The Michigan Department of Natural Resources invites the public to attend the June 28 rededication of the Augusta Creek Wildlife Area in Kalamazoo County. Recently, the area was renamed the Dr. Gordon Guyer Augusta Creek State Wildlife Area as a tribute to Guyer, a tireless advocate for Michigan's natural resources who died last year at the age of 89.

The celebration will take place 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the area. The entrance to the wildlife area is near East C Avenue and North 43rd Street in Augusta. Signs will be posted near the intersection directing cars to the event. DNR Director Keith Creagh, members of the Guyer family and other friends and partners will speak at the event. Light refreshments will be served.

Guyer served as DNR director from 1986 to 1988 and was involved in the discussions and evaluation of dedicating the Augusta Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area. Guyer was raised in Augusta and was an enthusiastic hunter, angler and conservationist.

"Dr. Guyer was passionate about Michigan's world-class natural resources and made a significant, positive impact over the years," said Director Creagh. "The DNR is honored to name the Augusta Creek State Wildlife Area for Dr. Guyer. This area is one he truly cared about and helped create. Having this area bear his name will memorialize for future generations Dr. Guyer's many contributions to the state he loved."

Guyer graduated from Michigan State University, receiving his bachelor's degree, master's degree and doctorate in entomology. He joined the MSU faculty in 1953 and held many leadership roles on campus. He was the director of MSU Extension from 1973 to 1985, vice president for Governmental Affairs, and MSU president from 1992 to 1993. He held director positions at the DNR, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and the Kellogg Biological Station. Guyer traveled extensively for scientific research and in the mid-1970s led one of the first American scientific groups allowed to visit China. He later traveled to Africa under United Nations sponsorship to develop plant-protection education and research efforts in eight countries.

The Dr. Gordon Guyer Augusta Creek State Wildlife Area comprises approximately 386 acres and is dedicated to fishing and hunting. The property was purchased with assistance from the Michigan Natural Resources Trust fund.


The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state's natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.