Newsletter Archive

Letter from the Executive Director

My initial letter for this page, written six weeks ago, is now in digital heaven – conceived long before COVID-19 changed the face of our current reality. Ironically, if not prophetically, the theme for this spring’s newsletter – health – was chosen last year, well...

Finding health and fulfillment in volunteering

After retiring from a career in social work, Caroline Clark found she had time to explore new opportunities. One avenue that sparked her interest was becoming a master naturalist through Michigan State University Extension. The program requires prospective naturalists to complete a certain amount of...

Remembering Molly Bradshaw

Molly Bradshaw played a pivotal role in shaping what the Land Conservancy of West Michigan is today. She passed away in July 2019. [caption id="attachment_16189" align="alignright" width="313"] Molly Bradshaw, then president of the Natural Areas Conservancy of West Michigan, speaking at the dedication of the Saugatuck...

A community rallies for Ottawa Sands

We celebrated the transfer of this property to Ottawa County Parks in October 2019. [caption id="attachment_16180" align="alignright" width="443"] Hikers explore Ottawa Sands during the dedication.[/caption] On a blustery, gray day in mid-October, supporters of Ottawa Sands County Park gathered to celebrate its dedication—the final chapter in a...

The Highlands

Thanks to the community of Grand Rapids, this former golf course's future as a natural area was secured in spring 2019. The soft breezes and peaceful trails belie an exciting year of transformation at the Highlands. Completion of the acquisition campaign and a series of groundbreaking...

Night Beach Forever

Preserving the dunes, and a dear friend's memory, in perpetuity. When 35-year-old Evelyn Stone passed away in 2018, Jessa Ávalos and her friends wanted to find a way to honor her memory and her love for West Michigan’s dunes. “When our friends think about Evelyn, they think...

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