landscriptSUMMER 2019 Volume 71

Lower Woodcock Lake – A Gem in the Platte Watershed

A New Preserve on Torch Lake

Arcadia Marsh UA Trail Open

PHOTO BY D SMITH

GTRLC.ORG 1 Protecting significant natural, scenic and farm lands — and advancing stewardship — now and for future generations. PHOTO BY DEKE LUDWIG

A Letter from Glen Chown

FRIENDS,

Not long ago, I came across a quote from the there are the organized trail-building work days We are setting a new standard of excellence legendary naturalist Sir David Attenborough that at places like the newly opened Maplehurst in design and quality of construction that is really stuck with me: “No one will protect what Natural Area where people joyfully contribute exemplified at places like Arcadia Marsh (page they don’t care about, and no one will care about sweat equity to make a tangible impact. XX). And there is a deeply spiritual dimension what they have never experienced.” to “access to nature” investments that I did Since the beginning of the not fully anticipate when we envisioned this As we continue to make campaign, our dedicated campaign. I will never forget the comment of great progress with our staff and board have one dedicated supporter after stepping onto ambitious Campaign for worked hard to make the marsh boardwalk for the very first time. Generations goals, I feel sure that our supporters, “I feel like I am walking on water. What the overjoyed at the truly partners, and the general Conservancy has done here is truly miraculous,” remarkable projects we’ve public have opportunities she exclaimed, her face radiant. My response completed, and soon will to develop a deeper was, “Not the Conservancy; it’s what WE have complete, with your ongoing appreciation for both the accomplished together by being bold and not support. One important places we protect and our settling for the status quo.” dimension of this campaign work to protect them. And that I am particularly while words and pictures Be sure to take a close look at our Campaign proud of is how we have can convey a lot, nothing for Generations update (page XX) to see where so successfully ratcheted beats a boots-on-the- we stand with this monumental effort. While we up our engagement efforts ground experience, out in continue to make great progress, the hardest with thousands of people nature, that provides an dollars to raise are the last dollars, and we’ll in deeper and more meaningful ways out on our enduring and personalized connection. need all hands on deck to finish strong. growing portfolio of protected lands. That’s why we continue to push ahead with In the meantime, thank you again for all that you What does this effort look like? For starters, universal access projects that enable people of do to support our work. As always, none of this more people are utilizing our growing number of all ages and abilities to access nature, people would be possible without YOU. trail systems across the region than ever before, who, in many cases, simply wouldn’t have this and more people are volunteering, so much so opportunity if projects like these didn’t exist. Sincerely, that total accumulated hours are staggering. The heartfelt testimonies we receive about what We are conducting more educational field these new universally accessible features mean trips, many of them led by talented volunteers, to individuals with mobility issues is an aspect of including our butterfly ID classes (page XX) and our campaign that I am most proud of. forest bathing experiences (page XX). And then Glen Chown, GTRLC Executive Director

GTRLC.ORG 3 PHOTO BY ANGIE LUCAS PHOTO BY ART BUKOWSKI

“I’m mostly interested in simply spreading general public knowledge about how butterflies and other insects interact with everything else in nature.”

Duke Elsner inspects a caterpillar near the beach. On the Fly What’s more, some are so similar that it’s “Sometimes we do inspire people to become regular BUTTERFLY IDENTIFICATION AND OTHER EVENTS functionally impossible to differentiate them out in observers of butterflies, and they report to us KEEP PEOPLE ENGAGED WITH PROTECTED LANDS the field, Elsner said. Some are indeed so incredibly information on range, seasons and other factors,” he similar that it’s even hard to confirm the identities said. “But I’m mostly interested in simply spreading of pinned, displayed specimens – something that general public knowledge about how butterflies “I found a butterfly! Right here!” and was followed by quality time out in the field was comforting to casual naturalist Erika Schick, and other insects interact with everything else in looking for live specimens to examine. Ehtan Miseta’s exclamation, brimming with who came to the event with her daughter Elise, 11. nature. Every little piece counts when you educate excitement, temporarily ended the calm of an “We always want people to be deeply engaged with someone in that direction, especially in matters of “It really helps to hear from an entomologist that unspeakably beautiful June day along the beach our protected areas, and events such as these give pesticide reduction, natural plant maintenance and even he has trouble identifying them sometimes,” at the Maple Bay Natural Area. About a dozen people another great reason to take interest in land invasive plant control. I’d love to have an attitude she said with a laugh. people attending Erwin “Duke” Elsner’s butterfly protection,” said Jon Throop, GTRLC’s volunteer shift in the general population.” hike gathered around for the first sighting on what and event coordinator. “The Conservancy is very But that shouldn’t take away from the fun. He’s also glad to help out the Conservancy in had been (up to that point) a relatively butterfly- lucky to have a volunteer of Duke’s caliber willing Elsner implored those gathered to not take it too particular, in part because he strongly believes in free day. to share his knowledge.” seriously. Sometimes it’s just a matter of heading its mission. Protected land is not only important out and seeing what you can find, even if you can’t Elsner, still 10 or so paces out, studied the small Elsner put in nearly 30 years with the Michigan for wildlife habitat, he said, but for its role in tell the difference between a Northern Spring orange butterfly as it flitted about along the sand. State University extension teaching horticulture inspiring people to care about conservation. Azure and a Cherry Gall Azure. It was, he declared, a Northern Crescent – not and entomology before retiring this year. “It goes way beyond the acreage the Conservancy particularly rare in our region, but still a delight Butterflies are a personal passion, something that “Basically, just keep your eyes open and look for actually owns or manages,” he said. “People learn to see. was evident during his presentation in the historic activity,” Elsner said as the group ventured into from that acreage. They come away from the land Maple Bay farmhouse. the lush green forest between the parking lot and As one of the most respected butterfly authorities and the programs and spread the knowledge, the water. “This is a fabulous habitat, and lots of in the region, Elsner was the perfect person to “Identifiying butterflies can be very tough. There spread the interest. That’s fabulous.” interesting things live here.” host two butterfly identification sessions at Maple are no handy vocalizations as there are with birds. Check out GTRLC’s events calendar Bay this year. Each session began with a detailed You are dealing with silent creatures that like to Elsner is glad to take the time for such (events are held all year long) at PowerPoint presentation of dozens of local species hide when they are resting,” he said. identification sessions. www.gtrlc.org/recreation-events/events.

4 SUMMER ‘19 | VOL 71 GTRLC.ORG 5 PHOTO BY ART BUKOWSKI

In addition to several other tasks tied to public Mitchell Creek Meadow Preserve access, including sign production and installation The latest in many years of tremendous support and development of a volunteer group, we are from Don and Jerry Oleson came in the form also in the midst of discovering more about the of a $1.1 million gift to purchase the former property via a series of biological surveys. A Mitchell Creek Golf Course along Three Mile herpetological survey was underway and a mussel Road in East Bay Township. Now, GTRLC is in survey was scheduled to begin as of this writing. the early stages of transforming the old course For more on the herpetological survey, see the full into the Mitchell Creek Meadow Preserve. story on page XX. This 166-acre property presents an exceptional GTRLC also will have many exciting volunteer opportunity to protect vanishing wildlife habitat, opportunities at this proposed preserve in the near provide valuable recreational opportunities and future. For more information, contact Jon Throop preserve open space in an area that has long at [email protected] or (231) 922-1259. faced substantial development pressure. Above all else it is a top priority parcel in terms of Campaign Roundup Maplehurst water quality protection, as it includes not only This natural area has been buzzing with activity 6,000 feet of frontage on tributaries to Mitchell since it officially opened to the public earlier Creek but also substantial acreage of high quality The proposed Upper Manistee Headwaters Preserve. this year. More than a mile of trail has been wetlands that serve to filter surface runoff. hand-built by volunteers during trail building days As the Campaign for Generations continues, GTRLC is busy protecting critical new parcels and tending to those The Olesons, who have been instrumental throughout the summer, and nearly two additional we’ve recently acquired or protected. The past few months along with the near future have a heavy focus on in various GTRLC projects for years, miles have been competed by a professional stewardship, as there is much to be done at several properties you’ve helped us protect since the campaign were glad to provide assistance to an contractor. Another half mile of trail is planned began in 2015. organization they’ve long appreciated. as part of the first phase of trails at Maplehurst. As of July, we had raised about $68 million in cash, pledges, planned gifts, public funds and land donations. “The Conservancy has done so much for our Aside from the actual work being completed, Our goal is $71.4 million by the time the campaign concludes in the summer of 2021. area over the years, sometimes I can’t believe the trail building days have been a wonderful what they’ve been able to accomplish,” Don said. Read on for updates on a handful of key Campaign for Generations projects. As always, head over to our website demonstration of the local community’s “It’s just wonderful to just save these places for at www.gtrlc.org/campaign-for-generations for a more comprehensive list and additional project details. Look enthusiasm about Maplehurst. Nearly 150 our kids and our grandkids. We just love it.” throughout this issue of Landscript for full stories on other projects not mentioned here. volunteer hours were invested by 35 individuals, mostly from the immediate area, suggesting that this property Upper Manistee Headwaters: the property for public use and getting a better will be highly used and The Milock Family Preserve handle on the biological diversity of this amazing valued for years to come. place. Fundraising is also ongoing, with $1.5 Plenty of important work continues at this 1,288- GTRLC staff also installed million still needed. acre gem, truly one of the Campaign for Generation’s a parking lot, kiosk and the signature properties. After Richard and Diana The second and final phase of demolition of first phase of signage to help Milock’s conservation loan that helped secure this camp buildings was set to be completed by late people better engage with the property and their incredibly generous unrestricted August, leaving a select few buildings standing for property. We will continue gift of $1 million to the campaign, GTRLC has stewardship purposes. In a bit of exciting news, to assist Milton Township decided to name this property in their honor. we were awarded a National Civilian Community with recreational planning Corps team to help us complete trail work. for the natural area, as the If fundraising is successful, the goal is to have this They will be on site in September and October goal is to develop additional preserve open to the public as early as the summer PHOTO BY JACQUELINE SOUTHBY building several miles of trail and assisting with recreational opportunities in of 2020, and most work is focused on preparing construction of a parking lot and trailhead. the coming months and years. GTRLC staff celebrates with Don and Jerry Oleson (flanking Glen Chown at center).

6 SUMMER ‘19 | VOL 71 GTRLC.ORG 7 consider it special. Limited infrastructure, habitat improvement, an outcome of this work is structures – the largest and most notable of which including a trail and railing down into the to provide the Michigan Department of Natural was the old Mountain Jack’s restaurant building ravine, was built to facilitate regular access. Resources, which now manages the property, with near the marina – were demolished to make way management recommendations to best protect for the new parkland. GTRLC also helped acme If fundraising is successful, GTRLC will upgrade EMR and other threatened wildlife. secure about $5.7 million in Michigan Natural all infrastructure at the property and ensure Resources Trust Fund grants for the project. that it will always be open to the public. Acme Bayside Park GTRLC stands at the ready to protect more The Mary Behrens Sorrell Trail at St. The newly revamed Acme Bayside Park is now open! land in Acme Township, should it become Clair Lake-Six Mile Lake Nature Preserve available. Meanwhile, Acme Township plans Friends and supporters were on hand in May for a even more improvements and amenities With friends and supporters looking on, GTRLC formal dedication of the latest phase of this years- at the park in the coming years. formally dedicated the Mary Behrens Sorrell long community improvement project. The warmth Trail at one of our oldest and most beloved nature and energy was tremendous as those gathered Torch River Nature Preserve preserves on August 3. were able collectively revisit the dreaming, dedication and teamwork that made this multi- GTRLC is in the early stages of planning for the The new universal access (UA) trail replaces phase project a reality. The latest phase involved property’s public use and will be working with outdated infrastructure and marks the latest in several improvements to the park, including key neighbors and others with knowledge or a series of UA opportunities at GTRLC preserves new gardens, parking lots, updated restrooms a the property to determine which trials will be PHOTO BY TODD VIGLAND and natural areas, including the Overlook Trail at playground, beach enhancements and more. appropriate and viable to maintain as cross country Arcadia Dunes at a UA trail at Arcadia Marsh that The proposed Gorge Nature Preserve. ski trails. The stewardship team is also in the opened in July (see full story on page XX) Beginning in 2007, Acme Township partnered with process of determining if there will be separate GTRLC for a bold and ambitious plan to create a The Gorge Nature Preserve The trail was named for Mary Behrens Sorrell, a trails for hiking or if it will all be one system. We’re large shoreline park along the bay. In all, a total of longtime volunteer who loved St. Clair Lake-Six also of course actively working to raise the In a fantastic twist for an even more fantastic about six acres of land and 1,500 feet of shoreline Mile Lake and worked hard to make it as beautiful remaining funds on this project (about $1.2 million property, a local family has offered to match gifts were opened for public use by 2013. Several as possible. was still needed as of early August). to this project dollar-for-dollar, up to $30,000! Long known to locals as “The Gorge,” this Petobego State Game Area Addition A view of the Petobego State Game Area addition. 18-acre property is equal parts visually PHOTO BY DEKE LUDWIG stunning and ecologically critical. An This critical 47-acre addition to the Petobego State ice-cold branch of Acme Creek emerges from Game Area was on GTRLC’s radar for quite literally a slope in the depths of a roughly 100-foot 25 years before it was finally protected in the early ravine, spilling through an undeveloped stages of the campaign. forest of hemlock, pine and hardwoods. This was the last unprotected piece of a larger Of the six branches of Acme Creek, three arise complex that includes an increasingly rare Great on already protected land owned by the state. Lakes Coastal Marsh, mixed forests, a large stretch Protecting this additional branch would be a of undeveloped beach and other elements of tremendous step toward further safeguarding ecological significance. Permanent conservation water quality in East Grand Traverse Bay, of this addition fills the last hole in a large, the local source of public drinking water. contiguous swath of protected land that includes the Maple Bay Natural Area and Farm, the existing In addition to providing substantial water state game area and Whitewater Township’s quality benefits, this project would protect Petobego Creek Natural Area. land that is of tremendous value to the surrounding community. While the land is Now, we are in the process of restoring critical privately owned and not formally open to the wetland habitats by removing invasive buckthorn public, locals have visited for many years and while assessing habitat suitability for the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake (EMR). In addition to

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The property is in decent shape with respect to invasive species, but we have a little bit of autumn olive and honeysuckle to tackle. There is a fair amount of scots pine located on the upper shelf that will likely be removed though there has been to talk of it yet. A house on the property is currently being used for our seasonal crews. It, along with the remaining buildings, will eventually be removed with a parking lot/trailhead to be located near the old house.

