Love the land. Pass it on. - The Story of The Campaign for Generations by gtrlc

THE STORY OF THE C A MPA IGN FOR GENER ATIONS

“Let us leave a splendid legacy for our children… let us turn to them and say, this you inherit: guard it well, for it is far more precious than money… and once destroyed, nature’s beauty cannot be repurchased at any price.” - Ansel Adams

Table of Contents

A Letter from Glen Chown 04 A Letter from the Board Chair

Campaign Impacts

Campaign Support

Campaign Investments

Campaign Project Map

CHAPTER ONE Campaign for Generations Overview

CHAPTER TWO Natural Lands Protection

Lower Woodcock Lake 44 Petobego State Game Area 50 Boy’s Hut Easement 56 Maplehurst Natural Area 62 Upper Manistee Headwaters: The Millock Family Preserve 68 Mitchell Creek Meadows Preserve 78 Copeland Farm 84 Golden Days Loon Preserve Addition 88 Hill Estate 92 The “Ribbon of Protection” 98 Hickory Forest (Clarence Kroupa Property) 108 Edwards Ridge 114 Torch Lake Nature Preserve 118 Sand Lakes DNR Assist 122 Platte River Park 126 Holiday Woods Natural Area 130 Embayment Lakes 134 Mount Minne 140 The Gorge Nature Sanctuary 146 High Bluff Dunes Nature Sanctuary 147 Railroad Point Addition 148 Wintergreen Woods Nature Preserve 149 Torch Ridge Conservation Easement 150 Campaign for Generations

Arcadia Marsh Nature Preserve Land Additions 151 Intermediate Lake Sanctuary 152 Finch Creek Nature Sanctuary 153 CHAPTER THREE Farmland Protection

155

Coulter Farm (North & South) 158 Interwater Farms 164 Bagley Memorial Easement 170 Rocky Top Farms and Preserve 175 Wilson Orchards 180 Bluewater Farm 184 Twin Maples 191 Weatherholt Farm 195 Leorie Vineyards 199 Stanek Farm 204 Maple Bay Farmhouse Renovations 209 CHAPTER FOUR Community Conservation & Universal Access

215

Overlook Trail at Arcadia Dunes: The C.S. Mott Nature Preserve 217 Acme Bayside Park Improvements 223 Milton Township Beach 227 Charlie Kehr Universal Access Trail Connector 231 Arcadia Marsh Universal Access Trail 235 Mary Behrens Sorrell Trail 241 Timbers Recreation Area UA Trail 245 Coy Mountain 249 Pyatt Lake Univeral Access Trail 253 CHAPTER FIVE Looking Forward

257

A Letter from Terrie Taylor, D.O.

261

Campaign for Generations Donors

262

A Letter from Glen Chown Dear friends, It was a bold and ambitious effort. In some ways, an audacious effort. Above all else, the Campaign for Generations was a necessary

up with 88. You lifted us up on your shoulders, enabling us to accomplish a record-breaking campaign and the largest ever for a land trust in the Midwest.

effort. We launched the most far-reaching and

What can’t be adequately reflected in these

comprehensive campaign in the Conservancy’s

stories is my enormous gratitude. It is profoundly

30-year history because we had no other choice.

humbling to reflect on the tireless generosity and

The dramatic increase in development pressure

sacrifices made on behalf of our beloved natural

coupled with the sheer volume, scope, and

world. Each gift, each hour of help, each word of

distribution of vital land protection projects

advice generously offered during this campaign

meant we had to act. Had we not, so many

helped the organization and our mission and

gorgeous and significant properties – many of

also impacted me personally. Today, I feel a

them natural jewels sitting high atop our land

tremendous responsibility to press forward with

protection team’s ecologically-driven list of the

our mission of protecting and stewarding the

region’s remaining unprotected parcels – would

best of northern Michigan.

have been lost forever.

The Conservancy is blessed with talented staff

But the Campaign for Generations was about much

and board members, a dedicated and brilliant

more than natural lands. It was about lifelong

volunteer corps, and donors with hearts of gold.

and equitable access to those lands for people

Each stepped up in profound ways. And keeping

of all ages and abilities. It was about rich and

in mind that the Campaign for Generations was

productive farmland, something that is deeply

a six-year effort, they did so while leading full

engrained in our regional identity. It was about

lives. Among our Conservancy staff alone, the

our ability to make good on our promise of

“generational” theme of our campaign took on

“forever” by keeping our protected lands healthy

great personal meaning. We’ve experienced

and vibrant for generations to come.

graduations, weddings, health challenges,

Within these pages, you’ll learn about the incredible properties and amazing people who made this protection possible. More than 6,000 individual donors made 26,602 individual gifts, helping us exceed every one of our goals. Having estimated 60 projects six years ago, we ended

and the heartbreaking loss of loved ones, but our 12th “campaign baby” is due in January! Throughout the campaign, we’ve been inspired by photographer and environmentalist Ansel Adams, who said, “Let us leave a splendid legacy for our children…let us turn to them and say,

Love the land. Pass it on.

this you inherit: guard it well, for it is far more

a lasting legacy. We are making it possible for

precious than money…and once destroyed,

future generations to fall in love with northern

nature’s beauty cannot be repurchased at

Michigan and create their own memories here.

any price.”

Your generosity will forever be a part of those

With each milestone, the campaign became even more personal. We are keenly aware that we have

stories to come. From this generation and beyond, thank you.

benefited from the foresight of those who came before us, and we take our responsibility for future generations even more to heart. Ultimately, this campaign was a success because thousands of people embraced it and made heroic gifts of time, treasure, and talent. We focused on a shared goal, and from that sense of unity came

Campaign for Generations

Glen Chown, GTRLC Executive Director

A Letter from the Board Chair Dear friends, As we look back on the six-year journey we’ve taken together, I’m simply awestruck at all that has been accomplished. The challenge was immense and the response was beyond anything we could have hoped for. The Campaign for Generations was a success that we can all be proud of. The stories in this publication involve spectacular natural, farm and scenic lands forever saved by those who rose to the challenge of this ambitious campaign. Many of these properties are indeed irreplaceable, ranking among the finest remaining in our entire five-county service area. I so much appreciate everyone who made this effort a success. And while so many of you supported this campaign financially, credit also goes to the hundreds of people who donated their hard-earned time and considerable talents to this effort. From every person who helped build a trail or organize a hike, to my colleagues on the Board of Directors who gave generously of their time to help guide the organization, these volunteers continue to be critical to the success of the Conservancy’s mission. For the Board of Directors, our job is to provide guidance on organizational policy, structure and direction. I am certainly thrilled by all the Campaign for Generations achieved in terms of lands and shorelines protected, the access to nature provided and our ability to steward those special places in perpetuity. But I am also pleased by the organizational strength it has instilled in the Conservancy going forward. In order to achieve such substantial campaign goals, staff and board worked together to find new and better ways of completing many vital aspects of our work. These new systems, along with a thoughtfully crafted new Strategic Direction (see page 258), stand to make an already successful organization even more effective in the years ahead. In some respects, I feel like the last runner on a championship relay team. I have the privilege to carry the baton to the finish line of a smashing victory. But it is the strength and skill and foresight and determination of the many who went before who helped get us to where we are today. And while we all should take pause and deeply appreciate the results of this monumental campaign, we also know our work is not done. The development pressures that necessitated this campaign aren’t going away any time soon and we need to continue to respond to vital projects well into the future. PHOTO BY JACQUELINE SOUTHBY

John Collins, Chair, Board of Directors

As always, thank you for your support. Nothing we do is possible without you.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS The following board members served during the Campaign for Generations (2015-2021). These volunteers donate considerable time and talents to our organization. To learn more about current board members (*denoted below), visit www.gtrlc.org/about/board. Perry Adams*

Bob Marshall

John Bercini*

Chip May*

Paul Brink*

Christie McGue

Betsy Calcutt*

Barbara Nelson-Jameson*

Linda Cline*

Susan Palmer*

Don Coe*

John D. Paul Jr.

John Collins*

Royce Ragland

JoAnne Cook*

Kevin Russell*

Marcia Curran

Greg Seman*

Cortney Danbook*

Evan Smith*

Matt Drake

Maureen Smyth*

Ken Engle

Mary Swift

Kathleen Guy

Al Taylor

Jim Huckle*

Terrie Taylor*

Jennifer Jaffe

Maureen Templeton

Charlie Kehr

Diane VanderVeen

Koffi Kpachavi* ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERS The following community members served on advisory committees during the Campaign for Generations. Their time and talents are extraordinarily valuable to the Conservancy’s efforts. Ed Bradford

Terry Rogers

Melzar Coulter

Kama Ross

Lee Jameson

Josh Shields

Randy Kiessel

Mark Stormzand

Steven Kraft

Bob VanDragt

Sherwyn Mistry

John Zaloudek

Kurt Pregitzer

CAMPAIGN IMPACTS 7,503 total acres protected

26 total miles of shoreline (rivers, lakes & streams) protected

Love the land. Pass it on.

PUBLIC ACCESS

3,792

ACRES PROTECTED

MILES OF SHORELINE (RIVERS, LAKES & STREAMS) PROTECTED

NEW NATURE PRESERVES

• • • • • •

Embayment Lakes Nature Preserve Lower Woodcock Lake Nature Preserve Mitchell Creek Meadows Nature Preserve Mount Minnie Nature Preserve Torch Lake Nature Preserve Torch River Ridge Nature Preserve: A Cotanche Family Legacy • Upper Manistee Headwaters: The Milock Family Preserve • Wintergreen Woods Nature Preserve

6 18

Eden Hill Woodland (Ecologically Mgd. Forest) Finch Creek Nature Sanctuary High Bluff Dunes Nature Sanctuary Intermediate Lake North Nature Sanctuary Intermediate Lake South Nature Sanctuary The Gorge Nature Sanctuary

NEW PARKS AND OTHER PROJECTS

UNIVERSAL ACCESS (UA)

PROPERTY ADDITIONS

• • • • • • • • • •

Arcadia Marsh Nature Preserve (4) Coy Mountain Golden Days Loon Sanctuary Intermediate Lake South Sanctuary Medenbrook Nature Sanctuary (2) Mitchell Creek Meadows Nature Preserve (2) Petobego State Game Area Pyatt Lake Nature Preserve (2) Railroad Point Natural Area (2) Wilcox-Palmer-Shah Nature Preserve (2)

MILES OF TRAIL BUILT

• Acme Bayside Park Improvements • Betsie River State Transfer • Charlie Kehr Memorial Trail Connector at Railroad Point Natural Area • Elberta Lake Michigan Beach Infrastructure • Hickory Forest • Holiday Woods Natural Area • Lake Dubonnet Forest State Transfer • Maple Bay Farmhouse Renovation • Maplehurst Natural Area • Milton Township Beach • Platte River Park • Sand Lakes Trail Corridor ("the 160") • Webster Bridge State Transfer

NEW NATURE SANCTUARIES AND ECOLOGICALLY MANAGED FORESTS • • • • • •

UNIVERSAL ACCESS PROJECTS • Acme Bayside Park • Arcadia Marsh Trail • Mary Behrens Sorrell UA Trail at St.Clair Lake-Six Mile Lake • Overlook UA Trail at Arcadia Dunes • Pyatt Lake UA Trail • Timbers Recreation Area UA Trail

MILES OF UA TRAIL

PRIVATE LANDS PROTECTION

3,711

17 Campaign for Generations

ACRES PROTECTED

FARMLAND EASEMENTS

MILES OF SHORELINE (RIVERS, LAKES & STREAMS) PROTECTED

NATURAL LAND EASEMENTS

CAMPAIGN SUPPORT $94M total funds raised The roughly $94 million raised in the Campaign for Generations came from a variety of sources, as detailed in the opposite table. Some of these sources do not represent cash currently in hand. Documented estate gifts, for instance, will be realized over time to support the Conservancy well into the future. Land donations help reduce fundraising need, but do not represent cash in hand to apply to other Conservancy projects. Review the following pages to see how private and public donations that could be put to work during the campaign were applied to various projects and other campaign needs.

Love the land. Pass it on.

PRIVATE CONTRIBUTIONS*

5,859

PUBLIC FUNDS LEVERAGED

INDIVIDUAL CASH DONORS

$7,644,171

$34,518,126

110

FOUNDATIONS

$19,259,812

$13,662,750

$10,480,842

BUSINESSES

OTHER GRANT SOURCES

$217,308

$1,518,459

TOWNSHIP AND COUNTY FUNDS

$1,916,372

LAND DONATIONS

182

OTHER STATE AND FEDERAL GRANTS

$5,165,912

DOCUMENTED ESTATE GIFTS

MI NATURAL RESOURCES TRUST FUND GRANTS

NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS

$84,261

TOTAL PRIVATE FUNDS RAISED :

TOTAL PUBLIC FUNDS RAISED :

$79,524,249

$14,943,763

VOLUNTEER CONTRIBUTIONS

554

TOTAL INDIVIDUAL VOLUNTEERS

473

NEW VOLUNTEERS

11,040

TOTAL HOURS

*includes 2,769 NEW donors

Campaign for Generations

CAMPAIGN INVESTMENTS To address increasing development pressures and ensure a healthy future for our region, the Campaign for Generations was divided into six pillars that represent every aspect of our mission to permanently protect and care for land in our region.

NATURAL LANDS PROTECTION Projected: $17,000,000 Actual: $19,329,317 After intimately getting to know our land and water base, we are very familiar with the natural and scenic lands in our service area. Much of this critical land is under threat and was a major focus during this campaign.

FARMLANDS PROTECTION Projected: $10,000,000 Actual: $10,523,179 The Grand Traverse region contains some of the most unique and productive farmland anywhere in the world. Protection of fruitbelt farmland in our service area was a significant area of focus throughout the campaign.

COMMUNITY CONSERVATION AND UNIVERSAL ACCESS Projected: $8,000,000 Actual: $8,262,829 We work hard to help local communities achieve their outdoor recreation goals and were asked to continue to do so during this campaign. Many projects had universal access opportunities, opening up the wonders of nature to those with mobility issues.

QUICK STRIKE FUND FOR PRIORITY LAND PROTECTION Projected: $10,000,000 Actual: $10,624,971 This pillar allowed us to move fast when a priority property became available on short notice. We needed to always be ready to act in an urgent manner to protect the region’s most special places.

STEWARDSHIP ENDOWMENT AND LONG-TERM FUNDS Projected: $13,000,000 Actual: $13,982,612 Our stewardship work fulfills the "forever" part of our mission. We worked to raise $10M to meet the stewardship needs for past projects and $3M for campaign projects to ensure that we have the ability to care for our protected properties for generations to come.

SIX YEAR ON-THE-GROUND OPERATIONS Projected: $13,000,000 Actual: $12,628,000 It takes a reliable stream of annual resources to remain excellent and progressive in our work to save important land. These critical funds allowed us to successfully accomplish our mission across our five-county service area.

PROJECTED TOTAL : $71,000,000 ACTUAL TOTAL :

$75,350,908

Love the land. Pass it on.

PROJECTED

Campaign Investments

11% Community Conservation/ Universal Access

Sources of Support

14% Quick Strike Fund

14%

Stewardship Endowment — Past Projects

19%

Operations

Land and Conservation Easement Donations

19%

Public Funding*

14% Farmland Protection

69%

24%

Cash & Realized Estate Gifts

Natural Lands Protection

Documented Planned Gifts

Stewardship Long-Term Funds — Campaign Projects

ACTUAL

Sources of Support

Campaign Investments

11% Community Conservation/ Universal Access

13% Quick Strike Fund

14%

17%

Stewardship Endowment — Past Projects

14%

Land and Conservation Easement Donations

Operations

14% Farmland Protection

16%

Public Funding*

65%

26%

Cash & Realized Estate Gifts

Natural Lands Protection

Stewardship Long-Term Funds — Campaign Projects

Campaign for Generations

Documented Planned Gifts

*Private donations are leveraging public funding including: 13 • Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) • Purchase of Development Rights (PDR) • Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP)

CAMPAIGN PROJECTS

public land protection and other public access projects

private land protection projects

JULY 2015 - JUNE 2021

Total Project Cost

ACME BAYSIDE PARK IMPROVEMENTS

ARCADIA MARSH ADDITION - DIETRICH

ARCADIA MARSH ADDITION - PELTZ

ARCADIA MARSH ADDITION - ST. PIERRE CORNER

ARCADIA MARSH ADDITION - TONDU

$635,000

Universal access to shoreline and beaches. Further protects water quality of East Grand Traverse Bay.

LAKE M

$125,571

This 3.75-acre addition includes .03 miles of shoreline, frontage on both M-22 and Chamberlain roads, and contains open water, emergent marsh, wet meadow, and early successional habitats.

$180,029

Critical 19.5-acre addition improves preserve management & access while enhancing wildlife and biodiversity.

$104,509

12.25-acre addition includes critical grassland bird habitat and extends the preserve to Glovers Lake Road, providing access for boundary monitoring and invasive species management.

ho re

This 4-acre inholding property with frontage on Bowens Creek has some ecological value itself, but the main conservation value is removing an existing residential use and the potential for commercial use.

Sleeping Be

$55,072

About 13 acres of mesic northern hardwood forest and a strip of hardwood-conifer swamp on a quarter mile of Betsie River surrounded by state land and other large, high-priority private parcels.

Elberta

$80,520

40 8

EMBAYMENT LAKES PRESERVE

FINCH CREEK NATURE SANCTUARY

GOLDEN DAYS LOON SANCTUARY ADDITION - STEVENS

$264,229

$504,463

ARCADIA MARSH

Bear Lake

$1,214,897

Bear Lake

$201,396*

Kaleva

Onekama Portage Lake

This 58-acre property builds on previously protected land. It protects 0.47 mile of shoreline along Finch Creek, which is critical for water quality in Grass River Natural Area and safeguards wildlife habitat.

$252,550

M22 A N I S T E E

34.5-acre property includes 0.18 mile of shoreline on Lake Bellaire. Important for water quality, expanding previously protected lands for loon nesting and other wildlife use.

Manistee

24 Please Note: All easements are privately owned and not open to the public.

Arcadia

This 166.25-acre property sits between Long Lake and Rush Lake, themselves situated between Crystal and Platte lakes, with 1.14 miles of shoreline. The property includes a variety of high-quality habitats.

B E N

Assist village with MNRTF application for infrastructure improvements, including a paved parking lot, and the creation of universally accessible bathrooms, picnic pavilions and pathway to the pier.

RAILROAD POINT

Roughly 63-acre ridgetop forest with scenic views of both Crystal and Platte lakes includes quality habitats such as vernal pools and ephemeral wetlands. To be managed as a sustainable working woodland.

ELBERTA LAKE MICHIGAN BEACH INFRASTRUCTURE

Benzonia

This 1.5-acre project allows for a long-needed parking lot for safe access to a beloved community natural area and ensures that a key inholding is not developed.

EDEN HILL WOODLAND

Honor

33 Beulah

Connects the popular Betsie Valley Trail with trails at the Conservancy-protected Railroad Point Natural Area by way of a short trail, footbridge, and stairway to views overlooking Crystal Lake.

COY MOUNTAIN

27 28

L i tt le P l atte L a ke

P l at te L a ke

Frankfort

$136,550

CHARLIE KEHR MEM. TRAIL CONNECTOR AT RAILROAD POINT

C r y s t a l L a ke

ar D

Big

BETSIE RIVER STATE TRANSFER

Na ti o na

Provides quality of life opportunities for people of all ages and mobility levels with UA trail design at beloved and ecologically critical nature preserve.

MEDENBROO PRESERVE

lL ak es

$1,709,015

Bear Creek

ARCADIA MARSH INFRASTRUCTURE

$487,481

East Lake

Litt

le M an

ist

ee Love R i the land. Pass it on. v er

Ellsworth

Jo rd a iv e nR r

GRAND TRAVERSE

Central Lake

BAY

Elmira

TORCH LAKE NP

ICHIGAN

10 11

PYATT LAKE

serviced by Leelanau Conservancy

22 23 15

Lake Ann

Lon g Lake

ive r

29 47 19

42 rd

UMHP

Man istee Lake

ACME BAYSIDE PARK

a Bo

30 Kalkaska

MITCHELL CREEK MEADOWS

Mancelona

RIBBON PROPERTIES

Williamsburg

43 17

9 13

ACME PDR Sk

L AK E A NN

Grass River Natural Area

Acme Traverse City

50 51

Rapid City

A N T R I M WPS

Alden

Torch Lake

LOWER WOODCOCK LAKE NP

LEELANAU COUNTY

Lake Bell aire

El k Lake

Elk Rapids

We s t A r m G ra n d Tr a v er s e B ay

29 Kewadin

E as t A rm G r a n d Tr a v er s e B ay

39 37 38

Bellaire

30A 31 K L K32A S K A

Grawn

Black Creek

COULTER FARM

OK E

i an

r Po

Duck Lake

Gr een Lake

Z I E

Kingsley

l Litt

t Be

Fife Lake

G 17 R A N D

T R A V E R S E

Thompsonville

Fife Lake

131

Manistee River

CAMPAIGN INVESTMENTS

Copemish

GTRLC has protected over 45,000 acres of land and 140 miles of shoreline through 2020. Increased development pressure on our natural resources and signature landscapes has accelerated the pace and scope with which we need to respond.

s te

e R i

Natural Lands Protection

Mani

131

45 46

LEGEND GTRLC Nature Preserves Other Public Land Protected and/or Managed by GTRLC

ver

Privately Owned GTRLC Protected Lands, including Farmland (not open to the public) Campaign for Generations Other Protected Land

We identified thousands of acres of land that needed to be protected. Much was under immediate threat of development.

Farmland Protection Farming and farmland are critical to our economy, environment and way of life in northern Michigan.

Community Conservation and Universal Access Municipalities in all five counties requested our support and expertise to leverage natural resources and provide access to nature to enhance the economic viability of, and draw to, their communities. Discussions with community partners and an inventory of our own preserves established a vision of placing universally accessible 15 infrastructure in several locations so that people of all abilities may enjoy nature.

CAMPAIGN PROJECTS

public land protection and other public access projects

private land protection projects

JULY 2015 - JUNE 2021

HICKORY FOREST

HIGH BLUFF DUNES NATURE SANCTUARY

HOLIDAY WOODS NATURAL AREA

18 19

INTERMEDIATE LAKE SANCTUARY NORTH

INTERMEDIATE LAKE SANCTUARY SOUTH

LOWER WOODCOCK LAKE NATURE PRESERVE

LOWER WOODCOCK LAKE NATURE PRESERVE - TRAIL EXPANSION

MAPLE BAY FARMHOUSE RENOVATION

$43,313

This 25-acre property is entirely wetland habitat, which retains and filters runoff before it enters the lake, protecting water quality.

$ 139,874

This 40-acre forested property is surrounded on all four sides by state land. Its protection provides contiguous habitat for wildlife and helps ensure uninterrupted trail use and other recreation activities.

$2,495,254

230-acre property includes 2.36 mi shoreline on the Platte River, two creeks and the entirety of Lower Woodcock Lake. The opportunity to preserve an entire lake in its natural state was particularly exciting.

$248,447*

Adding roughly 3 miles of trail will provide visitors better opportunities to engage with this property by taking them around the lake and deep into the woods. Trail includes 2 bridges and dock/boardwalk.

$287,175

This highly visible (and now fully functional) facility along U.S. 31 helps GTRLC with important outreach and land protection efforts.

MAPLEHURST NATURAL AREA

$3,869,624

386.25-acre natural area includes meadows and forests surrounding the 60-acre Lake Maplehurst (with 1.17 miles of shoreline). Excellent recreation opportunities.

MARY BEHRENS SORRELL UA TRAIL @ ST. CLAIR LAKE - SIX MILE LAKE

$435,673

Provides quality of life opportunities for people of all ages and mobility levels with UA trail design at one of GTRLC’s oldest and most treasured nature preserves.

MEDENBROOK NATURE SANCTUARY - ADDITION

MEDENBROOK PRESERVE STATE ADDITION

$280,739

88-acre property dominated by white cedar with a half mile of undeveloped shoreline on Intermediate Lake. Important for water quality (Intermediate Lake and entire Chain) and loon habitat.

LAKE DUBONNET FOREST STATE TRANSFER

$77,589

18.5-acre property with 0.28 mile on Intermediate Lake. Includes wetlands that are key for water quality and habitat for animals and birds, particularly loons. Also highly visible from Intermediate Lake.

$878,457

145.5-acre property with 0.35 mile on Bakers Creek (coldwater tributary to East Bay). Protects habitat and water quality while providing recreation opportunities in a heavily developed residential area.

