Addison Oaks and Independence Oaks Gain Old-Growth Forest Recognition
(Oakland County, Nov. 17, 2025)
Leonard and Independence Twp, MI – Parts of the forest at Independence Oaks and Addison Oaks county parks have received an Old-Growth Forest Recognition from The Old-Growth Forest Network.
Independence Oaks is the 24th forest recognized in the state of Michigan and joins more than 315 forests recognized nationwide. Addison Oaks also was inducted into the Old-Growth Forest Network as a community forest, recognizing the role it plays in connecting people with nature.
The forests in the Old-Growth Forest Network are chosen because they are among the oldest known forests in their county and receive formal protections to ensure their trees and ecosystems are protected from commercial logging.
In early November, the Old-Growth Forest Network presented Oakland County Parks with official designation plaques and shared some information about how to identify the signs of an old-growth forest and the importance of protecting them.
Due to the historical prevalence of logging and agriculture east of the Mississippi River, old-growth forests are very uncommon in Michigan. Less than 1% of old-growth forests remain east of the Mississippi River and under 5% of old-growth forests remain in the west of the United States.
For Independence and Addison Oaks, a history of private landownership most likely saved the portions of the forest from the booming logging industry, allowing them to flourish over time.
Old-growth forests are known for their diverse, native populations of trees and shrubs and rarely need invasive species management from the park system’s Natural Resources team. The thriving, self-sustaining ecosystem provides vital habitats for native animals and creates ideal circumstances for native trees to mature.
Thanks to the various canopy layers of different-aged trees and berry-producing shrubs in old-growth forests, animals can find plenty of food and shelter to thrive. Hollow cavities in trees provide important nesting places for small mammals and fallen trees create vital habitat for fungi, reptiles and amphibians.
From appreciating the tall canopies of the oldest trees to traversing the unique patterns of the forest floor from years of natural decomposition and erosion, there’s something for every hiker to enjoy about the old-growth forest portions of Addison and Independence Oaks. Take the time to escape the stress of everyday life and reconnect with the natural beauty of old-growth forests this season.
For information, visit OaklandCountyParks.com
