The MAB Program United States of America
Biosphere Reserve Information - General Description
University of Michigan Biological Station
General Description
The University of Michigan
Biological Station and Biosphere Reserve is located at the northern tip of the
Lower Peninsula of Michigan on the southern shore of Douglas Lake. Since its
establishment in 1909, the biological station has continually served as an
instructional and research center for students and scientists from all around
the world.
During this long research history, natural ecosystems in the area have been
monitored in numerous experimental plots and control areas. With its excellent
research facilities, the station has also an important education function and
receives about 280 students for courses every summer.
The biosphere reserve is located in the northern hardwood forest ecosystem and
comprises forests of beech-maple and successional stages of aspen, oak, and pine
on the better-drained soils. Moister habitats have spruce, fir, and cedar
forests. Wetlands include bogs, fens, swamps, marshes and numerous lakes. The
region has a rural character with generally low population and with tourism as
major industry.
Last updated: 06/27/2005