State Rep. Mike Hoadley, of Au Gres, recently met with local community leaders regarding years of neglect at the Au Gres River Public Access site in Sims Township and highlighted upcoming efforts to restore a popular recreational destination for the region.

Confusion between the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Army Corps of Engineers as to where maintenance responsibilities lie has resulted in the site’s downturn over several years and left disgruntled residents demanding action.

On Saturday, Hoadley invited local leaders to the site at the mouth of the Au Gres River for evaluation and participated in conversations regarding volunteer efforts to clean up the site and remove debris and overgrowth. Volunteers will be welcome at the site on Saturday, May 11 beginning at 9 a.m.

“One of the greatest things about rural communities are the people who are willing to step up to do what needs to be done rather than wait on bureaucracies to take responsibility,” Hoadley said. “I want to thank all the concerned community members who participated in this past Saturday’s interest meeting.

“I know that any amount of time that can be spared will be appreciated by the community and people who love the great outdoors in our neck of the woods.”

The Au Gres River Public Access site features nearly a half-mile walkway along the river which leads out to Saginaw Bay beyond the public DNR boat ramps – providing residents with a beautiful area to fish from rocky banks, take a peaceful walk or to simply relax and watch boats coming in and out from the launch site or multiple nearby marinas.

Anyone from the area who is interested in additional information regarding the volunteer event can contact the city of Au Gres or Rep. Hoadley’s office at 517-373-1789.