Farmland The Conservancy continues the important work of protecting farmland in the region. A pillar of the Campaign for Generations is farmland protection, and GTRLC’s goal is to protect 2,000 acres of additional fruitbelt farmland by the time the campaign wraps. Some recent highlights include the Bluewater Farm conservation easement, which protects a landmark 69-acre farm on the Old Mission Peninsula with a rich farming legacy. This property represents a portion of one of the largest remaining unprotected farms on the entire peninsula. Because of its East Bay water frontage and access, the parcel was extremely desirable for development. It is an active cherry and apple farm, and the new owner plans on expanding the farming operation by working with neighboring farmers. In addition, we’re excited about the Bagley Memorial conservation easement. This 42-acre farm in Peninsula Township’s Agricultural Protection Zone (APZ) is nearly surrounded by farmland protected through the Township’s purchase of development rights (PDR) program. The property was a high priority for GTRLC due to its proximity to these protected farms, soil quality and cropland suitability. For more on another critical farmland protection project, see the story about Wilson Orchards on page XX.

Forest at the proposed Torch River Nature Preserve.

10 SUMMER ‘19 | VOL 71 GTRLC.ORG 11 GRAND TRAVERSE REGIONAL LAND CONSERVANCY

Protecting signi cant natural, scenic, and farm lands, and advancing stewardship, now and for future generations GTRLC.ORG

Ellsworth 14 CAMPAIGN FOR GENERATIONS UPDATE

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Jordan River

95% L A K E M I C H I G A N G R A N D 5 Central Lake Elmira $0 $71.4m T R A V E R S E 6 overall goal B A Y 7

$68m 17 131 already raised 16 board approved/ 7 currently funding Bellaire Campaign Projects Total Project Cost ANTRIM fundraising complete 35 14 18 Lake 13 Bellaire 34 East Arm Grand 21 Traverse Bay Kewadin BETSIE RIVER OXBOW EASEMENT $519,852 32 36 Elk Mancelona 1 Elk Rapids This 184 acre property has diverse habitats from fallow field and mesic hardwood forest uplands to wetlands Lake 2 Alden and rich conifer swamplands. The property also includes 1.5 mi shoreline including 4200 feet on the Betsie. West Arm8 Grand Torch Traverse Bay Lake LEELANAU COUNTY 23 BLUEWATER FARM EASEMENT $1,072,703 12 2 serviced by Leelanau Conservancy 18 13 69.5 acre property with views of East Bay is one of the largest remaining farms on Old Mission. It is 11 Rapid City L ACME PDR an active orchard and includes a 5-acre wetland and ephemeral streams draining into East Bay. ak e 21 S 20 k eg em o BOARDMAN RIVER BEND EASEMENT $ 22,806 0 2.5 5 10 Miles g 8 2 3 21 acre property includes .27 mi shoreline on the Boardman River. Protecting riparian frontage and Manistee Acme 11 Lake wetlands protects water quality and provides critical habitat for wood turtles and other species. 15 Williamsburg re 1 o h 30 s e 19 k a Traverse City 15 CAP & TRIANGLE FARM EASEMENT $ 371,000 L l a Kalkaska 4 n o ti Lake Ann This 98 acre property once known for cherries now produces corn and sunflowers. Of particular a 33 N s 20 5 LAKE Long 12 ne interest is the fact that the property includes more than 30 acres of forested wetlands. Du ANN Lake 29 ear Sleeping B Little Platte Lake 10 $878,457 HOLIDAY WOODS RECREATION AREA Platte 27 v e r i Boardman River r 5 R e Lake e v t T i t a R 24 a y 195 acre property with .35 mile on Bakers creek (coldwater tributary to East Bay) protects habitat e l l o e P r t Crystal Lake Honor C i s KALKASKA k r e n e e a and water quality while providing recreation opportunities in a heavily devloped residential area. k M e k

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Frankfort B INTERMEDIATE LAKE SANCTUARY NORTH $77,589 Beulah Duck 6 Lake 19 acre property with .28 mile on Intermediate Lake includes riparian wetlands which are key for water qualityElberta Benzonia and habitat for animals and birds, particularly Loons. It is also highly visible from Intermediate Lake. Green 25 Lake 10 BENZIE Kingsley INTERMEDIATE LAKE SANCTUARY SOUTH $280,739 9 Jaxon Creek Fife Lake 7 Fife Betsie River 86 acre property domintated by white cedar with .53 mile of undeveloped shoreline on Intermediate 17 Lake e r Lake is a protection priority for water quality (Intermediate Lake and entire Chain) and Loon habitat. i v GRAND R i e s t e B TRAVERSE 131 l e INTERWATERS FARM EASEMENT $ 596,000 22 6 L i t t 28 Thompsonville 8 16 M a n i s t e e R i v e r This 152 acre property is a multigenerational farm that grows high-density apples, cherries and 1 peaches, is adjacent to Petobego Creek Natural Area and connects vital wetland corridors. Arcadia k e e r C Copemish r a e CAMPAIGN INVESTMENTS LOWER BEAR CREEK EASEMENT $731,694 B

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9 B 321 acre property with 2.3 mi shoreline protects a federally-designated Scenic River while connecting two 2 4 3 parcels of Manistee National Forest land and protecting habitat for at least four rare wildlife species. Natural Lands Protection Bear We have identified 45,000 acres of land that Lak e LOWER WOODCOCK LAKE PRESERVE $2,495,254 simply must be protected. Much is under 10 Bear Lake

230 acre property including 1.5 mi shoreline on Platte River, unnamed creeks and the entire Lower GTRLC has protected over 40,000 acres of land immediate threat of development. B e a r C r e e k Woodcock Lake. The opportunity to preserve an entire lake in its natural state is particularly exciting. and 125 miles of shoreline through 2016. Increased Farmland Protection Kaleva development pressure on our natural resources and MAPLE BAY FARMHOUSE RENOVATION $287,175 Onekama Our goal is to protect 2,000 additional acres of fruitbelt 11 Por ta ge Lak e signature landscapes has accelerated the pace and farmland in our five-county service area by 2021.

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M Universal Access MITCHELL CREEK MEADOW PRESERVE $ 1,477,359 LEGEND 12 MANISTEE9 Municipalities in all five counties have requested 166 acre former golf course property including 1.1 miles of shoreline on two branches of Vanderlip our support and expertise to leverage natural Creek. Key for water quality, wildlife habitat, and rec. opportunities in an area under dev. pressure. 19 GTRLC Nature Preserves resources and provide access to nature to Other Public Land Protected and/or Managed by GTRLC enhance the economic viability of, and draw SCHULER FARM EASEMENT $2,553,248 P in e C r e e k to, their community. 13 East Lake 211 acre property with .43 mi shoreline including Lake Skegemog frontage and a lake tributary. Manistee Privately Owned GTRLC Protected Lands, including Farmland Connects Torch River Preserve to North Skegemog Nature Preserve for nearly a mile of protection. Discussions with community partners and an 26 (not open to the public) inventory of our own preserves has established P L i n i t t e l e M R a n i v i s t e r a vision of placing universally accessible e e MARY BEHRENS SORRELL UA TRAIL @ ST. CLAIR LAKE - SIX MILE LAKE $ 435,673 R i Other Protected Land v e infrastructure in several locations so that 14 12 SUMMER ‘19 | VOL 71 r GTRLC.ORG 13 Provide quality of life opportunities for people of all fitness and mobility levels with UA trail design. people of all abilities may enjoy nature. board approved/ currently funding Campaign Projects fundraising complete Total Project Cost CHERRY BROOK EASEMENT $120,654 SAND LAKES TRAIL CORRIDOR $331,092 10 29 89 acres of northern hardwood forest, mixed wetland, and open field. Viewable from the Betsie 159 acre property surrounded by the Pere Marquette Forest is popular with several recreation groups Valley Trail. (hikers, cyclists, hunters etc.) and hosts popular trails including Iceman Cometh mountain bike race route. THE GORGE NATURE PRESERVE $138,668 15 COPELAND FARM EASEMENT $245,438 SELKIRK LAKES EASEMENT $228,600 18 acre property is visually stunning and ecologically critical. It includes 600’ (.1 mi) shoreline along 11 30 179 acres adjacent to DNR’s 3,300 acre Skegemog Lake Wildlife Area includes farmland, high quality 63 acre property adjacent to state and county protected land includes multiple high quality habitat a branch of Acme Creek that emerges from a ravine and spills through undeveloped woods. habitat supporting many wildlife species with .19 mi on Skegemog Lake and .09 mi on Barker Creek. types and 1 mile of shoreline on four separate water bodies. TORCH LAKE NATURE PRESERVE $346,727 CRAIG WOODS EASEMENT $328,810 SEVERANCE CREEK EASEMENT $161,358 16 12 31 96 acres including hilly forests adjacent to other protected lands, important for water quality, habitat, 31.5 acres of northern hardwood forest adjacent to two protected farms on Old Mission where 79 acres of forest land and .47 mi shoreline on Severance Creek, a tributary to the Jordan River. Both and suitable for recreation trails. natural lands are limited and residential development makes farming more difficult. are state designated “Wild and Scenic” rivers. TORCH RIDGE FARM EASEMENT $1,046,034 FARMLAND EASEMENT - V $316,903 STANEK FARM EASEMENT $253,751 17 13 32 431 acre ridgetop farm protects viewsheds and water quality in Torch Lake. 36 acre farm in the Peninsula Twp’s Agricultural Protection Zone is a priority property due to its 29 acre scenic property is entirely dedicated to agricultural use and adjacent to two other protected proximity to other protected farms, soil quality, viewshed protection and cropland suitability. farms within Peninsula Twp’s Ag. Preservation Zone.

TORCH RIVER NATURE PRESERVE $2,215,593 FARMLAND EASEMENT - VII $159,665 TIMBERS IMPROVEMENTS (UA) $340,100 18 14 33 290 acre property is one of the largest undeveloped properties on Torch River including .27 mi of frontage. 130 acre property is largely in agriculture and is proximal to three other farm easement properties. It Provide quality of life opportunities for people of all fitness and mobility levels with UA trail design. Includes diverse habitats, is important from water quality standpoint and has great recreation potential. drains through woodlands and wetlands into two critical lakes— Lake Bellaire and Torch Lake. FARMLAND EASEMENT - VIII $1,726,847 TWIN MAPLES FARM EASEMENT $959,270 UPPER MANISTEE HEADWATERS PRESERVE $3,943,275 15 34 19 1,280 acre property includes many habitats and 5.87 mi. of shoreline on several lakes and North Highly visible 20 acre farm including a productive vineyard in southern Peninsula Twp. where 95 acre farm on Old Mission adjacent to other protected farms with a long history of productive fruit Branch Manistee River. development pressures are high. farming on prime farm soils. Ranked as one of the highest view sheds to preserve in Peninsula Twp.

