After years of sitting idle, the former Camp Greilick property near Traverse City is finally on the verge of becoming something special again — a vibrant public park. But there's an opportunity to do even more: to make this space a sanctuary not just for people, but for injured and recovering birds of prey.

The Grand Traverse County Parks and Recreation Department, in partnership with North Sky Raptor Sanctuary, has put forward a visionary proposal to create a raptor sanctuary within the park. This project would provide a safe haven for hawks, owls, eagles, and other raptors recovering from injury. It would also include an educational center, interpretive trails, a flight pen for rehabilitation, and even a raptor hospital.

Right now, the proposal is still under discussion — no vote has taken place. That’s why community support is critical.

Raptors play a vital role in Michigan’s ecosystems, helping to maintain balance by controlling rodent populations and signaling the health of our environment. But these magnificent birds are frequently injured by cars, poisoning, habitat loss, and other human-caused dangers. North Sky Raptor Sanctuary has already saved countless lives — and this new center would allow them to do even more while educating the public about wildlife conservation.

Transforming part of Camp Greilick into a place for healing and learning would add immeasurable value to this new park. It’s a vision rooted in stewardship, science, and community — and it deserves to move forward.

We urge the East Bay Township Planning Commission and Grand Traverse County Parks and Recreation leadership to support and approve the raptor sanctuary proposal. Let’s give these birds a second chance to fly — and give our community a one-of-a-kind resource that inspires and heals.

Add your name if you believe Camp Greilick should become a home for raptors in need — and for the people ready to learn from them.

Photo: Joel Bissell | MLive.com