a multi-purpose space—a base for programmed activities, and as an area where visitors can explore on their own. PICTURE: Volunteer Tom applying the final coat of paint on the terrarium stand. NEXT STEP: complete the building of a narrow table; in the location of the wood burning kitchen stove, recreate the “working kitchen” as it was used in 1936.
OUTSIDE: For safety purposes during evening visitation or PRCA meetings, the ADA pathway between the Discovery Center and general parking lot has five manually switched pathway lights located at each major curve of the ADA pathway. This outside lighting illuminates the ADA pathway with low wattage bulbs that reflect downward to eliminate vertical light pollution. PICTURES: Volunteers Tammy and Bruce completing the installation of the pathway lights. NEXT STEP: stain the 4X4 vertical posts, using “DNR Brown” to match the building, after the posts are exposed to the weather for one year.
Committed construction volunteers not pictured today are John and Pegi who were away on a family event.
Report status after the work bee on this date…
I was asked to provide a status report on the progress of creating the Pigeon River Country Discovery Center (PRCDC). As part of the report I am including a brief summary from the Steering Committee’s Concept Paper, pictures that illustrate some exhibit structure, an overall “plan graphic” and a brief comment reflecting the next step to be taken in each room.
When viewing some pictures you will notice white sheets of paper hanging on walls. These sheets reflect both the location and content of a graphic panel that will be fabricated soon.
On a weekly basis, the Steering Committee continues to work on a parallel track that is focused on a planned opening date in late August to mid September 2017. One track continues to be exhibit or exhibit structure construction, the parallel track being the specific exhibit pictures and message to be used on graphic boards.
OVERVIEW: The overall experience at the Pigeon River Country Discovery Center is one of adventure and exploration. Throughout, visitors are given the tools necessary for them to begin outdoor adventures in both the PRC and beyond. Themes of “mentorship” and a “history of the place” permeate the entire experience, connecting visitors to both past and present figures who each interacted with the Pigeon River Country in their own ways. Visitors will leave the experience with an understanding of:
- Why the PRC is important and why it should be protected
- How the PRC is managed to be a wild experience
- How they can enjoy the PRC and nature today, on another visit, or for a lifetime.
To make best use of the historic structure, each room has a specific purpose and interpretive goal. Graphic compasses serve as wayfinding tools, guiding visitors to and from each room.
WELCOME: (the Living Room)
The living room serves both as an introductory space, as well as welcoming lounge—inviting visitors to sit, relax, and enjoy the historic building and begin the learning experience of why this forest is so special. Hand crafted Amish furniture wraps the fireplace area and graphic boards will be located on walls. A 50 inch flat screen TV will be installed over the middle shutter and provide a viewing platform of various “special places” within the Forest and can also be used as a screen for computer presentations. PICTURE: volunteers Sandy and Pat reviewing graphic panel content; shutter system on west wall. NEXT ACTIVITY: Stain shutters; install flush mounted floor plugs.
TODAY: (the Middle Bedroom)
This space presents the basics of getting outdoors, in a fun environment where exploration is encouraged. All four walls of this room will be covered with photographic murals, keyed to actual locations in the Pigeon River Country. A soundscape in the room allows visitors to hear different animal and bird sounds, and identify what is making the sound. PICTURES: Floor river mold and also a shelf system that will hold various pelts and animal skulls. NEXT ACTIVITY: create actual river bottom, sealing it under epoxy resin; creating river banks on either side of the floor river mold.
TOMORROW: (the Northeast Bedroom)
In this space, visitors meet various mentors from the Pigeon River Country, taking a deeper-dive into the wild experience that the forest provides. Mentors are both contemporary and historical, and offer different perspectives on their relationship with the Pigeon River Country. Each mentor station consists of rustic shelving, various props, photographs, and a conversation “tree” branching out from the mentor platform. PICTURES: Volunteers Judi, Kim and Rudi applying the final coat of paint to the display shelving that wraps all four walls of the room. NEXT STEP: create the log guide post for the center of the room; install a flat screen TV for mentor interviews and various photographs.
A LIFETIME: (the Northwest Bedroom)
Here visitors learn about the management plan that preserves and protects the Pigeon River Country. Activities in this room encourage visitors to think about the struggles of competing interests and the decisions that have been made to protect the Pigeon River Country. Historical and modern photos throughout the space encourage visitors to consider what the area might look like had conservationists not intervened. PICTURES: partially complete “Honor Forest” and the Cathedral Window overlooking the Pigeon River; display area that will hold a lectern that has a bound “Concept of Management Plan” fastened to it. NEXT STEPS: Create the “Forest Floor” at the base of the Honor Garden; once the bound “Concept of Management Plan” is received from the fabricators, build the lectern it sits upon.