INTERMEDIATE LAKE SANCTUARY SOUTH ADDITION - BROOM

$321,580

This 22-acre property with 0.11 mile Lake Michigan shoreline is a high-quality example of a perched Great Lakes dune system. The property is home to many endemic plants that grow only in this habitat.

$TBD

This 84-acre property, contiguous to Hickory Hills and Hickory Meadows, contains high quality mesic northern forest with exceptional conservation values and viewshed/water quality protection.

$50,847

5.5-acre property with frontage 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. Funds accounted for in other campaign projects

This 5-acre property is surrounded on three sides by Medenbrook Preserve and has 0.13 miles Little Platte Lake frontage. It augments Medenbrook Preserve’s high-quality wetland habitat.

MILTON TOWNSHIP BEACH

$782,292

Small (.75-acre) parcel adds to an assemblage of properties that create a now-beloved 10-acre park with 400 feet of frontage on Elk Lake.

MITCHELL CREEK MEADOWS PRESERVE

$1,477,359

168-acre former golf course property includes 1.14 miles of shoreline on two branches of Vanderlip Creek. Key for water quality, wildlife habitat, and rec. opportunities in an area under dev. pressure.

MITCHELL CREEK MEADOWS PRESERVE - ADDITION I

$49,313

This 38-acre property, almost entirely swamp, contains three Mitchell Creek tributaries (0.32 miles shoreline) critical for water quality and is a lynchpin in plans to connect TART trail to schools. 16

Please Note: All easements are privately owned and not open to the public.

32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39

MITCHELL CREEK MEADOWS PRESERVE

This 17.5-acre property lies adjacent to the so rich conifer swamp and other wetland habita

MOUNT MINNIE NATURE PRESERVE

This 65-acre property sits on the isthmus betw steep wooded hills and includes 0.3 miles of fr

OVERLOOK TRAIL AT ARCADIA DUNES (U

Provides quality of life opportunities for peopl the Conservancy’s largest nature preserve.

PETOBEGO STATE GAME AREA ADDITIO 47-acre property that includes a rare coastal Grand Traverse Bay and Petobego Pond.

PLATTE RIVER PARK

52-acre property that includes 0.31 miles of sh municipal park with river access.

PYATT LAKE ADDITION - II

This 17.8-acre upland property is zoned reside complex from septic/landscaping nutrients an

PYATT LAKE ADDITION - III

The upland ridge on this parcel will support tr an expensive boardwalk through fragile wetla

PYATT LAKE INFRASTRUCTURE

Opportunity to upgrade current infrastructure water levels with universal access paths, boar

RAILROAD POINT ADDITION

RAILROAD POINT ADDITION - COLE

SAND LAKES TRAIL CORRIDOR

THE GORGE NATURE SANCTUARY

TIMBERS IMPROVEMENTS (UA)

TORCH LAKE NATURE PRESERVE

TORCH LAKE NATURE PRESERVE - TRAIL

TORCH RIVER RIDGE NATURE PRESERVE:

Roughly 5-acre property adjacent to Betsie Va between Crystal Lake and the Betsie River.

The addition of this 9.5-acre inholding with fro eliminating the threat of disruption to existing

159-acre property surrounded by the Pere Marqu (hikers, cyclists, hunters, etc.) and hosts popular tra

17.75-acre property is visually stunning and ec of Acme Creek that emerges from a ravine an

Provides quality of life opportunities for peopl a tremendously popular Long Lake Township r

96 acres including hilly forests adjacent to oth and suitable for recreation trails.

0.8 mile of new high quality bench-cut trail th complement the existing 1.5 miles of trail alrea

295-acre property is one of the largest undevel frontage. Features diverse habitats, is importan

UPPER MANISTEE HEADWATERS: The M

1,288-acre property includes many habitats an North Branch of the Manistee River. Love the land. Pass it on.

E - ADDITION II

$233,305*

outheast end of the existing preserve. Protecting this mix of ats enhances the wetland complex critical for water quality.

$1,235,833

ween Platte and Little Platte lakes. It has highly visible, rontage on Little Platte Lake with wetlands.

49 50

$606,259

UA)

le of all ages and mobility levels with UA trail design at

$2,187,927

marsh, forests and 0.83 miles of shoreline on East

$137,667

WEBSTER BRIDGE STATE TRANSFER

30.75-acre property with 0.61 mile of frontage on the Jordan River and 0.3 miles of frontage on Severance Creek, a trib. to the Jordan. Property is in the vicinity of GTRLC-protected properties.

WILCOX-PALMER-SHAH PRESERVE ADDITION

$37,217

17 acres of swamp adjacent to the existing preserve provides avian habitat for red-shouldered hawks (state threatened species), improves water quality and preserves scenic views along US-31.

WILCOX-PALMER-SHAH PRESERVE - ADDITION II

$100,507*

This 21-acre addition includes the former Elk Rapids Sportsman Club and an adjacent 11-acre donation. Includes northern hardwood swamp and mesic northern forest, both listed as “vulnerable” habitats.

WINTERGREEN WOODS NATURE PRESERVE

$281, 001

21 acres of pine forest adjacent to Sayler Park, including more than a half mile of shoreline on Yuba Creek.

$323,774

TOTALS

horeline on the Platte River. Provides land for

3,791.75 acres

15.83 miles shoreline

$32,158,882

$433,093*

ential. Its protection will buffer Pyatt Lake’s wetland nd provide a vital link for a future trail around the lake.

$26,090*

rail construction on dry ground and prevent the need for and.

$407,497

e that is damaged beyond repair from historic high rdwalks and overlooks.

$125,081

alley Trail includes shoreline on a creek flowing

$1,068,199

ontage on Crystal Lake consolidates the natural area, g wildlife corridors, scenic views, and more.

$331,092

uette State Forest is popular with several recreation groups ails, including the Iceman Cometh mountain bike race route.

$138,668

cologically critical. It includes shoreline along a branch nd spills through undeveloped woods.

$340,100

le of all ages and mobility levels with UA trail design at recreation area.

$346,727

her protected lands, important for water quality, habitat,

$32,134

L EXPANSION

hat winds through beautiful wooded valleys to ady at this preserve.

: A Cotanche Family Legacy

$2,215,593

loped properties on Torch River and includes 0.32 miles of nt from a water quality standpoint and has great rec. potential.

Milock Family Preserve

$4,162,300

and 4.57 miles of shoreline on several lakes and the Campaign for Generations

1 2

BAGLEY FARM EASEMENT

BAY HARBOR CLUB WEST EASEMENT

$32,650

1.25 acres of perched coastal wetland provides unique habitat for shoreline birds and other animals and acts as a natural buffer between Bay Harbor Club and Torch Bay Beach Natural Area.

BETSIE RIVER OXBOW EASEMENT

BLUEWATER FARM EASEMENT

$406,338

42.5-acre farm was a high priority due to its proximity to other protected farms, along with its soil quality, cropland suitability and viewsheds.

$519,852

This 184-acre property has diverse habitats including fallow field, mesic hardwood forest, uplands and wetlands. The property also features 1.5 miles of shoreline, including 4,200 ft. on the Betsie.

$1,072,703

69-acre property with views of East Bay is a key portion of what was one of the largest remaining unprotected farms on Old Mission. Includes a 5-acre wetland and streams draining into East Bay.

BOY’S HUT EASEMENT

$2,052,646

7.25 acres that include a critical coastal forest community surrounded on 2 1/2 sides by protected land and one side by several hundred feet of shoreline on West Grand Traverse Bay.

CAJARASAJUMA EASEMENT

CEDAR RIVER ISLANDS EASEMENT

CHERRY BROOK EASEMENT

COPELAND FARM EASEMENT

COULTER FARM NORTH EASEMENT

COULTER FARM SOUTH EASEMENT

$ 41,547

This 20.5-acre mostly wetland property includes 0.28 miles of shoreline on a Mitchell Creek tributary. This land is critical for protecting water quality and habitat in an area under development pressure. Funds accounted for in other campaign projects

This 78.75-acre property protects more than a mile of frontage on the Cedar River, a high-quality braided trout stream. Also includes rich conifer swamp and northern hardwood forest.

$120,654

89 acres of northern hardwood forest, mixed wetland, and open field with creek frontage. Viewable from the Betsie Valley Trail.

$245,438

179 acres adjacent to DNR’s 3,300-acre Skegemog Lake Wildlife Area. Includes farmland and high quality habitat supporting many wildlife species with frontage on Skegemog Lake and Barker Creek.

$417,732

16-acre farm easement (along with Coulter Farm South Easement) is 100% prime farmland with locally important agricultural soils. Also identified as a critical viewshed property by the township.

$549,683

21-acre farm easement (along with Coulter Farm North Easement) is 100% prime farmland with locally important agricultural soils. Also identified as a critical viewshed property by the township. 17

CAMPAIGN PROJECTS

public land protection and other public access projects

private land protection projects

JULY 2015 - JUNE 2021

CRAIG WOODS EASEMENT

EDWARDS RIDGE EASEMENT

FARMLAND EASEMENT - V

FARMLAND EASEMENT - VII

HERRING RIDGE EASEMENT

HILL NATURAL LAND EASEMENT

INDIAN HILL WOODLAND EASEMENT

INTERWATER FARM EASEMENT

LEORIE VINEYARDS EASEMENT

21 22 23 24

$328,810

31 acres of northern hardwood forest adjacent to two protected farms on Old Mission where natural lands are limited and residential development makes farming more difficult.

$149,404

This 79.5-acre Boardman Valley property includes diverse habitats and a highly visible ridge. It links the Edwards Preserve and another easement, creating a block of nearly 200 acres of protected land.

$316,903

35-acre farm in Peninsula Twp’s Agricultural Protection Zone was a priority property due to its proximity to other protected farms, soil quality, viewsheds and cropland suitability.

$159,665

130-acre property is largely in agriculture and is proximal to three other farm easement properties. It drains through woodlands and wetlands into two critical lakes — Lake Bellaire and Torch Lake.

$129,222

This 120-acre property consists of high rolling hills with mesic hardwood forest on sandy soils. The site is an important groundwater recharge area and includes habitat for state threatened plants.

$480,303

479 acres of excellent diverse habitat with state land on two sides. Includes 1.36 miles of frontage on two creeks. Property is owned and used by Kingsley Public Schools.

$311,461

86 acres of primarily hardwood forest to be managed in an ecologically responsible way providing the opportunity for important habitat in the Platte River Watershed.

$ 596,000

This 152-acre property is a multigenerational farm that grows high-density apples, cherries and peaches, is adjacent to Petobego Creek Natural Area and connects vital wetland corridors.

SCHULER FARM EASEMENT

SELKIRK LAKES EASEMENT

SEVERANCE CREEK EASEMENT

STANEK FARM EASEMENT

222.75-acre property with more than a half m Connects Torch River Ridge Preserve to North

57.5-acre property adjacent to state and cou habitat types and 1 mile of shoreline on four s

75.5 acres of forest land and a half mile of sh River, a state designated “Wild and Scenic” ri

29.5-acre scenic property is entirely dedicate farms within Peninsula Township’s Agricultura

TORCH RIDGE FARM EASEMENT

435.5-acre ridgetop farm protects viewsheds

TWIN MAPLES FARM EASEMENT

WEATHERHOLT FARM EASEMENT

93.25-acre farm on Old Mission adjacent to o farming on prime farm soils. Ranked as one o

55-acre farm with productive orchard lands w

WILSON ORCHARDS FARM EASEMENT

39.5-acre farm is highly visible and is prime o Protection Zone.

$1,726,847

Highly visible, 18-acre productive vineyard in southern Peninsula Township where development pressures are high.

LOCUSTA EASEMENT

3,710.75 acres

10.38

$24,380

This 76-acre property contains high-quality habitat and is an important link between Grass River Natural Area and other protected land. It also provides groundwater recharge and water quality protection.

LOWER BEAR CREEK EASEMENT

$731,694

321.5-acre property with 3.05 miles of shoreline protects a federally designated scenic river while connecting two Manistee National Forest parcels. Protects habitat for rare wildlife species.

MARILLA HILLS EASEMENT

$68,059

40 acres of dry-mesic forest surrounded by the Huron-Manistee National Forest. This undeveloped land used by bats from nearby Tippy Dam, a known bat hibernacula.

RED APPLE NATURAL LAND EASEMENT

$110,807

77 acres of coastal forest. Provides habitat for many animal and plant species including Allegheny plum, a State Species of Special Concern.

ROBBINS CREEK EASEMENT

ROCKY TOP FARM EASEMENT

ROCKY TOP PRESERVE EASEMENT

SAND CREEK EASEMENT

$256,947

54.5-acre property encompasses upland, forest, creek corridor and wetland habitats. It includes a half mile of frontage on Robbins Creek, a tributary to Boardman River, which helps ensure water quality.

$785,603

This diversified, highly visible, 134.5-acre farm along U.S. 31 in Antrim County hosts a farm market for a wide range of fruits and berries. Its protection will help create a large block of protected farmland.

$ 502,046

80-acre multi-generational fruit farm in Banks Township connected to Rocky Top Farm. Protecting this property helps achieve long-term goals of agriculture and viewshed protection along U.S. 31.

$69,327

80 acres including a mix of rich conifer swamp, wet meadow, northern mesic forest, early successional forest, pine plantation and frontage on Sand Creek, a Manistee River tributary. 18

$ Public funding / No private fundraising need

* Fundraising need remains for these pr Love the land. Pass it on.

Please Note: All easements are privately owned and not open to the public.

$2,580,057

mile of frontage on Lake Skegemog and a tributary. h Skegemog Preserve for nearly a mile of protection.

$228,600

CAMPAIGN PROJECT TOTALS

unty protected land. Includes multiple high quality separate water bodies.

88 projects

$161,358

horeline on Severance Creek, a tributary to the Jordan iver.

acres

7,503 protected

$253,751

ed to agricultural use and adjacent to two other protected al Protection Zone.

of shoreline 26 miles protected

$1,046,034

s and water quality in Torch Lake.

$959,270

campaign $51M† total projects cost

other protected farms with a long history of productive fruit of the highest viewsheds to preserve in Peninsula Twp.

$ 481,000

within Peninsula Township’s Agricultural Protection Zone.

This total represents projects only. Refer to previous graphic for a breakdown of other Campaign investments.

†

$1,041,374

orchard land within Peninsula Township’s Agricultural

TOTALS

8 miles shoreline

$18,958,165

A NOTE ON PROJECT COSTS In this graphic and throughout this publication, you will see references to the cost of the many projects included in the Campaign for Generations. It is important to understand that the cost of a project includes much more than the price of the land or infrastructure. In an effort to ensure these properties are healthy, beautiful and accessible forever, each project cost also includes funds set aside for long-term care of the land or infrastructure. There are also costs built in that cover the tremendous amount of organizational work that goes into nearly every project - work that includes appraisals, environmental remediation, fundraising, project communication and much more, often over a period of months or years as projects move toward completion. It is also important to understand that the full, fair-market value of land or development rights is included in each project cost even in instances in which the land or development rights were entirely donated or sold at a discount. This allows GTRLC to fully track the value of these generous donations across the Campaign.

rojects. Campaign for Generations

CHAPTER 1

Campaign for Generations Overview

As a direct result of everyone who supported it – every donor, every volunteer, every willing landowner, every partner and every Conservancy staff and board member – the Campaign for Generations was a success. Read on for a look at this transformative campaign in the words of those who made it happen.

Campaign for Generations

21 PHOTO BY STEVE JESSMORE

CHAPTER 1

About a month before the official end of the Campaign for Generations, on the latest in an endless string of Zoom meetings that seemed less out of the ordinary with each passing month, Kate Pearson’s brow furrowed thoughtfully as she weighed a question. As a few members of the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy’s staff met virtually to discuss and reflect on this monumental and transformative campaign, the time had come to discuss the global pandemic and its impacts. It was a heavy topic, considering the loved ones lost and lives disrupted in a global event that stretched for well over a year. But there was a silver lining, one that wasn’t lost on anyone in this meeting. The Conservancy’s work, in so many ways, provided real comfort to people shaken

by the pandemic. By connecting people with the healing and restorative power of nature, GTRLC played an active role in the well-being of countless people throughout the region. “You know, we were so very fortunate to have the work we do be something that was so helpful to people in such a difficult and unprecedented time,” said Pearson, a charitable giving specialist. “It just felt so inspiring to be part of that healing solution.” Across the computer screen, heads were nodding within their Zoom tiles.

“IT JUST FELT SO INSPIRING TO BE PART OF THAT HEALING SOLUTION.”

PHOTO BY RICK KANE

Stewardship of GTRLC’s protected lands is critical work. The Campaign for Generations was designed to boost these essential efforts, now and well into the future.

Love the land. Pass it on.

“In a way, we were a big answer in a time that didn’t have a lot of answers,” said Jennifer Jay, director of communications. “The work was incredibly relevant.”

let the Campaign for Generations be thrown off course in its closing months. The mission was too important. The land was too important. The moment was still now.

The Conservancy’s six-year Campaign for Generations, which launched in 2015 and concluded June 30, 2021, succeeded because scores of people and organizations came out to support this ambitious effort. Their donations of money, time and talent permanently protected thousands of acres of precious natural, scenic and farm lands. Their gifts also increased access to nature for everyone, regardless of age or ability, and strengthened the Conservancy’s ability to care for protected lands for generations to come.

“The level of gratitude we have for these people is hard to put into words. It really is,” Executive Director Glen Chown said. “Their giving was heroic, it was courageous, it was selfless. It’s not just that it made our campaign successful – it’s that it has made our region a better place.”

Despite the major bump in the road provided by a pandemic that changed so much, those who support GTRLC’s mission simply refused to

PLANTING THE SEEDS The idea for a comprehensive campaign arose almost completely from the genuine need to respond to projects that were piling up at a rapid pace across the region. But even before the project load reached a fever pitch, discussions about some form of campaign had already begun. In late 2014, as the Conservancy’s 25th anniversary drew closer, the board of directors had already expressed great concern about the organization’s growing stewardship endowment deficit. It’s not enough to just protect land, it needs to be cared for – and the Conservancy’s designated pot of money to care for thousands of protected acres was decidedly inadequate. “By our analysis we were millions of dollars behind on the projects we had already protected over the years, and that’s a massive hole,” Chown said. “The board was clear that we need to be doing more, because we’re in the perpetuity business. The thought at the time was maybe we could link that need with the 25th anniversary for some sort of campaign.” Anthony Rupard, who hired on as fundraising director in late 2014, helped steer the thinking away from that idea. Campaigns are built on excitement and momentum, and he encouraged the staff and board to realize that the idea of a campaign tied to merely a stewardship endowment or the 25th anniversary would likely be a hard sell. “Stewardship funds are critical, but probably wouldn’t have been enough to hang an entire campaign on,” Chown said.

Campaign for Generations

CHAPTER 1

It was around the same time, however, that the land protection team’s phones started ringing off the hook. To hear Matt McDonough tell it, it was more than just a perfect storm caused by factors out of GTRLC’s control – it was the natural culmination of years and years of hard and deliberate work. McDonough worked on the land protection team from 2000 until 2016, serving as director from 2008 onward. He believes many things that happened years ago directly contributed to the big push that ultimately birthed the Campaign for Generations. The first was the Conservancy being increasingly proactive with landowners, specifically calling or writing letters to landowners of priority parcels and informing them of protection options. The second was a spate of particularly notable public projects from 2007 through 2013 or so that built considerable awareness for the Conservancy. The third was the constant work to build positive relationships with landowners across GTRLC’s service area. “We did a great job making landowners feel as happy about a project as we did,” McDonough said. “That way, when their neighbor down the street with his own priority parcel asked about working with the Conservancy, we could count on the feedback being positive.” After a decade or more of these things going on separately, but in unison, the dividends began to pay off in rapid-fire succession. “All of those little things culminated into this situation where people started calling us first when it came time to make a decision about their land,” McDonough said. “We were top of mind, and when people or organizations were at the stage where they needed to sell, we got the calls, and we got a lot of calls. It was a good problem to have.” Good in the sense that it’s nice to have the opportunity, perhaps, but bad to have so many calls that you have to say “no” more often than you’d like. “It was certainly frustrating to have reached out to these priority landowners, but then once they responded, not being able to do anything about it,” said Chris Sullivan, who worked 24

under McDonough and now serves as land protection director. “We got really proactive about prioritizing land and reaching out, then in those last few years before the campaign we just had to throw our hands in the air and admit there was no way we could raise enough money for certain properties. So in that way it was a bad position to be in.” And it wasn’t just that the calls were coming in left and right. Where those calls were coming from was also something that began to make the land team uncomfortable. “The other key thing that happened is we started having priority properties popping up in areas that didn’t have those ‘donor sheds,’ as we always called them – areas with reliable amounts of donors that could fund projects,” McDonough said. “So we had this demonstrable need for dollars for properties with very high conservation values, but you found yourself looking around wondering where we could raise the money in these particular areas.” Unless the Conservancy wanted to get in the habit of saying “no,” it was clearly time to think about some way to address both the volume and location of these projects. “We had this general sentiment of ‘Guys…we’ve got a lot coming, and this is just what we know about,’” McDonough said. “The floodgates are about to open and we need a plan.”

A CAMPAIGN IS BORN The need to cover stewardship for past projects had already been well established. Now the ringing phones made it clear that the demand for new project funding was at an all-time high. There seemed only one logical choice – a comprehensive, region-wide campaign that would create a rising tide that would lift all boats (or in this case, fund all projects). “Fire truck fundraising just isn’t going to cut it when you have such a huge demand, including projects out in the middle of nowhere. Send the truck here, send the truck there. It’s just not going to work,” Chown said. “It would have overwhelmed us, and we simply would not have been successful. Love the land. Pass it on.

So our philosophy was to bundle all of this stuff together into a comprehensive campaign – it’s the only way we’d have a chance.”

was the Coastal Campaign of 2003-2005, in which $35 million was raised to protect Arcadia Dunes, Green Point Dunes and other coastal properties.

The board also sensed that the old ways of doing things were no longer going to cut it. “I think we all realized that we couldn’t just keep working on a piecemeal basis with all of these projects continuing to come online. There was so much happening, and we really needed a comprehensive approach,” said Jennifer Jaffe, who was on the board during the early campaign discussions and later served as board chair. “It also was an opportunity to hit some of those long-term goals we had been talking about for quite a while, especially as it relates to stewardship.”

“SO WE HAD THIS DEMONSTRABLE NEED FOR DOLLARS FOR PROPERTIES WITH VERY HIGH CONSERVATION VALUES, BUT YOU FOUND YOURSELF LOOKING AROUND WONDERING WHERE WE COULD RAISE THE MONEY IN THESE PARTICULAR AREAS”

There was also the alluring concept of harnessing the energy that comes with a large-scale campaign. GTRLC’s first and still most recent similar effort

PHOTO BY NOAH JURIK

The Coastal Campaign of 2003-2005 protected Arcadia Dunes: The C.S. Mott Nature Preserve, Green Point Dunes and other magnificent coastal properties.

Campaign for Generations

CHAPTER 1

“We know that campaigns provide an energy that just can’t be replicated,” Chown said. “And the more this crystallized, the more we knew that too many special places in our region will be gone forever if we don’t think big and act now.” McDonough and the land team created a detailed spreadsheet that laid out all of the known projects in the region, forming the earliest bones of what would become the Campaign for Generations. In addition to listing projects and estimated costs, the sheet outlined other information, like the projected source of funding, percentage likelihood the project would come to fruition and more useful data. “It all started with that spreadsheet,” Chown said. “We need to frame the thing.” Jay, the communications director, hoped that careful messaging would help donors think beyond their own backyard and embrace projects many miles from home. “From a communications standpoint, we had already spent years trying to reinforce the thought that every piece we protect benefits you regardless of where it is, setting up a regional appreciation and regional approach for our work,” she said. “People were going to need to think bigger.” Well before the campaign launched, several important readiness steps happened in the first half of 2015. Two consultants – Marc Smiley and Donna Fletcher – were hired to thoroughly examine whether GTRLC was ready for such an endeavor. Smiley’s main goal was helping the Conservancy craft a new strategic direction and planning framework, while Fletcher was tasked primarily with studying feasibility. Chown and his management team say the strategic direction work was critical in terms of getting the board and staff in alignment prior to the campaign. “We can’t just dive into a campaign without the board defining and refining what’s important to the organization, and why,” Chown said. “Marc’s work was essential.” This strategic direction work was the first and largest of many examples of the Conservancy strengthening itself in the years immediately prior to and during the campaign.

