By Alexandra Sixt Spending time in nature is known to have many benefits; most notably the incredibly positive effects it can have on mental wellbeing! In this time of social distancing, a walk outdoors may be even more beneficial as we find ourselves indoors more often
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
Like many of you, we’re spending a lot more time video conferencing here at the Land Conservancy of West Michigan. Sheltering in place is hard—especially when all you want to do is go outside and explore. But we have a way you can keep nature nearby, even in
Spring is coming! Now is a great time to start thinking about which native plants you will grow in your yard this year. Find a native plant sale happening in your area below. Why native plants? There are many reasons to landscape your yard with native plants.
For Grace Houseal, volunteering with the Land Conservancy of West Michigan opened up a world of possibility. Houseal moved to Grand Rapids from Midland, Michigan to pursue a degree in English from Grand Valley State University in 2016. She landed a job at Brewery Vivant, and
With the help of our supporters and volunteers, 2019 was a great year at the Land Conservancy of West Michigan. As we embark on the new year, we want to reflect on last year’s achievements. Join us in looking back on what we have accomplished
A Year-End Message from Executive Director Joe Engel In 1851, ten years before the Civil War, 22-year-old Carleton Watkins left Oneonta, New York and headed west to seek his fortune after hearing about the discovery of gold in California. After a long journey across the breadth of
In this latest issue of the newsletter, we talk about the role community plays in conservation. We speak with a supporter who raised money for the Land Conservancy through a Facebook fundraiser in honor of her late friend. We reflect on how the community rallied
Molly Bradshaw played a pivotal role in shaping what the Land Conservancy of West Michigan is today. She passed away in July 2019. If you are visiting Saul Lake Bog Nature Preserve this fall, enjoying the pathway through the field down to the boardwalk, or if
We celebrated the transfer of this property to Ottawa County Parks in October 2019. On a blustery, gray day in mid-October, supporters of Ottawa Sands County Park gathered to celebrate its dedication—the final chapter in a whirlwind collaboration between the Tri-Cities community, Ottawa County Parks and