FOREST HISTORY: (the Dining Room)
This room serves as the center of the PRCDC experience, detailing the history of the Pigeon River Country.
- Gather Around the Table
- A “log” table weighing approximately 455 pounds sits in the center of the space. A graphic overlay on the table will display stories from those who lived in and advocated for the Pigeon River Country. Each seat at the table features a different individual, such as Lovejoy, Lunden, Hemingway, as well as contemporary forest advocates, through photographs, and biographies. Quotes from historical figures will “float” above the table, reminiscent of conversations past. PICTURES: Log Table from the east end; period phone that was connected to the fire towers within the PRCSF. NEXT STEP: graphic boards and conversation bubbles to be fabricated and installed.
- Elk History
- A boxcar frame with a partial elk mount details conservation efforts. This unique display, coupled with historical photographs, shows how the PRC elk herd was restored. Authentic narrow gauge RR track, plates and spikes are used. PICTURES: Volunteers Joe, Eugene, Rick and Bruce installing the elk mount; Finished box car with elk. NEXT STEP: graphic boards to be fabricated and installed
FOREST HISTORY: (the Forester’s Office)
Set up to be “as it was” when the house was occupied by the forester, this room is complete with props, historical maps, and other items to give visitors a glimpse into the past. PICTURE: forester’s desk, file cabinet, typing desk and 2 maps; volunteer Rick working on a desk drawer; volunteer Sandi refinishing the desk chair. NEXT STEP: repair map frames and hang maps on walls.
ACTIVITY: (the Kitchen)
The kitchen serves as a multi-purpose space—a base for programmed activities, and as an area where visitors can explore on their own. PICTURE: Volunteer Tom applying the final coat of paint on the terrarium stand. NEXT STEP: complete the building of a narrow table; in the location of the wood burning kitchen stove, recreate the “working kitchen” as it was used in 1936.
OUTSIDE: For safety purposes during evening visitation or PRCA meetings, the ADA pathway between the Discovery Center and general parking lot has five manually switched pathway lights located at each major curve of the ADA pathway. This outside lighting illuminates the ADA pathway with low wattage bulbs that reflect downward to eliminate vertical light pollution. PICTURES: Volunteers Tammy and Bruce completing the installation of the pathway lights. NEXT STEP: stain the 4X4 vertical posts, using “DNR Brown” to match the building, after the posts are exposed to the weather for one year.
Committed construction volunteers not pictured today are John and Pegi who were away on a family event.
March 3, 2017
With Discovery Center exhibits still being built, the Pigeon River Country Discovery Center opened its doors in partnership with the DNR and Headwaters Land Conservancy to host a special educational evening called “Owl Prowl”.
On March 11th, 35 people came to the Discovery Center to learn about forest owls and attempted to call an owl. Visitors came from a 35 mile radius of the Center; approximately 50% of the participants being school age and 50% were older adults/parents.
After PRCA President Steward Smith welcomed visitors to the Center, participants began to dissect owl pellets revealing skulls, various bones and teeth. Using charts, the various skeletal remains were identified. Younger visitors also participated in crafts, one being the construction of an owl with articulating wings, made out of construction paper.
Following the dissecting exercise, retired DNR Officer Ed Pike, who is federally licensed to temporarily capture raptures, band them and study migration patterns in northern Michigan, discussed owl habitat, life cycles and migration patterns. After dark Mr. Pike lead the group on a hike into the forest along the Towerman Watch Trail, calling owls. He reported the owl call exercise was successful several days earlier probably due to warmer weather. Due to the very cold weather this night (9 degrees), he thought the owls were focused primarily on hunting. No return calls were heard.
Participant comments made at different times during the evening focused on the importance of the Discovery Center hosting experiential educational opportunities to ensure the next generation understands and respects the forest, several requests for the Center to host other learning opportunities every 6-8 weeks throughout the year, followed by many “thank you” statements for an excellent evening. Rudi Edel, a member of the Center’s Steering Committee, commented on-going educational opportunities to reinforce stewardship responsibilities of the Forest are one of the priorities and goals of the Steering Committee.
Rudi Edel
With Discovery Center exhibits still being built, the Pigeon River Country Discovery Center opened its doors in partnership with the DNR and Headwaters Land Conservancy to host a special educational evening called “Owl Prowl”.
On March 11th, 35 people came to the Discovery Center to learn about forest owls and attempted to call an owl. Visitors came from a 35 mile radius of the Center; approximately 50% of the participants being school age and 50% were older adults/parents.