“There was an investment in the organization itself at the same time that we were facing these demands that we work faster and harder than ever before,” Jay said. “There’s no question that has paid off.” Fletcher worked closely with the fundraising team, particularly Rupard and Marissa Duque (then the campaign coordinator, now the director of fund development). Their work was focused on figuring out if the donor base could actually bear the load of the campaign’s lofty goals. “Donna was instrumental, but it also really helped to have Anthony, because he was brand new to the organization and didn’t know anything about our donor base, so he was looking at it very analytically,” Chown said. “We needed him to tell us if we were crazy or not.” Smiley and Fletcher work almost exclusively with land conservancies (sometimes called land trusts) across the country, giving the board and staff the utmost confidence in their abilities. Fletcher had already worked closely with GTRLC on the Coastal Campaign several years before. “Both Donna and Marc have really unique credentials in that they’ve dealt almost exclusively with land trusts. They knew our work inside and out, and the process was sort of expedited by their base of knowledge,” Jay said. “It also helped reassure the board that we were headed in the right direction.” Chown echoed those sentiments, particularly as it related to the board. “For the board to hear from Anthony and me that we can raise this money is one thing, but for them to hear it from Donna provided a lot of validation,” he said. “That professional outside voice was reassuring.” Bob Marshall, then board chairman, recalls Fletcher instilling substantial confidence in the board. “She got us to stop focusing on our limitations and fears and instead focusing on our strengths, expertise, reputation and community support that we already had,” he said. “We were energized.” Despite hiring consultants, the Conservancy did not use them to interview or otherwise interface

Love the land. Pass it on.

directly with major donors, something that is quite common when contracting with feasibility consultants. Instead, GTRLC’s fundraising team spent many weeks talking to supporters directly. In early 2015, Rupard asked Chown to make a list of the 10 people or couples invested in the Conservancy’s mission enough to provide the types of significant gifts that would be needed to move the campaign forward. “Over the next 90 days, we are going to do everything in our power to go meet with these people, wherever they are,” Rupard recalls telling Chown. “We need to find out if these people agree that this is the right thing to do, that they are on board and interested in doing big things with us.” The approach made sense to Chown, who cleared his schedule and prepared to hit the road. “Our donors want to talk to us. They’re family,” he said. “You can’t pretend you know what’s on the donors’ minds without talking to them.” In several visits across the next few months, Chown and Rupard discovered that supporters already had considerable anxiety about a rapidly changing northern Michigan. This gave the Conservancy’s fundraising team hope that a campaign designed to safeguard some of the region’s most special places would likely be well received. “What we found when we went on that road trip, which was extraordinarily encouraging, was that before we could even ask them about a potential campaign, these people were asking us ‘What are you guys going to do about Northern Michigan?’” Rupard said. “‘Things are changing very fast. We think you are the people to do something about it. So what are you going to do about it?’” Meanwhile, GTRLC’s management was forming the actual structure of the campaign. Because the needs were varied – farmland, natural land, stewardship endowment, etc. – the decision was made to break the campaign into distinct “pillars,” each with their own individual goals. Aside from organizing and streamlining fundraising efforts, this approach had significant communications benefits as well. “To me, what was great about breaking it into pillars was the opportunity it gave us to take, in

Campaign for Generations

very few words, the importance of each of those aspects and explain it. That way people could see that it’s not this gigantic pot of money for the Conservancy to run wild with, but instead it’s really well thought-out and targeted – these are the needs, this is the justification, and here’s how we’re responding,” Jay said. “The pillars clarified the message.” Those pillars also demonstrated action in line with the newly adopted strategic direction, giving more credibility and urgency to the campaign. “We really, really encouraged the board and staff to drill down on our values, and the campaign reflected those values,” Jay said. “We had outcomes that we were striving for that the campaign was in lockstep with. When you have all of those pieces together, you are trustworthy.” “It looked like we really thought this out, and it’s because we did,” Chown added. “This campaign was carefully structured to have maximum impact.” Aside from the obvious needs to protect natural, scenic and farm lands, the campaign also included a component designed to fund Conservancy operations throughout the campaign and a “quick strike fund” that would allow the Conservancy to respond to unanticipated projects that would arise over the course of the campaign. “We knew from the get-go that we were going to need to be prepared for properties that weren’t even on the radar yet,” Jay said. “We knew we had to factor in the surprises.” Board member Jim Huckle was a particular champion of this cause, imploring his fellow board members to embrace it. In line with the values fine-tuned in the strategic direction process, the campaign also included a pillar for community conservation and universal access.

“WE HAD OUTCOMES THAT WE WERE STRIVING FOR THAT THE CAMPAIGN WAS IN LOCKSTEP WITH. WHEN YOU HAVE ALL OF THOSE PIECES TOGETHER, YOU ARE TRUSTWORTHY.”

CHAPTER 1

PHOTO BY ART BUKOWSKI

Many of GTRLC’s board members in the summer of 2018, including all three who served as chair during the campaign – Bob Marshall (far right), Jennifer Jaffe (second from right) and John Collins (third from left). From the very beginning until the final day, the support and direction from GTRLC’s board was absolutely critical to the campaign’s success.

“We wanted to have room for smaller, park-type projects that wouldn’t necessarily show up on the priority land atlas, but that were deeply important at the community level, and we also wanted to improve access to nature for everyone, regardless of age or ability,” Chown said. “There’s no question that some of these projects ended up being the most impactful of the campaign.” And of course there was still the need to significantly close the gap in the long-term stewardship deficit. In addition to $10 million for endowing past projects, an additional $3 million was added to the goal for projects in the campaign itself.

“Forever is a long time. It’s our most weighty responsibility as an organization. Our trusted brand is not just protecting these lands, but it’s how well we take care of these lands that are entrusted to us,” Chown said. “If we stumble on that, it will substantially affect our ability to protect land in the future. People won’t want to give us the support to take on even more projects if they don’t trust us to take care of what we have already protected.” The finalized goal was considerably lofty: $71.4 million, the sum of the pillars, with each pillar carefully calculated after months of rigorous analysis. It was an unprecedented and ambitious goal. But not long before the board of directors

Love the land. Pass it on.

formally approved the campaign scope, Rupard and Chown met with Fletcher for a meeting that seemed to put everything in perspective. “Donna basically posed the question, ‘Well, what if you don’t raise 71 million? What if you only raise 60 million? Are you going to regret that you did it?’” Rupard recalled. “’What if you don’t do a campaign? What lands are you not going to protect? What’s going to fall through the cracks?’” “You guys need to go through with it no matter what,” Chown recalled Fletcher saying. “There’s just too much on the line.” Feasibility studies and other important preparation continued through 2015 and into 2016. After being involved for more than a year, the board formally approved the final scope and fundraising goals for the Campaign for Generations in May of 2016. The official start of the campaign was backdated to July 1, 2015 to account for projects already underway and gifts already received. Chown remembers more than a few nervous gulps in the room. “We all have a lot of pride. We are dedicated people, we are competitive people, we’re passionate about what we do,” he said. “But that fear of failure is in there, it’s deep in there, it’s human nature, and you’ve got to push through it. What gave me the most confidence is that I truly had a ton of faith in our staff, our board and our passionate donors to get this done.” “Was I nervous? Maybe just a little bit. But I had been through the Coastal Campaign and I had seen Glen and his staff accomplish the unthinkable,” said Marshall, board chairman at the time. “I was also in a position to know most of the staff quite well and knew that we had some very exceptional talent. I think I and most of the board trusted that if Glen told us we could do it, we could.” Beyond the knowledge and expertise, Marshall said, was the right attitude. “To win the Super Bowl, everyone that is a part of the team’s organization has to believe they can win. Not just the players, but the coaching staff, the trainers, the managers, the owners and even the fans,” he said. “During that time leading up to and

Campaign for Generations

at the initiation of the campaign, we were pretty much in that mindset. And it only got better as the campaign progressed.”

THE QUIET PHASE From its inception until August of 2018, the campaign was officially in the “quiet phase.” What that meant is that while the staff, board and key donors knew about it, it was not something discussed openly in public. That gave GTRLC time to work closely with supporters regarding significant, leadership-level gifts. “The quiet phase really strengthens and deepens relationships as people are brought in early as insiders to understand what the organization is thinking, along with what its goals and aspirations are,” Pearson said. “Aside from making important financial contributions, they’re truly providing us with advice and guidance.” When you go public with a significant amount already raised in the quiet phase, it also allows everyone – regardless of the size of their gift – to know that they can actually make a difference. “Let’s say we would have gone public at $15 million, with basically $55 million left to go. Well, the feeling would be that we’d never get there. That’s just too tall of a mountain to climb for the little ole Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy,” Chown said. “You want to wait until people will feel that you can get there, and more importantly that their gift can help get you to the finish line.” In order for the campaign to be successful, the fundraising team would have to raise more than four times the money it does in a normal year – for six straight years. The quiet phase was conducted under the pressure cooker of knowing how much land was at risk and that in almost all instances, donors were being asked to make the largest gifts ever to the Conservancy. “In great campaigns, you have to stretch. You have to have courage and go big, and it can be a bit daunting for everyone involved,” Chown said. “What if they say no? What if they are offended by the boldness of the ask? All these things are going through your mind.”

CHAPTER 1

Chown leaned on his colleagues on the fundraising team, which met regularly throughout these early months – and indeed the entire campaign – to keep a laser focus. The communications team also played a key role, providing written and visual collateral to help the fundraisers make a compelling case. “I always felt very well prepared going into these donor visits, and credit goes to both the communications and fundraising teams,” Chown said. And while the communications team could not yet shout from the mountaintops about the Campaign for Generations specifically, it did its job of making sure individual projects and stories were promoted throughout the region via email, social media, press releases, events and more, generating awareness of – and excitement around – the Conservancy’s efforts.

It also helped that signs of development pressure were popping up in nearly every corner of the region. “Not only were people seeing evidence of the Conservancy’s good work everywhere, but they were seeing the threat everywhere. So you had the problem and you had the solution,” Pearson said. “The threat was very real, but the opportunity to make a difference was also very real.” As she had for many years prior, Pearson also recalls leaning heavily on the stewardship team’s careful scientific analysis of properties as she spoke with donors. “For example, we didn’t just love the Petobego State Game Area Addition and want to protect it because it’s pretty. No. The analysis of it has been done, and it’s just as ecologically important as it is beautiful,” she said. “There was a lot of credibility there.”

PHOTO BY BILL BITZINGER

Board, staff and supporters mingle in the cathedral barn at the Grand Traverse Commons during the 25th anniversary celebration.

Love the land. Pass it on.

PHOTO BY BILL BITZINGER

A toast at the 25th anniversary celebration.

In August of 2016, GTRLC held a well-received gathering to celebrate its 25th anniversary. In addition to a public event at the Botanic Gardens of the Grand Traverse Commons, there was a smaller dinner and celebration inside one of the glorious cathedral barns. This event was backed by a large publication that chronicled GTRLC’s first 25 years. Not accidentally, the communications team decorated both parts of the event with large banners that featured beautiful images of past projects, as well as those that were coming down the pipeline. It was a deliberate effort to set the stage for what lay ahead, all while reminding attendees of the organization’s track record of success that they had made possible.

Campaign for Generations

“The 25th anniversary gave us the opportunity and a very real reason to go back and re-tell all those stories of success in order to reinforce the trust people had in our organization. Then we were able to seamlessly connect that with the stories of these new, urgent needs – yes, we’ve had success, but we’re not done, and here’s why,” Jay said. “It was the perfect opportunity to celebrate, thank and remember, but also to look forward.”

“IT WAS THE PERFECT OPPORTUNITY TO CELEBRATE, THANK AND REMEMBER, BUT ALSO TO LOOK FORWARD.”

CHAPTER 1

GAINING MOMENTUM In 2017 and the early part of 2018, several extraordinary gifts set the stage for campaign success. A $2 million unrestricted gift from a major donor in January of 2017 was the first sevenfigure unrestricted gift to the campaign. Then in September, the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, long a champion of GTRLC’s work, announced a $5 million gift, largely for a stewardship endowment at Arcadia Dunes, with a portion dedicated to universal access projects. On the heels of these gifts came an unrestricted $3 million Carls Foundation gift (used as a dollarfor-dollar match for all gifts to the campaign), a $5 million gift from an Elk Lake summer couple and a $2 million gift from the Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow Foundation, the largest unrestricted foundation gift to the campaign. “‘Huge’ doesn’t even begin to describe those gifts. They were as big as it gets in terms of momentum,” Chown said. “We are enormously thankful that they served as such tremendous catalysts during such an urgent and significant time.” And while gifts of that size and stature were certainly worthy of celebration, there was never time to rest on laurels. Noses needed to remain on the grindstone. This went for the land protection team as much as the fundraising team, so much so that at a few points Rupard was a bit more concerned about the land team than his. “The land team was under a tremendous amount of pressure to keep up with any possible land deal that might be critical to the campaign, and they were constantly fielding questions from Glen and myself about it,” Rupard recalled. “We were creating a real pressure cooker by bugging them almost every single day, and I remember empathizing with them and hoping they didn’t implode and end up resenting the rest of us.” Sullivan acknowledged that the situation was indeed quite intense for almost the entire campaign. But the flip side was that the campaign allowed real freedom to pursue projects. “Glen has been Glen forever, so there’s always been the element of ‘This will not fail. You will not let it fail. We have to do this one,’” he said. “But even though the pressure was ramped up, it was offset somewhat by that freedom to say ‘yes’ to so many projects. The campaign was liberating in that sense.” 32

Mike Dow and Mike Whiting of the Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow Foundation.

After all, the main undercurrent of the campaign weighed heavily on everyone’s mind – act now or risk losing these tremendous properties forever. “All of this was driven by our absolute terror that we were going to lose extremely special places that in many cases we had one shot at,” Jay said. “The margin for error was in many cases very slim.” GTRLC also made the strategic decision to invest in a full-time volunteer and events program manager, entrusting the role to former land steward Jon Throop. The decision was the direct result of conversations with key supporters with a keen sense of where GTRLC would have to step up its game, or, as one longtime board member put it, “exercise new muscles.” “Some of our most sophisticated supporters pointed out our biggest shortcomings. They knew where we needed help,” Jay said. “They wanted us to take a good hard look at everything we were going to need and gave us some time and capacity support to get our own infrastructure in order.” Love the land. Pass it on.

PHOTO BY ART BUKOWSKI

Attendees listen to Glen Chown speak at the City Opera House during the public Campaign for Generations launch in 2018.

GOING PUBLIC In early 2018, with the Conservancy rapidly approaching 75 percent of its campaign goal, a public launch was set for August at the City Opera House. It was time to shout from those mountaintops. “The campaign was a big deal, and we were hearing from pretty much everyone we were talking to during the quiet phase that it was a big deal. What we needed to do at that event, and the exposure that went with it, was to make it a really big deal to everybody else,” Jay said. “In addition to celebrating all of those people who came along with us during the quiet phase, we needed the campaign to be compelling, urgent, exciting and emotional for everyone else who was just hearing about it for the first time,” Jay continued. Campaign for Generations

Much like the 25th anniversary celebration, the event had two parts. An earlier meet-and-greet for quiet phase supporters that culminated in a champagne toast by Chown, followed by an actionpacked event open to everyone else. A compelling video, speech by Chown and pop-up speakers stirred emotions and had heads nodding. Nearly all of GTRLC’s staff was present, many engaging attendees at stations with large, information-rich graphics or pictures as discussion points to drive home the importance of land protection and the need for a campaign. “People who are interested in our work always want to talk to our staff. Being able to have our experts standing right there ready to talk about projects was huge,” Jay said. “You could see people walking away after talking to anyone nodding – they got it, they understood why this was important.”

CHAPTER 1

But perhaps what was most valuable was something that’s always intangible – the energy in the room was electric, and it helped build considerable excitement for the final years of the campaign. “I was really proud that night. It was very emotional. I felt relationships were deepening all around me, all over the place,” Chown said. “It just put so much wind in our sails.” What could not be overstated is the genuine opportunity for meaningful bonding and a sense of working together to accomplish something extraordinary. “It reinforced that sense of community and a sense of family,” Chown said. “We work so hard in this organization to keep that family feeling, we’re all part of a large Conservancy family, and that’s a culture that we are intentional about. We’re all in this together.” “It was really nice to finally be able to talk about it, since we had been in that quiet phase for so long,’ said Jennifer Jaffe, who had by then taken over for Bob Marshall as board chair. “We were able to test the waters a bit, and the response was fabulous. People were so supportive.” The subsequent months were filled with more hustling from every department within GTRLC. Now that the campaign was public knowledge, the communications team leaned full-bore into promoting the Campaign for Generations in every way possible.

“There are too many people for the fund development team to talk to in person, and that’s where the communication team plugs in,” Jay said. “It’s our job to be this big public voice. Make the Landscript incredible and mail it to 14,000 people. Make our emails and social media potent and relevant. Keep the media informed. It’s all so important.” The land protection team continued to take on significant projects. Chown beams when asked about the number and quality of projects his relatively small team was able to tackle throughout the campaign. “A less experienced land team would not have pulled off Maplehurst. They would not have pulled off Camp Tapico. They wouldn’t have been able to dream about Lower Woodcock Lake. They wouldn’t have been in position on Mount Minnie,” Chown said. “I can’t say enough about their performance these past several years.” Public hikes at proposed properties continued in earnest during the following months, as they had in the earlier stages of the campaign. “We have a long tradition of taking interested people on the land when we’re actively pursuing projects. You can send wonderful photos and write great prose about projects, but nothing is better than setting foot on terra firma and experiencing how incredible these places are,” Chown said. “Seeing is believing.”

GTRLC staff at the public launch at the City Opera House. 34

Love the land. Pass it on.

Public hikes generated plenty of excitement for campaign properties. Shown here are hikes at Mitchell Creek Meadows, Maplehurst, Upper Manistee Headwaters, and Torch River Ridge.

Board members were especially involved, supporting Conservancy staff on these hikes. “They would be assigned to be within the group as we hiked, because when there’s this long line of people it’s hard for me to communicate with everyone,” Pearson said. “So it was helpful for me to know that up and down that line that we had these enthusiastic and well-informed representatives of the Conservancy interacting with people.” “The board really evolved and took on their ambassador roles very seriously,” Chown said. “We needed them to step up big time, and they really did.” “Great campaigns require great board leadership and hands-on involvement, and we had this in

Campaign for Generations

spades throughout this campaign,” Chown continued. “From the very beginning, they played such an important role.” Marshall, Jaffe and John Collins, who served as board chair for the final two years-plus of the campaign, all expressed deep satisfaction at the synergy between staff and board throughout the campaign. “I really, really loved the teamwork and collaborative spirit of the board and entire staff throughout the entire 6 year process. It was really wonderful,” Collins said. “That relationship has never been stronger than it is now, and it was built on throughout the entire campaign.”

CHAPTER 1

GTRLC’s fundraising and communications teams strategize at the Maple Bay Farmhouse in 2019.

As 2019 turned over into 2020, everyone at GTRLC looked toward the last full year of the Campaign for Generations with excitement, anticipation and perhaps a small dose of anxiety. After all, many critical land protection projects were yet to be fully funded. Travel schedules were filled up, and a whole host of events – including a multi-event lineup for the 50th anniversary of Earth Day – were finalized and on the calendar. Many on staff were even looking all the way to the summer of 2021. The Hagerty Center was booked for a grand gala to celebrate the campaign’s success, and thoughts were already on how to recognize and celebrate campaign supporters. It was all setting up for a strong finish. And then…

THE PANDEMIC HITS In February of 2020, Kate Pearson traveled to Arizona to visit with key supporters. As her mind had been buried in work, she hadn’t paid much attention to the rumblings on the news about a pesky virus that seemed to be spreading out of control. But her daughter Sophie, ever the health and science aficionado, was watching the news with an increasingly concerned eye. “When I left for Arizona, Sophie put a mask in my suitcase, sort of a ‘just in case’-type thing. I was oblivious to it, I really hadn’t even heard of COVID,” Pearson said. “I didn’t think much of it at that time, but I could tell it was really important to her.” After Pearson spent a week in Arizona, Sophie called to say the mask was non-negotiable. Love the land. Pass it on.

Although it was a big change, the thought amongst many on staff was that the move would likely be relatively short-term. “Like a lot of people, I thought we were going to be home for two weeks or a month, something like that,” Pearson said. “It would be something we’d just have to power through for a little while.” Chown recalls evolving from being mildly to seriously concerned as the pandemic grew more and more serious with each passing day. “There was a lot of fear and trepidation in March. I was worried about everything - we still had so many properties on the line, and nobody knew what the impacts were going to be to the economy and subsequently with donations to the campaign,” he said. “And then I’m also worried about the staff, I’m worried about my boys in school, I’m worried about families – there was a lot going on.” Despite the uncertain economic climate, fundraising efforts didn’t slow down. PHOTO BY ART BUKOWSKI

“When I was gearing up to go back, Sophie called me the day before my flight and made me promise to wear my mask,” Pearson said. “Things were getting really serious.” Within two weeks of Pearson’s return, GTRLC’s management team made the decision to shut down the office and have staff work from home. The pandemic that would change everything had fully arrived. “We were on the early edge of companies and organizations to switch to fully working from home, and in some ways it seemed bold to have made that decision,” Jay said. “But by the following week, most places had shut down. And by March 24, the state had shut down. So we were actually pretty lucky that we had some time to figure out the limitations of working from home.”

Campaign for Generations

“We made the decision to lean in and carry forward,” said Marissa Duque, who was then serving as the interim director of fund development. “We recognized that our work was truly urgent and important enough that we couldn’t stop fundraising. We had to continue doing what we were doing.” It wasn’t all that long before the pandemic’s silver lining became clear: In a time of great turbulence, people found substantial comfort in the calming presence of nature. “No one could have predicted what happened, but in many ways, it was almost like the campaign was designed to meet the challenges of the pandemic. Access to nature was a pillar for a reason,” Chown said. “So we were ready, not only through our work in the campaign but in our work for the 25 years prior. We weren’t caught flat-footed when it suddenly turned out that everyone wanted to be outdoors.”

CHAPTER 1

Most of GTRLC’s staff during one of many virtual staff meetings.

Record numbers of people started showing up to Conservancy preserves, along with parks, natural areas or pretty much any place else where they could wander along a trail or among the trees. “The whole ‘The outdoors are still open,’ message was really resonating with people who were getting stir-crazy,” Chown said. “I started to notice that every time I drove by the Pelizzari Natural Area, the parking lot was just totally overflowing.” Pearson recalls an event that for her perfectly encapsulates those early days when it seemed everyone was pouring out of their homes into the great outdoors. Along with her husband and daughter, she went to stretch her legs at the Maplehurst Natural Area. There were more people than she’d ever seen there before, and one family stuck out like a sore thumb.

began. There’s never a time when a gift of that magnitude isn’t a big deal, but for the fundraising team, this was even more special than most. “When Marty and Val made that million dollar gift, it was way more than a million dollar gift. It was a massive confidence boost. It was a big turning point,” Chown said. “I mean this was a million dollar gift when the world was falling apart. You can’t underestimate the power of that.” GTRLC’s staff continued to work from home, meeting regularly on Zoom. That the conservancy didn’t even seem to miss a beat was remarkable, to say the least. Despite less-than-perfect home office situations for many staff members, the work continued at a steady and reliable pace.

“They were clearly people who quite possibly had never been out in nature before. They looked out of place and maybe even a bit uncomfortable,” Pearson recalled. “They had a toddler, and you could tell they were there because they just had to go somewhere.”

“I’ve never been more proud of this staff and this organization. We’ve done a lot over 30 years, but to work under such adversity is so very admirable,” Chown said. “And the thing is, we didn’t let it slow us down – I would argue that we stepped up our game, we got even more done. And it’s because we had to.”

Valerie and Martin Cotanche made a $1 million gift to the Torch River Ridge property less than a month after GTRLC’s staff began working from home, marking the first major gift since the pandemic

“Every staff member grew during the course of this campaign, and even more so during the course of the pandemic,” Chown continued. “Mettle was tested and people came out stronger.” Love the land. Pass it on.

