News & Blog
March 2, 2023
in Features
Land Conservancy of West Michigan announces campaign to protect 300 acres of natural land in Pere Marquette Watershed
With frontage on two tributaries of the Pere Marquette River, the new McDuffee Creek Nature Preserve will offer a destination for explorers to hike, fish, birdwatch, and more. The Land Conservancy of West Michigan is seeking public support to protect 300 acres of natural land in...
January 10, 2023
in Features
Trees planted to support forest resilience at Flower Creek Dunes Nature Preserve show early signs of success
There is a lot to love about the forest at Flower Creek Dunes Nature Preserve. Its steep dune ridges are shaded by beautiful hemlocks, beeches, maples, and oaks. The towering trees provide shelter and food for migrating and resident birds. Foxes, bobcats, and porcupines are...
January 3, 2023
in Features
2022 Holiday Hike Challenge Results
This holiday season, many of you set out to find the big red holiday bows hanging on trees in 16 of the natural areas the Land Conservancy has helped protect. You travelled across West Michigan with your friends, family, and pets and discovered gorgeous natural places—some for the first time! A hearty thanks to everyone who...
December 29, 2022
in Features
2022 Year In Review
The year 2022 brought many wonderful gifts and experiences for the Land Conservancy of West Michigan. Join us as we reflect on the year! Land Protection Staff News April Scholtz retired from her position as Land Protection Director at the Land Conservancy of West Michigan after nearly 30...
October 18, 2022
Letter from the Executive Director
Fall is my favorite time of year, and observing the changing season got me thinking about nature and the transitions that occur in the natural world. In the autumn, plants move their energy into their roots in preparation for the period of rest ahead. The...
October 18, 2022
Eric Bassett finds a natural refuge close to the city
Eric Bassett grew up near Big Rapids in a rural environment. When it came time to go to college, he always knew he wanted to go to Grand Valley State University. He went, and as he expected, he loved it. When he graduated, he wanted to...
October 18, 2022
in News
Groundbreaking restoration work at The Highlands
This summer, ground broke on one of the final pieces of the restoration work at The Highlands, a natural area protected in collaboration by the Land Conservancy and Blandford Nature Center. Construction began on the stream daylighting project in early July. The project will bring...
October 18, 2022
John and Bernadette Barbatano support spaces for nature to reign
John Barbatano and his family have deep roots in Grand Rapids. His childhood home, where his mother Bernadette still resides, is just down the road from The Highlands. “I grew up playing in the woods at Blandford Nature Center with my friends,” John said. After graduating from...