News & Blog
October 15, 2024
Letter from the Executive Director: Fall 2024
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
October 15, 2024
Meet the Oak Savanna
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
October 15, 2024
Indigenous Fire Shaped Oak Savannas
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
October 15, 2024
Welcome New Staff and Board Members!
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
October 15, 2024
Restoring the Oak Savanna
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
October 15, 2024
Chuck and Pat Bloom Commit to Nature Nearby
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
September 6, 2024
in Features
Alex Field studies tools to make birding more accessible
By Stephanie Gerling, LCWM Volunteer It’s a beautiful day outside. The air is crisp and fresh, the leaves are just starting to change color, and the sounds of nature are filling your ears. Today, you're visiting Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and the conditions are perfect to head
July 2, 2024
in Features
Hope, in the shape of a caterpillar, in the shape of a stick
Stewardship Specialist Jason Googins reflects on an inspiring encounter with a caterpillar.
Celebrating 10 years of Conservation Director Justin Heslinga
We are celebrating Conservation Director Justin Heslinga's 10-year anniversary of working with the Land Conservancy of West Michigan. Over the course of the last decade, Justin has been an instrumental leader in caring for the natural lands LCWM has worked with the community to protect.