Aside from the challenges inherent in fundraising during a global pandemic, the land team had to deal with an unexpected curveball as demand for property in the Grand Traverse Region got even hotter than ever. “The pandemic really created a real estate market that was more challenging,” Sullivan said. “The demand and competitiveness ramped up enormously.” That was due in part to a well-documented shift of people from urban to rural areas throughout the pandemic. Tens of thousands of people who were not tied to office space decided to move from bustling cities to the perceived security, safety and comfort of less-populated regions. “We heard so many times over the past year that we’re against someone from Cincinnati, or wherever, who can work from home now and is just done with living in an urban area,” Sullivan said. “So instead of waiting until they retire to move up here, they’re going to do it now.” Each of GTRLC’s teams adjusted to pandemic life the best they could. The work still got done, though the methods often looked different. The volunteer program kept going, despite newlyminted Volunteer and Events Program Manager Jon Throop having to respond to the constantly shifting pandemic regulations handed down by local, state and federal authorities. “We had new rules, new information and new guidelines seemingly every single week, and had to

interpret what that meant to us as an organization,” Throop said. “I think I had our attorney on speed dial asking her what all this meant for our volunteers. It was a stressful time.” It wasn’t all bad, though. “One really neat thing that did come out of all of it was that the Maple Bay volunteer garden was deemed essential, and the volunteers really, really rallied around that cause,” Throop said. “They managed to donate 500 percent more produce than normal to area food pantries, which is incredible.” “Our volunteers are so mission driven. They care about our mission and our vision and they’re truly motivated by this pure desire to do what they can to make a positive impact in the world around them,” Throop continued. “That was more evident than ever during the pandemic.” GTRLC’s team and campaign survived – and in some ways even thrived – during the pandemic. In addition to experiencing the most successful spring appeal ever, the Conservancy also saw the highest number of new donors ever in 2020. Still, Chown counts his lucky stars that the pandemic arrived quite late in the six-year Campaign for Generations. “A day earlier and it would have been a problem. A year earlier and it could have totally sunk us,” Chown said. “The bottom line is you still have to get out there and meet your donors one-on-one in a campaign like this. We could not have sustained a situation in which all of our real face-to-face time was taken away early.”

PHOTO BY RICK KANE

Socially distanced and masked volunteers got the job done throughout the entire pandemic. Campaign for Generations

CHAPTER 1

THE FINISH LINE The campaign was a success: More than 7,500 additional acres protected across more than 88 projects. Better and more access to nature throughout GTRLC’s five-county service area. More than $93 million raised for new projects and other campaign investments.

the campaign or been all in one spot, they would have overwhelmed us,” he said. “Instead they were unbelievably balanced and unbelievably well timed. It was almost magical.” John Collins, board chair for the final two years plus, thanked everyone who supported this “dynamic and important undertaking” in any way, shape or form.

The gifts were large, small and everywhere in between. For many donors, their gifts were stretches – the amount they gave crossed into the gray area between comfortable and uncomfortable. This was because they knew this was their chance to make a real difference in the Grand Traverse region.

“We couldn’t be where we are without the support and energy of not only people who donated money, but also those who donated time and the efforts that they made,” he said. “That includes board members who donated hundreds or thousands of hours for the good of the organization.”

“There are people who can give an awful lot away, and they did, but there are also many of people who gave to this campaign who will alter their lifestyle because of the gifts they made. Their lives will literally be different as they work to pay off their pledges,” Pearson said. “I don’t even know how you begin to thank someone like that.”

In addition to protecting so many special places, the campaign also strengthened GTRLC’s operations to an enormous degree, making the organization better equipped to handle the challenges that lie ahead. This is due to the many strategic investments the Conservancy made in its own operations prior to and during the campaign.

“People really prioritized our mission over the last six years,” Duque said. “They had serious conversations within their families about the importance of our campaign, and those conversations led to transformative gifts.”

“The campaign changed us. And it didn’t change us because all of the sudden we had more supporters or more money. It changed us because we are now better equipped to deliver on our mission at a higher level than ever before,” Jay said. “People also expect more from us now – they expect us to act quickly, wisely, and effectively, and we’re in good shape to do so coming out of this campaign.”

Chown is intensely grateful for everyone who supported the campaign. “In a lot of ways it was insane to do this campaign, the goals were just so huge. It takes courage and a lot of faith. It’s holding hands and jumping off a cliff together. We were a bit scared at first,” Chown said. “But our supporters saw us through, just like we hoped they would.” “They’ve always been the fuel. Their generosity motivates us, lifts us up when we’re feeling rough, challenges us to do more, gives us the wherewithal to move with lightning speed,” Chown continued. “Their support has made it possible for countless future generations to enjoy the wonders of nature. Each and every one of them should feel proud.” Chown also believes GTRLC was fortunate to have a little luck mixed in with everyone’s hard work, particularly as it relates to the way projects unfolded. “You’ve got to have some marquee projects to carry a campaign. And not only did we have a lot of marquee projects, but they were spread throughout every corner of the region and timed pretty perfectly. If they would have all come at the beginning of 40

A significantly stronger, larger and better-organized volunteer program will also be a legacy of the campaign. “Our volunteers are our colleagues. You can’t accelerate at the pace we’ve done without an incredibly strong core of volunteers backing you up day after day, all across the region,” Chown said. “We’ve been giving volunteers more leadership opportunities and more autonomy so they feel like they are integral to the success of the organization, because they really are.” In addition, the time management, communications tools and methods learned during a period of intense productivity will be carried forward into the years and decades ahead. “I feel like we went from a healthy adolescent to a fullyfunctioning, healthy adult as a result of the Campaign for Generations,” Jay said. “We’re just a much more sophisticated organization.” “We have new tools coming out of the campaign, and we’re going to need them,” Chown said. “The land is still calling.” Love the land. Pass it on.

CHAPTER 2

Natural Lands Protection

The Campaign for Generations resulted in the protection of some of our region’s most exceptional natural lands – lands that are essential for wildlife habitat, clean water, scenic views, recreation and so much more. Many of these lands are among the highest-quality parcels in GTRLC’s service area, according to detailed and methodical analysis completed by the Conservancy’s land protection team. Read on for the stories of some of these incredible lands and those who worked to protect them for future generations.

Campaign for Generations

43 PHOTO BY NATE RICHARDSON

CHAPTER 2

44 PHOTO BY NOAH JURIK

Love the land. Pass it on.

LOWER WOODCOCK LAKE COUNT Y

Benzie ACR ES

230 PR O J E C T C O S T

$2,495,254

K E Y F E AT U R E S

This preserve contains the entirety of Lower Woodcock Lake, a picturesque and ecologically significant lake in the upper reaches of the Platte River watershed. It also contains a full half mile of undeveloped frontage on the Platte River itself, along with an abundance of healthy hardwood forest. About 70 percent of its border is state forest, creating critical wildlife corridors. HISTORY

Owned for many years by a property investment group, the undeveloped lake – and that of neighboring Upper Woodcock Lake – is said to be named not for the bird, but for a 19th-century settler and Civil War veteran named Silas Woodcock, who lived in the area.

If there ever was a project that would showcase the true need for a comprehensive, region-wide campaign, Chris Sullivan thought, it’s probably this one.

The spectacular Lower Woodcock Lake property, looking south. Campaign for Generations

Sullivan first visited what would become the beautiful and ecologically significant Lower Woodcock Lake Preserve in late December of 2015. 45

CHAPTER 2

PHOTO BY NOAH JURIK

The spectacular Lower Woodcock Lake property, looking south.

Right away, and even in the dead of winter, the property impressed. Groundwater coursed from hillsides. A lengthy undeveloped stretch of the venerable Platte River rushed and burbled its way through mixed cedars and hardwoods. The topography was clearly ideal for an enjoyable and serene trail. And the lake. That lake. An entire 20-acre, undeveloped lake that already had a reputation among local fishermen. “It was just fantastic. It was everything I thought it would be, and probably more,” Sullivan said. “The lake is of course incredible, and when you get down by the river it just feels wild.” But being where it was, situated in Benzie County’s Almira Township a few miles from Lake Ann, made it a traditionally tough project in terms of finding significant donors. Sullivan hoped that the Campaign for Generations would be the answer. After all, perhaps the biggest reason for the campaign was the need to raise flexible money that could be used for vital projects across the Conservancy’s entire service area, at least partially bucking the trend of garnering support from only those who live near a particular project. 46

“One of my big hopes from the beginning of this campaign was that we’d be able to protect these really high-conservation-value properties that were sort of in the middle of nowhere. Lower Woodcock Lake and Camp Tapico fell into this category – places where you look around and say, ‘Where are we going to raise the money for this?’” Sullivan said. “We should be protecting the best of the best, and this is one of the best of the best.” Lower Woodcock Lake had been on the radar, at least peripherally, for quite some time. “When we did our very first Priority Land Atlas back in 2004 or so, this thing popped up as a toptier property,” Sullivan said, referring to a system developed for scoring parcels based on various conservation criteria. “It’s unusual, because not only does it have the entire lake, but it’s also got a full half mile of frontage on the Platte River. You just don’t have many properties like that.” Fast forward to 2015, when Kim Balke at the Conservation Resource Alliance told Sullivan he should check out the property, which had been listed for sale. Sullivan came back from his visit considerably excited. Love the land. Pass it on.

PHOTO BY NATE RICHARDSON

Ample hydrologic activity means the preserve is colorful even in winter.

“I’ve never been particularly prone to hyperbole, so the fact that I was really fired up about this one probably turned some heads,” Sullivan said. Sullivan talked to the state about acquiring it, and while state officials acknowledged the property’s value, it was not a priority for state acquisition based on the funds available. Folks at Almira Township also were uneasy about applying for a Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) grant, leaving direct acquisition as a GTRLC preserve the only viable option. The problem was that the property was listed for $2.4 million, far above the $1.55 million it appraised for in early 2016. The property had been owned for years by a real estate investment group, and Sullivan much later found out that the exorbitantly high price was because members disagreed about whether or not to sell, but everyone agreed to sell if someone would be willing to pay that much.

between the appraised value and what they wanted for it was just too big.” Sullivan resigned himself to just keep an eye on it. He couldn’t bear the thought of the property being developed. “It was easy to see the sort of impact houses would have if you put 15 of them around that little lake,” he said. “Their septic tanks draining into that groundwater that’s pumping into the lake, and then through the outlet and into the Platte River.” Around this time Glen Chown had been talking to Tripp Amdur, a Chicago-area native who grew up summering in Benzie County and is deeply committed to protecting the region’s natural resources, particularly those in Benzie and Manistee counties. Amdur told Chown he’d cover the bulk of the cost of purchasing the property, provided the price came down to the appraised value.

GTRLC submitted an offer based on the appraised value, but it was rejected.

“Having that in our back pocket certainly made us more confident, but it wasn’t going to matter if the price didn’t come down,” Sullivan said.

“It didn’t go anywhere,” Sullivan said. “The gulf

By late 2018, the price had dropped to $2.2 million.

Campaign for Generations

CHAPTER 2

Lower, yes, but still far in excess of the first appraisal. Because things change, Sullivan had the property appraised again – and this time it came back at $1.95 million. Better comparable sales for the appraiser to look at were the biggest reason for the boost, Sullivan said. “Certainly there was an increase in value, but we also had some much better comps the second time around that gave us a clearer picture,” Sullivan said. The offer was made in January 2019, and after some deliberation among members of the investment group, accepted. Lower Woodcock Lake was on its way to becoming the latest GTRLC nature preserve. Amdur’s generous lead gift – one of several in the campaign – covered the bulk of the project cost. “Without him, that property would be chopped up and there would be homes scattered all around that lake,” Chown said. “We needed someone with the kind of vision that understands these signature landscape properties, and also someone who understands that we need to move incredibly quickly with the real estate market that we’re dealing with. He’s one of our heroes.” After learning of the property’s conservation values, Amdur was glad to help out.

“It is increasingly rare to find a place like Lower Woodcock Lake. Although not very large, it is a body of water where you can paddle a canoe without seeing any houses or signs of permanent human presence; a wilderness experience that is easily accessible,” Amdur said. “It is also very important ecologically. By supporting the GTRLC, this land and water can be preserved and enjoyed by countless families for generations to come.” Significant additional support came from Marla Morrissey, who, like Amdur, provided substantial gifts to this and several other campaign projects. “We’re not at the end of protecting habitat that’s pristine, but there’s less and less of it, and it’s of course more and more expensive,” she said. “I thought to myself, now’s the time. If you have the money to donate to habitat protection, do it now.” The property was opened to the public in 2020, providing the latest beautiful outdoor retreat in eastern Benzie County. “WE’RE NOT AT THE END OF PROTECTING HABITAT THAT’S PRISTINE, BUT THERE’S LESS AND LESS OF IT, AND IT’S OF COURSE MORE AND MORE EXPENSIVE ”

A stretch of the Platte River on the property.

PHOTO BY NATE RICHARDSON

Love the land. Pass it on.

An Ecological Treasure Trove Multiple biological surveys have shown this preserve to be as biologically rich as it is beautiful. Preliminary searches have shown it to be mostly devoid of some of the most troubling invasive species and possessing a rich variety of plants and animals. PHOTO BY ART BUKOWSKI

In terms of plant life, more than 200 species have been identified, with nearly 85 percent (172) being native. The property has a Floristic Quality Index score of 58, nearly triple the statewide average score of 20. This score, based on detailed botanical inventories, is a way to quantify the rarity and quality of the plants at a given site, and by extension the quality of the habitat. Anything over 35 is considered significant. Joe Rathbun, a retired Michigan Department of Environmental Quality aquatic biologist and the state’s most preeminent expert on freshwater mussels, was part of a July 2020 survey. He’s surveyed hundreds of lakes, rivers and streams in his career and called the Lower Woodcock property “a real gem.” “It’s rare to be able to protect the entire perimeter of a lake, and protecting headwater lakes, streams and wetlands is vital to maintaining the ecological quality of larger rivers further downstream,” he said. “The Lower Woodcock Lake ecosystem appears to be very healthy, with few or no invasive species, good fish and aquatic plant populations, high-quality riparian plant communities, and presumably good water quality.”

PHOTO BY ART BUKOWSKI

Top: A batch of healthy mussels from the preserve. Bottom: A survey of mussels and other aquatic life at the preserve. Campaign for Generations

CHAPTER 2

50 PHOTO BY DEKE LUDWIG

Love the land. Pass it on.

PETOBEGO STATE GAME AREA ADDITION COUNT Y

Grand Traverse ACR ES

48 PR O J E C T C O S T

$2,187,927

K E Y F E AT U R E S

Critical piece of rare and ecologically significant Great Lakes Coastal Marsh. Major inholding in a block of protected land that stretches from the Maple Bay Natural Area to the south up through the Petobego State Game Area. Development would have had a tremendously negative impact on both. Protection created a mile of protected shoreline. HISTORY

Owned for decades by the Pulcipher family, a prominent local farm family.

The letter was dated June 16, 1991, less than one full week into Glen Chown’s tenure as executive director of the brand new Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy. The one-page note was from April Oja, then director of protection for the Michigan Chapter of the Nature Conservancy. She wished Chown luck in PHOTO BY MICHAEL JORDAN his new position, of course, but those well-wishes almost seemed like an afterthought. Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy | 25th Anniversary

CHAPTER 2

Oja’s main goal was to urge Chown to get going on protection of a critical piece of land adjacent to the Petobego State Game Area, a sprawling tract along East Grand Traverse Bay not far south of Elk Rapids. The entire complex is ecologically critical, but a roughly 50-acre chunk owned by the Pulcipher family was needed to complete protection around Petobego Pond and protect additional Lake Michigan shoreline. Development of this very developable piece into one or more lakefront estates – at a time when lakefront development was reaching critical mass – would have had potentially devastating effects on this important ecosystem. “The sentiment was that if you do nothing else, you’ve got to protect this property,” Chown recalled. “So this one was on our radar screen from literally the very first week, from the very beginning.” As it does to a surprisingly often degree, this project took many years to pull together. So many years, in fact, that it set up nicely as one of the opening projects for the Campaign for Generations in 2015 – nearly a quarter century after Chown got that letter. “My biggest concern going into the campaign, especially having gone through the Coastal Campaign, was that we might not have enough showcase, best-of-the-best projects to inspire our supporters to go big with us,” Chown said. “So to have a flagship project of this quality early on was a huge, huge deal. Campaigns live or die on momentum, and this helped kick things off nicely.” Chown had made contact with the Pulciphers in 1991, of course, but the time wasn’t right. “It’s a classic story that’s occurred over and over as we’ve protected land – we work with willing landowners, and not every project is ripe and ready from the get-go,” he said. “We established contact with the family and we let them know we were interested, and at that time they weren’t.” But Chown and the Conservancy stayed on top of it. It was more than the Michigan Natural Features Inventory designations and the detailed studies that identified it as one of the most significant natural complexes in our region – it was a sense of importance that in some ways seemed to transcend those technical details. 52

Love the land. Pass it on.

PHOTO BY DEKE LUDWIG

Campaign for Generations

CHAPTER 2

“I knew how special that property was, and over time, the more I got to know it, the more I came to realize just how special it truly is,” Chown said. “Yeah, you’ve got the science and everything, but then you walk that beach. You see it, feel it. It’s just a magnificent, remarkable place.” In 2002, GTRLC secured the protection of the Maple Bay Natural Area, an expansive, 452acre parcel immediately south of the Pulcipher property. This Herculean effort involved what was at the time the largest grant from the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) to a local municipality and created what quickly became a beloved and popular natural area – all while putting more focus on the Pulcipher property by turning it into a critical inholding in a long stretch of protected shoreline. “It made the Pulcipher property an even higher priority, because it was the hole in the donut at that point. The missing piece in the puzzle. So it became literally one of our top three or four priorities in the whole region,” Chown said. “At that point we really sort of amped up our conversations with the Pulcipher family, but again, they weren’t ready. It just wasn’t time.”

Chown credits former Land Protection Director Matt McDonough for “working his tail off” and developing a close relationship with the family that eventually led to talks of protection. In 2015, family members with ownership interest in the property voted to sell it. The Conservancy put it under option, then hatched a plan to apply to the MNRTF for a grant that would result in the property being purchased by the state and added to the game area. “When we signed that option, we were jubilant. It was one of the greatest feelings you could possibly have,” Chown said. “This was a long time coming. I mean it quite literally could not have been longer, as far as our organization is concerned.” The trust fund approved the grant, and the property was purchased by the state the following year, filling the critical inholding and creating more than a mile and a half of contiguous protected shoreline – by far the most on East Grand Traverse Bay. “You talk about signature landscapes, this is it. To wrap up that whole area, what a phenomenal feeling,” Chown said. “This is a huge part of the legacy of this campaign, and every supporter who has made a contribution to this campaign should feel really proud of this one.”

PHOTO BY NATE RICHARDSON

Love the land. Pass it on.

Petogebo State Game Area

Maple Bay Natural Area �

Campaign for Generations

CHAPTER 2

56 PHOTO BY ART BUKOWSKI

Love the land. Pass it on.

BOY’S HUT CONSERVATION EASEMENT COUNT Y

Grand Traverse ACR ES

7.2 PR O J E C T C O S T

$2,052,646

K E Y F E AT U R E S

Critical northern mesic forest community with 1,500 feet of undeveloped shoreline on Old Mission Peninsula’s Tucker Point. Surrounded by previously protected, privately owned land land. HISTORY

Part of the historic summer settlement of Neahtawanta; owned for decades by the Marckwald family.

Clarissa Price Marckwald’s entire world seemed to center on a quiet stretch of beach where Grand Traverse Bay’s endless waves lap along the sandy shore.

The shoreline of this spectacular easement. Campaign for Generations

On countless occasions, Clarissa left her family’s cottage in the historic Old Mission Peninsula resort community of Neahtawanta and made her way there, weaving through a stunning forest of mature maple, hemlock and beech that towers over the sparkling bay all along her favorite spot. In her younger years, she sometimes made the trip by canoe, soaking up beautiful shoreline views as she PHOTO BY MICHAEL JORDAN paddled leisurely around the scenic point. 57

CHAPTER 2

Clarissa and Andrew Marckwald

Clarissa, who died in 2010 at age 97, visited Neahtawanta throughout her entire life. Her father, Victor Taylor Price, founded the resort community with a group of men from Cincinnati in the closing years of the 19th century. And while there were many aspects of her summer retreat that she held dear, perhaps none were as special as the time she spent with friends and family – and by herself, alone with her thoughts – on that beach. “This particular beach was highly sacred to our mother in the fact that she went almost every day, well into her late eighties and early nineties,” said her son, Kirk Marckwald. “Before people were even doing it, she’d do yoga over there. She’d get to know her grandchildren over there, or provide counsel for friends and family there. It was a deeply, 58

deeply special place for her – this was her place in the universe.” “If that beach had a zip code,” said Susie Mackay, Kirk’s sister, “It definitely would be the zip code of our mother’s soul.” Clarissa granted a conservation easement on the beach and roughly 40 beautiful wooded acres behind it in 1989, the culmination of a process that began with her husband, Andrew Marckwald, before he died in 1987. One of the first conservation easements in the entire state, it protected not only 1,500 feet of pristine, undeveloped shoreline, but also a large swath of some of the finest older growth hardwood and pine forest on the entire peninsula.

Love the land. Pass it on.

Now, as part of the Campaign for Generations, Clarissa’s four children – Kirk, Susie, Louise Ladd and Jeanie Chapin – donated a conservation easement on a contiguous 7-acre shoreline parcel that was excluded from the original easement boundaries in case they wanted to build homes on it in the future. Their gift fills a large hole of unprotected land along the shoreline and serves to continue an important legacy of conservation. “Between the four of us, we investigated all of the avenues. We spent a lot of time looking at the options and investigating all scenarios,” Louise said. “Our parents would have been very supportive of us exploring options, but ultimately, in the final analysis, I think we did what mom and dad would have wanted us to do. I think they would have been very pleased with our decision.” Like their parents before them, Clarissa and Andrew Marckwald’s four children did not make the decision in a vacuum. They spoke with the next generation – their eight children – to get their thoughts on what should be done with the remaining piece. Sell? Build homes? Conserve? The conservation spirit, which burned bright in Andrew and Clarissa, hadn’t dimmed in their descendants. “It was our children who were the most strongly committed to the idea of not developing it…I think it was unanimous among the kids that it should be conserved,” Jeanie said. “I was so proud of our kids. One of the things they kept saying was ‘Gammy wouldn’t want that developed.’ Mom’s presence was very strong in that conversation.”

What is a Conservation Easement? Boy’s Hut is one of roughly 240 conservation

easements secured by GTRLC. These easement properties are private and not open to the public, but they benefit us all by protecting water quality, scenic views, wildlife habitat and much more. A conservation easement is a voluntary legal agreement between a private landowner and GTRLC that permanently restricts the way land is used in order to protect its conservation values. Easements take into account a landowner’s wishes while permanently protecting water and land quality, natural features and other conservation-minded elements. While every easement is different, some rights commonly restricted under a conservation easement are the rights to build additional buildings or alter significant natural features. GTRLC either purchases these easements from the landowner (development rights have a cash value) or receives them as a donation. Easement restrictions remain on the land in perpetuity, regardless of who owns the land. GTRLC is responsible for periodically monitoring the land to ensure the easement terms are upheld.

The decision to complete a process that began more than 30 years ago is about preservation of natural beauty, of course, but it’s also about the safekeeping of a place that built enduring bonds of family and friendship. The four Marckwald children grew up in rural New Jersey, coming to Michigan for a month every summer with their parents. In contrast to the relatively regimented structure of daily life back home, the time in Neahtawanta represented a rare and special blend of freedom, the kind that leaves youngsters collapsed from exhaustion at the end of a long day of adventures.

Campaign for Generations

CHAPTER 2

PHOTO BY ART BUKOWSKI

From left to right, Louise Ladd, Kirk Marckwald, Jeanie Chapin, Glen Chown and Susie Mackay celebrate their decision at the property.

“For me, one of the most amazing things about coming up here was you disappeared after breakfast, you never had to ask to be driven anywhere. You hung out with your friends, you swam, you played,” Jeanie said. “Nothing was planned; it was all flexibility and freedom.”

“As a child, you didn’t realize what an impression it was making on you, walking through the woods, looking at the cherry orchards, being on the beach or on the water – it all just sunk in,” Jeanie said. “When you grow up, you realize it’s such a strong part of your heritage, and it came at an early age.”

It was, in many ways, always the highlight of their year.

Now, the four siblings are scattered across the country, from California to New Jersey. The regular trips to Neahtawanta kept them all close, and indeed were the primary way their own children got to know and grow close with their cousins. Their parents’ decision to protect the initial piece – coupled with GTRLC’s continued work to protect land in the area – has helped preserve the gorgeous setting for these family connections, Kirk said.

