ALPENA — The Alpena Wildlife Sanctuary Board, at its August meeting at Alpena City Hall, talked about the Island Park use policy as well as several other Island-related topics.

Guidance for Island use stems from the 1985 agreement with the now-named Michigan Land Trust Fund, which gave most of the funding for the city’s purchase of Sportsman’s Island. The agreement was that the Island (now named Island Park) be used for “quiet recreation and environmental education.” Board members suggested examples of “quiet recreation” that included (but were not limited to) nature walks, dog walking, school and organizational classes, fishing, photography, walking, bird watching, and group activities. It was noted that group activities should be reserved with the city.

Board member Lisa Kruse continued with information about using social media to promote awareness of Island Park, the Alpena Wildlife Sanctuary and the proposed Thunder Bay River Center. The city’s social media policy and coordinating websites were two of the topics discussed.

Board members Catherine Stedman and Judy Kalmanek reported that Youth Volunteer Corps students helped with removing spotted knapweed and that next year the plan is to focus on removing leafy spurge, an invasive which has spread dramatically on the island.

Board Chair Terry Gougeon announced plans to work with Huron Pines for a Buckthorn event on Oct. 4.

The River Center report was that work on grants is progressing and Phase 2 options are being researched. The first Reel Fun Northland Challenge was a success and added funds for the River Center.

In other business, City Liaison to the Sanctuary Board, Montiel Birmingham, asked about the Island Park Management Plan and answered questions about the City Recreation Plan and about insurance for volunteers for the City.