About Us
In 1976, four dedicated volunteers met to lay out a plan that would identify, protect, and care for West Michigan’s natural areas. They created an organization called the Natural Areas Conservancy of West Michigan (NACOWMI), and they immediately set out with lofty goals. Early projects included several conservation easements, Saul Lake Bog, Lake Breeze natural area and an addition to the Saugatuck Dunes State Park.
In 1997, the name was changed to The Land Conservancy of West Michigan, and the projects have continued to grow. Today, the Land Conservancy of West Michigan is an accredited land trust with an office in Grand Rapids, governed by a board of directors and operated by a professional staff.
Guiding Statements
Mission
Conserving West Michigan’s ecologically critical land.
Vision
Protected land. Healthy habitats. Inspired people.
Equity
The Land Conservancy of West Michigan’s efforts to preserve and care for our region’s native habitats not only serve a healthier, more biodiverse planet, they also benefit the people who live here. We are committed to fulfilling our mission by ensuring the benefits of our work are accessible to all people.
Our Values
Perpetuity
We commit to permanent and sustained protection and care of West Michigan’s ecologically critical land.
Collaboration
We pursue collaborations within the community to achieve greater impact.
Connection
We support the connection of healthy habitats. We support the connection of people to nature and each other.
Excellence
We strive to be a leading non-profit land trust, sharing our expertise and setting an example of integrity.
Inclusion
We welcome diverse and differing perspectives with respect and curiosity. We strive to ensure the benefits of conservation and participation in our mission are available to all.
Sustainability
We approach our work with the intention to support balance and longevity.
Wellness & Safety
We support the health, safety, and well-being of Land Conservancy staff, volunteers, and preserve visitors.
What We Do
As a non-profit land conservancy, we work with private landowners and governmental bodies to permanently protect and care for the land. Our protected land reflects the diversity and beauty of West Michigan and includes lush forests, grassy fields, flowering meadows, marshy wetlands, and rolling sand dunes. These significant habitats and ecosystems are home to a rich variety of plants and wildlife, some of which are now threatened or endangered species.
By preserving and restoring these properties through the best practices available, we give future generations the precious opportunity to experience the same natural wonders that we treasure today.
The Land Conservancy is the only accredited organization in our service area dedicated solely to the permanent conservation of significant natural areas. Our land protection area includes all or parts of eight counties: Allegan, Kent, Ottawa, Newaygo, Muskegon, Oceana, Mason, and Lake.
Address
400 Ann Street NW, Suite 102
Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Phone
616-451-9476
Service Area
