In 1976, four dedicated volunteers met to lay out a plan that would identify, protect, and care for West Michigan’s Natural areas. The organization that was born was named the Natural Areas Conservancy of West Michigan (NACOWMI) and they immediately set out with lofty goals. Early projects included several conservation agreements, Saul Lake Bog, Lake Breeze natural area and an addition to the Saugatuck State Park.
About Us
In 1997, the name was changed to The Land Conservancy of West Michigan and the projects continue to grow. Today, we are an accredited land trust with an office in Grand Rapids, governed by a board of directors, and operated by a professional staff.
Vision statement:
We envision a vibrant West Michigan with natural areas preserved for future generations.
Mission statement:
Our mission is to help people protect, enjoy, and care for natural land in West Michigan.
Core values:
Our work is grounded in the past:
Our understanding and respect for our region’s natural history informs how we protect and care for our land and water.
Our work reflects the best of the present:
As a nationally accredited land trust, we use best practices and collaborate with partner organizations and communities to fulfill our mission with integrity.
Our work is inspired by the future:
We are forward thinking and passionate about preserving natural areas to enhance the quality of life in West Michigan for future generations.
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.
Check out this video from Heart of the Lakes for an insight into how we do what we do: