Whether they are collecting and planting seeds, pulling invasive shrubs, or taking a friend on a walk through one of our preserves, the Land Conservancy continues to feel the positive impact of our volunteers at each Second Saturday and every day in between. This year, we
This season, the Land Conservancy is once again hosting its Holiday Hike Challenge! Before you embark on your search for the holiday bows we’ve hung in our nature preserves, we've prepared some tips for how to safely explore nature nearby this season. 1. Plan your visit Research
New trails and recreation opportunities debut this fall and winter
Dear Cherished Community Members, Michigan is known widely for its striking natural environments. They’ve been a draw for people from all over for centuries. They drew me here from Colorado. Though I have lived in many places with iconic natural features, in my opinion, few match
Oak savannas occur in between two other habitat types, where a dense, shaded oak woodland gradually opens into sunny prairie. In an oak savanna, mature oaks are spaciously scattered in an open field, free to stretch and grow wide crowns. They are joined by a modest
An interview with land manager Mary Parr Growing up in Grand Rapids, Mary Parr knew from a young age that she wanted to work for the environment. She obtained an undergraduate degree in Natural Resources Management from Grand Valley State University and then traveled around the
Rory Thibault, Land Protection Specialist Growing up along the Lake Michigan Shoreline, Rory considers himself privileged to call these critical and rare ecosystems his proverbial backyard. This youthful engagement with nature nearby grew into a penchant for the design and provision of space. Rory holds a
Oak savannas present a unique opportunity to make a big impact for preserving and restoring biodiversity, health, and resilience to the West Michigan landscape. Once abundant in Michigan, oak savannas are now incredibly rare, and they are a regional and national priority for protection and
Chuck and Patricia Ann, ‘Pat,’ Bloom have lived in Grand Rapids their entire lives. Chuck worked as a Certified Public Accountant and Pat practiced and taught nursing. The pair know a thing or two about commitment. This September, they celebrated their 67th wedding anniversary. Chuck