ALPENA ­– The Alpena Wildlife Sanctuary Board, at a recent meeting at city hall, heard reports on mallards, historic sign refurbishing, posting of board vacancies, and other ongoing projects.

Kyle Greer, of Delta Waterfowl, reported a good mallard hatching year for the 13 hen houses (nesting structures) set up last year in the Wildlife Sanctuary by Delta Waterfowl.

Future plans were discussed. The organization will also replace and maintain the four wood duck boxes on Island Park.

The historic sign at the top of the stairs when crossing the bridge to Island Park will be refurbished by volunteer Mike Babcock, advisory member.

The sign will read as follows:

“ISLAND PARK. FOUNDED 1944 BY THE SPORTSMEN OF ALPENA. DEDICATED TO THE CONSERVATION OF OUR WATER, LAND AND WILDLIFE AND THEIR ENJOYMENT BY ALL. DESIGNATED A CITY PARK 1985. THIS PUBLIC RECREATION LAND ACQUIRED WITH ASSISTANCE FROM THE MICHIGAN LAND TRUST FUND, DNR. IMPROVEMENTS MADE IN COOPERATION WITH THE USDA SOIL CONSERVATION SERVICE, HURON PINES, AND THE ALPENA WILDLIFE SANCTUARY BOARD.”

Lisa Kruse, chair, stated that the notice of two open board seats will be posted on the city’s website page and then on the Sanctuary Board’s website. Community members are encouraged to apply. The board advises the city council on environmental stewardship and maintenance of over 450 acres within the Alpena Wildlife Sanctuary and Island Park.

Kevin Fisher, city parks coordinator/harbormaster and boardl liaison, reported on the progress of moving out of the Sanctuary exhibit room at NOAA.

Terry Gougeon, board member, reported replacing two birdhouses and adding another, and building two turtle nesting protection boxes with signs designed by board member Amber Hubbard.

Scott Gasperin, website volunteer, requested information to clarify website changes.