WILSON ORCHARDS FARM EASEMENT $1,041,374 HERRING RIDGE EASEMENT $129,222 WEATHERHOLT FARM EASEMENT $ 481,000 16 35 20 40 acre farm is highly visible and is prime orchard land within Old Mission Twp’s farmland This 120 acre property consists of high rolling hills with mesic hardwood forest on sandy soils. The site 55 acre farm with productive orchard lands within Peninsula Township’s Agricultural Protection Zone. protection zone. is an important groundwater recharge area and includes habitat for the state threatened plants. WINTERGREEN WOODS NATURE PRESERVE $341,770 HILL NATURAL LAND EASEMENT $480,303 WILCOX-PALMER-SHAH PRESERVE ADDITION $37,217 21 17 36 22 acres of pine forest adjacent to Sayler Park including .06 miles of shoreline on Yuba Creek. 479 acres of excellent diverse habitat with state land on two sides includes 1.36 mi frontage on two 17 acres of swamp adjacent to existing preserve provides avian habitat including Red Shouldered creeks. Property will be used and owned by Kingsley Public Schools. hawks (State Threatened species), improves water quality and preserves scenic view along US-31. MAPLEHURST NATURAL AREA $3,869,624 TOTALS 18 TOTALS 389 acre future park inlcudes meadows and forests draining into 60 acre Lake Maplehurst with 1.1 3,929.5 acres 14.56 miles shoreline $20,806,990 miles of shoreline and into Torch Lake. 2,342.09 acres 6.15 miles shoreline $16,940,370

MARILLA HILLS EASEMENT $68,059 19 40 acres of dry-mesic forest surrounded by the Huron-Manistee National Forest and undeveloped CAMPAIGN PROJECTS SUMMARY land used by bats from nearby Tippy Dam, a known hibernacula.

ACME BAYSIDE PARK IMPROVEMENTS $635,000 MEDENBROOK NATURE PRESERVE - ADDITION $50,847 1 20 FUNDRAISING COMPLETE* FOR: *as of July 2019 Universal access to shoreline and beaches, further protect water quality of East Grand Traverse Bay. 5.63 acre property with .05 mile on Platte Lake provides additional lakeshore and habitat protection and continues the creation of a protected wildlife corridor connecting Sleeping Bear Dunes and State land. PUBLIC UNIVERSAL PRIVATE LANDS ARCADIA MARSH INFRASTRUCTURE $1,492,533 MILTON TOWNSHIP BEACH $782,292 ACCESS ACCESS PROTECTION 2 21 Provide quality of life opportunities for people of all fitness and mobility levels with UA trail design. .66 acre parcel with .03 mile frontage adds to an assemblage of properties creating a 10 acre park new parks property universal access natural land farmland with 400’ on Elk Lake. and other additions projects easements easements 6 projects 6 4 13 7 ARCADIA MARSH ADDITION - PELTZ $180,029 OVERLOOK TRAIL AT ARCADIA DUNES (UA) $606,259 universal access 3 22 new nature water access point 19.5 acre addition for preserve management improvement & access; enhancing wildlife and biodiversity. Provide quality of life opportunities for people of all fitness and mobility levels with UA trail design. 1 preserve 1

land water additional miles of ARCADIA MARSH ADDITION - ST. PIERRE CORNER $104,509 PETOBEGO ADDITION $2,187,927 additional 4 23 2,342.09 acres protected 6.15 shoreline protected 12 acre addition includes critical grassland bird habitiat and extends the preserve to Glovers Lake Rd 48 acres including a rare Coastal Marsh, forests and .83 miles of shoreline on East Arm Grand providing access for boundary monitoring and invasive species management. Traverse Bay and Petobego Pond.

BAY HARBOR CLUB WEST EASEMENT $32,650 PLATTE RIVER PARK $323,774 BOARD APPROVED & ACTIVELY FUNDRAISING FOR: 5 24 1.16 acres of perched coastal wetland provides unique habitat for shoreline birds and other animals 52.1 acres including .29 miles of shoreline on the Platte River for a municipal park including river access. and acts as a natural buffer between Bay Harbor Club and Torch Bay Natural Area. PUBLIC UNIVERSAL PRIVATE LANDS ACCESS BETSIE RIVER STATE TRANSFER $55,072 RAILROAD POINT ADDITION $125,081 ACCESS PROTECTION 6 25 13 acres of mesic northern hardwood forest and a strip of hardwood-conifer swamp on .27 mile of 5 acres adjacent to Betsie Valley Trail includes .04 miles of shoreline on a creek flowing between new nature new universal access natural land farmland Betsie River surrounded by state land and other large high-priority private parcels. Crystal Lake and the Betsie River. 6 preserves 2 sancturaries 1 project 4 easements 6 easements BAGLEY FARM EASEMENT $406,338 RED APPLE NATURAL LAND EASEMENT $110,807 7 26 42 acre farm is high priority due to its proximity to other protected farms, soil quality, cropland 78 acres of coastal forest. Provides habitat for many animal and plant species including Alleghany land water additional miles of plum, a State Species of Special Concern. additional suitability and viewshed protection. 3,929.50 acres protected 14.56 shoreline protected BOY’S HUT EASEMENT $2,052,646 ROBBINS CREEK EASEMENT $256,947 8 27 7.2 acres including critical coastal forest community surrounded on 2 1/2 sides by protected land and 55 acre property encompasses upland, forest, creek corridor and wetland habitats including .45 mile PIPELINE PROJECTS one side by .12 miles shoreline on West Grand Traverse Bay. frontage on Robbins Creek, tributary to Boardman River, which helps ensure water quality.

CHARLIE KEHR MEM. TRAIL CONNECTOR AT RAILROAD POINT $136,550 SAND CREEK EASEMENT $69,327 additional projects including a mix of farmland, private and public 9 14 SUMMER ‘19 | VOL 71 28 GTRLC.ORG 15 Connects the popular Betsie Valley Trail with trails at Conservancy-protected Railroad Point Natural 80 acres including a mix of rich conifer swamp, wet meadow, northern mesic forest, early 17 natural lands, expected to be board approved in the coming months Area by way of a short trail, footbridge, and stairway to views overlooking Crystal Lake. successional forest, pine plantation and .13 mile frontage on Sand Creek, a Manistee River tributary. Over the years, his bond with the land grew strong. GTRLC Farmland Protection Specialist Laura He walked it, cared for it, grew connected with it. Rigan said the Robbins Creek Easement is a project worth celebrating. “The wife and I put our heart and soul into this place, we really did,” he said. “We planted trees, “This is an important easement for a variety of A (Creek) Runs we farmed it. It becomes very special and near and reasons – water quality, wildlife habitat, open dear to your heart. We were dedicated to the land.” spaces and so much more,” she said. “We’re so Through it grateful that Jack has decided to save his land, Lucille died in 2010, and Jack spent many and more grateful still that he is donating this years thinking about the fate of his land. He GTRLC SECURES KEY easement to us. Across 28 years, none of our work eventually sat down with the Conservancy, and CONSERVATION EASEMENT IN would have been possible without landowners like after some back and forth, he decided to donate Jack who share our vision.” BOARDMAN RIVER CORRIDOR the conservation easement. He’s knows that means he’ll never cash in by selling the land for development, but he’s not the least bit bothered. If you are interested in learning more about protecting your land, contact Land Proection “People might say, ‘Well, why are you giving all Director Chris Sullivan at [email protected] or Jack Robbins, 88, stood in the front room of his of that money away?’ But I don’t see it that way,” (231) 929-7911. old farmhouse and gazed down across Cass Road Robbins said. “I’ve come to really realize how to a treeline that hid the curves of the Boardman important it is to save good land.” River. He began to discuss planned renovations to PHOTO BY LAURA RIGAN the road when he was interrupted by a massive bird slowly cruising over the river below. PHOTO BY LAURA RIGAN “Oh look up there! Look!” he said, pointing out a It also is across the street from the largest portion large window at a particularly majestic-looking of the Grand Traverse County’s 505-acre Natural Bald Eagle. “Can you see the white on it?” Education Reserve, which protects vital habitat Eagles love to patrol the river, Robbins explained, along the river. Because of this proximity, Robbins’ probably looking for food. He’s seen them from property provides a vital extension of quality that same front window for decades, and seeing habitat to that already protected within the reserve. them still hasn’t gotten old. It probably never will. Now, Robbins’ land will be forever protected with “Beautiful birds,” he said. “Beautiful birds.” a conservation easement he donated to GTRLC. He’s keenly aware that his land might be targeted Robbins’ property is special, to say the least. He for housing at some point after he’s gone, and he’d has 55 acres that sit along Cass Road right before it much rather nip that in the bud and keep his land curves to the east and passes over the river. Many beautiful for generations to come. know it for the iconic Robbins Farm Market that Jack and his late wife Lucille ran for many years, “This would all be destroyed,” he said. “I hate to selling tomatoes, raspberries and various other think of it.” produce they grew in a small plot near the house. Robbins was born and raised less than a mile from Aside from healthy stands of hardwood forest, a his property. While he was away in the service few small pockets of wetland and some upland in the early 1950s, his father learned that the areas, the property contains about 2,400 feet of property he now lives on was for sale, so he bought frontage on Robbins Creek, a designated coldwater it with the intention that his son could make a tributary of the Boardman River. A full tree home there when he returned. When Robbins got canopy, stable stream banks and prevalent riffle out of the service he did just that, marrying Lucille habitat make this stretch of creek suitable for in 1956 and raising four children there. various trout species.

16 SUMMER ‘19 | VOL 71 GTRLC.ORG 17 Paula said. “And because we feel like we get so much of all, and it gives us exercise and fresh air, and all out of the Conservancy, it really was an easy choice of that. But this is also our own way of giving back,” at the top of our list when it comes to giving back.” Paul said. “We really get more than we give, I think.” The Moyers first started coming to Birch Lake Paul and Paula have also stepped up to financially while Paul worked for Dow Chemical Company support GTRLC. They provided a generous dollar- in Midland. A friend at Dow had a place on Birch, for-dollar matching challenge gift for Maplehurst and they fell in love with the lake and region. They designed to elicit support from their fellow Birch came up all the time in the summer, of course, and Lake residents. even for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Aside from their on-the-ground enjoyment of “We hated leaving on Sunday. It was getting harder GTRLC’s preserves, the Moyers were compelled and harder,” Paul said. to support GTRLC “And we’d find ourselves with their time and “What really impressed me is that the getting up here earlier Conservancy has gone through this region and money because of the and earlier on Friday, scientifically determined the most critical pieces Conservancy’s track and then Thursday. The of property that are not yet protected,” Paul said. record of vigorously pull got stronger and “It’s impressive not only that they have that data, pursuing land worth stronger as we got older.” but that they don’t just sit and wait – they’re protecting. Double the Support proactive and approach the owners to see if But work kept getting “What really impressed they’d be interested in protection.” MOYER FAMILY GIVES BOTH TIME AND in the way. Paul was me is that the transferred to Houston, Conservancy has gone MONEY TO FURTHER GTRLC’S MISSION then made his way to Philadephia and Memphis. By through this region and scientifically determined PHOTO BY ART BUKOWSKI 2016, they put pen to paper and decided enough was the most critical pieces of property that are not yet enough. A Michigan retirement was always in the protected,” Paul said. “It’s impressive not only that Paula and Paul Moyer at their home on Birch Lake. books, and it was time. they have that data, but that they don’t just sit and wait – they’re proactive and approach the owners “Michigan was calling,” Paula said. “Truly it was.” to see if they’d be interested in protection.” There it was again! A logo for some organization natural areas to explore. And what they made was a But retirement didn’t necessarily mean slowing “I love the fact that the Conservancy swoops in to called the “Grand Traverse Regional Land plan: Hike every one of them. down. They wanted to stay active, particularly these properties and protects them forever,” Paula Conservancy.” within the boundless natural beauty of the Grand “We make the Conservancy properties a daily said. Not just for a few years, but forever.” Paul and Paula Moyer saw it on the kiosk at the destination, or at least we try,” Paul said. “The Traverse Region. GTRLC is fortunate to count the Moyers among Pelizzari Natural Area on Old Mission Peninsula night before or the morning of, it’s: ‘Where’s our “When we retired here full time, we sort of made its supporters, said Charitable Gift Specialist Kate a few years back as their daughter, who lived in hike today?’” this vow that we’re not going to just sit around,” Traverse City, prepared to take them on a hike. Pearson. They’ve gotten to most by now, and are already going Paul said. They had previously noticed it on the kiosk at the “Paul and Paula have had a tremendous positive back for seconds (and thirds, fourths and fifths) So far, the Moyers have helped GTRLC with its Wilcox-Palmer-Shah nature preserve, a favorite impact on the Conservancy in the relatively short at some of their favorite places. Their enjoyment annual Maple Sugaring Day – both the lead-up to shoreline spot of theirs not far from their home on time they’ve been involved,” she said. “We can’t of GTRLC preserves and natural areas is the main and the day of – and helped with a series of hikes Birch Lake near Elk Rapids. thank them enough!” reason why they started volunteering for GTRLC. at the new Maplehurst Natural Area. They’re also It was enough for Paula to go online and learn more “Retirement is about having the time to do things helping to build trail at Maplehurst and hope to Interested in volunteering for GTRLC? Contact about the organization that laid claim to protecting that matter to you personally, and we really feel devote much more time there as volunteer stewards. Volunteer and Events Coordinator Jon Throop at such beautiful places. What they found was an strongly about giving back to the community,” (231) 313-0232 or [email protected] interactive map of more than 40 preserves and “It’s a good way to get out and do something, first

18 SUMMER ‘19 | VOL 71 GTRLC.ORG 19 PHOTO BY JACQUELINE SOUTHBY PHOTO BY ART BUKOWSKI

Arcadia Marsh UA Trail is Open!