“I can remember when, as a child, we’d leave and make the trip home,” Louise said. “There was just this huge sadness that we had to wait a whole year to go back.” Looking back on it now, the four siblings have a deep understanding of what the place meant to them. 60

Love the land. Pass it on.

“It had a very strong effect on me at an early age, and being able to go back almost every year of my life and have essentially the same amount of beauty and tranquility in this crazy, busy world we all live in has really been remarkable,” he said. “We’ve been able to gather generation after generation in the same place, with essentially the same beauty and deep enjoyment of each other.” Glen Chown, who worked with Clarissa on the initial easement a short time before GTRLC was officially incorporated, was proud to see her children follow in her footsteps.

“IT HAD A VERY STRONG EFFECT ON ME AT AN EARLY AGE, AND BEING ABLE TO GO BACK ALMOST EVERY YEAR OF MY LIFE AND HAVE ESSENTIALLY THE SAME AMOUNT OF BEAUTY AND TRANQUILITY IN THIS CRAZY, BUSY WORLD WE ALL LIVE IN HAS REALLY BEEN REMARKABLE”

“Clarissa and Andrew Marckwald were true trailblazers in conservation – their decision was groundbreaking and critically important in terms of setting a wonderful example for other landowners in the region,” Chown said. “I couldn’t be more pleased to see their children and grandchildren continue this conservation legacy.” Tucker and Neahtawanta points, facing southeast.

PHOTO BY TED CLINE

Campaign for Generations

CHAPTER 2

62 PHOTO BY NATE RICHARDSON

Love the land. Pass it on.

MAPLEHURST NATURAL AREA COUNT Y

Antrim ACR ES

389 PR O J E C T C O S T

$3,869,624

K E Y F E AT U R E S

Contains the entire 60-acre Lake Maplehurst, a clean, clear spring-fed lake, along with roughly 150 acres of steep, hardwood-forested bluffs that help filter surface runoff that enters Torch Lake. HISTORY

From 1955 until 2011 it was home to Camp Maplehurst, a summer camp beloved by generations of campers and counselors. Prior to that it was a large private estate.

Todd Vigland knew one thing for sure – Maplehurst was not going to be an ordinary project. It was 2015, and Vigland, a land protection specialist, was stunned by the Antrim County property as he toured it by Jeep with a real estate agent. Here was a nearly 400-acre parcel with an entire spring-fed lake, gorgeous stands of hardwood and beautiful open meadows. The conservation values and recreation potential were through the roof, and this looked like a surefire project for the Campaign for Generations.

Fall comes to the Maplehurst Natural Area. Campaign for Generations

CHAPTER 2

PHOTO BY LAURA RIGAN

Love the land. Pass it on.

But while it’s not uncommon to be wowed by the natural features of a potential project, it was the unnatural features of this one that gave Vigland a slight pause. There were buildings, and we’re not talking about a few sheds. Nearly 30 buildings remained from the property’s previous lives, first as a lovely summer estate and then nearly six decades as a summer camp. Among these buildings was a stately 8,700-square foot grand lodge built in the notoriously sturdy fashion of many turn-of-the-century structures, along with several large camp-related buildings and a dozen or so cabins. Suffice it to say, this wouldn’t be a matter of protecting the land, installing a parking lot and some signage. Save for perhaps a few small buildings preserved for maintenance purposes, these buildings would all have to go. “I think everyone was pretty realistic and sober about it. It’s not going to be easy, it’s going to take a while, and there’s going to have to be a major investment to deal with these buildings. And with that comes lead paint and asbestos abatement, and all that sort of stuff,” Vigland said. “So we knew there was going to be a ton of due diligence needed, and we asked ourselves, ‘Is it worth all that work to make this happen?’” With visions of a world-class natural area in everyone’s heads, the answer to that question was pretty straightforward. “Yeah, it’s worth it,” Vigland said. “It really is.” Maplehurst Natural Area has since become one of the most popular projects in the Campaign for Generations. And indeed it was a considerable investment of time and money to make it happen. But the results are sure to be appreciated for years and years to come. “We have received many, many thanks and positive comments about Maplehurst. People just love it,” said Liz Atkinson, Milton Township Treasurer and a member of the township parks commission. “It’s a beautiful property and a beautiful place to visit. What a wonderful thing to have that land earmarked forever for the public to enjoy.” The transition from beloved summer camp to natural area had its first step in 2011, when the former Camp Maplehurst closed after operating continuously since 1955. Many at Miltion Township Campaign for Generations

had long considered the camp a prime spot for a park or natural area, but the listing price of the former camp was prohibitive. Things began to heat up in 2015 when the price dropped considerably, suddenly making thoughts of protection much more viable. Peggy Dolane, with the Dole Family Foundation, had long urged GTRLC to protect more Chain of Lakes properties. She implored Glen Chown at a Conservancy gathering that year to get moving on Maplehurst. “At that point I wasn’t even aware the price had come down,” Chown said. “After Peggy clued me in to that, I knew we needed to make a plan – this property was just too good.” After touring Maplehurst with the listing agent and discussing the project with GTRLC’s land protection staff, Vigland reached out to Milton Township to see if they’d be interested in applying for a Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) grant to acquire the property. “Liz Atkinson was very, very excited, and she became a big champion on the township side,” he said. “She got her board interested in it and everyone pulling in the right direction.” After an appraisal and a selling price was agreed upon, the Dole Family Foundation covered the money for an option. For the Doles – including Dolane’s mother, former GTRLC board member Betsy Dole – this was an excellent opportunity to secure a big piece of land in an incredibly important watershed. “There’s just not a lot of undeveloped property around Torch Lake at all, and we really wanted to look at large areas that could help protect that watershed,” Dolane said. “The thing about that property is it’s significant in size and can have a big impact.” The next key players were longtime GTRLC heroes Don and Jerry Oleson, who gave GTRLC a very low-interest loan to cover the entire purchase cost, as the sellers weren’t able to wait for the MNRTF process. Even after grants are awarded, it can take more than a year for the state to release the money. “Who else?” Chown said of the Olesons. “These guys have done this time and time again. This is the latest in a long list of projects that simply would 65

CHAPTER 2

not have happened without them providing ready access to low-cost patient capital, and I don’t think it’s possible to thank them enough.” The trust fund board approved a $1.9 million grant for the project in December of 2016, leaving GTRLC to raise considerable funds for a local match, not to mention roughly $300,000 to remove the buildings on the property. While the Conservancy’s fundraising team set out to reach those goals – leading a series of public hikes in 2017 and 2018 to drum up support – Vigland oversaw removal of the buildings. The community stepped up to help out and get involved. Jeff West, of Rapid City, removed about a dozen cabins for free. Local resident Ben Weinzapfel spent days removing recyclable materials before demolition. The Milton Township Fire Department trained on three buildings, setting a controlled burn on one in a valuable exercise. Once the buildings were gone, the state money arrived and the natural area was opened to the public in early 2019. Next, GTRLC’s stewardship team did what it does best – build quality trail. With the critical assistance of dedicated volunteers, more than six miles of trail were constructed, allowing visitors to see the most beautiful parts of this new natural area.

PHOTO BY GREG MACMASTER

66 PHOTO BY GREG MACMASTER

The natural area was a hit immediately, Atkinson said, but really saw skyrocketing use in 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic pushed more and more stir-crazy folks outside and into the relaxing comforts of the natural world. “Our timing couldn’t have been better for public usage during the pandemic,” she said. Vigland, who was involved from day one, is delighted that GTRLC was able to make the project a reality for the citizens of Milton Township. “Sometimes in the land protection world, you work for weeks and weeks and months and months, and you don’t ever see anything happen. It feels like you’re just pushing paper and talking to people,” he said. “And then finally you drive through the gates one day and it’s just as you imagined it would be, and that’s pretty darn cool. “This was a pretty big lift as far as projects go, and it’s wonderful to work for an organization that can put together the resources to make something like this happen.”

The property before camp buildings were demolished. Looking south, with Torch Lake to the left, Lake Maplehurst in the center, Elk Lake to the right and Grand Traverse Bay to the far right. Love the land. Pass it on.

The Camp Maplehurst Legacy

Although the camp gradually moved

likely thousands of former campers –

away from focusing only on gifted and

are happy to know the land will remain

talented campers, it retained a focus

open to the public.

on education and enrichment, often bringing in guest experts on a variety of topics and encouraging campers to explore themes of leadership and

The Maplehurst Natural Area is a

knowledge. More than 10,000 young

positive and fitting next step for a piece

people camped at Maplehurst over its

of land that housed a camp with its

nearly six-decade run.

own fascinating history. Thomas Cohn, a psychology professor who wanted to start a camp for gifted and talented kids, founded Camp Maplehurst in 1955. For the first several years, he personally interviewed each camper who attended the camp. “A lot of bright kids, at that time, really were not getting adequate education, and in many cases they were getting picked on and bullied in school,” said his son, Laurence Cohn. “They thought

For many of those children, especially those from urban areas like Detroit or Chicago, visits to Maplehurst were their first exposure to nature. Campers took field trips to Sleeping Bear Dunes, local farms and other attractions. “Many of them came from a place where they hadn’t really been exposed to silence, or visions of the galaxy and stars,” Laurence Cohn said. “We really made nature an emphasis.”

differently and sometimes had a hard

Cohn, who closed the Camp in 2011

time fitting in, and my father wanted a

after several years of decreased

place where they would be safe.”

enrollment, said he and his family – and

Campaign for Generations

“I think it’s just wonderful. There are thousands of alumni who probably will come back, and it makes me feel wonderful that the place is being protected so that they and their kids can always come and enjoy it,” he said. “It’s nice that the land will still be intact from an ecological view.” Although the camp is forever closed, Cohn hopes the natural area carries on the spirit of what his family established at Maplehurst. “If nothing else, just having a place where you can bring the kids and tell them: ‘Put the cell phones down and let’s just listen for a few minutes – let’s just look at the stars,’” he said. “That would make me feel good.”

CHAPTER 2

68 PHOTO BY NOAH JURIK

Love the land. Pass it on.

UPPER MANISTEE HEADWATERS: THE MILOCK FAMILY PRESERVE COUNT Y

Kalkaska ACR ES

1,288 PR O J E C T C O S T

$4,162,300

K E Y F E AT U R E S

Contains an entire 130-acre lake (Grass Lake) and multiple valuable habitat types, including 13 distinct types of wetland totaling 360 acres. Also contains more than a mile of frontage on the north branch of the Manistee River and several kettle-hole ponds. HISTORY

The property was a lumbering camp at the turn of the century. In the 1930s, it was a base of operations for the Great Depression-era Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). From 1946 through 2012, it was an active Boy Scout camp named Camp Tapico.

The visually incomparable and ecologically significant Upper Manistee Headwater Preserve. More than a dozen wetland types found here provide critically important habitat. Campaign for Generations

CHAPTER 2

Simply put, Chris Sullivan was under attack. It was May of 2016, and Sullivan was on his first trip to what was then still a rugged and relatively isolated Boy Scout camp named Tapico. As he and a scout employee wandered about the sprawling, almost entirely wild property, the attack went from bad to worse. Eventually it was downright unbearable. “We had to cut the walk short, because I would open up my mouth to talk, and I’d suck in a bunch of mosquitoes with each breath,” he said. “I’d just start coughing. It was like water going down the wrong pipe.” But no amount of mosquitos on the planet could dull the shine on what Sullivan saw that day during a notoriously buggy spring throughout northern Michigan. Here was a 1,288-acre property that was mostly wilderness. Here was an entire 130-acre lake so idyllic, so picture-perfect, so…wild. Here was in many ways the very essence of how northern Michigan wilderness should look, smell, sound and feel. Here, without question, was an incredible opportunity. “It was just astounding. Even with the developed camp area, there was so much purely undeveloped land out there,” Sullivan said. “And it’s very rare to have a crack at a piece of quality land even approaching 1,000 acres, much less 1,300. This is a piece of land that’s so big, we may quite literally never again have the opportunity to protect something bigger.” At the time Campaign for Generations began, GTRLC’s staff was aware of Tapico. It scored out as one of the highest-rated parcels of the thousands graded in the Conservancy’s Priority Land Atlas (which ranks every available property in the Conservancy’s service area by habitat quality and contiguity, size, diversity and a host of other factors). And GTRLC knew that camp lands were rapidly becoming available, having protected several in the preceding decade. “But we weren’t talking about it much, and none of us had ever been out there,” Sullivan said. “We had so much other active stuff going on, it just wasn’t something we could be proactive about.”

Then, as winter waned in 2016, a representative from the Boy Scouts reached out to GTRLC. The scouts had consolidated across the state and had closed several camps, with Tapico closing in 2012 and now ready for sale. This led to Sullivan’s first walk out there, then to repeated discussions with two scout staff members about a plan for GTRLC to acquire or otherwise protect the property.

Love the land. Pass it on.

PHOTO BY DEKE LUDWIG

A scene from Upper Manistee Headwaters: The Milock Family Preserve.

Sullivan didn’t have a hard time selling Executive Director Glen Chown or GTRLC’s management team on the property. But at the time, it wasn’t known just how many projects the Conservancy could responsibly take on. “I was asked by the management team which one I’d pick if I had to choose between this and Lower Woodcock Lake, because for years I had been really, really talking up Woodcock,” Sullivan said. “And Campaign for Generations

it was hands down Camp Tapico, no question. Considering how much my love for Lower Woodcock Lake was known, that really got Glen’s attention.” A rough framework was agreed upon with the scouts: GTRLC would have a three-year purchase option, something that would give the Conservancy plenty of time to fundraise. Sullivan hired out an appraisal of the property as part of the process. 71

CHAPTER 2

PHOTO BY NOAH JURIK

Love the land. Pass it on.

This preserve is incredibly rich from a wetland perspective, with more than a dozen distinct types present. Campaign for Generations

CHAPTER 2

Both of the scouts he was dealing with ended up leaving the organization for other career opportunities, but assured him the process would continue with their successors. Then came the most unexpected and gut-wrenching of twists. Despite believing a deal was at hand, GTRLC staffers discovered in late 2016 that Tapico was officially listed for sale. And as if that wasn’t enough, there were already at least three competing offers for the property. Via their realtor, Sullivan quickly reached the scouts’ statewide board. An embarrassed and apologetic board relayed back that the departed staffers Sullivan had been dealing with never had the authority to reach out to GTRLC or discuss terms of a deal. GTRLC was welcome to tender an offer, they said, but it needed to be fast. The scouts needed to sell right away and absolutely weren’t interested in a multi-year deal. “It was bad. I mean, we were under the understanding that we had the inside track on this thing, complete with a three-year option that would give us time to put a plan together,” Sullivan said. “Suddenly, we had no more than 60 days to make a down payment and figure out how we would finance the rest of the project.” Enter a pair (more accurately, a trio) of conservation angels. The first was John Woollam, a Nebraska-based but Michigan-bred physicist who has long supported GTRLC’s work with transformative gifts. Just two days before Christmas in 2016, Glen Chown called Woollam and made an impassioned pitch. Sight-unseen (other than a few emailed pictures), Woollam agreed to provide a $500,000 down payment that allowed GTRLC to secure the property. The timing was so tight that Woollam didn’t even have time to visit the former camp, but he didn’t need to. Glen had successfully wowed Woollam with details of Tapico’s unspoiled glory. “Glen mentioned a number of things, and I believed him,” Woollam later said. “At the end of the day it’s a matter of trust, and it’s a matter of knowing Glen a long time.” But a down payment is just that – a down payment. Including the $2.65 million price tag of the property and the projected costs of immediate 74

stewardship needs and a long-term stewardship fund, the total project cost was nearly $4 million. Where would it come from? Salvation came in the form of a loan from noted local philanthropists Richard and Diana Milock. Then-Fund Development Director Anthony Rupard took Richard Milock to a snow-buried property in February 2017, and, like Sullivan, Milock was dazzled by what he saw. He always had a keen interest in lakes, wildlife and all things natural. And the sheer enormity of the property wasn’t lost on him, either. “First of all, the size of the property is just tremendous. And of course it has its own lake,” he said. “And I just love nature – I really do. The fact that there’s fox, deer, bear and so much other stuff going on makes it a really neat place.” Early discussions focused on Milock buying the property and holding it for GTRLC on an interim basis. But the conversation soon moved to a $2.15 million interest-free loan that would finance the bulk of the remainder of the project. “I thought it would be better if the Conservancy owned it,” Milock said. “But I knew that they had to move fast on it. There were other offers on the table, and the Boy Scouts wanted to sell it to the Conservancy. But something had to happen, they couldn’t wait forever.” In June of 2017, GTRLC officially took possession of the property. There was enormous work to be done before the new preserve could be opened to the public. The biggest task, of course, was raising the money to pay back the Milocks. But not far behind that was removal of dozens of scout buildings and structures to transform the property from a camp to a nature preserve. “We’d had to do a lot of work at certain properties before, but probably nothing quite like this,” Chown said. “It was something we had to carefully plan and budget for, and there were a lot of moving parts.” Over a period of three years, Camp Tapico – which was newly christened the Upper Manistee Headwaters Preserve – buzzed with activity. All but a few buildings and various other structures were taken down, and much of the material was recycled. Biological surveys confirmed what everyone suspected: the preserve is absolutely bursting with Love the land. Pass it on.

diversity and ecological importance. Various public events and private donor visits helped drum up more support for fundraising. A wonderful and detailed sign plan created a suite of signs that will help visitors understand and appreciate the property for years to come. In 2019, the property was renamed Upper Manistee Headwaters: The Milock Family preserve after Richard and Diana made an unrestricted $1 million gift to the Campaign for Generations. In 2020, excitement was high to showcase Upper Manistee as the location for that year’s Preservation Celebration, an event that would have also served as the preserve’s grand opening. The property opened on time, but no event was held due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. “We were all pretty bummed out, because this is without question a centerpiece project of the campaign and one of the most exciting projects in the Conservancy’s entire 30-year history,” Chown

said. “We would have loved to have shown it off and celebrated with everyone, but the bottom line is that everyone’s health and safety is the most important thing.” Everyone involved was glad to have played a role in preserving this special place for generations to come. Sullivan said at least one of the other three offers the Scouts had on the property was from a developer, so the situation could have turned out much differently had GTRLC not stepped in. “All you have to do is look at what’s happened elsewhere. The scouts have sold most of their camps in Michigan, and one of the most recent ones they sold was bought by a gravel mining company, of all things,” he said. “And a lot of rural Kalkaska is carved up, especially the lakes. So the land around that beautiful, 130-acre, hard-sand bottomed lake at Tapico was just primed to be split up into 10- to 120-acre lots and sold off.”

PHOTO BY MARISSA DUQUE

Anthony Rupard, Richard and Diana Milock and Glen Chown at the preserve.

Campaign for Generations

CHAPTER 2

Sullivan, Chown and everyone connected to the Conservancy is grateful to each and every last project donor. But there’s a special sweet spot for Woollam and the Milocks. “We couldn’t have done this without either one of them. We’re not just sitting on this giant war chest. Everything we do, we need to raise money for,” Sullivan said. “And when we get into a situation with a seller who needs money quickly, it puts a tremendous amount of pressure on the organization. So those types of people are really heroes to us.” The Milocks and Woollam are thrilled to have played a role. “I was so happy to be able to help,” Richard Milock said. “It really is such a neat piece of property, and it would have been a shame to see a developer get a hold of it and put a bunch of cottages in there.” “All we do is provide the money, and the Conservancy does all the work,” Woollam said. “I’m pretty grateful for you folks as well.” Those at GTRLC aren’t the only ones thankful to see the project become successful. Dick Sadler is a Michigan State University assistant professor who began camping at Tapico every summer since he turned nine in 1996, then worked there for the Boy Scouts every year from age 18 until the camp closed. The camp was a special place where he and other scouts learned to be self-sufficient, Sadler said. Individual groups of scouts camped in remote areas of Tapico, cooking their own food and forging special bonds with other campers and staff. It was also a chance for many scouts who came from urban areas to immerse themselves in nature.

“When you’re growing up in the Metro Detroit area, or the Flint area, it’s just busy suburb after suburb, there’s no place you could go that’s quiet and peaceful,” he said. “You went to Tapico and you were relaxed, and it was really hard not to find some spiritual connection there…it was just so beautiful and so quiet.” While Sadler was very sad when the Boy Scouts closed Tapico, he is comforted in knowing he’ll always be able to go back there now that it’s a GTRLC preserve. “I was really happy to hear about the Conservancy’s involvement, especially considering all the ways this could have panned out – The Boy Scouts selling it to a private developer, or a hunt club, or some place that it wouldn’t have been accessible,” Sadler said. “That would have just broken my heart. Tapico was, and is, home.” Sadler is certain that thousands of other scouts also appreciate GTRLC’s role. “I think there are some people who are very sad that it’s no longer a camp, but this is the next best outcome,” he said. “This is the best long-term solution. You will still be able to take your kids there, you can still go hiking, you can still enjoy the land – this doesn’t have to be the end.”

“YOU WENT TO TAPICO AND YOU WERE RELAXED, AND IT WAS REALLY HARD TO NOT FIND SOME SPIRITUAL CONNECTION THERE....IT WAS JUST SO BEAUTIFUL AND SO QUIET”

Love the land. Pass it on.

PHOTO BY ART BUKOWSKI

More than 15 different species of reptiles and amphibians were found on the property during a herpetological survey, with several more suspected.

Campaign for Generations

CHAPTER 2

78 PHOTO BY NOAH JURIK

Love the land. Pass it on.

MITCHELL CREEK MEADOWS PRESERVE COUNT Y

Grand Traverse ACR ES

204 PR O J E C T C O S T

$1,759,977

K E Y F E AT U R E S

This property includes substantial acreage within the critical Mitchell Creek watershed, one of East Grand Traverse Bay’s most significant watersheds. It also includes more than a mile of undeveloped frontage along two branches of Vanderlip Creek, both of which feed directly into Mitchell Creek. In addition, this preserve could play a key role in initiatives to get children safely to and from school via trails on the property. HISTORY

From 1982 until 2005, the property was home to the Mitchell Creek Golf Course, a nine-hole neighborhood course known as a favorite for locals. After new life as a wedding and event center, the property sat vacant for several years before the Conservancy purchased it with plans for a nature preserve.

Looking north over the preserve, with Grand Traverse Bay in the distance. PHOTO BY MICHAEL JORDAN Water quality protection is one of this preserve’s most important benefits. Campaign for Generations

CHAPTER 2

Chris Sullivan simply couldn’t believe what he was seeing, especially when what he was seeing just kept getting better and better.

So the urban oasis was discovered. But how would it be protected?

It was 2018, and Sullivan was dispatched to check out the former Mitchell Creek Golf Course off Three Mile Road north of Hammond Road. Neither he nor Glen Chown had particularly high hopes for this property. Between the presence of presumably dilapidated buildings, the property’s past uses and its location in an urbanized area, there wasn’t much to get excited about on paper.

A cherry on top

But a funny thing happened as Sullivan wandered away from the old clubhouse and onto greens and fairways that had slowly been reclaimed by nature in the years since the golf course closed. “I started walking around, noticed a ton of native vegetation. These wet fairways had come back, and there was blue vervain, swamp milkweeds, tussock sedges,” he said. “It was truly shocking how much of it was native. I was expecting this to be a total stew of invasive species.” Then Sullivan, a die-hard fisherman, got to a section of Vanderlip Creek – one of two sections on the property, both of which flow into Mitchell Creek – and his heart really started pumping. “I got up to this stream, and it was clean gravel, with undercut banks, wood – just a perfect stretch of stream. And as I’m walking around, I see brook trout darting under the banks,” he said. “And all of it is under these beautiful cedars.” What else did he see? Not much, unless you want to count at least 20 deer, the wood ducks and mallards he flushed out of an old water hazard and a few sandhill cranes. Oh – and that car-sized bald eagle’s nest looming in the distance. “I mean, here I was standing just outside of the city limits, in the region’s urban core, and I’m surrounded by all of this wildlife,” Sullivan said. “It was really, really incredible.” Not long after Sullivan was there, Stewardship Director David Foote captured clear footage of an adult male bobcat strutting around the property. “How often do you get to see a bobcat in daylight, let alone in town? Are you kidding me?” Sullivan said. “I’ve seen probably six, and all but two of them have been in my car headlights after dark, running across the road.” 80

Chown remembers getting the first call from Sullivan about the property. “Chris basically said that we’ve really got to find a way to protect this, and my response was – are you kidding me? We have Maplehurst, we have Tapico, we have all these other big campaign projects,” he said. “We were already overextended, and I was legitimately worried this would be a tipping point.” But Chown trusted Sullivan’s judgement. What’s more, everyone knew that development of the site could have particularly devastating consequences for the already imperiled watershed of Mitchell Creek, one of east Grand Traverse Bay’s most significant tributaries. Previously floated plans – getting as far as the early stages of discussion with East Bay Township – included a significant housing development and an automobile race track. A race track! “Pick your poison,” Chown said. “Either plan was going to seriously denude that property, and the nutrient loading in those streams would have been significant. And it was only a matter of time before another development proposal of some sort came along.” Further complicating things was the fact that the property owner wanted to sell fast, meaning the Conservancy would once again have to move fast. Chown discussed the property with Anthony Rupard, then director of development, and a bold idea was hatched. Rupard suggested that Don and Jerry Oleson – patriarchs of the Oleson grocery store chain, the associated Oleson Foundation and longtime GTRLC supporters – might be willing to help with this project. Chown had already been in very early discussions with the brothers about a significant major gift to the campaign, but no details had been ironed out. “Anthony and I knew we had one shot at this, and it would be the Oleson brothers,” Chown said. “We were under the gun, we were competing with developers, and we had to make an offer in a hurry. Don and Jerry were the guys that could make it happen.” Love the land. Pass it on.

