Union Lake is a man-made lake on the St. Joseph river (559 acres), located in both Sherwood and Union Townships. The Union Lake Community Association (ULCA)  is a voluntary  association with about 100 members, compromising approximately 50% of the properties on the lake. It is a non-profit corporation, registered with the State of Michigan on10-1-82. Annual dues are $25 per member (per property, not per person).

The purposes of the Association are to promote the education of members and other lake users about water quality and water safety; support issues which concern the welfare of the lake and watershed, maintenance of the water quality for safe swimming, and renewal of fish resources; and, support evaluation of aquatic and hydrological data of the lake and tributaries so that decisions and actions of the Association may be conducive to the betterment of the lake and river.

The Association works closely with the two Township Boards and the Village of Union City (owner of the land under the lake) for administration of activities, and with contractors used to evaluate and control invasive weeds. The Association has organized and implemented assessment districts approved by both townships, to fund the weed control activities.

Activities include monthly meetings (June, July and August at 9:00 am on the 3rd Saturday; April, May, September and October at 7:00 pm on the 3rd Monday) and frequent e-mails to members with current information,  promoting safety and environmentally friendly activities, an annual boat parade, and assisting with financing needed structural improvements on the lake.

For additional information on the ULCA or activities on Union Lake, contact Gary Chester, President, 517-462-8021 or gary.chester@yahoo.com