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Former Brownstown supervisor urges Flat Rock leaders to back Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge
Summary
Ed Smith, speaking as a representative of a refuge-support group, asked Flat Rock leaders to attend a fundraising dinner, consider donations and act as visible champions for the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge, citing erosion, pollinator habitat and long-term restoration work.
Ed Smith, a former Brownstown Township supervisor speaking as a member of the International Wildlife Refuge Alliance (IWRA), asked the Flat Rock City Council to visibly support the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge and attend an upcoming fundraiser.
Smith told the council the refuge supports migratory birds, pollinators and local recreation and said community participation at the refuge’s dinner would “demonstrate leadership” and help secure regional partnerships. He asked council members, neighboring mayors and local businesses to consider attending the event and to donate baskets or funds.
Smith described environmental problems he said the refuge is addressing, including erosion and sedimentation that have left some areas “only like 15 inches” deep, and he urged local officials to back work with agencies such as the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. He also described seeing cranes and monarch butterflies while visiting refuge pollinator gardens.
Smith identified himself as part of the IWRA, a volunteer group that raises funds, engages the public and advocates for the refuge. He said staffing and policy uncertainty have posed challenges but that the refuge and its volunteer supporters completed notable work in 2025.
No vote or formal council action followed Smith’s presentation. Council members did not commit to a financial pledge during the meeting; Smith’s remarks were recorded as a public presentation and a request for visible community support.
Flat Rock officials did not provide a timetable or next steps for formal support at the meeting. Smith encouraged follow-up and said he would welcome coordination with the mayor and council to deepen local involvement.
