I went out in search of wildlife recently, specifically fox and deer. On the recommendation of a friend, I visited the Middleground Island, in the Saginaw River in Bay City. Unfortunately, the wildlife saw me coming and all hid from me. But while walking around, I was touched by another aspect of this island, but not in a good way.
You see, years ago some people with great minds decided this island, set in the middle of a river, would be a wonderful place to dispose of highly toxic industrial chemicals. Now a portion of this island is home to a restricted, Superfund industrial landfill, in addition to deer and fox. And eagles and people…
Set on the south end of Bay City, this island has the potential of great beauty.
Industries have grown along the riverfront.
An old gate along the edge of the landfill, and close ups of the two signs.
An abandoned shack at the entrance.
This sign says it all (and yes, I was outside the fence).
Another sad commentary.
Don’t get me wrong. Bay City is a great place, and has been growing and improving for years. The downtown riverfront is beautiful, with parks, bandshells and marinas. A major new development was recently announced for a former industrial site that is being cleaned up. I find this island landfill, however, to be a good(?) example of the how problems were addressed in the past.
Thanks for visiting. I will get something more cheerful up soon. The holidays are here, so that should be pretty easy!!!
