ALPA Update (02/15/26):

Proposed Transfer of Asylum Lake Preserve from Western Michigan University (WMU) to Kalamazoo County Parks

On 2/12/26, the WMU Board of Trustees unanimously voted to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to allow negotiations with the County toward a formal transfer agreement. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is a formal but non-binding agreement between parties that outlines their shared intentions, roles, and objectives as a framework for working together, often in advance of a binding contract. It is expected that the County Board of Commissioners will also vote to enter the MOU during their 2/17/26 meeting.

The Asylum Lake Policy & Management Council also met on 2/12/26, where the County Parks Director and WMU vice president for Government Relations addressed ALPA's questions. ALPA has now engaged with Kalamazoo County Parks, WMU, and the Asylum Lake Policy & Management Council (ALPMC) regarding this proposed transfer. The following summary reflects ALPA’s current understanding of the terms outlined in the MOU, including details from public conversations, between Kalamazoo County and WMU.

ASYLUM LAKE PRESERVATION ASSOCIATION (ALPA)

The Asylum Lake Preservation Association (ALPA) is a volunteer association dedicated to the preservation of the Asylum Lake Preserve.  The Preserve is a 274 acre treasure that is owned by Western Michigan University and guided by goals within the the Declaration of Conservation Restrictions: Promote Ecosystem Integrity and Natural Aesthetics, Ensuring Passive Recreation and Supporting Research and Education.

While many people come to the Preserve for rest and renewal, few understand its fragile nature and history. It is the one place in the city where the animals and plants, not the humans and visitors, are the main elements, and this is why it is called a preserve and not a park.

What else does the Asylum Lake Preserve need?

ALPA needs support from the community

Asylum Lake Preserve has a fascinating history... a bounty of animals and plants...an endowment fund for its maintenance.

What else does it need?

It needs you, as part of a supportive community! You can see that this property is not a Preserve by accident, many people have worked long and hard to keep it this way.

Please consider becoming a member of Asylum Lake Preservation Association for only $10 annually or volunteer for ALPA and the Preserve.

We promise to never share your e-mail address with anyone and will not bother you with frequent e-mails. We will update you on what is happening in the Preserve and alert you to opportunities to help guard and improve this beautiful treasure.