LCWM and Kent ISD Collaborate on Long-Term Protection of Howard Christensen Nature Center Property 

LCWM and Kent ISD Collaborate on Long-Term Protection of Howard Christensen Nature Center Property 

The Land Conservancy of West Michigan and Kent ISD are working together on a plan to secure the long-term protection of the Howard Christensen Nature Center property. The Land Conservancy of West Michigan is deeply committed to environmental stewardship and holds responsibility for this cherished community resource as we develop a space that serves and benefits the community.

While the final plans for this space have not been finalized, we aim to transform the space to a nature preserve that can continue to be utilized by the community for generations to come. Our top priorities are a careful planning process, respectful engagement with partners, and preserving the property for nature, the community, and the Christensen family’s legacy. We will share information as plans are finalized.

If you have questions, please contact us at (616) 451-9476 or lcwm@naturenearby.org.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was the land transferred from Kent ISD to the Land Conservancy of West Michigan?  

This land is planned to be sold to the Land Conservancy of West Michigan to ensure its continued success and preservation for years to come. Over time, the use of Howard Christensen Nature Center has evolved, becoming more of a community resource than a school resource. We recognize how valued this space is, and our aim is to ensure that Michigan families can continue to explore, play, and learn here.  

What are your future plans for the buildings on site? 

As of right now, plans for the buildings on site have not been finalized. We will determine next steps for this space in the coming weeks, taking into consideration how this space has been used, as well as the safest and most effective use of this space for the next generation of community members.  

Will you continue to honor the Christensen family? 

Yes! This land was donated to Kent ISD from the Christensen family, in honor of their son, Howard. They wanted to provide a place for the community to come together and enjoy nature, which will continue to be the case once the land changes ownership.

What will this land turn into? 

Once the change of ownership is finalized, the space will become a nature preserve. The Land Conservancy’s management will focus on land restoration and ecological preservation, while offering a space for the community to enjoy access to nature nearby.

How do we know the LCWM won’t sell the land once they acquire it? 

Upon the finalization of the purchase, LCWM will be legally bound by multiple agreements that protect the land and its use in perpetuity. We can never sell the land nor change the use; it will be protected land.  

Will the space be closed for a period of time? 

Once the change of ownership is finalized, although specific portions of the space may close periodically to support various restoration efforts, the site as a whole will remain open and accessible to the public at no cost.