PHOTO BY NATE RICHARDSON

A section of Vanderlip Creek winds through the property.

Campaign for Generations

CHAPTER 2

In February of 2019, Chown called Don Oleson and made his pitch. He explained about the conservation values, the need to act quickly – all of it. “I basically told Don that the only way we’d be able to do this is if he and his brother made it happen, and that really was the situation we were in,” Chown said. “I said something along the lines of this being the cherry on top of their already tremendous legacy of giving to our organization.” Glen also told Don one other key detail – Conservancy staff had already identified the property as a potential location for new GTRLC headquarters. For two full decades, the Conservancy rented from the Olesons in their building at Cedar Run Road and West Front Street. And while that space had served the Conservancy well early on, the desire had always been to be located in the heart of a nature preserve that better tells the story of GTRLC’s work. Don said he’d have to discuss it with Jerry. All Chown and GTRLC could do was wait. In March of 2019, Don and Jerry were still wintering in Florida and Arizona, respectively. Jerry’s daughter Marty Oleson, along with Kathy Huschke (a good friend of the Oleson family who for many years has run the Oleson Foundation) told Rupard and Chown they needed to talk. “Marty and Kathy seemed pretty somber at the time, so Anthony and I were bracing for some bad news,” Chown said. “It was a big ask and a rejection was certainly possible, and that would be very bad news for our prospects of protecting that property.” In Rupard’s office, Huschke and Oleson presented Chown with a cherry pie and asked him to guess what it meant. Chown’s first few guesses missed the mark. And then… “It was just like I had told Don – this gift could be the cherry on top,” Chown said. Huschke and Marty Oleson, despite having a little fun earlier by seeming to suggest bad news was imminent, informed Chown and Rupard that Don and Jerry Oleson had agreed to provide $1.1 million to purchase the property. “I started crying. Anthony and I were in tears,” Chown said. “We were euphoric, we were just so 82

happy. These two guys who have already made so much happen in our region were coming through again.” Don and Jerry were glad to help out. Both said trust in GTRLC built over many years of working together on projects played a big role in their decision. “The Conservancy has done so much for our area over the years, sometimes I can’t believe what they’ve been able to accomplish,” Don said. “It’s just wonderful to just save these places for our kids and our grandkids. We just love it.” “We’ve had the honor of working with the Conservancy before on a few other items, and we really believe in the same things,” Jerry said. “In this situation, something like this is good for the area.”

Safe routes to school After protection of the former golf course, GTRLC secured two additions totaling more than 50 acres. One of the additions was the lynchpin in a plan to provide safe routes from the nearby TART trail to the cluster of schools located not far south of the preserve. Julie Clark, TART’s executive director, is thrilled about the possibilities. Getting kids (and people of all ages) off busy roads and on to safe, beautiful trails is an ongoing goal of her organization. “This will create meaningful transportation opportunities, allowing these kids to get to and from school in ways they simply cannot right now,” Clark said. “Safe, non-motorized transportation for our kids is paramount, and this will give them a great, safe, comfortable experience.” It’s not just about kids, Clark said. A critical trail connection such as this will allow people of all ages who live in growing neighborhoods in the area better and safer access to things they need, along with the entire TART system as a whole. People tend to seek out great places to walk and bike instead of driving if they are available, she said, and you can’t beat this trail’s setting. “Being nestled in such an incredible urban preserve and being surrounded by nature is such an amazing Love the land. Pass it on.

experience,” she said. “It offers opportunities for friends, neighbors and visitors to really find meaningful connections, not only with each other, but also with nature and this incredible place.” Chown is thrilled the preserve will play a critical role in filling a community need. “We’ve always strived for land protection that accomplishes multiple conservation goals, and it gets even better when we can wrap significant community goals into the equation as well,” he said. “We couldn’t be happier that this preserve has the ability to be truly impactful in terms of highpriority trail connections.”

A new home? It was pretty early on when GTRLC’s management team realized the proposed Mitchell Creek Meadows Preserve could make for a wonderful new headquarters.

buildings on it that have value, it’s not fun to have to raise money to buy the place, then raise more money to tear them down,” Sullivan said. “This just seemed like a really unique opportunity to have headquarters so close to town, surrounded by this fantastic nature preserve, with buildings that we could repurpose.” Chown recalls when the idea crystallized. GTRLC’s current headquarters were tight and staff always longed to be located near or on a nature preserve where the story of GTRLC’s work could be better told. “We’ve been looking at places for 20 years, but there was always something missing with everything we looked at until this,” he said. “It checks all the boxes.” And so, plans for the Conservation Center were born. For more, see page 260.

“As a land protection person, your mind goes to the land itself first and foremost. And when you’re looking at acquiring land, and it’s got these

PHOTO BY JACQUELINE SOUTHBY

From left to right, Kathy Huschke, Ginny and Don Oleson, Glen Chown, Jerry and Marty Oleson.

Campaign for Generations

CHAPTER 2

84 PHOTO BY NATE RICHARDSON

Love the land. Pass it on.

COPELAND FARM COUNT Y

Kalkaska ACR ES

179 PR O J E C T C O S T

$245,438

K E Y F E AT U R E S

Nearly 1,000 feet of shoreline on Lake Skegemog and more than 500 feet of frontage on Barker Creek, a key tributary. Half of the property is high-quality wetlands that provide important wildlife habitat and protect the water quality of Lake Skegemog by filtering runoff. HISTORY

Property has been in the Copeland family since 1855, when William Copeland homesteaded there as the first non-native settler in Kalkaska County. Identified in the 1970s as a priority parcel during efforts to create the Skegemog Lake Wildlife Area.

For Bonnie Copeland, memories of the old family farm on the shores of Lake Skegemog are rich and plentiful. Copeland, 78, grew up on land that had been in her family since 1855, when her great-grandfather, William Copeland, became the first permanent nonnative settler of Kalkaska County. Like her father and grandfather before her, she became intimately familiar with all of her homestead’s nooks and crannies, natural or otherwise. Barker Creek as it winds through the Copeland property. Campaign for Generations

PHOTO BY MICHAEL JORDAN

CHAPTER 2

“It was so great growing up there. I have really great memories of climbing way up to the top of the barn, to those little windows at the top, and sitting there looking out over Round Lake, which is what they called it in those days,” she said. “I really felt like I was on top of the world.” During the haying season in late July, she always made it a point to seek out the gooseberry bushes heavy with fruit along the field edges. And there was a favorite gnarly old apple tree that had a saddle-like depression. She’d sit in it and pretend – “I was either Roy Rogers or Dale Evans, whomever I felt like that day” – that she was starring in a western musical.

an ecological standpoint, making it one of many truly remarkable private land protection projects of the campaign. “Very rarely do we have the opportunity to protect a piece of land that is so important from both a conservation standpoint and a historical standpoint,” Glen Chown said. “And it’s fitting, because the heritage of this region is tied to the land and the water. You don’t want to lose that identity or that history.”

Sometimes, her thoughts drifted to the previous generations, which had worked the same land for nearly 90 years before she was even born.

The spectacular Copeland property has nearly 1,000 feet of shoreline on Lake Skegemog and more than 500 feet of frontage on Barker Creek, a key tributary. Half of the property is high-quality wetlands that provide important wildlife habitat and protect the water quality of Lake Skegemog by filtering runoff.

“I used to just wander around a lot, on the top of the hill, and just stand there and try to imagine my great-grandfather and others being there and looking around like I was,” she said.

“This is a fantastic water quality easement,” Chown said. “There’s some really nice wetlands there, and Barker Creek flows right into Lake Skegemog. It’s a classic filter.”

GTRLC purchased a conservation easement on this beautiful 179-acre property in the early stages of the Campaign for Generations. And although its history is noteworthy, it’s also incredibly rich from

The Copeland property had been on the conservation radar since the early 1970s, when the late June Janis led a grassroots effort to protect and create what is now the 3,300-acre Skegemog Lake

“VERY RARELY DO WE HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO PROTECT A PIECE OF LAND THAT IS SO IMPORTANT FROM BOTH A CONSERVATION STANDPOINT AND A HISTORICAL STANDPOINT”

PHOTO BY NATE RICHARDSON

Looking down Barker Creek into Lake Skegemog.

Love the land. Pass it on.

Wildlife Area. That DNR-owned property is now managed by GTRLC. “Protecting this property completes the shoreline, and that’s the fulfillment of a mission that began with some very special people a long time ago,” Chown said. “This was the last big undeveloped piece on the water, and protecting it is a really huge deal.” Aside from her own family history on the land, Bonnie Copeland is well aware of its importance from a conservation standpoint. Some of her fondest memories include listening to bobolinks, whip-poor-wills and other birds along the fields and wetlands. “I am a big fan of wildlife,” she said. “I think it’s pretty important to keep the swamp and all of that land available to all the types of wildlife that use it so they can thrive.” She moved away at age 20 to work and raise a family in the Detroit area, but moved back in 1991, a few years after her father died, and lived on the property for another 25 years. In 2016, she

decided to move closer to family in the Flint area. It was around that time that she decided to reach out to GTRLC to discuss land protection, something she had considered for years. “I never wanted the property to be developed,” she said. “It’s far too important to me. So I resolved to do something to protect it.” GTRLC was friendly, informative and helpful in the land protection process, Copeland said. “I didn’t really understand what a conservation easement was. I used to see things about it here or there, and I’d think to myself, well, if you don’t want it developed, just don’t sell it for development,” she said. “But once I finally understood how it works, it was just perfect.” When the time is right, Copeland hopes to sell the land to a member of the Copeland family, or, failing that, one of the neighboring landowners. No matter what, she knows it will be protected forever.

The farm around 1910.

Bonnie Copeland’s grandfather, Edgar Copeland (far left) is shown with his wife and children, including Bonnie’s father, William, around 1909.

Campaign for Generations

CHAPTER 2

Loons are an iconic, but sensitive, part of the northern Michigan natural landscape. 88 PHOTO BY DANA VANNOY

Love the land. Pass it on.

GOLDEN DAYS LOON PRESERVE ADDITION COUNT Y

Antrim ACR ES

34 PR O J E C T C O S T

$252,550

K E Y F E AT U R E S

The addition has almost 1,000 feet of undeveloped frontage on the north arm of Lake Bellaire along with substantial wetlands that help filter surface runoff, providing critical water quality protection. Like the original portion of Golden Days, the undeveloped frontage helps preserve loon habitat.

Could any bird – any animal at all, really – be a better symbol of unspoiled northern wilderness than the Common Loon? This large, striking bird has long been iconic for its association with wild country, evoking thoughts of tree-lined lakes and rugged, untouched shorelines. Its presence generally means a relative lack of human disturbance, its haunting call a symbol of the wilderness. Not surprisingly, these beautiful birds like to make their nests in undisturbed locations. Too much human activity and they simply don’t feel comfortable raising their young. And while northern Michigan isn’t exactly a bustling metropolis, it’s still somewhat difficult to find spots where loons continue to feel comfortable building PHOTO BY MICHAEL JORDAN their nests. Campaign for Generations

CHAPTER 2

PHOTO BY RICK KANE

The north arm of Lake Bellaire is critical loon habitat.

One such place in our region is the north arm of Lake Bellaire, and it’s not by accident. The Conservancy has protected two parcels there with the explicit purpose of safeguarding loons that have nested in the area for decades. At the 16-acre Golden Days Loon Nature Sanctuary and the nearby 31-acre Loon Nursery Natural Area – protected in 1998 and 2001, respectively – these birds have permanent spots to nest in peace. “Between those two properties and the late Marilyn Fisher’s incredible easement, we’ve really done a lot to protect habitat on that north arm,” said Glen Chown, referencing a nearly 100-acre easement secured in GTRLC’s earliest days. “But you can always use more.” Golden Days was named by Debbi Stevens and her late husband Gary Andrus, who owned nearby property and who provided a major gift to secure the first portion of the preserve. Now, as part of the Campaign for Generations, Stevens generously donated a 34-acre parcel she and Andrus owned a bit down the lake. Although disconnected, the property will be added to the Golden Days sanctuary, more than tripling its size and nearly 90

doubling its shoreline. “This is a beautiful thing,” Chown said. “Debbi gets a lot of credit for initiating some of the earliest efforts to preserve the north arm and the loon habitat there, and for her to come back more than 20 years later and make an outright gift of that land is such an amazing legacy.” The addition has almost 1,000 feet of undeveloped frontage on the north arm of Lake Bellaire. Like the original portion of Golden Days, which has 1,300 feet of frontage, the unspoiled frontage helps preserve loon habitat. “There have been loons nesting on Lake Bellaire, especially in that north arm, for a long, long time, and here’s another piece of property that’s going to help with that,” said Land Protection Specialist Todd Vigland, who handled the deal. “It’s not a huge piece of property, but it’s definitely got enough frontage to make a real difference.” Vigland was also excited about the opportunity to protect water quality. The property contains large swaths of high-quality wetlands, which serve to filter surface runoff before it enters the lake. Love the land. Pass it on.

Gary Andrus and Debbi Stevens

“Lake Bellaire is a small body of water, it’s a relatively shallow body of water. It’s a fragile piece of that overall watershed, and the more we can provide buffers through preservation of wetlands like this, the healthier it’s going to be in the future.” Vigland had been in contact with Andrus many years ago about protecting the property, but Andrus instead pursued plans to develop home sites on the land, going so far as to draw permits for a variety of building-related activities there. Andrus died in August of 2020. In December, Chown got a call from Lynne Delling, a now-retired real estate agent who is friends with Stevens. Delling had big news: Stevens wanted to make an outright donation of the property, and she needed to do it by the end of the year for tax purposes. Though the timeline was extremely tight, Vigland worked diligently to get the deal done on a property he had written off as likely gone for good. It was fast-tracked through the board of directors approval process – not that there was much to discuss. “It was a no-brainer because we had done all of this other important work there in the north arm, and it Campaign for Generations

was an outright gift,” Chown said. Vigland gives a shout-out to the folks at Corporate Settlement Solutions – a local title company that handles much of the Conservancy’s transactional work – for hustling mightily to get the necessary work done in a very short time frame. “They work magic helping me put together these deals, and they do it time after time after time,” he said. “I’m not sure we could have done it without them.” Stevens said she and her husband didn’t trust anyone else to develop the property in a sensitive way that would respect natural features, which is why they decided to do it themselves. Ultimately, she decided the property should go to the Conservancy, particularly if it meant more habitat for loons. “It’s very important that we all respect these birds and give them protection,” she said. GTRLC may place a loon nesting platform out near the property, which will be maintained (like the original Golden Days property) as a sanctuary. 91

CHAPTER 2

Streams, wetlands, healthy forest and more make this an ecologically rich property. 92 PHOTO BY ART BUKOWSKI

Love the land. Pass it on.

HILL ESTATE COUNT Y

Grand Traverse ACR ES

479 PR O J E C T C O S T

$480,303

K E Y F E AT U R E S

Nearly 500 acres of diverse habitat, including healthy forest, upland and more than a mile of frontage on two creeks. Bordered on two sides by state land (important for wildlife corridor preservation). Used and owned by Kingsley Area Schools for outdoor education.

If you’re looking for Boone Scharp, he’s probably outside. And on most days, he’ll be joined by a group of schoolkids eager to stretch their legs and breathe in the fresh air. Scharp teaches environmental science and wilderness leadership at Kingsley Area Schools. On top of that, he leads a popular and very active Outdoor Adventure Club there. Talk to Scharp even briefly and you realize that few things are more important to him than getting kids to appreciate the outdoors. Build fires. Identify edible plants. Study deer populations. Build a few wood duck houses. Just ditch the digital distractions and get out there. “It’s my whole purpose. These kids are dying for it and they don’t even know it. They really don’t even realize what they’re missing until you get them out there,” Scharp said. “You’ve got to get them outside PHOTO BY MICHAEL JORDAN

Campaign for Generations

CHAPTER 2

and leave the devices behind.” These days, Scharp feels like he won the lottery. Thanks to an extraordinary gift from two sisters in 2018, Kingsley Area Schools was the recipient of a nearly 500-acre piece of land a short distance from Kingsley. Scharp knew the wild, undeveloped property was bursting with potential as a site for outdoor learning, and he wasn’t disappointed. After dozens and dozens of trips with students – trips in which they’ve put up kestrel nesting boxes and bluebird houses, learned survival and geocaching skills, fine-tuned their plant and animal identification, monitored deer populations and so much more – it’s safe to say it’s Scharp’s dream come true. “Students love going to the property and they truly enjoy the opportunity to explore all the hidden mysteries,” Scharp said. “The Hill Sisters property gives my teaching a sense of purpose and connects the stewardship principles we learn in class to real experiences with real meaning – it truly is a magical place.” The land belonged to Huldah and Gladys Hill, both of whom were raised in Kingsley and attended Kingsley schools. Gladys died in 2011 at age 88, and Huldah died in 2017 at 103. In their wills, the sisters instructed that the land be protected from development and transferred to Kingsley schools. GTRLC handled protection with a conservation easement and the land was given to the district. “It’s going to be fabulous to have this piece of land dedicated for science and outdoor education, and of course to have it protected for generations to come,” Kingsley schools Superintendent Keith Smith said at the time the land was protected. “This is such an amazing and generous gift.” From an ecological standpoint, the land has several exciting elements. It has fen habitat, rich conifer and hardwood-conifer swamps, upland habitat, two cold-water creeks that support brook trout and much more. The fact that it’s adjacent to state land on both sides is also important from a conservation perspective, as is its large size. It’s one of the largest easements GTRLC has secured in its 30-year history. 94

“This is a special piece of land for a lot of different reasons,” GTRLC Land Protection Director Chris Sullivan said. “We’re grateful to have the opportunity to protect such a large piece of land that has such a variety of quality habitats.” Many people in the community assumed the school district would sell off the land to raise money, Smith said. But the district is proud of its robust outdoor education programs and was thrilled at the chance to have a classroom of this caliber. Love the land. Pass it on.

Boone Scharp with a group of Kingsley students on the property.

“It’s one thing to read about the outdoors, and it’s something entirely different for the kids to get out there and see it and experience it for themselves,” Smith said. “It really engages the kids.” Even if the school district were to sell it many years down the line, the land would still be protected by the conservation easement. This protection was very important to the Hill sisters, said Bob Adcock, a family friend and personal representative of Huldah’s. Campaign for Generations

“Their biggest concern was they didn’t want the land to get chopped up and subdivided,” Adcock said. “They really wanted it to be left wild.” GTRLC and the school district worked to craft an easement that protects the land’s conservation values but still allows the district a small building envelope for potential bunk buildings or classroom space.

CHAPTER 2

Monique Nickerson largely grew up with the Hill sisters, who for many years lived in a foster care home run by her parents. Education was extremely important to Gladys and Huldah – particularly Huldah – and she would have been thrilled to see kids on the land, Nickerson said. “If they would have gifted this before they passed away, Huldah would have loved to get a ride over there just to see the kids using the property and having that experience of learning on the land,” Nickerson said. “When I heard that they were going camping on the property, I got emotional. It’s just amazing, and it’s exactly what Huldah and Gladys would have wanted.”

“This really was an act of love, both for the natural world and for their community,” he said. “Hopefully others will follow their lead, both in Grand Traverse County and elsewhere.” Scharp never got a chance to meet the Hill sisters, but he is deeply thankful for their tremendous gift. “The experiences these kids are having hopefully will last a lifetime,” he said. “As a student, you cannot learn a true appreciation for wild places and cultivate the land ethic principles we learn in the classroom without a place to experience these skills in real time. These sisters gave an incredible gift that connects students to their learning.”

Glen Chown said he hopes the sisters’ example will inspire others to protect their land.

Gladys (left) and Huldah Hill

Love the land. Pass it on.

Kinglsey High School student Ben Green with a blue racer and garter snake at the property.

Campaign for Generations

CHAPTER 2

98 PHOTO BY STEVE JESSMORE

Love the land. Pass it on.

THE ‘RIBBON OF PROTECTION’ Schuler Farm Easement and Torch River Ridge Preserve: A Cotanche Family Legacy COUNT Y

Antrim ACR ES

211 (Schuler Farm Easement) 290 (Torch River Ridge Preserve) PR O J E C T C O S T

$2,580,057 (Schuler Farm Easement) $2,215,593 (Torch River Ridge Preserve) K E Y F E AT U R E S

These two projects create nearly 550 contiguous protected acres that stretch more than a mile from the shoreline of the Torch River on the east side of the Torch River Ridge Nature Preserve to the shoreline of the previously existing North Skegemog Nature Preserve. The Schuler Farm easement has nearly 1,000 feet of undeveloped frontage on Skegemog Lake and significant chunks of both forest and high-quality wetlands. Torch River Ridge has 1,500 feet of undeveloped wetland frontage along the Torch River and an abundance of premium hardwood forest with cold-water seeps.

Though it has no public access to the Torch River, the Torch River Ridge Nature Preserve PHOTO BY MICHAEL JORDAN protects critical undeveloped frontage on the river itself, one of the longest such stretches left. Campaign for Generations

CHAPTER 2

Cherry Ave

LEGEND

LAKE SKEGEMOG TO TORCH RIVER:

Torch Lake

a ribbon of protection

Ribbon of Protection Projects 0.81

A Ribbon of Protection GTRLC Preserve - Public

Chippewa Trail

Other GTRLC Protected/Managed Land - Public Other GTRLC Protected Land - Private R rch To

Miller Rd

ive d

North Skegemog Nature Preserve

Schuler Farm Conservation Easement (Private)

Torch River Preserve (Weiss Property)

Angell Rd

pi dR

ive

Elk Lake

To rc h

Rapid City Rd

Rapid City

ve r

Skegemog Lake Wildlife Area

Elk Lake Rd

Schneider Rd

Lake Skegemog

Skegemog Point Rd

Palastra-Holm Nature Preserve

Bark er C

le Cr e ek

De s

m on dC

re e

Batt

Willi

ams burg

Cree

Copeland Farm Easement (Private)

reek

Battle Creek Natural Area

ty McNul

Hill Rd

Williamsburg s - Private Land Preserves

In the silence and piercing stillness of a- Public subzero Other GTRLC Protected Lands night, Bill WeissOther often strapped on his skis and took GTRLC Protected Lands - Private to the land. If clouds were scarce, he needed only the moonlight that shone down through bare trees to guide his way.

could. The land – his since about the0.8time he began 0 1.6 Miles shaving – became an extension of his being. The winding trails through hardwood forests became as familiar as a well-worn path from a front porch to the mailbox.

It’s a different feeling, being out there in that kind of cold and that sort of darkness. But life was present in this seemingly barren landscape, if one knew where to look. Sometimes it was the flutter of a spooked partridge or the whoosh of a hunting owl; on more than one occasion, it was the faint shadow of coyotes moving silently along a ridge.

“If you spend time out here the way I did, you get to know every bit of it, every curve in the trail, every turn, every tree,” Weiss said. “All of it.”

