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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
Annette Byers signed on to be the Preserve Steward of Minnie Skwarek Nature Preserve in 2018. She learned of the opportunity while she was completing a master naturalist training with Michigan State University Extension. A lifelong learner, Annette relished the opportunity to continue expanding her...