An abundance of tears, smiles, laughter, hugs mixed which provided the first gift from its Minger with a profound sense of accomplishment under Family Endowment crisp blue skies as the Grand Traverse Regional Fund for this trail. MCCF Executive Director Laura Land Conservancy officially dedicated the new Heintzelman thanked Forest R. Minger Jr., whose Universal Access Trail at Arcadia Marsh in late July. gift established the fund, and GTRLC during her PHOTO BY JACQUELINE SOUTHBY About 200 people came to see the latest UA trail remarks to the crowd. in the Campaign for Generations officially opened “Making our uniquely special protected lands like to the public. This roughly ¾ mile trail makes this Arcadia MArdsh accessible to all ages and abilities special place accessible to people of all ages and is critically important to our lives and to building abilities, a key component of the Campaign. a vibrant and equitable community,” she said. “We believe strongly that lifelong access to nature “This trail will soon become a place and experience shouldn’t be a luxury,” GTRLC Executive Director treasured by people across the region, and one that Glen Chown told the crowd. we know will help bolster our local economy.” Along with many individual donors, the trail You can learn more about the Arcadia Marsh received support from the C.S. Mott Foundation (LINK) and the Manistee County Community Foundation,

PHOTO BY ART BUKOWSKI PHOTO BY JACQUELINE SOUTHBY PHOTO BY ANGIE LUCAS

A New Jewel on Torch Lake MALONE FAMILY DONATES LAND FOR TORCH LAKE NATURE PRESERVE

A new nature preserve will boost recreational be developed into lake view lots, something that opportunities, safeguard water quality and protect almost assuredly would have happened had a wildlife habitat along beautiful Torch Lake. property of its location and topography been left unprotected. Charlie shared that desire. The 95-acre Torch Lake Nature Preserve sits adjacent to the south edge of the 430-acre Torch “We had an ongoing friendship for probably 50 Ridge conservation years, ever since easement, secured my wife and I PHOTO BY ART BUKOWSKI by GTRLC in 2016 started coming in the early stages up here,” Terry of the Campaign for said. “I’d always Generations. The told him that if new preserve was he ever wanted to made possible by sell that property, the Malone family, I’d be interested. who bought the When Charlie was available so people didn’t have to walk out “This is a truly remarkable act of land and donated ready to sell, he there on East Torch Lake Drive,” he said. “To philanthropy from Terry, Denny and the it to GTRLC. came to me….he be able to walk through the woods looked rest of the Malone family,” said GTRLC didn’t want to see it to us like it would be a big plus for people in Fund Development Director Anthony Terry Malone, a developed either.” the area, or anybody who wants to use it.” Rupard. “This is going to be an incredible longtime Torch resource for those who live near or visit Lake fixture, was As with the The property is now open to the public, though the east side of Torch Lake.” instrumental Denny and Terry Malone neighboring Torch signs are not yet in place and will be completed in helping Ridge easement, in the coming months. A roughly 2-mile trail GTRLC protect the Torch Ridge property. It Terry was acutely aware of the potential negative consists of two connected loops and is mostly was he who notified GTRLC that the land impacts to both water quality and scenic views flat as it meanders along the top of the ridge was up for sale, and in addition to donating had the 95-acre property been developed. The that runs north south within the preserve. money for its protection himself was active Malone family settled on donating the property The trail offers an interesting array of plant in helping solicit support from others. to GTRLC instead of placing a conservation communities at this preserve and fantastic easement on it specifically out of a desire to In 2016, Terry bought the land that became views of the series of valleys that fall away from give people a safe and beautiful place to hike. the Torch Lake Nature Preserve from Charlie the ridge down to Torch Lake. The trail head Hibbard, whose family had owned the land since “We wanted to protect it from ever being is on Robinson Road approximately a quarter 1928. Terry wanted to make sure it would not developed, but we also wanted to have it mile from South East Torch Lake Drive.

22 SUMMER ‘19 | VOL 71 GTRLC.ORG 23 PHOTO BY ART BUKOWSKI

Healing Among the Trees FOREST BATHING AT GTRLC-PROTECTED LANDS PROMOTES HEALTH AND WELLNESS

As the “talking stick” passed from hand to hand, each visitor gathered for a forest bathing experience at the incomparable Seven Bridges Natural Area spoke about what they observed during a 20-minute stint of silent contemplation. The assignment for that particular session of contemplation was simple: Observe the water. Don’t just look at it, directed forest bathing instructor Don Schuster. Use each and every one of your senses to absorb all aspects of it. Listen, feel, see. Can you sense its presence on your tongue, even? PHOTO BY ART BUKOWSKI After participants spent their time focused on the gurgling, shimmering, rushing presence of the Rapid River, there was much to share. One visitor who lives on a lake said she was amazed at how similar the river mental health. of the scientific – such as studies that show “Each experience is really up to you. It’s not about sounded to the action of waves along a lakeshore. boosted immune system function and cognitive how much you can see, it’s not about how far Another drew inspiration from the fact that the Schuster is particularly devoted to the improvement – and some lies in the realm of the you can go,” Schuster said. “It’s just about paying river flowed over or around any obstacle in its way, Japanese concept of Shinrin-Yoku, spiritual. Regardless of how you classify it, the attention.” unstoppable in its journey. roughly translated in English as forest power is there. bathing. It was developed there in the At Seven Bridges, the day When the talking stick came to Karin Wolfe, the Elk 1980s when Japanese public health “The bottom line is, a “I’ve been forest bathing my whole life, began with a grounding Rapids resident paused, emotion evident on her face. officials were alarmed by high rates of whole bunch of really cool I just didn’t know the term,” said Lorie exercise intended to better Her time in quiet communion with nature gave her an depression, anxiety, suicide and other things can happen to us,” Wheldon, of Williamsburg. “There’s a connect participants with the overwhelming sense of what she’d been missing. problems. Japanese researchers were he told participants before sweetness and connectivity that you get physical space, then a series “A couple of times I got teary eyed,” she said. “I got the able to demonstrate marked reduction the event. “I just come out in a group setting that you can’t get by of sessions in which Schuster yourself, and I really, really, really love it.” distinct sense that I need more of this type of connectivity.” in mental health issues after time – even here to feel better.” gave participants something brief time – spent in nature. to ponder or observe as they The Seven Bridges gathering was the third forest bathing While Schuster offered sat or stood quietly alone in a place of their own event in a series (the first two were at Maple Bay and Pyatt After countless sessions in the woods, guidelines and general topics to ponder, forest choosing. Then came time for each person to share Lake) offered by Schuster during GTRLC’s summer events Schuster firmly believes in the tangible, bathing by definition is something that each an observation or two from their time alone. The calendar. Schuster is a retired mental health counselor and medicinal aspects of spending time in practitioner will do in his or her own way, with session closed with a tea ceremony and the parting executive who has long had an interest in mindfulness- the forest or other natural environments. their own unique results. of new friends. based stress reduction as a path toward better physical and Some of this is rooted in the realm

24 SUMMER ‘19 | VOL 71 'HEALING AMONG TREES' (CONT'D)

years of regular trips to the lake had the family in PHOTO BY ART BUKOWSKI Investing in Future a 900-square foot, 1930s-era cottage near where the Clam River spills into Torch Lake. The kids, Generations both under eight when trips began in 1989, were in the lake from first thing in the morning until ANN ARBOR COUPLE ACTIVE sundown, then from the lake to their pajamas SUPPORTERS OF GTRLC’S WORK – with perhaps an ice cream cone in between. “It was just…home. Everybody was quiet, For many years, life seemed to move a mile a everyone could breathe, everybody slowed minute for Max Wicha and Sheila Crowley. down,” Sheila said. “It really was the way Max, a respected oncologist and professor at the you hear some people describe it: ‘Up University of Michigan, logged long hours in North’ is not just a place, it’s a feeling.” research, patient care and administration in Ann Max and Sheila are newer donors to the Grand Arbor. Sheila, an Traverse Regional oncology nurse at the Land Conservancy, university’s hospital brought into the fold system, likewise during the ongoing busied herself tending Campaign for to patients and Generations. They administrative duties. are no strangers Add in volunteer to philanthropy, hours, regular having been heavily attendance at the involved in raising university’s athletic funds for cancer events, community research, the arts and education, While it might seem counterintuitive to conduct City resident Priscilla Walmsley. “I’m really arts programs among other causes. such deeply personal exercises with others grateful for the experience.” and raising two instead of in solitude, everyone gathered seemed children, and daily But after spending GTRLC hopes to have Schuster lead forest to thoroughly enjoy each other’s company and life often became Max, Sheila and the children up north in 1992. so many years bathing exercises and mindfulness hikes well into perspectives. a dizzying blur. experiencing the the future. restorative power of nature and building a deep “I’ve been forest bathing my whole life, I just While it could at times be stressful, their busy “We protect land for wildlife habitat, clean water appreciation for the region’s natural beauty, didn’t know the term,” said Lorie Wheldon, life and careers had a way of making their and various ecological benefits, of course, but we they’ve been very enthusiastic about adding of Williamsburg. “There’s a sweetness and precious down time even sweeter. And for also protect land for people,” said GTRLC Executive GTRLC into their philanthropic portfolio. connectivity that you get in a group setting that Max and Sheila, there was no better place for Director Glen Chown. “We are so lucky to have you can’t get by yourself, and I really, really, really that down time than the shores of beautiful “Protection of the landscape and environment someone of Don Schuster’s background and love it.” Torch Lake. Relaxation often set in on the is absolutely vital, and donating to the experience to show us how unspoiled natural lands drive up, they said, and had fully taken hold by Conservancy is just one of the best returns on Some left inspired to try forest bathing anywhere can truly heal the body and soul.” the first glimpse of the impossibly blue water investment that you can make,” Sheila said. and everywhere – even at their own homes. Schuster will lead another forest bathing event of one of the region’s most beloved lakes. Max is still working and Sheila recently retired. “I feel very relaxed, and this has given me the idea at Misty Acres: The Borwell Preserve on Sept. 14. “Coming up here was always the respite,” Their kids – Jason and Allyson – are now grown that I really need to do this more. And while a place For many more GTRLC events, visit the events Sheila said. “By the time we arrived, it was and have their own children and busy careers like this is definitely gorgeous, I feel like I could try calendar at www.gtrlc.org all about taking that deep breath.” in Chicago. Coming back to the cottage gives something like this in my backyard,” said Traverse Though they’ve since built something a little more the grandchildren a chance to dive into nature, spacious for their growing family, the first ten and Jason and Allyson the opportunity to fully

26 SUMMER ‘19 | VOL 71 GTRLC.ORG 27 'INVESTING IN FUTURE GENERATIONS' (CONT'D) Max and Sheila on the shores of Torch Lake.

understand what this place meant to their parents. the organization to which they’re giving. They’ve been “Now with both of them married and with their own impressed with the track careers, they experience the respite part that Max record, communication and and I really were able to appreciate earlier in our professionalism of GTRLC, lives,” Sheila said. “They see it and feel it firsthand.” and in particular are very Keeping the regional surroundings of the family’s glad the Conservancy sets gathering place healthy and beautiful for years up an endowment for the to come is a key driver in the decision to support perpetual care of each GTRLC’s work. They’re aware that Old Mission Campaign for Generations Peninsula, for example – one of their favorite project. places – stands in stark contrast to much of the “This is a good model that landscape in Max’s native New York, in large sets up a long-term plan part because of dedicated and concentrated for quality care of all these conservation designed to protect the peninsula. places; it provides real, true “We just love the idea that a lot of a place like that longevity for maintaining has been protected. You see clearly on the east the vision that the coast on how development can change an area Conservancy and the original and very much detract from its natural beauty,” donors had,” Max said. Max said. “But here you have a beautiful open Max and Sheila also view space with farms and wineries, rolling hills, scenic giving to GTRLC as taking beauty you can see from the road.” personal action in the wake Their first major gift to GTRLC was to help of continuing regressions in secure a conservation easement on Torch Ridge, a environmental protection at PHOTO BY ART BUKOWSKI 431-acre parcel with a mile long ridge that looms the national level. over Torch Lake. “Environmental regulations, “Again, it’s the vistas. When we’re out in the boat, whether it be in regards to Development Director Anthony Rupard. “Without Interested in supporting GTRLC’s work? Contact you look up and see this beautiful ridge,” Sheila clean air, clean water or other areas, have really people like them who believe in the importance of Fund Development Director Anthony Rupard at said. “It was an easy ‘yes’ in terms of contributing improved so much in our lifetime. We are concerned our mission, none of this work would be possible.” (231) 929-7911 or [email protected]. to that project.” when philosophies change and drift away from that,” Sheila said. “So we feel like we need to do Max and Sheila couldn’t be happier to help out. They are also supporting the proposed Torch Lake our part to keep land for future generations that is Preserve, a nearby project made possible by fellow “We feel so fortunate for the lives and unspoiled and beautiful and maintained so they can GTRLC supporter Terry Malone, who donated the opportunities that we’ve been given in the state of thrive and live their best lives.” land (see story in page XX) Michigan, both in Ann Arbor and up here, and we GTRLC’s team is glad that Max and Sheila share are big believers in giving back to the communities “Terry’s generous philanthropy over the years has in the long-term vision of protecting our region’s that we live in,” Sheila said. “We believe strongly been a major inspiration in our giving,” Sheila said. most special places. that it’s our responsibility to give back and invest Like anyone else who parts with their resources, as much as we possibly can for the benefit of future “We’re so grateful for both the passion and support Max and Sheila needed to have full confidence in generations.” of folks like Max and Sheila,” said GTRLC Fund

