Update on Howard Christensen Nature Center | November 10, 2026
Updated November 10, 2026 — Kent ISD, the current owner of Howard Christensen Nature Center, began demolition of the buildings on the property on Monday, Nov. 9. The work is expected to take up to a month. Trails will remain open and free to the public during this time, although portions may close temporarily for safety during demolition. Please note and respect the signage posted on site. Updates will be posted at https://naturenearby.org.
We know these buildings hold cherished memories for many in our community, and we did not make this decision lightly. The Land Conservancy carefully read, analyzed, and considered every proposal presented to ensure decisions for the property aligned with LCWM’s mission and best supported the land’s perpetual protection and continued access for the community. Sustaining structures over the long term is outside what the Land Conservancy of West Michigan is built and resourced to do, and maintaining the structures would draw resources away from caring for the land and trails.
Once the transfer is complete, Howard Christensen Nature Center will be protected as a nature preserve, held in perpetuity under the Land Conservancy’s articles of incorporation. Its trails will remain open to the public for exploration and education.