Ted Black Woods

The central 62 acres of Van Atta Woods were acquired in 1973 for $95,000 from Andrew and Kathryn Pavlik. In 1989, an adjacent 9.5-acre parcel on Grand River Avenue was purchased from James and Shirley Harding for $130,000 with Park Millage funds to provide a public access point and parking that is accessible to individuals with a disability. Three acres of the purchase was sold in 2000 to pay off the mortgage and develop the entrance off Grand River. In 2009, an additional .92 acres were added as a donation/purchase from the family of former Trustee, Park Commissioner, Environmental Commissioner Ted Black and Marijane Black. This purchase serves as an additional entrance off Van Atta Road. The woodlot contains beech trees, hardwoods, and assorted wildflower species. It has been allowed to progress naturally with minimal improvements from the Township.