28 SUMMER ‘19 | VOL 71 GTRLC.ORG 29 A Rare Opportunity PROPOSED LOWER WOODCOCK LAKE PRESERVE CHECKS ALL THE CONSERVATION BOXES

As the Campaign for Generations rolls on, GTRLC is thrilled to announce the latest project that has the office buzzing with excitement. For many reasons, protecting the proposed Lower Woodcock Lake Preserve would be a home run for conservation. The first of which is that this 230-acre property contains the entirety of undeveloped Lower Woodcock Lake, a picturesque 22-acre lake that’s in the upper reaches of the ecologically significant and much beloved Platte River watershed. GTRLC has completed hundreds of land protection projects, with dozens having appreciable portions of shoreline on lakes of various sizes. But the list of projects with entire undeveloped lakes is very short. Lower Woodcock Lake would join the Timbers Recreation Area (Fern Lake) and fellow Campaign for Generations marquee projects Upper Manistee Headwaters Preserve (Grass Lake) and Maplehurst Natural Area as the only GTRLC protected lands that include an entire lake of 15 acres or more. “We’ve been doing this a long time, and we rarely have the opportunity to protect a whole lake of this size,” said GTRLC Land Protection Director Chris Sullivan. “This is fantastic opportunity.” The conservation qualities of this proposed preserve don’t stop there. It also contains most of a small unnamed stream that flows from Upper Woodcock Lake to Lower Woodcock Lake, the entire stretch of another unnamed stream from the lower lake that feeds into the Platte River and a full half mile of frontage on the Platte River itself. “There’s only a handful of private properties left that have even a quarter mile of undeveloped frontage on the Platte,” Sullivan said. “This is one of the most important watersheds in our service area, and having the opportunity to protect a half mile of frontage is very exciting.”

30 SUMMER ‘19 | VOL 71 PHOTO BY NATE RICHARDSON GTRLC.ORG 31 Maple St Lake Ann Maple St

Lake Ann Beach 'LOWER WOODCOCK LAKE PRESERVE' (CONT'D)

Fogg Rd There’s even more to get excited about. While excellent habitat for red-shouldered hawk, Lake Ann

Ransom Lake not completely surrounded by state land, another state-threatened species. Future surveys Natural Area about 70 percent of the property – including will shed more light on its biological diversity. Ransom Creek Maple City Hwy Ransom Lake portions of all four sides – borders state Longtime GTRLC supporter Tripp Amdur Platte River forest. Such contiguity is critical for wildlife Upper provided enough support for GTRLC to Woodcock corridors, recreation and other factors. Lake purchase this property. He considers it “truly “Studies have repeatedly shown that small, isolated an honor” to help protect this special parcel.

Lower Hooker Rd Mud blocks of habitat are not nearly as useful as larger Woodcock “It is increasingly rare to find a place like Lower Lake swaths of quality land,” Sullivan said. “For that Lake Woodcock Lake. Although not very large, it is reason, we’re always looking to protect land that Lake Ann Rd a body of water where you can paddle a canoe Sanford has some connectivity with other protected land.” Lake without seeing any houses or signs of permanent Between this property containing an entire lake, human presence; a wilderness experience that

Burnt Mill Rd possessing impressive Platte River frontage and is easily accessible,” Amdur said. “It is also very its connectivity with existing protected land, important ecologically. By supporting the GTRLC,

Platte River Bronson it’s easy to see why it’s tied for Lake 3rd of all the parcels scored in Oakley Rd

GTRLC’s Priority Land Atlas PHOTO BY NATE RICHARDSON N Reynolds Rd Reynolds N (PLA). The PLA, developed Platte River by GTRLC’s land protection and stewardship teams, uses

Bronson Lake Rd scientific conservation criteria PROPOSED LOWER WOODCOCK LAKE NATURE PRESERVE MAP to score all the remaining Glen Burdickville unprotected land in GTRLC’s LEGEND M 22 Lake Lake Proposed Lower Woodcock Lake Nature Preserve Other GTRLC Protected Land PlatteBellinger River WatershedLeelanau

Co Rd 109 Lower Woodcock Lake five-county service area.

GTRLC Nature Preserves Other GTRLC Protected Lands - Private 0 0.4 0.8 Miles LakeLeelanau Other GTRLC Protected Lands - Open Other Public Land GTRLC Nature Preserves State and other Protected Land “This property has been a very

Empire high priority for many years, ! M 72 and it’s very, very exciting to have the opportunity to

protect it,” Sullivan said. M 22 M

The proposed preserve was Benzonia Lake Michigan owned for many years by an investment group whose members used it for camping, fishing and hunting. It is a mix Sleep Bear Lake Ann Dunes National of northern hardwood forest, Lakeshore Long Lake rich conifer swamp and pine Maple City Proposed Lower Woodcock Lake plantation. Common loons, a Nature Preserve Platte state-threatened species, have Lake Platte River been documented on the lake, and the property provides Crystal Lake Honor US 31 Grawn

Frankfort Beulah PROPERTY CONTEXT/ Elberta 32 SUMMER ‘19 | VOL 71 PLATTE RIVER WATERSHEDDuck MAP GTRLC.ORG 33 Lake Benzonia Green Lake

LEGENDUpper Herring Lake Preserve - Altantic Western Enterprises Upper Herring Lake Preserve Upper Betsie River Lower Woodcock Lake Preserve GTRLC Nature Preserves Platte River Watershed 0 2.5 5 Miles Dair Creek OtherArcadia GTRLC DunesProtected - XmasLands - BonusOpen Other Public Land µ 'LOWER WOODCOCK LAKE PRESERVE' (CONT'D)

this land and water can be preserved and enjoyed commits itself to preserve a special place, I by countless families for generations to come.” think it is super important that the people with the strongest personal connections to that Amdur hopes others continue to support special place get involved in its protection.” GTRLC’s work as the Campaign for Generations pushes ahead. He never gave much thought to There is still much to be done before the property land protection, he said, until GTRLC’s Coastal can be opened to the public. GTRLC must raise Campaign of 2003-2005, when the much enough money for a stewardship endowment – a younger and less established GTRLC pulled off vital component of all Campaign for Generations a seemingly impossible feat by rallying enough projects – develop a management plan and build supporters to save Arcadia Dunes: The C.S. trail and other infrastructure. To make a gift, Mott Preserve and other coastal properties. please visit www.gtrlc.org/campaign-for-generations. “From that moment on I realized that if I want my kids and grandkids – and lots of other people’s Stay tuned for updates on this project via email (if kids – to enjoy these places in the generations you haven’t already, head to www.gtrlc.org to sign ahead, we all need to step in and contribute up for our email communications), Facebook and what we can,” he said. “So, when the GTRLC future Landscript publications. PHOTO BY NATE RICHARDSON

PHOTO BY NATE RICHARDSON

34 SUMMER ‘19 | VOL 71 GTRLC.ORG 35 property’s development rights and consequently lowers its market value. After Farmland PDR GTRLC paid Riley for the easement, Wunsch was able to buy the farm from Riley at about Millages Rejected half of its pre-easement value. “There was just no way that Wunsch farms or myself would have been able to purchase this Voters in two Antrim County townships farm at full market value,” he said. “If it had rejected purchase of development rights gone on the market it almost certainly would (PDR) programs, leaving the Grand Traverse have been developed into a subdivision, but Regional Land Conservancy as the lone with the conservation easement we were able resource for farmland protection in those to put into place with the Grand Traverse communities in the foreseeable future. Regional Land Conservancy, we were able to Identical ballot proposals of one mill each come in and buy it as a working farm.” for 10 years failed in both Milton and Elk Wunsch, who comes from a multi- Rapids Townships in the August 6 election. Protecting Wilson Orchards generational farming family with deep The money raised would have allowed the roots on the peninsula, has been active in townships to purchase and extinguish farmers’ GTRLC WORKS TO SAFEGUARD STRATEGICALLY farmland preservation for several years. For development rights, preserving open space IMPORTANT OLD MISSION PENINSULA FARM him, protecting Wilson Orchards is about and scenic character. Successful programs of this nature exist in Grand Traverse PHOTO BY NOAH JURIK more than having another good spot to grow cherries for personal gain. County’s Peninsula and Acme Townships.

Looking north over the square-shaped Wilson Orchards property, which fills the lower right corner of this photo. Contiguous farms to the west and north are also protected. “From a strategic farmland preservation Had they been successful, both programs likely standpoint, this is also the southernmost would have been able to leverage substantial commercial fruit farming operation on the federal dollars for farmland protection, much like Old Mission Peninsula,” he said. “So not only neighboring programs in Grand Traverse County. When asked why the Wilson Orchards property is “This is probably the best spot in the entire world was it very attractive for us to purchase this The Campaign for Generations includes a goal special, Joe Riley gestured to a tall line of mature to grow cherries,” Riley said. “It might sound crazy farm because of its agricultural attributes, of protecting and additional 2,000 acres of maple trees on the east edge of the orchard. Take to say that, but that’s how it is.” but it also supported our philosophy fruitbelt farmland, and GTRLC has passed the your clubs over there, he said, and you could drive a The 40-acre orchard, farmed for nearly 150 years of maintain a strong environment for 1,000 acre mark since the campaign launched. golf ball into East Grand Traverse Bay. by many generations of the Wilson family, received agriculture on the Old Mission Peninsula by GTRLC Executive Director Glen Chown said That in and of itself isn’t all that remarkable. But Centennial Farm certification in the 1970’s. It preventing further sprawl.” the millage failures make the Conservancy’s now look at a similar row of trees on the western was notable in recent years for a U-pick cherry About 5 years ago, Wusnch purchased mission of protecting critical farmland edge of the orchard. Walk over there with your operation and has long been a top protection the 80-acre Zientek/Kroupa farm just throughout the region even more important. clubs, he said, and a solid drive will put you in or priority for both GTRLC and Peninsula Township. north of Bowers Harbor under a nearly “For our organization, what this means is that darn near close to west bay. Now, this remarkable orchard is protected forever identical arrangement. In that deal, GTRLC we’re going to have to press on with protecting The orchard’s position at the narrowest portion via a deal that involved Riley, the Grand Traverse purchased a conservation easement from critical farmland in those townships without of the entire Old Mission Peninsula made it one Regional Land Conservancy and Isaiah Wunsch, the Zientek family, protecting the property the support of PDR programs,” he said. “Without of the most consistently productive orchards on himself the latest in several generations of Old and simultaneously making it affordable these programs in place, private fundraising for the peninsula for decades, Riley said, producing Mission farmers. GTRLC purchased a conservation for Wunsch. farmland protection is critically important.” bumper crops of tarts and sweets even when other easement from Riley, who then sold the property Wunsch is grateful that GTRLC is actively To learn more about how you can help, contact orchards suffered frost-related crop damage. to Wunsch. working to protect farmland on Old Mission GTRLC Director of Development Anthony That’s because the moderating effects of the bay The entire deal was possible because a as a supplement to Peninsula Township’s Rupard at (231) 929-7911 or [email protected]. that benefit all Old Mission farmers are most conservation easement extinguishes the Purchase of Development Rights (PDR) pronounced at that particular location. program.

36 SUMMER ‘19 | VOL 71 GTRLC.ORG 37 PHOTO BY ART BUKOWSKI 'PROTECTING WILSON ORCHARDS' (CONT'D)

“It’s gone a long way towards allowing us to “At the same time, (farmland protection) is adding continue to make strategic investments in value. It’s not just pretty land, it’s usable land,” he farmland preservation as a community,” he said. said. “Farmland is very important, and we need to preserve as much as we can.” Contributions from GTRLC would not be possible, of course, without the support of people and Longtime GTRLC supporter Monnie Peters also organizations who believe in the Conservancy’s said her desire to protect local farmland transcends mission. One such person is Dan Bailey, who the purely aesthetic aspects. She looks around through his family’s Warrington Foundation has the country and sees climate-related droughts, supported this and other Old Mission farmland wildfires and other problems causing catastrophic protection projects. damage to agricultural regions. Where the Dan and his wife Fran are longtime Neahtawanta “Over the last couple of years in particular, I’ve summer residents who live full-time in Cincinnati. been fully appreciating the advantages that the Old Wild Things Are Farmland contributes tremendously to the beauty Mission Peninsula has, as does Leelanau and really that his family so cherishes on every trip north. the whole Western Michigan fruit belt,” she said. “As the rest of the country gets hotter and drier, we “We’re up here for a short time every year, and HERPETOLOGICAL have all of this clean, fresh water and temperatures Old Mission Peninsula is so pretty, probably the moderated by the lake. This is a special place and it SURVEY OF PROPOSED prettiest spot in all of Michigan,” he said. “I feel must be protected.” UPPER MANISTEE really fortunate that we’re able to come up here. I have five kids, and for the sake of the future, I’d GTRLC hopes to protect 2,000 acres of fruitbelt HEADWATER PRESERVE like to keep it as well-preserved as possible.” farmland as part of the Campaign for Generations, REVEALS MANY SPECIES and we still need money to achieve this goal. For But it’s not just about the views and scenic more information about supporting GTRLC’s character, Bailey said. farmland protection programs, contact Anthony Rupard at [email protected] or (231) 929-7911.

