ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – Escanaba’s DNR Pocket Park reopens for another season next week.
The Pocket Park at the U.P. State Fairgrounds will open on Wednesday, May 28, at 2:00 p.m. In addition to classic activities like archery, fishing, and shooting and the pellet range, guests will be able to enjoy a fur and bone table, coloring, and a bonfire if weather allows.
Park Interpreter Jalen Sims says there are new opportunities guests can look forward to this year.
“We’ve got some new gardening programs we’re going to get started and a few new educational programs that we’ll be getting in our classroom,” he said.
On Friday, the Pocket Park gave about 100 James T. Jones Elementary students an early preview of what’s in store. Third graders Porter, Lennon, Kasen, and Finn say they learned about the importance of protecting Michigan’s wildlife.
“We all own this place,” Porter said. Kasen then echoed, “We all own nature and other resources.”
“We have to, like, take care of it,” said Lennon.
“Use your resources usefully,” Finn advised.
Sims says Pocket Park staff members have been looking forward to welcoming the public back.
“I’m most excited about just being a space for people to convene and build that community,” said Sims. “We’ve recently had a lot of fires in the community and buildings that are no longer in service, so just being that place where people can come and get together is what I’m most excited about.”
After opening day, the Pocket Park will be operational Wednesdays through Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
To learn more about what’s available at the Pocket Park, click here. Follow the Michigan DNR Pocket Park Facebook page for updates on events throughout the season.
