In 2015, the Land Conservancy of West Michigan worked successfully with the local community to protect Anderson Woods Nature Preserve—73 acres of beautiful, contiguous forest in Muskegon County. The quiet, serene preserve provides important habitat for migratory birds and wildlife. Because of the preserve’s gentle terrain, it presented a perfect opportunity to
LCWM Board Member and dune geoecologist Suzanne DeVries-Zimmerman shares her thoughts on one of West Michigan’s most iconic landscapes. Lake Michigan’s scenic sand dunes were a part of Suzanne DeVries-Zimmerman's life well before she was born. Her parents met at a beach party, and when Suzanne's mother was pregnant with her, she
By Alexandra Sixt Though some restrictions related to COVID-19 are lifting here in Michigan, it is still important to practice caution when going to public spaces. Social distancing guidelines recommend that people limit travel and avoid larger crowds, possibly making visits to natural areas less feasible.
By Nick Sanchez, Conservation Easement Stewardship Specialist Trout season starts today, and what better time to recognize the support of our communities and the families who have worked with us to protect almost 12,000 acres of natural land in our eight-county service area. These lands are primarily comprised of family-owned forests under legal protection through conservation agreements, also known as conservation easements. Being land-dwellers ourselves, we
This year's spring newsletter centers on the topic of health, and the many ways nature supports our health. In the midst of a global pandemic, we are seeing these benefits in a whole new light—and appreciating them more than ever. We talk with a conservation
By Alexandra Sixt Spending time in nature is known to have many benefits; most notably the incredibly positive effects it can have on mental wellbeing! In this time of social distancing, a walk outdoors may be even more beneficial as we find ourselves indoors more often
Like many of you, we’re spending a lot more time video conferencing here at the Land Conservancy of West Michigan. Sheltering in place is hard—especially when all you want to do is go outside and explore. But we have a way you can keep nature nearby, even in
For Grace Houseal, volunteering with the Land Conservancy of West Michigan opened up a world of possibility. Houseal moved to Grand Rapids from Midland, Michigan to pursue a degree in English from Grand Valley State University in 2016. She landed a job at Brewery Vivant, and
With the help of our supporters and volunteers, 2019 was a great year at the Land Conservancy of West Michigan. As we embark on the new year, we want to reflect on last year’s achievements. Join us in looking back on what we have accomplished
A Year-End Message from Executive Director Joe Engel In 1851, ten years before the Civil War, 22-year-old Carleton Watkins left Oneonta, New York and headed west to seek his fortune after hearing about the discovery of gold in California. After a long journey across the breadth of