A large female bullfrog.

Spring, it seemed, had finally arrived to the “Everything is going to be moving a little slower proposed Upper Manistee Headwaters Preserve as today,” Mifsud remarked as he slowly moved David Mifsud and crew did a final equipment check. through thigh-deep water and scanned the surface for more signs of life. “Everybody’s cold.” After a long, cold winter that seemed to linger forever, shining sun and reasonable Mifsud’s credentials are voluminous. He is a temperatures made for an excellent day to poke certified professional wetland scientist and around outside for a herpetological survey in ecologist who has long been a recognized early June. But what’s reasonable for a person authority in Michigan on the conservation and can still be quite chilly for a frog or a snake. management of amphibians and reptiles. He administers the Michigan Herpetological Atlas This meant the green frogs sunning themselves on a and chairs the Michigan Chapter of Partners in submerged section of old boardwalk weren’t too quick Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (MIPARC). to hop away as Mifsud wandered near. And the first painted turtle the crew encountered tried to get away, Through his company, Herpetological Resource of course, but it was pretty sluggish in its efforts. and Management (HRM), Mifsud inventories,

Isaiah Wunsch and Joe Riley

38 SUMMER ‘19 | VOL 71 GTRLC.ORG 39 PHOTO BY ART BUKOWSKI

monitors, manages and assists with the conservation of amphibians and reptiles in Michigan for a variety of clients, including non-profit organizations, private companies and governmental agencies. On this day he was on the job for GTRLC, taking part in a multi-day survey of several habitats at the 1,300-acre property. In only about four hours of surveying while GTRLC Communications & Outreach Specialist Art Bukowski tagged along, Mifsud and two coworkers found 13 species and heard at least two more. That day’s survey included various bogs and wetlands, where spotted salamander egg sacks and various species of frogs, turtles and snakes were encountered. “These wetlands function sort of like an apartment complex – there’s not a ton of surface area, but PHOTO BY ART BUKOWSKI vertically, there’s really a lot going on, and many A small painted turtle. Mifsud and crew survey a wetland at Upper Manistee. species can coexist,” Mifsud said, prodding around the water with a probe. “These types of wetlands are critical to conservation.” indicator of good forest ecosystem quality.” Each time we come out we’re finding new species, while simultaneously protecting wildlife.” and there’s the beauty of the fact that this place is It helps that Mifsud knows exactly where to look. Mifsud’s findings – to be delivered in a formal In addition to inventory work going on at the relatively unspoiled. You don’t see that very much In between one wetland and the next, he stopped report to GTRLC – will be useful on a number proposed Upper Manistee Headwaters Preserve, in Michigan anymore, and to have a landscape along some large of levels. First off, they will demonstrate in no a grant from the United States Fish and Wildlife that’s so contiguous still…has been exciting for us.” PHOTO BY ART BUKOWSKI downed trees. uncertain terms how special the property is from Service’s Great Lakes Coastal Program allowed Peeling back the a biodiversity and critical habitat perspective. The overall massive size and location of the GTRLC and the Michigan Department of rotting bark, he Many of the specialized species uncovered in proposed preserve are also fantastic, he said. Natural Resources to working with HRM to found several Mifsud’s surveying reveal that the proposed survey and inventory amphibians and reptiles at “It’s great to preserve any piece of land anywhere you ring-necked Upper Manistee Headwaters Preserve – already Petobego State Game Area and Skegemog Lake can, but the larger and more complex it is, the greater snakes. He off the charts from a botanical diversity Wildlife Area. Both properties were protected the overall value. Preserving large tracts of land like explained that the standpoint – contains extremely important by GTRLC and are now owned by the state. this is incredibly important,” he said. “And when heat and moisture reptile and amphibian habitat worth protecting. you have the opportunity to protect the headwaters As part of this project, HRM and GTRLC co-hosted created the “We judge the quality of the habitat based on the of a system, preserving the heart and soul of a four "Herpathon" events this year to collect perfect spot for species we find. Some species are bioindicators watershed, you can’t get much better than that.” amphibian and reptile data. Such events garner these strikingly and have various degrees of sensitivities to broad volunteer support and provide outreach beautiful His report will also help GTRLC as works to landscape changes. Some require large mosiaics and education opportunities about the species snakes to rest in develop a management plan for the preserve. A ring-necked snake. of habitat,” Mifsud said. “Finding them here found in these areas, why they are unique, and between meals. can demonstrate to the general public the “We always value biological inventories because how to best protect them in the future. As part “It’s a upland forest specialist, very gorgeous, value of protection of places like this.” they give us concrete data regarding the location of these events, Mifsud and other experts from that specializes on amphibians – particularly of species that might be extra sensitve,” said HRM and volunteers worked together in the field Several things about the property impress red-backed salamanders – as their prey item,” David Foote, GTRLC stewardship director. to collect as much data on amphibians and reptiles Mifsud, who made several trips in order to Mifsud said of the ring-necked snake. “Their “Our goal is to develop management plans as possible, data that will be used to help provide examine as much of the landscape as possible. presence is an indication of good forest ecosystem that allow visitors to best engage with the land management recommendations to the state. quality because red backs themselves are an “This has been one of our most fun places to survey.

40 SUMMER ‘19 | VOL 71 GTRLC.ORG 41 PHOTO BY JACQUELINE SOUTHBY

LAND CHAMPIONS

JANUARY 1 – JUNE 30, 2019 Monthly gifts from Land Champions support the very foundation of our mission and allow us to plan and sustain our work more effectively. We are grateful for your commitment and generosity. It is evident that you care deeply about protecting and stewarding northern Michigan’s natural resources in order to preserve these precious resources for future generations to enjoy.

Jeff Ackerman Brett Fessell Katie Lowran Anthony and Natalie Rupard Joe and Kathryn Anderson Jane and Steve Fish Angie Lucas and Scott Bouma Diane Samarasinghe Jeremiah and Kristi Avery David Foley and Josephine Marquis John and Suzette Sanborn Robert and Nancy Baglan Margaret Willman Matt and Ann McDonough William and Laurie Sears Nicolaas and Rhonda George and Mary Ford Jane McKune Robert and Dana Sholten Donations Ballintyn Lisa Franseen John and Nancy Meade Catherine and Mark Smith Carl and Nancy Ballou Madelyn and James Frick Rita Melotti and Jeff and Judy Spencer Dan and Holly Beachum Stephen and Susan Fry Andrew Bishop Michele and Tom Squires Your donations to the Grand Traverse Regional Land Travis and Joan Bell Karen Garber and Barb and Gregory Mort Nick and Rachel Stagman John DesMarais Conservancy help protect significant scenic, natural, and Marcia Bellinger Anne Mudgett and Gary and Jane Stauffer and Irv Stoner Dawn Garrock Scott Furgueson farm lands from development, ensuring that the most John and Lynn Steben Audra and Nathan Bildeaux Mark and Mary Beth Gentry Jennifer Mullan critical lands will continue to provide local food, open R. Troy and Carrilyn Stobert Ed and Jennifer Bradford John and Ann Gerhardt Richard and Marilyn Mumaw Chris and Ali Sullivan space, clean water, and healthy habitat, now and for future Anne Brasie Jeremy Gibson and Michele and Joe Nerone Paul Thomas generations. You can donate with confidence, knowing Allie and Art Bukowski Carolyn McDonald Mary Ellen Newport Linda and Stuart Travis that you are contributing to an accredited, effective and Tim Calkins and Mark Gilmore James and Margaret O’Brien Kathy Tuckerman fiscally responsible organization. Carol Saltoun Gail Halliday and Tim Laney Megan and Andrew Olds Molly Updike Glen and Rebecca Chown Jack and Ruth Harris Gary and Kristi Osga Tom and Maggie Vinette Norman and Laura Will Heelan Gail Parry and Norman Bell Christopher Robert and Barbara Heflin Rep. Howard and Kathy Partin Dianne Walker Richard and Jill Claybour Sean Hickey Kate Pearson and Charles and Ann Weitz Julie Clynes Mollie Hilliard Steve Cruzen Leigh Whelpton Elizabeth Collins Dr. Kristina Hindert Steve Perdue, Grand Erin and Ben Whiting Birgit and Keith Conway Jennifer and Brian Jaffe Traverse Industries Rick and Raj Wiener Joseph and Leslie Cook Jennifer Jay and Victoria Peck and Robert and Karin Cooney Evan Johnstone Brendan Hunter Diane Wilbur and Jim Szalay Thomas Crampton David and Christine Jaymes George Petritz Jeanie Williams Charles and Susan Crawford Gerald Jehle Tim Prescott and John Robert Williams Linda Wessels and Terrie Taylor Elizabeth Crowdus Jill and Ron Johnston Eric and Joni Rammelkamp Julie Winkler Colleen DeKay Linda Kehr Polly Rea Nathan Winkler Virginia Dike and Donald and Barbara King Ijeoma Dike-Young Nate Richardson Wendy Wolfe and Jean and Walt Kretzmann Paul Wawrzynek Marissa and Manny Duque Heather Rinkel Becky Lancaster Andrew and Noelle Wolff Tom and Diane Emling Michael and Libby Robold Gregory and Audrey Jesse and Molly Wolff Chad and Monica Evans Landsfeld Sally Rodgers Randi and Mark Woodworth Fred A. Farage Jr. and Matthew Lohrentz Kristen and Paul Roell Carl J. Strebel Diana and Basil Rowe

42 SUMMER ‘19 | VOL 71 GTRLC.ORG 43 ‡ Deceased VANGUARD SOCIETY

JANUARY 1 – JUNE 30, 2019 There are many ways to support “As the first staffer hired over 28 years ago and one of Vanguard Society members are making a legacy gift to the Conservancy through their estate plans including GTRLC’s mission, each with its own the founders of the Conservancy, I am very passionate gifts through trusts, annuities, insurance policies, beneficiary designations and other planned giving options. benefits. While numerous donors about making sure the Conservancy is truly a sustainable You help to ensure that the places we protect today will be cared for far into the future, for all generations to support GTRLC in their own lifetimes, organization. As the CEO of the Conservancy, I have enjoy. Your thoughtful gift is an investment in the long-term sustainability of the organization. others decide to name GTLRC as the encouraged many of our supporters with whom I am close to beneficiary of money or other assets consider making a planned gift to GTRLC. I am also a firm as they plan their estates. Those that believer in leading by example, and that’s why GTRLC is in do are considered part of GTRLC’s my estate plan. Our family – my wife Becky and our three Martha Aemisegger ‡ Alice J. Detzler The Rev. Dr. Kathleen Dan Remahl Vanguard Society, and their decision to sons – made the decision together. We all know that it will Carl and Betsy Anderson Betsy and Stan Dole L. Kircher Patricia D. Robinson ‡ Anonymous (3) Diane L. Dupuis Wayne and Ruthanne Tom Robinson ‡ name GTRLC as a beneficiary ensures truly have a lasting impact on our region, and we know that Kladder Anonymous ‡(3) Dan and Debbie Edson Elizabeth B. Rodgers that they’ll make a difference in land our family's gift will be stewarded in an exemplary fashion. Oscar H. Kraft ‡ Hal and Kathryn Armstrong David and Linda Egeler Edward and Elyse Rogers protection well into the future. Becky and I are very confident in our decision because we Kima M. Kraimer Marjorie E. Arney ‡ Arthur Elliott ‡ John Ross know the Conservancy is well-positioned for future success. Edith Krause ‡ Judy and Paul Arnold Rich and Susan Erwin Don Schuster More than 120 individuals or families We also know that our planned giving commitment will Robert Charles and Christine Arvidson Fred A. Farage Jr. and Patricia Cosner Kubic Eda June (Novak) Scott ‡ are members of this society, including make a lasting difference and will be an important legacy and Henry Doss Carl J. Strebel Richard and Marlene Gregory D. Seman four staff members. Below, in their for our family. Our planned gift to the Conservancy is really Robert and Nancy Baglan Jeannette M. Fehner ‡ Loughmiller ‡ Chris and Michele Shafer own words, hear why they decided to about future generations being able to enjoy the best of George and Martha Bailey John H. Fisher Wendy MacGaw George E. Shambaugh, Jr. ‡ support GTRLC in this special way. northern Michigan long after Becky and I are gone.” George and Merry Ball Karen Garber and John The Joseph Magliochetti Colette Stanish Daniel P. Baumhardt DesMarais, In Memory Family of Dr. Frank W. Garber D.W. and Joyce ‡ Stibbs GLEN CHOWN, Executive Director Rosemary Benedetti and Ellen A. Garber Rosemary Malocsay Erik Takayama ‡ Carl and Sally ‡ Benner Lois Goldstein and Kent ‡ and Barbara Manning Ann and Allen Taylor John & Rebecca Bercini John Heiam Josephine “Jody” Marquis Terrie E. Taylor, D.O. Naomi Borwell ‡ Tom Greensmith Bob and Nancy Marshall Herbert H. Tedder ‡ Kenneth and Jennifer Bosma Anthony Grybok ‡ Diane McDonald ‡ William and Mary Todt Nancy Eshelman Brickman Jessica A. Hatch Christie McGue and Andrew M. Vander Molen ‡ Robert Calt Jill C. Byron Victor C. Hayes ‡ Dana Vannoy Donald McIntyre, Jr. ‡ Kathleen Carpenter Mr. and Mrs. John R. Hicks Suzanne J. Voltz Dick and Shirley McNally ‡ Ruth W. Catton Tom Hitchman and Phil and Barb Von Glen and Rebecca Chown Keith Hewitt Deb Menninga Voigtlander Sara Cockrell Tom and Myrna Hitchman Harriet Miller-Brown Ralph A. ‡ and Margaret Jane R. Comings Anne M. Hoffa Robert and Joyce Mims von Walthausen--our first annuitants Birgit and Keith Conway William Holland Elizabeth S. Mitchell ‡ Jim and Diana Huckle John and Nancy Morrison ‡ Lorenzo E. and Beverly Bonnie Craig and F. Wagner ‡ Dan Sylvester Donald E. Hunt Ruth Luse Myers ‡ Photo Coming August 27 M. Sue Waltz Karen and Ronald Culp William A. Hyslop Ray and Paula Nichols Anne W. Warren Marcia and Ted‡ Curran Brian and Jennifer Jaffe Elaine Oeflein ‡ Gloria Whelan Kate and Rick Dahlstrom Harry ‡ and June Janis Julie Pearson Frank and Judith Wilhelme Robert and Arlene Dean Jennifer Jay Kate Pearson John Wunsch and Lois R. DeBacker Jerry and Pat ‡ Jehle Robert W. and Ann H. Pike Laura Wigfield Graydon and Sherri DeCamp Walter H. Johnson Mary J. Pitcher Ron and Marty Yocum Jock ‡ and Sue Denio Joyce Keillor ‡ Eula Pray ‡ Michael and Barbara Karen G. Kerrigan David and “Weezie” Reese Dennos ‡

