Help Save the Tobico Marsh Observation Towers

Funds needed to save towers closed after years of weather and abuse

January 16, 2011
By: Stephen Kent

On January 29, 2011 the Friends of the Bay City State Recreation Area will hold a " 5K Thermal Walk/Run" to help raise funds to restore the Tobico Marsh Observation Towers.

Since they were built in the mid 70's the two towers have been a popular destination for visitors to the marsh. The towers provide a unique view of the area and the wildlife.

The platform at the top overlooks the forest on one side and the lagoon on the other. Each season brings a new view as the leaves emerge and mature then give way to fall and winter. Tobico is one of the largest coastal wetlands in Michigan and is a major staging area for migratory birds.

Over the years weather, and some abuse, have left the towers in less than perfect condition. As a result they have been closed to the public for the last few years.

The towers may look sturdy as you walk by but even in 2006, when these pictures were taken, the towers could be felt to sway significantly at the top.

Estimates for restoring and reopening the towers run as high as $35,000 for each of the two structures. If the funds can be raised the towers could see another fifteen or more years of service.

The Friends of the Bay City State Recreation Area have begun a fund raising effort toward restoring and rehabilitating the towers. About $4,300 has been raised so far.

The January 29 5K Walk/Run will start at the Frank Anderson Trail Head. Registration will be at the Bay Banquet Hall at 363 St Park Drive. The trail head is about 100 yards north of the hall.

The Saginaw Valley Sustainability Society (SVSS) is making their web-site available for the Friends of the Bay City State Recreation Area to publicize the effort to get the towers restored. You'll find full details at www.sagvalss.org.

SVSS helped organize the Save Tobico Towers Fund (STT) and they continue to help with the fund raising efforts. According to their web site restoring the Tobico Observation Towers "matches our interests and goals regarding sustainability in the local Bay City Area".