Many of the islands are uninhabited. They provide a wild setting in the shadow of one of the most industrialized regions of the world. We must move quickly before all of these islands are swallowed up by developers. This strand of emeralds is the most natural and most fragile. Grosse Ile and Belle Isle, which have been developed, have recently taken steps to protect the natural areas remaining on their emerald islands.
Many people appreciate their beauty, the abundant wildlife and varied plants.
On or around these islands shore birds and water birds can be seen in abundance. Fish spawn in the bays. If you have not visited or boated around these islands, you can add to the quality of your life by arranging to do so. These are among the last few places on the Detroit River that provide shelter for many kinds of wildlife. These islands and the waters around them are where wildlife live and breed.