From left to right, Jennifer Jay, Glen Chown, Kate Pearson and Birgit Yetter.

44 SUMMER ‘19 | VOL 71 GTRLC.ORG 45 PHOTO BY NATE RICHARDSON

“This organization’s mission aligns with my belief that it should be our priority to protect our environment, something that should be a priority for all human beings. Even before I began working for the Conservancy, I was raised believing that environmental protection is the most important thing to do for mankind. Working here with all of these dedicated and “I value the Conservancy's mission deeply wonderful humans just strengthened that belief.” and have been a monthly supporter for over a decade. The Campaign for Generations BIRGIT YETTER, resonates with me, and it is so important Director of Finance and Administration FreeWill that I knew that somehow I would increase To make it straightforward and easy for you to my support during the campaign. Working begin writing your will, we’ve partnered with for the Conservancy, I am fortunate enough FreeWill, a free online resource that has already to experience gratitude every single day. The helped more than 65,000 people create wills heroic gifts - both large and small - that I see through a simple online process. This tool is free people making is inspiring. This summer, to you whether you choose to include a gift to there were two gifts that were especially GTRLC or not, and can be used to create a fully moving to me. Someone I know became a Land valid legal will or guide you before planning your Champion (a monthly donor), and I know that will before finding a laywer near you. Head over to this giving is a stretch for this individual. But www.freewill.com/gtrlc for more information. they are so committed to our work that they “My decision to leave a gift in my estate to “I'm one of the many people in their 50s who didn't are making it a priority. The second was Don the Conservancy was inspired by two things: have a will. It's a ridiculous statistic, but it's the and Jerry Oleson's gift that helped secure the Supporting the Conservancy's work feels like part reality. When I heard about FreeWill, I decided to Mitchell Creek Meadows. These people are my of my legacy to my hometown of Traverse City. give it a try. Literally within a half hour I was done heroes and we have this shared value. It was Being able to grow up climbing in our region's and felt great about it. I ran everything my by just time for me to formalize and deepen my big trees, eat farm-fresh fruit and vegetables, lawyer and it all checked out and I've finally done commitment. While the amount of my gift and swim in our fresh water lakes shaped my something really important that I had delayed for won't be much, it's a lot for me and I want the values in essential ways. Second, as a long-time far too long.” – Jennifer Jay protection of our land and lakes to be part of Conservancy employee, I've experienced first- my legacy.” hand how my colleagues and our Board of Directors work hard to use the best science that JENNIFER JAY, they can to inform our strategic planning toward Director of Communications accomplishing the Conservancy's goals. I believe in the organization's ability to accomplish what it's set out to do: Protect natural, scenic and farmlands-and advance stewardship-now and for future generations.”

KATE PEARSON, Senior Charitable Giving Specialist www.freewill.com/gtrlc

46 SUMMER ‘19 | VOL 71 GTRLC.ORG 47 HONORARIUMS MEMORIALS

JANUARY 1 – JUNE 30, 2019 JANUARY 1 – JUNE 30, 2019 Honorarium gifts provide an enduring tribute to someone or something significant in your life. Your gifts Gifts were made in memory of the names shown in bold. Your thoughtful memorial gift is a gift of hope for show how much you care for the beauty and natural resources of northern Michigan. Gifts were made in the future, an investment in forever and a lasting tribute to honor lives well lived. These gifts are a part honor of the names shown in bold. of the Campaign for Generations and will preserve landscapes that offer joy, recreation and solace while ensuring clean water and securing local food sources—what a legacy!

Doug, Ilene and Andrew Beers Phil and Florence Ernzen Quinton Kirsten Ardery Margaret Fako and Roger and Shellie Cook Dot Lyon John Robert Williams and Terrie Taylor Joe and Glenda Wierzbicki Heidi and Andrew Sung Irene Brown Michael Slawnik J. Lawrence and Carol Gleason John and Pat Metzker James Gies Margaret Dannemiller Scott Blackhurst Mary Fairgrieve David Sagaser Grace MacDonald Lisa Gies Jonelle Davidson Mary and Emmett Miller Mike and Kay Lubert Carol and Danny Levin Pearl Boshoven Elizabeth G. and James Dean Helen and Ross Barker Jennifer Jay and Stanley F. Dole Lindy Brastrom and Tanner Borglum Carl Fry John Pak Evan Johnstone Donald and Susan Delong Pete and Shari Clason Andrea Fry and John Floyd Coldwell Banker Schmidt, Realtors John and Nancy Morrison Marie Adeline Bunting and Anne and Elvin Keith Ann Dinan Erin Fry Clayton “Duke” Arnold Sherri and Jeffrey Cousins Evan and Willa Cisluycis Gary Vann Robert and Nancy Marshall Liza Dora Tim Bair Eric Oconnor John Robert Williams and Terrie Taylor Roger Gerstle Catherine Wolfe Matt and Ann McDonough Betty and Randy Enell John and May Gerstle Scott A. Casey Susan Morrison John Morrison Jane Cisluycis Leo Paul Waclawski Forster Family Connie Thompson Marcia Gest John Robert Williams and Terrie Taylor Casey Ressl and James Morse Kathy Partin, Lulu David Freye Kima Kraimer and Maggie Mae Christopher Gores Ted and Jeanne Kraimer Mary Jordan Ehlert Randy Gilbert Todd Clason Andrew Wilhelme Paul and Mary Piotrowski Wendy Greeley Ted and Andy Ehlert Paul and Joan Hill Pete and Shari Clason Margaret Littin Douglas and Susan McDonald Thomas and Kathy Ruth Hutchison Haley De Korne Gerald E. Fessell Piotrowski Diane and Greg Jenks Joe and Leslie Cook Joe Wilhelme Kelley Linzie Brett Fessell Anthony and Natalie Rupard Joseph and Kristine Johnson John Robert Williams and Terrie Taylor Joe Mielke and Jodee Taylor Douglas and Susan McDonald J. Elliot and Florence Marcia Klemp John Robert Williams and Terrie Taylor Barbara Graves Gregory Seman and Morrison Paul and Linda Doane Colin Williams Alan and Nancy Sward Tracey McVicar George Knapp Linda Nanez Joe and Glenda Wierzbicki Kate Pearson John Robert Williams and Terrie Taylor Randolph and Judith Sierras Peter and Sheila Murdoch Monnie Peters Gerald Jehle Jack Haddick Randy Dykhuis Ann and Al Taylor Muskegon Yacht Club Carolyn Longmire Penny and Steve Staelin Faye Backie Deb Van Zegeren Ron Nielsen Matthew Steinmetz George Field Hayes Steve and Deb Westphal Claudia and Daniel Phipps Carolyn Kraft Niebel Willa Elizabeth Hayes Vivian Winn RJ Rant Paul and Marcia Haack PHOTO BY DEKE LUDWIG Patricia Henke Charley Roberts Gregg Johnson Robert and Debra Kraft Cameron Henke Sue Johnson Karl and Barb Rowe Stephen T. Norman Louis and Florence Michael and Charlie Kehr Jacqueline Sander Boehringer Ingelheim Honhart James and Christina Sarah Scheuerle Ann Norman Anne Honhart MacInnes Laura and Steven Sikkenga Joan J. Olsen Bob Hopkins Theodore “Ted” Klemp III Lee and Tom Stoltmann Daniel and Kristine Drake Cynthia Hopkins Joseph and Dacia Albaugh James Ward William Olsen Anonymous Jean Ann Hughes Patti Wilkinson Anne Brasie Joseph Barcheski Thomas Palmer Vivian Wolbrink John and Lynn Collins Judy Bates Elizabeth G. and Barbara and Douglas Wood Stanley F. Dole Nicholas and John Steven Bolhuis and Family Jonathan Zuidema Heather and Rick Shumaker Davis-Piotrowski Boulevard Used Cars, Inc. Paul and Christine Deyo Dale and Jo Ann Chittenden Philip B. Leege Rick Pringle Douglas Panhorst Kathryn Diebel Kathy and William Cleveland Kemp Wilson Rachel Facundo and Cornelia Bates

48 SUMMER ‘19 | VOL 71 GTRLC.ORG 49 Memorials — Continued BUSINESS DONORS

Edith Mary Rock Ted and Pam Shultz George Stevens Woody Woodruff The ongoing support of our business community shows a commitment to northern Michigan’s farmland Jane Johnston Barclay Shultz Ellen Kohler and Wayne Unwin heritage, the protection of natural lands and the preservation of clean air and water. As you make charitable Matt Cauchy Jim and Mollie Rogers Virginia Sorenson Elinore Virginia Yard gifts to the Conservancy, you communicate to your customers how deeply you value and care for northern Dr. David, Kathryn Dotti Clune and Erick Takayama Ikebana International 165 Michigan’s natural resources and the role they play in attracting and retaining talent. and Keiana Snell Jill Henemyer Carolyn Hiraishi Janice and Randall Lambirth Diane Hong Luella Rorick Mary Sorrell Charles and Sara Rodeck Janet Taylor Lee and Shirley Janssen Jim and Margaret Stuhr Jim and Pat Shaffer Mitz and Mary Takayama Ann Smith Val Rose John R. Spencer Jr. Boehringer Ingelheim Hazelnut Kids Steve Perdue, Grand Traverse Industries Georgina Hosmer Cathy and Paul Minster Arno Von Walthausen Bethany Steffey Boulevard Used Cars, Inc MLC Realty, Inc R.M. Young Company Marie Plester Jo Rundio John R. Spencer Sr. Bowers Harbor Vineyard & Winery Morrissey Equip Corp Shift Chiropractic, PLC Carol Rabanus Cathy and Paul Minster Chuck Watson Century 21 Northland Muskegon Yacht Club Sleeping Bear Farms Pug Rundio William and Elaine Young Steven S. Spencer Coldwell Banker Schmidt, Realtors Northern Business Network Traverse City West Front Primary Care, PC Diana Schmiedicke Cathy and Paul Minster Timothy Wellnitz Environmental Sustainability Solutions Oleson’s Food Stores Mattea Wellnitz Kendra Tutsch Gosling Czubak Engineering Oryana Community Co-op

PHOTO BY JACK HARRIS

MATCHING GIFT PROGRAMS

Many companies offer matching gift programs to encourage employees to contribute to charitable organizations like the Conservancy. Most of these programs match contributions dollar for dollar, and some will even triple the amount of your gift. These companies made donations to match their employees’ gifts to the Conservancy

The American Online Giving Foundation W. K. Kellogg Foundation Thrivent Financial Foundation Amgen Foundation Monsanto Fund UBS Employee Giving Program GE Foundation Motorola Solutions Foundation IBM International Foundation Shell Matching Gifts Program Illinois Tool Works Foundation State Farm Companies Foundation

50 SUMMER ‘19 | VOL 71 GTRLC.ORG 51 PHOTO BY ALICIA SYMANSKI

PRIVATE LAND PROTECTION

More than 240 landowners have worked with the Conservancy to preserve their cherished natural lands and farms through voluntary conservation easements that restrict development in perpetuity. We monitor these properties annually, often side-by-side with the owners, to ensure that conservation values are maintained forever. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to you.

