Location Details

Originally named the Purple Coneflower Plant Preserve, Fred Dye Nature Sanctuary was acquired in 1970.  In 2003, an anonymous donor purchased an additional 6.4 acres adjacent to the sanctuary  and requested the sanctuary be renamed in honor of Fred Dye. Fred served on the MNA board for many years and was a dedicated member and active volunteer.  

The 36-acre sanctuary has no trails, but is easily navigable due to its openness. The prairie seems somewhat out of place in the Upper Peninsula, and it is suspected to be a result of human activity. The town of Kenneth once existed at the site of the sanctuary, with the old foundations of the general store and saloon resting within its boundaries. 

The dolomite bedrock and karst features scattered throughout the sanctuary contribute to the grass-dominated, open habitat. The shallow, exposed bedrock and thin soils make it difficult for hardwood forests to fully develop. The karst features found in the sanctuary today may eventually turn into caves or sinkholes after centuries because of the eroding bedrock. 

Many bird species can be found year-round at Fred Dye. The sanctuary supports both breeding and migratory birds. Ruby-throated hummingbirds can be seen around the wildflowers.

The diversity of plant species at Fred Dye result in different sets of wildflowers blooming through all points of the growing season. In the spring, visitors are welcomed by round-lobed hepatica and wild columbine. In summer, pale purple coneflower, prairie cinquefoil, and toad flax are in bloom. The fall brings leathery grape fern, pale spike lobelia, and fringed gentian.

Planning Your Visit:
Fred Dye Nature Sanctuary is known for its bird species, many of which can be spotted year-round. Visitors can see many breeding and migratory birds in the summer, as they thrive in the sanctuary’s prairie habitat.

Different sets of wildflowers bloom in spring, summer, and fall. Though, summer is the best time to see the sanctuary’s distinguishing feature: the pale purple coneflower.  

Driving Directions: 
Located near Kenneth and Moran, Michigan. Take M-123 about 8.5 miles northeast of Moran and look for the sanctuary sign on the southwest side of M-123. 

For additional information, contact the MNA office at (866) 223-2231.