http://www.stewartfarm.org/DNR.php

 

Harsens Island Wildlife Area in the St. Clair Flats State Wildlife Area
The following has been compiled by Robert Williams at Stewart Farm to help understand the regulations and schedule for island residents and the general public to be able to access the St. Clair Flats State Wildlife Area for purposes of hiking, photography, walking dogs, etc. See the map which is available online or in person at the DNR office. Also, for regulations and schedules regarding hunting activities contact the DNR.

Harsens Island residents and the general public are welcome to visit certain portions of the wildlife area at certain times of the year when complying with the restrictions in affect at the time.

Restrictions always in affect:
-Never enter the area marked on the map as "WILDLIFE REFUGE." Within the St. Clair Flats State Wildlife area signs are posted indicating the limits of the restricted wildlife refuge area. See the map available online or at the DNR office.
-Do not bring any juices, soft drinks, or alcoholic beverages.
-Park only in designated parking lots. See the map.

Restrictions at specific times of the year:
-Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash during the period from April 15 through July 15 due to nesting birds in the area.
-A permit is required, even to visit, from September 15 through December 31. That permit is available at the DNR office from 8 am to 4 pm weekdays and costs $4 for the day or $13 annually.
-It is not recommended to visit during hunting season, October 1 through November 30.
-Visiting should be limited to daylight hours.

Summary of Annual Schedule Rules
January 1 - April 14 No permit needed. No restrictions on dogs.
April 15 - July 15 No permit needed. Dogs required to be on leash.
July 16 - Sept. 14 No permit needed. No restrictions on dogs.
Sept. 15 - Sept. 30 Permit required. No restrictions on dogs.
Oct. 1 - Nov. 30 It is recommended that you not visit during hunting season.
Dec. 1 - Dec. 31 Permit required. No restrictions on dogs.