Acme Township Shirley Carris Phil and Rita Ellington Russell and Kay Hughes Alan Adams Marlene and Terry Caszatt Jeff and Marilyn Elliott Mark and Sharon Hullman Dorance and Julia Amos Cedar River Group, LLC. Evans Brothers Fruit Company Inn at Watervale, Inc. Roland and Marilyn Mike Champion Jim and Kari Fisher Dean and Kurt Iverson Andreasson Charles and Jeanie Chapin Laura Fisher William and Susie Janis Anonymous (2) David and Jody Charlton The Estate of Mary C. Francis Alice Jeffers Antrim County Chartwell Properties, LLC. Alison Fredericksen Village of Kalkaska Antrim County Glen and Rebecca Chown Chip and Terrie Frey David Kelley Conservation District Tom and Janice Cook Cameron and Dawn Fuller David and Katy Kern Baillio Company Richard Cooper and Charter Township of Garfield Kingsley Area Schools Mark and Elizabeth Banker Jan Tennant G.D.O. Investments LLC Tom Kladzyk Mark and Karen Barbera Bonnie Copeland John Gehring Anthony Kramer and Bash Enterprises Barbara Bailey Croft, LLC Gene Gerring Ardis Bauer Brent and Tami Kroll Crystal Highlands Brian and Lisa Getty Bay Harbor Club Association Owners’ Association Bruce and Libby Krone Jeremy Gibson and Philip E. Miner Loy Putney Nathan Schultz and David and Sara Taft Bayshore Real Estate Richard and Linda Cushman Margery and Laurence Kroupa Carolyn McDonald Revocable Trust Putney Real Estate Stephanie Woodfin Barbara Taylor Associates #1 James Dalley and Gordon Gienow Louise Ladd Susan Montei Holdings, LLC. Mark Seasholes Dennis Beal Lois Brennan Barry and Arreta Thompson Judy Gienow Cliff Larkins Neahtawanta Resort Edith Elliott Queeny and Nancy Seasholes Leon and Shirley Beal Alice and Jerry Deck Terry and Constance Timm Ron and Diane Gillison Leelanau Conservancy Association Warner Guild Queeny Send Brothers Properties LLC Bill and Marti Beals DEER Development Jennifer Tobias and Matthew Godlewski William Lentz Steve and Kathleen Newman Marvin and Jodi Radtke Rick and Diane Shaffer Tom McCracken Margaret Beck Engineering and Jacob Whitman Joe and Kathy Lessard Scott Nugent Charles and Abby G. Michael and Shaffer Family Partnership Tosebo Clubhouse, LLC Michael and Leah Bell Rammelkamp Barbara DeGraeve Gloria Goodale and Dan Wood James and Judy Leto Wendy O’Brien David and Ingrid Shambaugh City of Traverse City Robert and Barbara Below Eric and Joni Rammelkamp Michael and Claudia Delp Margo Goodale Little River Band Of Leonardo and George and Roberta Sally Van Vleck Linda and Craig Bethke Ottawa Indians Carmelita Ocanas Ranke Family Partnership Michael and Ann DeVries Nick Goodale and Shambaugh Kenneth Vanhouten Roland Bielert Wendy Asselin Long Lake Township OCS Watervale, Ltd. Michael Raphelson and Charles and Lorie DeYoung Gary Shanker Village Ridge Homeowners Boardman Township James and Sharon Goodheart Calvin Lutz Carla Langerveld Harold and Edna DeYoung John O’Hair Michael and Shanna Shea Association Philip Bolton Charles and Bethany Charles Lyon Ray Ravary Lance and Allyson Docken OHK-SEK Hebe and Jim Shipp Roy and Pamela Volkening Dave and Jackie Bos Goodman Susie Mackay RF Reiley Family Kay and Frederic Dohm Peter Ohrnberger Virginia Shover Randall Vyverberg Mary Ellen Boucher Ann and Harold Gurian Bob and Kris Mampe Partners, LTD J. Bennett and Tauna Brad Oleson Steve and Carol Shuckra Melinda Wagner 2014 Matthew and Joni Brengman Donald and Heidi Hamilton Robert and Lois Manigold Rick and Kay Rieck Revocable Living Trust Donaldson DJ and Lisa Oleson Peggy and Kimberly Simpson Ruth Briggs Anne Hammond Francia Mann Riverview Rod & Gun Club Wayne and Joan Webber Deborah Doyle Oleson Foundation Richard and Diane Simpson Lee and Richmond Brown Thomas Hanna Kirk Marckwald and Phyllis Robinson Wellington Real Estate Roger and Angelica Dunlap Dustin and Kim Ordway Loring Sims James and Justine Buck Alan and Carol Hart Chris Desser Robert and Penelope Rosi Holdings, LLC. Earl and Susan Dutton Paradise Township Nicklaus Slocum Keith Burns Tom and Annette Hart Robert Marriott Rotary Camps & Greg White Julie and Jim Dutton Paul Pelica Dirk and Mary Martin Services of TC Dale and Carolyn Smith John Wilkinson and Jon Bylsma and Martin Easling Jerry and Jamie Heim Jennifer Johnston William and Joan McCool James Petrie Wayne and Joan Rowe Julie and John Smith Robin Silva-Wilkinson Laurie Eberhardt and Jed and Dawn Hemming Wesley Petrie Donald and Glenna Southwell Kathryn Bytwerk Peter Martin David and Barbara Henton Robert and Joni Metiva Royal Farms Properties LLC Windward Partnership Gary Pomeroy Reg Sprik Pat Capps Kenneth Edwards Todd Herber Amy and Dan Meyer Samuel and Anna Runkel John and Charlotte Wuepper James and Anne Porritt Archibald Carey Phil Edwards and Laura Reid Carol Highsaw Jean Meyer John and Margaret Sargent William Springstead Isaiah Wunsch David and Nancy Carey Ralph and Mary Jim Highsaw and Philip and Connie Micklin Steve Pray Michael and Melissa Scanlon Laura and Chuck Stanek State YMCA of Michigan John Carey and Vicki Arroyo Ellen Edwards Linda Prentice Ellen Miller Brian and Dodie Putney The Robert L. Schiewe Anne Starr and Kristin Hall Shelby Ziegler Andrew and Andrea Carolus Russell A. and Pat Ehler Frances Housman Kelly and Debra Miller Charlotte Putney Living Trust David Steffey

52 SUMMER ‘19 | VOL 71 GTRLC.ORG 53 CONSERVATION EASEMENT AND LAND DONATIONS VOLUNTEERS

Over 29,000 acres of land have been permanently protected by landowners like you who have placed permanent, Every year volunteers play a crucial role in the Conservancy’s mission, helping to protect and steward our deed-restricted easements on their property in order to ensure that its conservation values—the health and region’s incredible natural resources. Volunteers thanked donors, built trails, made maple syrup, fought wealth of these precious lands—are maintained forever. invasive species, led hikes and workdays and served on our board of directors. We are so grateful you help care for this land and share your love for it.

Conservation Easement Donations Bret L. Bachert and Sarah E. Schin Trust Kay and Frederic Dohm Jack Robbins Perry Adams Rick Dahlstrom John Greyzck James Lagowski Alex O’Brien Jeff Sweske Edward R. Bagley Trust Maple Ridge Hardwoods, Inc. Brian Allen Crystal Dailey Cheryl Gross Becky Lanham Vicki Olsen Al Taylor D. Karen Andrews Cortney Danbrook Kathleen Guy Julie Lapinski Susan Palmer Terrie Taylor

Land Donations Amy Attee Logan Deluca Sheridan Haack Sophie Legault- Gail Parry Brian Thelen Thomas Auer Mason Deluca Sophie Haas Bradley John Paul Laurel Truax Terence S. Malone Trust Jannine Baker Mary Devon Patricia Hager Craig Locke Erin Paxson Cynthia Tschudy Steve Balentine Cavanaugh Doud Richard Hager Mike Lubert William Pioszak Ron Tschudy Richard Barclay Bryce Dreeszen Diane Hanson Ben Lundquist Lucy Polemitis Barbara Van Dam Gerald Batka Paula Dreeszen Matt Hayes Deborah Lunsford Lindsey Porter Connie Veverica Katherine Batka Sylvia Duncan Dave Heeres Robert Lyon Jane Purkis George Voulemenous Jo Ann Beemon Larry Dyer Bob Heflin Shane Lyons Robert Reider Terry Walters Norman Bell Susan Easlick Pam Hendrick Dan Mach Pamela Travis Walters Rick Bellingham Duke Elsner Nick Hensler Kathy Flynn Mach Richardson Flint Watt GRANTS FROM STATE AND FEDERAL Audra Bildeaux Cara Eule Cheryl Hiipakka Mark Maddox Greg Riley William Weiss Mary Binder Nathan Eule Richard Hiipakka Dave Mahan Michael Roberts Carol Wellington GOVERNMENTS AND PARTNER ORGANIZATIONS Tim Binder Noah Eule Mollie Hilliard Rebecca Mang Sawyer Robinson Shannon Public grants help to leverage and maximize the value of your private investment. The Conservancy is Chuck Blake Mary Fairgrieve Mark Hoffman Patrick Manke Steven Ruby Westgate either a direct recipient or a sub-awardee of grant funding from these agencies and organizations. Brad Boals Judy Feldmann Cherie Hogan Sally Manke Kevin Russell Steve Westphal Richard Bobian Mary Ferens Bill Holden Marcella Massa Missi Sano Angela Willis Paul Brink Jim Fisher Jim Huckle Dave Mathews Erika Schick American Farmland Trust Grand Traverse County Road Commission US Fish & Wildlife Service-Great Lakes John Willis Vaughn Burden Dennis Marcia Inman John Maxson Maryann Schmidt Environmental Protection Agency, Michigan Department of Fish and Wildlife Restoration Act Fitzpatrick Chip May Randy Schmidt Holly Winter Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, Natural Resources US Fish & Wildlife Service-Great Lakes Sky Button Dave Jackson Justin Florkowski Shelle McElwee Brent Schnell Anthony Invasive Species Network Restoration Initiative-Coastal Program Betsy Calcutt Deb Jackson Wittbrodt Alan Flory Tom McElwee Don Schuster Bridget Callahan Michelle Jacokes Kathy Wittbrodt Kyla Foley Jim McKimmy Greg Seman Marcia Carney Jennifer Jaffe Gera Witte Michael Foley Don Miles Dana Sholten Sally Catanese Lynda Jarrold James Witte Linda Forster Jana Miseta Frank Simkins Daniel Choike Philip Jarvi Rick Wojtowicz Carl Freeman Dan Mixer Michael Sipkoski Lou Ann Churchill Joshua Jones Charlene Wylie Carlton Fry Douglas Morse Lisa Six Linda Cline Peggy Kane David Wylie Rondi Fry Edwin Morse Bill Skaff Don Coe Rick Kane Sonya Yenser- Doug Cook Peter Galloup Brian Keas Paul Moyer Maureen Smyth Hammon GIFTS-IN-KIND Sally Cook Linda Gawel Chuck Kendall Paula Moyer Cliff Sorrell Thomas Yocum We are deeply grateful to these supporters for the generous contributions of their products, goods and services. Pam Coleman Peter Gawel Karen Kennedy Dirk Nelson Gary Stauffer Scott Yonkers John Collins Mike Gill Garold Kneale Barbara Nelson- Jane Stauffer Catherine Jameson Zemanek Ken Barber Tom Cooper Mark Hoffman Joe and Bobbi Woods Carey Colliver Sharon Goble Sam Krause Nancy Story Michelle Nerone Donald and Nancy Clover Terry Griffin Image 360 Lela Colliver Michael Grahl Mark Krupowicz Kim Stringer Marilyn Niebel Mike Conway Richard Gray Debbie Kwaiser David Stringer Homer Nye Sheila Crowley Claire Gregory Michael Kwaiser Todd Sutton

54 SUMMER ‘19 | VOL 71 GTRLC.ORG 55 3860 N. Long Lake Rd., Ste. D Traverse City, MI 49684 NON-PROFIT ORG. US POSTAGE PAID 231.929.7911 TRAVERSE CITY, MI 49684 GTRLC.ORG Permit No. 306

Preservation Celebration

Our annual Preservation Celebration is one of the most popular events of the year, and the 2019 edition was a magnificent showcase all of the special things that make it so. Friends, supporters and partners joined GTRLC’s staff and board members at the historic Maple Bay Farmhouse on July 20 to celebrate all that we’ve accomplished together in the ongoing Campaign for Generations and get energized for all the work that remains ahead. The weather was great, the food was even better and the positive vibes were off the charts. One of the most rewarding aspects of this annual event is hearing in person from our supporters about what our work means to them, and this year’s event was another chance for our staff to connect on a deep and meaningful level with the people that make our important work possible. To those who came out – thank you! To those who missed it, we hope to see you next year, or better yet, at one of our many events before then! Be sure to check www.gtrlc.org for fun PHOTOS BY JACQUELINE SOUTHBY events in all four seasons!

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