WMU Moves to Transfer Asylum Lake Preserve Stewardship to Kalamazoo County
In a unanimous vote on February 12, 2026, the Western Michigan University Board of Trustees approved a memorandum of understanding (MOU) initiating the transfer of ownership and management of the 274-acre Asylum Lake Preserve to Kalamazoo County. This marks the first step in a multi-phase process that could reshape the future of this valuable natural area.
What Does This Transfer Entail?
The MOU establishes a framework for negotiations leading to a formal interlocal agreement between WMU and the county. The goal is to secure state legislation to officially transfer the deed of the property. Currently, WMU holds the land but lacks a formal deed. The preserve, located on the corner of Drake Road and Parkview Avenue, has been a resource for WMU departments including anthropology, biology, geography, hydrogeology, and environmental studies.
Financial Considerations Driving the Decision
WMU Vice President for Government Relations and External Partnerships, Jeff Breneman, highlighted the financial pressures facing the university. With potential state budget cuts looming, maintaining the preserve with university funds could divert resources from core educational priorities. According to Breneman, funds used for the preserve could come directly from student tuition if state funding is reduced.
Concerns Raised About Preserve Maintenance
During the public comment period, concerns were voiced regarding the county’s ability to maintain the preserve to the same standard as WMU. A member of WMU’s facilities management team questioned the county’s expertise in managing the unique ecosystems within the preserve, including oak savannahs and the beaver population. WMU’s Vice President of Business and Finance, Jan Van Der Kley, responded, stating confidence in the county’s parks group, which already manages similar preserves and will adhere to existing conservation restrictions.
Preserve vs. Park: A Matter of Semantics
Another point of discussion centered on the terminology used to describe the area. Lauri Holmes, former Vice President of the Asylum Lake Preservation Association, expressed concern that referring to the preserve as a “park” diminishes its ecological focus. She argued that a preserve prioritizes the needs of wildlife and plants, while a park caters more to human recreation. Breneman indicated this language could be refined in the subsequent interlocal agreement.
Timeline and Next Steps
The entire transfer process is expected to take several months. Following the negotiation of an interlocal agreement, WMU and Kalamazoo County will seek state legislation to formally transfer the deed. The preserve, under agreement between WMU and the city of Kalamazoo, is currently designated for passive-leverage recreation.
Other Board Actions
In addition to the Asylum Lake Preserve decision, the Board of Trustees approved a lease renewal with the City of Battle Creek for the WMU College of Aviation to continue operating out of the Battle Creek Executive Airport. The board also elected Alan Turfe as chair and Kelly Burris as vice-chair.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is an MOU? A Memorandum of Understanding is a document outlining the intentions of two parties to function together towards a common goal.
- Will access to Asylum Lake Preserve remain free? According to the board proposal, access to the preserve will remain free for all.
- Will WMU still be able to use the preserve for research? WMU President Russ Kavalhuna stated that Western will still have access to Asylum Lake for educational and research purposes.
- Are dogs allowed at Asylum Lake Preserve? Yes, dogs are allowed but must be leashed at all times.
Pro Tip: Stay informed about the progress of the land transfer by checking the Kalamazoo County Parks website and the Western Michigan University newsroom for updates.
What are your thoughts on the transfer of Asylum Lake Preserve? Share your opinions in the comments below!