For years, Weiss soaked in as much of this as he 100

Immediately west of Weiss’ mostly wooded 295 acres sits land that had been in Vicki Jacobs’ family for four generations. It was this tapestry of forest and fields that fostered in Jacobs a deep and unshakable connection with both the land and her Love the land. Pass it on.

family. As it did with her parents, Vic and Betty Schuler, her love of this place runs deep. “I have wonderful memories of mushrooming in the woods, or of my mom and me going to look for moss to make terrariums,” she said. “My parents always instilled in me such an appreciation for nature, and the ability to appreciate the simple things, ordinary things – the beauty of nature.” As part of the Campaign for Generations, GTRLC purchased the Weiss property (which will be opened to the public in late 2021 as Torch River Ridge Nature Preserve: A Cotanche Family Legacy). The Conservancy also purchased a conservation easement on 211 acres of Jacobs’ land, known as the Schuler Farm. These properties join the previously protected North Skegemog Nature Preserve, which sits just west of the Schuler Farm, to form a “ribbon of protection” in the Chain of Lakes. Taken together, the conservation impact is massive: Nearly 550 contiguous protected acres that stretch

PHOTO BY ART BUKOWSKI

more than a mile from the shoreline of the Torch River on the east side of the Weiss property to the shoreline of the North Skegemog Nature Preserve. “This is a big-picture effort, a landscape-level effort. This connects the dots,” GTRLC Executive Director Glen Chown said. “These two projects together are without question one of the capstone efforts in the Campaign for Generations, and it speaks to everything the campaign is all about. It really is a dream come true.”

Three jewels, one crown From a conservation standpoint, these outstanding projects offered a truly rare opportunity to group large, contiguous parcels of land into a corridor that packs a punch in terms of benefits to water quality, wildlife and scenic views. The Schuler Farm easement has nearly 1,000 feet of undeveloped frontage on Skegemog Lake, which augments the nearly 2,000 feet of undeveloped frontage contained in the contiguous North Skegemog Nature Preserve. In addition, it has about 1,300 feet of frontage on an unnamed tributary to Skegemog and significant chunks of both forest and high-quality wetlands. The Torch River Ridge Nature Preserve is bursting with critical ecological features, not the least of which is its 1,500 feet of undeveloped wetland frontage along the Torch River. This pristine frontage provides a welcome contrast to the heavily developed stretch of river that lies just to the north. Much of the property includes a prominent, steeply sloping ridge that runs north to south, parallel with the river. This steep ridge includes several east-west “fingers” of premium northern hardwood forest, and numerous slopes also contain hemlock groves. Multiple cold-water seeps originate in the hillside. An island of stately white pines is found along the southern portion of the property. These two new parcels join the North Skegemog Nature Preserve, which was created in 1993 and greatly expanded a few years later when Vic and Betty Schuler sold GTRLC nearly 30 acres of their property.

Bill Weiss Campaign for Generations

“While each of these properties is amazing in its own right, this is an example of the whole being 101

CHAPTER 2

PHOTO BY NOAH JURIK

Looking southeast over the former Weiss property, with the Torch River to the left and Lake Skegemog to the right.

more than just the sum of its parts,” Chown said. “It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create a ribbon of protection like this, and it continues the tremendous legacy of the trailblazers who made the Skegemog Lake Wildlife Area possible more than 40 years ago.”

Though his grandfather’s property was sold after his death, a teenage Weiss struck up a deep friendship with family acquaintances Lloyd and Martha Aemissegger, who owned 170 acres of land. As legend goes, it had been completely clear-cut in the late 19th century to supply the roaring furnaces of the Dexter & Noble iron foundry in Elk Rapids.

Deep roots in the land

But the land had bounced back wonderfully by the mid-20th century, with beautiful rolling hills blanketed in hardwoods. Weiss badly wanted to buy it, knowing he had some inheritance money coming once he turned 18. So he and Lloyd sat down at the kitchen table and put it to paper – no attorneys necessary.

Weiss, now in his 70s, first began visiting the area as a boy. His grandfather had property on Torch Lake, and Weiss, who grew up in Indianapolis, vividly remembers his boyhood summertime adventures in the clean, clear environs of northern Michigan. 102

Love the land. Pass it on.

“It was just one sheet of paper, a gentlemen’s agreement,” Weiss said. “I just needed to get old enough.” Weiss, who went on to work as an engineer and environmental consultant, purchased those first 170 acres and eventually built a cottage there in 1971. He added on to the land over the years, notably through an 80-acre parcel owned by Milton Township native and longtime Elk Rapids fixture Ivan Hoopfer. Over at the Schuler farm, the personal roots go back even further. According to family lore, Vicki Jacobs’ great-grandmother, Louisa Schuler, purchased the first parcel of what became the Schuler farm after Campaign for Generations

the untimely death of her great-grandfather, Casper Schuler, sometime around the turn of the 20th century. The land was added to and farmed for years by Jacobs’ grandparents, Gust and Rhea Schuler. Jacobs, who grew up right down the road, visited her grandparents on the farm almost daily. “I adored my grandparents, in particular my grandfather,” she said. “He was just this warm, loving man with a little twinkle in his eye. We’d go over to the barn and gather eggs, and he used to have a little lamb that followed us around. As a young girl it was just such a special place.” Add to that her memories along the shores of Lake Skegemog, the setting for many adventures during 103

CHAPTER 2

PHOTO BY ART BUKOWSKI

Vicki Jacobs

Jacobs’ youth. She and her brother, Jack, spent countless hours down by the water. “It was wild, it was rustic,” she said. “We just had so much fun down there, so much fun.” But despite these good times, it was inevitable that Jacobs felt the need to spread her wings. She met her husband Bruce and eventually settled in central Ohio for many years, raising three children. It wasn’t long before her childhood home pulled on her heart. “When I was 17 and I thought I had it all figured out, like most 17-year-olds, I couldn’t wait to get away from here. I wanted to go to the big city, to get away,” she said. “Then, of course, I spent 30 years trying to get back here. You don’t know what you have until it’s gone.”

104

Jacobs eventually returned full-time to help care for her mother after her father died, and she now makes her home on the family property.

A path to protection GTRLC’s conversations with Weiss and the Schuler families began more than two decades ago. As has been the case many times over the years, it took years of kitchen table conversations before the time and circumstances were right for protection. “This is just another example of the importance of maintaining good relationships with landowners, especially priority property owners,” Chown said. “We’ve been talking with the Schuler family for 25 years. We’ve been talking with Bill since quite literally the beginning of the Conservancy, when he served on the founding board. Sometimes it takes Love the land. Pass it on.

time, but look at what we’re accomplishing together – it’s well worth the effort and the wait.” For Weiss, the decision to sell was bittersweet. He’d like to stay at the property until his death, but at his age he’s losing the ability to care for the land the way he once did. He’s keenly aware that GTRLC’s Campaign for Generations marks a “once in a lifetime” opportunity for the Conservancy to acquire his land, and he knows that’s the best way to keep it wild and pristine. “I just didn’t want to see this place developed. I’ve seen it all over the country,” he said. “If I don’t sell it to the Conservancy, it will just eventually turn into hundreds of homesites. I’m sure people would love to live here, but I don’t need to look up there and see twinkling lights in the hills.” Weiss has let various friends and family members use his property over the years, and he takes solace in the fact that the property becoming a preserve means their – and his – access will remain. “The good news is my hunters can still hunt, my walkers can still walk, my skiers can still ski, and I can come out here with my grandkids,” he said. In the back of her mind, Jacobs always knew she didn’t want to see her land developed. That conviction grew stronger in recent years, and land protection discussions that began with her parents were finalized under her watch. “If I hadn’t had the appreciation for the land and nature handed down to me, I really might not care that much, or maybe it wouldn’t be as important to me,” she said. “But it is, and the time was right.” Jacobs’ thoughts drifted to the past when she weighed the decision to place an easement on her land. “I think my parents would be very pleased, and I think my grandpa Gust would be also,” she said. “They always instilled in me that love for nature. I want to honor their legacy in any way I can.” But the future, of course, also was on her mind. Her four grandchildren come to visit “Grandma Camp” every summer, and she wants to know that they – and indeed their grandchildren – will always be able to soak up the wonder that she did as a child.

like we were when we were kids. Of being able to do the same things that we did, like walking in the woods, and being able to enjoy this place just the way it is,” she said. “The fact that they’ll be able to do that is another thing that I think would really please my dad, knowing that all future generations will be able to enjoy it.” GTRLC worked closely with Jacobs to craft an easement that would allow three home sites for her children, who hope to one day return to the property. Back-and-forth negotiations made sure to preserve conservation values while allowing for Jacobs’ wishes. “The Conservancy has been wonderful, and they’ve been very understanding of what I need in order to be able to do this,” Jacobs said. “We’ve been able to talk back and forth, to understand each other and what our needs and goals are, and I’ve really appreciated that.” To Chown, Weiss and Jacobs are nothing short of “conservation heroes.” “These are two of the most developable properties in the entire Chain of Lakes, and developing them would have tremendously negative impacts on water quality, wildlife corridors, scenic views, you name it,” Chown said. “I am incredibly thankful that Bill and Vicki were willing to put their trust in us and that they share our long-term vision and passion.”

A lasting legacy Marty Cotanche appreciates a lot of things, but access to nature might top the list. Marty was born in Petoskey and raised near the shores of Walloon Lake. His blue-collar family didn’t have much, but it didn’t seem to matter when they were surrounded by nature’s bounty. From hunting to fishing, wandering and exploring the outdoors had a way of providing sustenance for both the table and the soul. “My dad would get laid off from construction in the winter months, and he was sort of like the ‘Dean of Ice Fishing’ on Walloon Lake for 20 or so years,” Marty laughed. “All of this stuff we were able to do and enjoy was basically free.”

“I have a vision of them being able to be at the lake Campaign for Generations

105

CHAPTER 2

Marty, who went on to a successful career in manufacturing, later learned that such access to nature is the exception, not the rule.

Conservancy has the most vision and the most aggressive focus on the mission of any of the folks that we’ve ever dealt with.”

“It’s just so easy to take it for granted. Once you’re away, you realize that where you’re from is at the very pinnacle of outdoor beauty and outdoor recreation in the Midwest, and maybe in the whole country,” he said. “Until you go around the country, you don’t realize how little public land and access there is in a lot of places, unless you’re wealthy and have the ability to buy into it.”

For now, and forever, Torch River Ridge is one that won’t slip through the cracks. Val and Marty are thrilled to have been able to play a role. “It’s a privilege to us to be in a position to make commitments like this, and it’s very pleasant to be able to provide a gift to something that can be shared with generations of people going forward,” Marty said. “It’s a lasting legacy.”

Even now, even here, many of Marty’s old haunts are gone. “I remember so many places that we used to be able to go, and that people didn’t care and people let you be there,” he said. “Now almost all of those spots are houses, or private and restricted.” The desire to provide and preserve access to nature is a big reason why Val and Marty support GTRLC. Their tremendous gift of $1 million closed out fundraising for Torch River Ridge, ensuring the beautiful hills so carefully stewarded by Weiss for so many years would be forever protected. Like GTRLC’s land protection staff, the Cotanches are keenly aware that properties with water views are extremely desirable these days. Had Torch River Ridge not been preserved, it was only a matter of time before it was dotted with houses. “We’ve watched what’s happening with these highview properties and how they’ve been developed. Once the waterfront was all gone, you had to step back and say, ‘What’s next?’ People are now paying for anything they can get,” Marty said. “It wouldn’t have been long before that property was sucked up.” Val and Marty, who support various other charitable causes, spent time getting thoroughly acquainted with GTRLC before making such a gift. They were particularly impressed with GTRLC’s efforts to raise funds for long-term care of the properties it protects, along with its dedicated staff and targeted protection efforts. “It’s a high priority to us to support any outfit that is very well organized and can do all of this preservation work now, as opposed to seeing stuff slip through the cracks and wishing 30 years from now that you got it done,” Marty said. “The 106

Marty Cotanche with his dog, Tyler. Love the land. Pass it on.

Remembering June Janis & Dick Crout

Two towering figures in the conservation legacy of both Lake Skegemog and the entire Chain of Lakes passed on during the Campaign for Generations. June Janis, 96, died in March of 2021. Along with husband Harry, who died in 2017, June was a driving force behind the grassroots effort that ultimately led to the creation of the Skegemog Lake Wildlife Area in the 1970s. Her passionate effort to save one of the most ecologically significant lands in the region earned her many conservation awards and much-deserved praise. J. Richard “Dick” Crout died in 2020 at the age of 90. Crout, who had a long and distinguished career in

academics and medicine, lived full-time in Maryland but absolutely treasured his time at the family cabin on Elk Lake. His longtime support of the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy, often provided in partnership with close friend and neighbor Jim Norling, directly led to the preservation of thousands of acres of farmland and forest – including the “Ribbon of Protection”– in the vicinity of Lake Skegemog and Elk Lake. “These two people left a tremendous land conservation legacy for future generations, and they will be incredibly missed,” Glen Chown said. “They were important mentors to me and inspired so many people to get involved with our efforts.”

PHOTO BY JACQUELINE SOUTHBY

Campaign for Generations

June Janis

107

Dick Crout and Glen Chown

CHAPTER 2

108 PHOTO BY NOAH JURIK

Love the land. Pass it on.

HICKORY FOREST (CLARENCE KROUPA PROPERTY) COUNT Y

Grand Traverse ACR ES

80 PR O J E C T C O S T

While this project began during the Campaign for Generations, significant costs remain to see this project to the finish line. K E Y F E AT U R E S

Until this effort, this property was one of the largest unprotected forested parcels in the immediate vicinity of Traverse City. It has tremendous ecological values and excellent passive recreation potential. HISTORY

Portions were unsustainably farmed in the first half of the 20th century, resulting in more than 30 acres of barren land. Clarence Kroupa purchased that barren section (followed by adjoining parcels) in the early 1950s, carefully working to restore the barren portion while enhancing and protecting natural growth.

PHOTO BY MICHAEL JORDAN

A view looking east over the Hickory Forest property toward Grand Traverse Bay. Campaign for Generations

109

CHAPTER 2

E Carter Rd

Proposed Hickory Forest Natural Area (formerly the Clarence Kroupa Property)

gan

Hickory Meadows

Randolph

Spruce

Hickory Hills Recreation Area

Monroe

West Grand Traverse Bay

Cedar Run Rd

g on L h

R ke La

9th

11th

rt No

LEGEND

13th

Hickory Forest Natural Area (proposed ownership by Joint Recreation Authority)

Grand Traverse Commons

Hickory Hills Recreation Area (owned by City of Traverse City

Sil

ake L r

merman

110

www.gtrlc.org

Veterans

Bar

nes

3860 N. Long Lake Rd., Ste. D Traverse City, MI 49684

14th

Hickory Meadows (owned by Joint Recreation Authority) TART Trail

6th Maple

Division

Harris Rd

Front

Love the land. Pass it on.

231.929.7911

In a blue leather binder now kept by his daughters, several newspaper clippings and family photographs detail Clarence Kroupa’s decades-long work to restore his once-barren land along Barney Road just west of Traverse City. By Kroupa’s own hands – sometimes with help from his wife Esther and his three daughters – more than 20,000 seedlings were planted on an almost completely treeless section of his property beginning in the early 1950s. These deliberately planted trees combine with natural growth across his 80 acres to create rolling hills of lush growth that are peaceful, ecologically significant and remarkable for their close proximity to Traverse City. Among the pictures and clippings in the binder are notes with thoughts from Kroupa himself, who died at age 95 in 2019. One dog-eared piece of paper includes a hand-drawn map of his land, detailing the years he bought each of the three parcels that combined to form his property. In his distinct, all-caps handwriting, Kroupa had jotted some thoughts about the land and his intentions. In one perfect and succinct sentence, a man who became legendary in local conservation circles explained his tireless effort to restore his own “precious piece of Mother Earth.” “Realizing this effort in conservation and restoration is minute on the world picture,” he wrote, “I can only explain my actions as an instinctive desire to provide for ourselves and for future generations.” Now, the land that Clarence Kroupa worked so hard to restore and protect will indeed be forever protected for generations to come after his daughters worked with GTRLC to protect this special place. The plan is for it to be owned and operated by the Traverse City-Garfield Township Joint Recreational Authority, which owns and manages nearby Hickory Meadows and other public properties. “This is one of those deeply gratifying projects. It’s an enormously special property, and it represents the legacy of a tremendously remarkable man,” Glen Chown said. “To be able to add this property to the collection of protected natural spaces in the immediate vicinity of Traverse City is a crowning achievement.” Campaign for Generations

As is the case with so many of these projects, what will now be known as Hickory Forest is another one that took many years to develop. Kroupa, an Old Mission Peninsula native who was a grader operator for the road commission and a few private companies in his working days, heard about GTRLC’s founding in 1991. He called Chown up and invited him out for a tour of the property that very year. “We went all through the property, and he had stories about every big tree, every single corner of his land. It was like walking through the woods with a modern-day John Muir,” Chown recalled. “There was just a spiritual quality to his reverence for the forest and of that property, and you couldn’t help but be swept up in it.” It was then Chown first learned that while Kroupa strongly desired to see the land permanently protected, he wasn’t going to be the one to make that call. “I was ready to put a conservation easement on his kitchen table right then and there, but even back then he told me he was leaving it up to his daughters,” Chown said. “It was their inheritance, and he felt it needed to be a family decision.” Kroupa’s three daughters are Becky Alexander, Marilee Woodard and Lisa Schneider. They tell the story of their parents, who fell in love despite markedly different upbringings and got married in 1947. Clarence and Esther first moved in with Clarence’s family up off Kroupa Road on Old Mission Peninsula, but soon decided they’d prefer a bit more independence. After a bit of searching, they found and purchased the first 23 acres of their property in 1952. Prior to that time, decades of unsustainable farming practices coupled with resulting erosion had left nothing more than barren mounds of sand and gravel. Undeterred and undaunted, Kroupa set out to make things right – one tree at a time. “Dad wanted to heal it, to fix it. I don’t really know where that passion came from, but it was always there,” Alexander said. “I think it’s honestly why he bought the property – he knew it wasn’t right and he wanted to improve it.” Every spring, Kroupa got bundles of seedlings from the local conservation district. Sometimes 111

CHAPTER 2

he’d make furrows by hand, sometimes with a tractor. The girls were handed shovels when they were younger, part of an effort to instill in them the same ethic. This went on for years and years, though Kroupa lost a few helpers along the way.

set up a public opening of the property in 2022. The Conservancy has inventoried the property’s sensitive natural features, with passive recreation trails planned to minimize disturbance of these features.

“I complained so much that eventually he stopped asking me,” Alexander said with a laugh.

The Conservancy played a big role in the founding of the Rec Authority about 20 years ago during a community effort to protect Hickory Meadows, Historic Barns Park at the Grand Traverse Commons and a portion of the Open Space. Chown is excited to add to that legacy by bringing another spectacular project into the fold.

The girls grew up on the property and moved away to start their own families, but it remained – as it was with their father – embedded in their hearts. Conversations about the property’s future happened occasionally, but the girls weren’t ready to make any decisions. Less than two years before he died, Kroupa showed up at GTRLC’s offices. He seemed concerned about the future of his beloved property, and Chown asked Kroupa’s permission to write a letter to his three daughters. Kroupa agreed, and later personally delivered a copy to each of his three girls.

“GTRLC has always been creative and collaborative about the ways we tackle land protection projects, and this is another example of getting the right people at the table to accomplish a great project,” he said. “We are proud to play a role in protecting this tremendous property, and fortunate to have strong partners in the Rec Authority, Traverse City and Garfield Township.”

“I basically said I know that this is your inheritance, and you might not be in a position to just donate it to us, but I’d like to respectfully ask that if and when the time comes, you give us the first crack at it,” Chown said.

For decades, Kroupa beamed with pride as he showed people around his land. It was his special place. His daughters are glad to know it can now be special to others – for generations to come.

Kroupa died in May of 2019, and it was only a few months later that his daughters sat down with Chown and other GTRLC staff at the Conservancy’s offices. They came with a copy of that letter and a desire to honor their fathers’ wishes.

“I have so much gratitude for the Conservancy, because we want to share it too, we want people to get to enjoy it. It’s so pretty that it would be a crime to not share it with people,” Alexander said. “But we want to do it in a way that it’s protected and it’s not destroyed, and the Conservancy is making that happen.”

“It was a very emotional meeting, there were a lot of tears,” Chown said. “This guy was a force in our local community, and we were fulfilling his vision. It was one of the most poignant moments of my 30-plus year career.” Though the land could have easily been developed into prime homesites, Kroupa’s daughters shuddered at the thought. “We all agreed that we didn’t want to see it destroyed,” Schneider said. “We couldn’t bear to think of it.” Voters by a wide margin in late 2020 passed a renewal of the Rec Authority’s operating millage, which will fund its operations along with providing matching dollars for a potential Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) acquisition grant that would cover the bulk of the property’s cost and 112

Esther and Clarence Kroupa at home in 1972. Love the land. Pass it on.

PHOTO BY ART BUKOWSKI

Becky Alexander (left) and Lisa Schneider stand with a photo of their father, Clarence Kroupa, at Becky’s home near the Hickory Forest property. Campaign for Generations

113

CHAPTER 2

A view looking south from the eastern edge of the Edwards Ridge easement. 114 PHOTO BY NATE RICHARDSON

Love the land. Pass it on.

EDWARDS RIDGE COUNT Y

Grand Traverse ACR ES

80 PR O J E C T C O S T

$149,404

K E Y F E AT U R E S

Intact and healthy forests cover this property, but it is perhaps most notable for its scenic qualities. It is a well-known forested ridge that is highly visible – indeed iconic – for those traveling up and down Garfield Road south of Traverse City.

For decades, Steve and Carol Shuckra have found peace and comfort in the land. Perhaps nothing is more special than their 40acre wooded parcel at the top of the Boardman River valley. Originally purchased by Carol’s father in 1938 and protected by the family with a conservation easement in 2004, the property looks out over a densely wooded section of the valley below. Those scanning this remarkable vista can imagine a time long before the area was developed, back when Traverse City was a tiny outpost in the vast wilderness. But also near and dear to Carol and Steve’s hearts is an 80-acre parcel that sits immediately east, stretching to Garfield Road. Owned by Rotary Camps and Services for many years, it became a favorite hiking location for Carol and Steve and others in their Canterbury Woods neighborhood. Here was a slice of wooded wilderness in their own PHOTO BY MICHAEL JORDAN Campaign for Generations

115

CHAPTER 2

Steve and Carol – along with many others in their neighborhood – were heartsick. Carol wondered where all the deer and other wildlife would go, and the thought of the ridge being clear cut for homes was almost too much to bear.

backyards, and many neighbors made a point to enjoy it daily. “I don’t even know where to begin, it’s just so beautiful,” Carol said. “And it’s almost mystical in the snow.”

“I said ‘Steve, if it gets sold to a developer, I’m going to go live in the trees out there and make sure they don’t cut the ridge,’” Carol said.

Anyone who’s traveled Garfield Road would recognize this 80-acre property, especially coming from the south. It contains the gorgeously wooded ridge that looms high over the valley as the road rises from the river below, again evoking a time long before many of the region’s trees were felled and providing a scenic gateway to Traverse City.

Now, the property is forever protected after GTRLC purchased a conservation easement from Rotary, and Rotary then sold the land to Steve and Carol. Four generations of Carol’s family have gathered at the tiny seasonal cabin built by Carol’s dad more than 80 years ago on the original property, and now

When word got around that Rotary was considering selling this property to a downstate developer,

3 Mile Rd

Spider Lake Bass Lake

s bb Ho Ga r

fie ld

Edwards Ridge Conservation Easement

Rennie Lake

e g L ak

Arbutus Lake

Sprin

Ranch Rudolf Rd

Boardman River

Boardman Valley View Conservation Easement

r ve

Howard and Mary Dunn Edwards Nature Preserve Brown Bridge Quiet Area

tus H

dm ar

Arbu

River Rd

ill Rd

Cr ee

Mayfield

reek on C inst

ld rfie Ga

k ree

Swa

C on Jax

LEGEND GTRLC Nature Preserves (Public)

Edwards Ridge CE (Private)

GTRLC Conservation Easements (Private)

Other Public Land

www.gtrlc.org

116

3860 N. Long Lake Rd., Ste. D Traverse City, MI 49684

0.5

1 Miles

231.929.7911

Love the land. Pass it on.

Carol and Steve have the comfort of knowing that the adjacent ridge – like their original 40 acres – will be forever protected for generations to come. “They made our wish come true, they really did,” Carol said of GTRLC and Rotary. “We all agreed it was so important to preserve the ridge above the Boardman, and together we all made it happen.”

“THEY MADE OUR WISH COME TRUE, THEY REALLY DID.”