After PRCA President Steward Smith welcomed visitors to the Center, participants began to dissect owl pellets revealing skulls, various bones and teeth. Using charts, the various skeletal remains were identified. Younger visitors also participated in crafts, one being the construction of an owl with articulating wings, made out of construction paper.
Following the dissecting exercise, retired DNR Officer Ed Pike, who is federally licensed to temporarily capture raptures, band them and study migration patterns in northern Michigan, discussed owl habitat, life cycles and migration patterns. After dark Mr. Pike lead the group on a hike into the forest along the Towerman Watch Trail, calling owls. He reported the owl call exercise was successful several days earlier probably due to warmer weather. Due to the very cold weather this night (9 degrees), he thought the owls were focused primarily on hunting. No return calls were heard.
Participant comments made at different times during the evening focused on the importance of the Discovery Center hosting experiential educational opportunities to ensure the next generation understands and respects the forest, several requests for the Center to host other learning opportunities every 6-8 weeks throughout the year, followed by many “thank you” statements for an excellent evening. Rudi Edel, a member of the Center’s Steering Committee, commented on-going educational opportunities to reinforce stewardship responsibilities of the Forest are one of the priorities and goals of the Steering Committee.
Rudi Edel
REPORT ON DISCOVERY CENTER 2/26 FROM COMMITTEE CHAIR RUDI EDEL
History - by the late 1800's the area was a land of stumps. Indigenous elk became extinct. After Lunden and Lovejoy started reforestation, the area began to support wildlife again. In 1918 the DNR ordered seven Rocky Mountain elk from the west and had them shipped in via box car. If memory serves me correctly, that small herd of seven is now 1200 to 1500 at times. I think right now, after the hunt, they may be down to 900 -1000 or so.
One of the treasures discovered by that summer intern was finding pictures of the DNR releasing the elk into the forest. (See file above.)
Since the elk is a main talking point for the PRC, it deserves an exhibit of its own. We built a box car, with ramp, based on the picture plus internet pictures circa 1918, with the design of taking a box car and splitting it in half length ways. There will be an elk looking out the dutch door (maybe thinking "let me out of here dudes?!")
Based on our last 4 hour steering committee meeting last Sunday, we plan on starting the elk story with narrow exhibits fastened to the end of the box car and then continuing the story with a narrow/long exhibit to the left of the opening in the car, on the west wall. We are meeting again on March 10th to finalize some of the exhibit placement ideas and issues we identified. So this is probably solid, but nothing is solid until it is installed.
We are progressing very well with the building. We had 2 formal work bees in January and again in February (10-13 people working at each) plus Joe and Eugene worked another 4 days in February while I was in the Dominican Republic on my annual humanitarian trip.
Then we have 3 large work bees set for March. By the first week of April my goal is to have everything done that volunteers can do. We then just wait for the fabricating company to give us product to install. I may be a little off; when we meet March 10th we may identify other stuff volunteers can do that I am overlooking - not sure - 5 heads are always better than 1.
Rudi
History - by the late 1800's the area was a land of stumps. Indigenous elk became extinct. After Lunden and Lovejoy started reforestation, the area began to support wildlife again. In 1918 the DNR ordered seven Rocky Mountain elk from the west and had them shipped in via box car. If memory serves me correctly, that small herd of seven is now 1200 to 1500 at times. I think right now, after the hunt, they may be down to 900 -1000 or so.
One of the treasures discovered by that summer intern was finding pictures of the DNR releasing the elk into the forest. (See file above.)
Since the elk is a main talking point for the PRC, it deserves an exhibit of its own. We built a box car, with ramp, based on the picture plus internet pictures circa 1918, with the design of taking a box car and splitting it in half length ways. There will be an elk looking out the dutch door (maybe thinking "let me out of here dudes?!")
Based on our last 4 hour steering committee meeting last Sunday, we plan on starting the elk story with narrow exhibits fastened to the end of the box car and then continuing the story with a narrow/long exhibit to the left of the opening in the car, on the west wall. We are meeting again on March 10th to finalize some of the exhibit placement ideas and issues we identified. So this is probably solid, but nothing is solid until it is installed.
We are progressing very well with the building. We had 2 formal work bees in January and again in February (10-13 people working at each) plus Joe and Eugene worked another 4 days in February while I was in the Dominican Republic on my annual humanitarian trip.
Then we have 3 large work bees set for March. By the first week of April my goal is to have everything done that volunteers can do. We then just wait for the fabricating company to give us product to install. I may be a little off; when we meet March 10th we may identify other stuff volunteers can do that I am overlooking - not sure - 5 heads are always better than 1.
Rudi