Berrien County parks offer variety of fall events

Published 10:43 am Tuesday, September 25, 2018

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BERRIEN COUNTY — As the leaves begin to change color across southwest Michigan, there are plenty of places to sightsee and participate in fall activities in Berrien County. Here is a look at a few of the things going on in county parks this season.

Paw Paw River County Park opens this fall

This park is located at M-140 in Watervliet. This new county park was made possible by a grant from the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund. It includes a barrier-free kayak/canoe launch, a pedestrian bridge providing access to an island in the Paw Paw River, a hard surface walking trail loop on the island, as well as overlook/fishing decks and viewing areas along the Paw Paw River. Park officials encouraged the community to grab their binoculars, fishing pole or kayak and check it out.

Love Biketober Fest

To help raise funds for Love Creek County Park, the park will host the Love Biketober Fest starting at 10 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 21, at the park, 9736, 9292 Huckleberry Road, Berrien Center.

Those who participate can take part in a 15- or 25-mile gravel road ride or a 25 to 50-mile road ride. Cost: $35 to register. There will also be a free intro to mountain biking class. To register or donate, people can visit lovebiketoberfest.com.

Berrien Birding Club

Berrien County Parks sponsors the Berrien Birding Club to promote recreational birding in Berrien County. More species of birds have been recorded in Berrien County than in any other county in Michigan. The club invited members of the community to join. The schedule of events can be found at berriencounty.org/434/birding.

Fall recycling opportunity

A recycling event will take place from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 13, at the Southeast Berrien County Landfill Recycle Station. People can drop off their household chemicals, electronics and documents for on-site shredding. For details on accepted items and drop off locations visit: berriencounty.org and click Recycling Services or call (269) 983-7111 x8234. Materials accepted from Berrien County households only, officials said. Waste from businesses will not be accepted.