Carol and Steve Shuckra

And indeed everyone played an important role in forming the new “Edwards Ridge” conservation easement. Steve, Carol and their son Andy offered $200,000 total, but that was still well short of the developer’s $290,000 offer. And GTRLC’s $70,000 contribution for a conservation easement left the total package still $20,000 short of the developer’s offer, but Rotary’s board decided to accept the lower bid. As it turns out, Rotary was also not overly excited with turning a scenic gateway to Traverse City into dozens of homesites. “Our board didn’t have to grapple long with taking less money for the property than was proposed by a downstate developer who wanted to build 50 homes on the site,” said Becky Ewing, who was executive director of Rotary Camps and Services when the deal went down. “The Shuckras were inspired to preserve this unique stretch of land in keeping with Carol’s father’s values and intent for the land. The GTRLC added their special touch, expertise, and vision to the deal,” Ewing continued. “The Rotary Camps board saw the win-win-win and unanimously approved the deal, which is in complete alignment with our commitment to stewardship of the land and water.”

them near one of the entrances to the 80-acre parcel. Many also sent thank you notes to Steve and Carol, who plan on keeping the land open for neighbors to hike. But while those notes and sentiments were certainly heartwarming, maintaining public access was just icing on the cake for Steve and Carol. Their main goal was to preserve the forested ridge intact. “It’s a huge comfort to us to know that it’s never going to be developed,” Steve said. “Our primary purpose was to prevent development, and thus to avoid 55 septic systems from leaching into the Boardman River watershed.” GTRLC Executive Director Glen Chown is ecstatic at the project. “This one covers all the bases,” he said. “It’s water quality, it’s scenic corridors, it’s wildlife habitat, it’s community conservation – and we owe it all to the Shuckras and Rotary. What an awesome and exciting project.” Carol knows her late father, Fred Beveridge, is looking down at the project with a full heart. “He’s smiling,” she said. “He’s definitely smiling.”

Neighbors were overjoyed at the Shuckras’ action to save the land, even erecting a large sign thanking Campaign for Generations

117

CHAPTER 2

118 PHOTO BY NATE RICHARDSON

Love the land. Pass it on.

TORCH LAKE NATURE PRESERVE COUNT Y

Antrim ACR ES

96 PR O J E C T C O S T

$346,737

K E Y F E AT U R E S

The hilly forests and other natural features here are important for the water quality of nearby Torch Lake, and they also provide an excellent and safe place for passive recreation. The property is also adjacent to protected land (the Torch Ridge Conservation Easement). HISTORY

Owned by the Hibbard family for nearly 90 years, the property was purchased by Terry Malone in 2016 and later donated to GTRLC.

A nature preserve that boosts recreational opportunities, safeguards water quality and protects wildlife habitat was the extraordinary gift of a family that cares deeply about one of northern Michigan’s most iconic lakes. The 95-acre Torch Lake Nature Preserve sits adjacent to the south edge of the 430-acre Torch Ridge conservation easement, secured by GTRLC in 2016 in the early stages of the Campaign for Generations. This preserve was made possible by the Malone family, who bought the land and donated it to GTRLC in 2018. The beauty of the Torch Lake Nature Preserve Campaign for Generations

PHOTO BY MICHAEL JORDAN

119

CHAPTER 2

Denny and Terry Malone

“This was one of the most memorable gifts in the entire campaign,” Glen Chown said. “The Malone family identified this as an excellent spot for a preserve and took the steps to make it happen. That’s incredible vision and tremendous philanthropy, and we couldn’t be more grateful.” Terry Malone, a longtime Torch Lake fixture, was instrumental in helping GTRLC protect the Torch Ridge property (a conservation easement that’s not to be confused with the nearby Torch River Ridge Nature Preserve). It was Malone who notified GTRLC of the opportunity, and in addition to donating money for its protection himself, he was active in helping solicit support from others. “Terry was a real champion of Torch Ridge,” said former Fund Development Director Anthony Rupard. “He definitely understood what would 120

happen if a bunch of homes went in on that ridge, and he did an excellent job helping us communicate the importance and urgency of that project to people around the lake.” In 2016, after Torch Ridge was secured, Malone bought the land that became the Torch Lake Nature Preserve from Charlie Hibbard, whose family had owned the land since 1928. Malone wanted to make sure it would not be developed into lakeview lots, something that almost assuredly would have happened had a property of its location and topography been left unprotected. Hibbard shared that desire, Malone said. “We had an ongoing friendship for probably 50 years, ever since my wife and I started coming up here,” Malone said. “I’d always told him that if he ever wanted to sell that property, I’d be interested. Love the land. Pass it on.

PHOTO BY ART BUKOWSKI

When Charlie was ready to sell, he came to me. He didn’t want to see it developed either.” As with the neighboring Torch Ridge easement, Malone was acutely aware of the potential negative impacts to both water quality and scenic views had the 95-acre property been developed. The Malone family settled on donating the property to GTRLC instead of placing a conservation easement on it specifically out of a desire to give people a safe and beautiful place to hike. “We wanted to protect it from ever being developed, but we also wanted to have it available so people didn’t have to walk out there on East Torch Lake Drive like so many of them have done for years,” Malone said. “To be able to walk through the woods looked to us like it would be a big plus for people in the area, or anybody who wants to use it.” Campaign for Generations

The trail, updated and expanded in 2021, offers an interesting array of plant communities at this preserve and fantastic views of the series of valleys that fall away from the ridge down to Torch Lake. The trailhead is on Robinson Road approximately a quarter mile from South East Torch Lake Drive.

“WE WANTED TO PROTECT IT FROM EVER BEING DEVELOPED, BUT WE ALSO WANTED TO HAVE IT AVAILABLE SO PEOPLE DIDN’T HAVE TO WALK OUT THERE ON EAST TORCH LAKE DRIVE LIKE SO MANY OF THEM HAD DONE FOR YEARS”

121

CHAPTER 2

122 PHOTO BY ROB MEENDERING

Love the land. Pass it on.

SAND LAKES TRAIL CORRIDOR COUNT Y

Grand Traverse ACR ES

159 PR O J E C T C O S T

$331,092

K E Y F E AT U R E S

This parcel is entirely surrounded by the Pere Marquette State Forest and serves as the main access point for Bullhead Lake. It contains a section of the Traverse City to Kalkaska Trail and has been used for nearly 30 years by the tremendously popular Iceman Cometh Challenge mountain bike race and other races. It is also enjoyed by thousands of individual hikers, bikers and skiers each year.

The meeting room was packed. The overflow space was packed. People wanted their voices heard. It was June of 2017, and Grand Traverse County commissioners were set to discuss the sale of a piece of Whitewater Township land that the county had owned since 1977. The motive for the sale was to alleviate at least a portion of the county’s problematic pension debt, thus sending staff on a search for any properties that could be offloaded to raise money.

The Iceman Cometh mountain bike race has long been one of the most popular races in the region. Campaign for Generations

But this particular 159-acre property was special. As an inholding surrounded by state forest and owned by another public body, it had been used for PHOTO BY MICHAEL JORDAN years by hikers, bikers, runners, skiers and more. 123

SAND LAKES DNR ASSIST CHAPTER 2

GTRLC.ORG

PROTECTING SIGNIFICANT NATURAL, SCENIC AND FARM LANDS, AND ADVANCING STEWARDSHIP, NOW AND FOR ALL FUTURE GENERATIONS

EAST BAY

A st We

Bis sel lC ree

Bunker Hill Rd

Truax L

Ba tt le

Cr e

reek eC m Ac

Holiday Rd

Cr ee

Ac me

Bartlett Rd Trailhead

5 Mile Rd rs C ke Ba k

Williamsburg Rd

ree

Bullhead Lake Sand Lakes Rd

Perch Lake The Rock

Sand Lakes High Lake Rd

Hammond Rd

Supply Rd

bs Hob Hwy

Twin Lakes

Strombolis Lake Supply Rd Trailhead

Tibbets Lake

Vandervoight Lake Dollar Lake

Indian Lake

Chandler Lake

Island Lake High Lake

LEGEND

th Nor

Spider Lake

North Country Trail

Sand Lakes DNR Assist

TC to Kalkaska Trail

Mud, Sweat, and Beers 2017

State Land

Vasa/TART Trails

Iceman 2016

GTRLC Protected Properties, Owned and Managed by DNR

Of particular note was its use for decades by the tremendously popular Iceman Cometh Challenge mountain bike race. Now, with a private buyer offering $352,000, the property was in jeopardy of falling out of public hands, disrupting a key trail corridor and threatening development in the middle of state forest. GTRLC offered $255,000 – a figure based on an appraisal – with the plan of later transferring the property to the state so it could be formally added to the state forest.

0.5

ma ard Bo ch an Br

ver n Ri

1 Miles

was listed abruptly, with county officials making it known that they wanted to sell it very quickly. An avid cyclist himself, Vigland enlisted friends within the cycling community to rally to the cause. “Everyone understood the importance of this piece. It’s critical to a lot of the races and activities out that way. Losing it would have made a big impact on the race routes,” he said. “You wouldn’t want that donut hole in there with competing uses or conversion to another type of property.”

“The Conservancy and the DNR both have to be very respectful of appraised value. It’s no use for either of us to put together really high offers or get into bidding wars, particularly because we’re governed by policies and procedures that prevent that sort of thing,” said Todd Vigland, who handled the deal for GTRLC. “We can pay appraised value, and that’s pretty much it.”

The cycling community, and indeed dozens of others interested in seeing the property remain public, didn’t disappoint. They packed into the commission room and the hallway outside it, many of them imploring commissioners to value public access instead of an additional $100,000 – a drop in the bucket for a pension debt that reached nearly $100 million.

Vigland had kept an eye on the property for many years, knowing full well the state hoped to acquire it with the goal of adding it to state forest. But then it

“Glen gave a really impassioned speech about this, talking about the natural features of the property and how important it is to the community to keep

124

Love the land. Pass it on.

it public, and lots and lots of other people spoke up in support,” Vigland said. “And it was a really interesting mix of people – bike teams, moms and dads, runners – it was a really cool thing seeing all those people coming out.” Commissioners ultimately voted 6-1 to accept GTRLC’s offer. “I think they ended up putting a lot of value in the public input from the community regarding the value of keeping it in public hands,” Vigland said. Steve Brown, founder of Iceman, generously offered to match donations to the project dollar-fordollar up to $20,000. He and others in the cycling community are tremendously grateful for GTRLC. “It would have been a really strange experience to race by a housing development in the middle of the Pere Marquette State Forest, so I am thrilled that the Conservancy was able to protect this section of trail from development,” he said. “My hat is off to the entire crew at GTRLC for making this happen so quickly.”

Brown, while glad to see the route for Iceman preserved, is far more excited about the parcel being protected for perpetuity. “To me personally, it wasn’t really about the route of the Iceman course nearly as much as it was about preserving that piece of property as an integral part of the Pere Marquette State Forest,” he said. “This is for the generations yet to come.” The property was ultimately transferred to the state and formally added to state forest holdings. Chown looks back fondly on the effort to save this parcel in the early days of the Campaign for Generations. “This gave us a nice boost in visibility, and it really allowed us to demonstrate our value to the community, especially in regards to acting quickly to save a piece of property,” he said. “I think we built up a lot of good will with that one.”

PHOTO BY TODD VIGLAND

A small, natural pond on the property provides imporant wildlife habitat. Campaign for Generations

125

CHAPTER 2

126 PHOTO BY DREW SMITH

Love the land. Pass it on.

PLATTE RIVER PARK COUNT Y

Benzie ACR ES

52 PR O J E C T C O S T

$323,774

K E Y F E AT U R E S

The property has about 1/3 of a mile of undeveloped frontage on the Platte River and provides the perfect setting for a municipal park. Upland and wetland habitats are also present. HISTORY

Owned and farmed by the Hanley family for more than a century, the property once contained a large blueberry patch.

The folks at the Honor Area Restoration Project had a dream. HARP, as it came to be known, was formed about a decade ago with the goal of revitalizing one of Benzie County’s core communities. A diverse group of local residents came together to make this happen, meeting regularly at the Platte River Inn to brainstorm, strategize and act. Very early on, pubic access to the Platte River was identified as a top priority. Strangely enough, the village that’s home to the National Coho Salmon Festival has never had such access.

The Platte River winds through this beautiful property. Campaign for Generations

A property on the outskirts of town was eyed for a park that would provide just such a thing. This land, PHOTO BY MICHAEL JORDAN owned by the Hanley family for generations, had 127

CHAPTER 2

about 1/3 of a mile of frontage on the Platte River. “People were really excited about the possibilities of river access,” said HARP chairman Ingemar Johansson. “And a park could attract people to stop in town to purchase goods, stay at motels, eat at restaurants and create jobs.” HARP first reached out to GTRLC for help with acquiring the Hanley property in 2013, a few years before the Campaign for Generations began. But the property was listed for more than $400,000, well above its appraised value of $225,000. “It was just too big of a gulf to bridge at that point. We had some conversations with the realtor, but they didn’t think the appraisal was accurate and they weren’t going to come down,” said Chris Sullivan. “They weren’t in a hurry to sell.” A few years rolled by and the property stayed on the market. It dropped in price to $350,000, and again HARP reached out to GTRLC in 2016. “They had had some success down there with some

blight restoration projects and were really starting to gain some momentum, but they still wanted to do more with placemaking,” Sullivan said. “They needed an anchor, something to draw people.” A Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) grant was identified as an excellent potential source for funding for the project, but trust fund grants only cover up to 75 percent of a property’s appraised value. GTRLC also does not pay more than appraised value for projects. So when a new appraisal came back at $240,000 – still $110,000 shy of the new asking price – the project could have been dead in the water. Instead, the folks at HARP pledged to fundraise for the difference on their own, a sharp departure from the normal route of GTRLC fundraising on behalf of local municipalities to ensure the trust fund grant is matched. “It’s fairly unusual for us to not have to fundraise for these trust fund projects, so HARP gets a lot of credit here,” Sullivan said. “They committed to

This park also has important upland habitat. 128

Love the land. Pass it on.

doing it, and they followed through by stepping up and soliciting donations.” Sullivan was able to negotiate the price down to $300,000, and GTRLC helped Homestead Township apply for a trust fund grant in early 2017. The $222,000 grant was approved in December 2017, paving the way for the park’s acquisition. An additional $50,000 grant from Rotary Charities announced around the same time got the group closer still. “This feels like Christmas for our community,” HARP wrote in a Facebook post at the time. The property opened to the public the following year, though HARP continues to fundraise to develop several amenities, including trails, restrooms, a kayak/canoe launch, barrier-free fishing platforms and more as part of “Phase 2.” HARP has secured several additional grants – and hundreds of donations – for this critical next step. “We have heard nothing but good comments about these park developments from local residents,”

Johansson said in early 2021. “The excitement is growing and this will be manifested once work gets underway. We will ensure that people will be well informed and engaged as this ensues.” Sullivan is glad GTRLC was able to help Honor-area residents by securing the land for the new Platte River Park. “There are just not many opportunities left on the main stem of the Platte to protect significant frontage, and to do it right within the village limits of Honor is particularly exciting,” he said. Johansson said the community is deeply grateful to GTRLC for providing assistance with what is now actively becoming a dream come true. “We are extremely thankful and blessed to have GTRLC as a partner in this endeavor. GTRLC’s continuous support, especially with signage, will again be critical for the success of the project,” he said. “Thanks to GTRLC for being there for the sake of the people in this area.”

PHOTO BY DREW SMITH

Campaign for Generations

129

CHAPTER 2

130 PHOTO BY NATE RICHARDSON

Love the land. Pass it on.

HOLIDAY WOODS NATURAL AREA COUNT Y

Grand Traverse ACR ES

145 PR O J E C T C O S T

$878,457

K E Y F E AT U R E S

Aside from tremendous passive recreation potential, the property has substantial tracts of healthy forest and about 1,800 feet of frontage on Bakers Creek, a coldwater tributary of East Grand Traverse Bay. It also contains wetlands that connect to the much larger wetland complex on the south end of East Bay.

The dream was in peril. In 2017, a citizens group made news when it bought a beautiful 80-acre property along Four Mile Road in East Bay Township. Here, a wooded property already informally used by area residents would be enshrined as the latest public nature preserve, creating another wonderful opportunity for outdoor recreation in the greater Traverse City area.

This property is about more than recreation. It is also important for water quality in East Grand Traverse Bay. Campaign for Generations

“So many people from around the property had already been using it and really appreciated it because it’s such a beautiful, peaceful place,” said Jim Lamond, who chaired the citizens group. “East Bay Township is slated to grow significantly over the next 15 to 20 years, and from our standpoint, we saw this as a great opportunity for a park that people could appreciate for manyPHOTO years – almost like BY MICHAEL JORDAN a Central Park for our community.” 131

CHAPTER 2

Not long after a local developer who envisioned dozens of homesites on the property backed out of his plans, the citizens group sprang into action and was able to raise enough money to purchase it via a loan. The problem with loans, though, is that those pesky payments keep coming due. The newly dubbed “Holiday Woodlands” preserve was soon at risk of reverting to bank ownership, a situation that very likely would have placed the property on a fast track to residential development. “This became one of those things where everybody gets excited, but only two or three percent of them are going to step up and help out financially,” Lamond said. “Everyone loved the idea of keeping it natural, but raising the funds to keep it going became an issue. We were in trouble.” Around the same time, GTRLC had been in discussions with folks at the nearby Mt. Holiday ski area about acquiring a 65-acre parcel just south of the ski area (and just north of the citizens’

preserve). The ski area hosts the Mud, Sweat and Beers fat tire bike race, which through special agreement had used a portion of that property for the race for years. “Once we heard about the struggles the citizens group was having with their preserve, which was adjacent to this 65-acre piece targeted by Mt. Holiday, we started thinking about packaging them together as a single protection project,” said Chris Sullivan, director of land protection. “The two properties together created enough size and recreation potential to make it a good fit for the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund.” And so, with the support of East Bay Township (which agreed to be the recipient of the trust fund grant and own the property) the 145-acre Holiday Woods Natural Area was born. The trust fund approved a $584,000 grant in December of 2018. “I am thankful that the township is involved in areas of both conservation and development,”

PHOTO BY NATE RICHARDSON

132

Love the land. Pass it on.

said East Bay Township Supervisor Beth Friend. “The balance of these seemingly divergent paths complement one another perfectly in a community’s development.” Like Lamond, Friend is acutely aware of what many feel is in store for the east side of the greater Traverse City area, making preservation of open, natural spaces that much more important. “The Holiday Woods Natural Area gave us a chance to conserve a substantial amount of ecologically and recreationally important property in an area projected to receive some of the highest long-term growth pressures of anywhere across the state of Michigan,” she said. Another key player is Mt. Holiday itself, which agreed to handle maintenance duties of the new natural area. “Since the natural area is adjacent to our property, we felt there was a need for us to do our part,” said Mt. Holiday board member and immediate past president John Lynch. “When you use and enjoy a piece of land, I think there is an inherent desire to be responsible for its (care).”

Traverse Pie Company, kicked in a major gift that helped close out fundraising for the project. The Busleys, who live in Holiday Hills and are familiar with the property, have been longtime supporters of charitable causes that positively impact children. Their hope is that this new natural area will do just that. “It’s about good recreation for all of us, but for me I’m most excited about the next generation. This land could be used in so many ways to educate kids and help them grow,” Mike Busley said. “Teamwork, group events, things like that. It’s going to take a lot more than just the land to make that happen, but you have to have the land to start.” Glen Chown said the Conservancy is glad to have played a role. “This is an example of citizens identifying a treasured property and beginning the necessary steps to protect it for future generations,” Chown said. “Thanks to these dedicated individuals and the leadership of East Bay Township, the Conservancy was able to step in and help make this dream a reality.”

Lynch said everyone associated with Mt. Holiday is thrilled at the prospect of a new natural area, and he’s thankful that GTRLC’s leadership helped make it happen. “Our board cannot thank the GTRLC enough for spearheading this project. Making this land a public natural area had been a pipe dream for Mt. Holiday, Mud Sweat, & Beers and East Bay Township for several years, and there were times where we did not think this project would work,” Lynch said. “When GTRLC became involved, they were able to provide the guidance, leadership and resolve to make this natural area a reality. If it wasn’t for GTRLC, this natural area would not exist.” After a bumpy start, Lamond and the rest of the citizens group is overwhelmingly glad to have arrived at a smooth and happy ending. “This is exciting, and it’s a huge relief,” he said. “The property is safe, and that was the ultimate goal. We wanted to save this property that people really value, not only for now but into the future. We couldn’t have done this without the Conservancy.”

PHOTO BY NATE RICHARDSON

Mike and Denise Busley, owners of the Grand Campaign for Generations

133

CHAPTER 2

A view looking north over the Embayment Lakes property, with Rush and Long lakes and Lake Michigan in the distance. 134 PHOTO BY NOAH JURIK

Love the land. Pass it on.

EMBAYMENT LAKES COUNT Y

Benzie ACR ES

166 PR O J E C T C O S T

$1,214,897

K E Y F E AT U R E S

Important for water quality and wildlife habitat, this preserve sits between Rush and Long lakes in Benzie County, with significant undeveloped frontage on both.

Be nimble. It’s something GTRLC’s entire staff has always tried to do. This goes for land protection deals (with their frequent twists and turns), fundraising conversations and strategy, stewardship programs and much more. Make your plans, but know that those plans might change at the drop of a hat. Such was the case with the beautiful and ecologically significant Embayment Lakes Nature Preserve, which sits a mere stone’s throw from the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Benzie County. From a conservation standpoint, the property was and is a slam dunk. It sits between Rush and Long lakes, with about 500 feet of pristine, undeveloped frontage on the former and more than 1,500 feet of similar frontage on the latter. Add in nearly 4,000 feet of frontage on a tributary stream that flows into Rush, and you have an impressive tally of more than 6,000 feet of water frontage within the ecologically significant Platte River watershed. PHOTO BY MICHAEL JORDAN Campaign for Generations

135

CHAPTER 2

Many cold, clean groundwater streams also emerge, disappear and re-emerge throughout this magical property. Add significant swaths of forest and some upland habitat, and you have a property that’s also important for wildlife habitat and scenic views. “This is a really fantastic property for a lot of different reasons, but water quality is at the top of the list,” GTRLC Land Protection Director Chris Sullivan said. “In fact, it’s within an area that’s designated as the highest priority for permanent protection in the Platte River Watershed Management Plan.” From nearly the get-go, the plan was to protect the entire property, retain the eastern two thirds as a Conservancy preserve and transfer the western third of it to the National Park Service for inclusion in Sleeping Bear Dunes. That’s because that third falls within a legislative boundary designated years ago by the NPS for a corridor that would allow for another entryway of sorts into the park. Similar to state and national forests, this legislative boundary is bigger than the park in its current form, giving the park service leeway to purchase or otherwise acquire more land to add to the park. So GTRLC finalized protection of the land in 2020, ensuring this beautiful slice of Benzie County would never be developed. Plans to transfer it to the park service were still in place when, in the spring of 2021, a radio story aired regarding the possibility that the park service could eventually build a paved road through that legislative boundary. “We were assured early on that it would be a multi-use, non-motorized trail, and that is what we had conveyed to our donors,” Glen Chown said. “So to hear talk of a road was indeed quite concerning.” Within 48 hours, GTRLC’s management team decided that the Conservancy would retain the entire property. “We came to find out that there hadn’t been a formal amendment process within the park service to shift from an actual road to a non-motorized trail,” Chown said. “Given that uncertainty, we decided to just hang on to it.” 136

“So it was a big shift from our original plans, but it had to happen,” Chown continued. “Hats off to our donors, because they supported this so overwhelmingly, we were able to protect and retain 100 percent of the property.” The park service was completely understanding of the shift in plans, Chown said. “There were no hard feelings, no bad blood or anything like that. We’re not upset with the park Love the land. Pass it on.

PHOTO BY NATHAN LANDIK

Many streams rise and sink back into the earth on this magical property.

service, they’re not upset with us,” he said. “The likelihood that they’ll ever build a road like that is slim to none, but it’s just not something we were willing to be a part of, and they understood that.”

Cliff grew up in Maryland; Norma in New Hampshire. Not long after they met while both working in Connecticut, Cliff told Norma about this magical family vacation spot in….Michigan?

Two donors who provided significant support for the project were Cliff and Norma Fox, who gave a major lead gift to help GTRLC kick off fundraising for the project. They live full time in Connecticut, but have been coming for decades to a cottage that Cliff’s family built on nearby Platte Lake in the mid-1940s.

“He said to me that they had this place up in Michigan and it’s really gorgeous, and I said ‘Yeah right!’” Norma said with a chuckle. “But I came up here, and I was flabbergasted. It was just beautiful. And since that time I’ve really enjoyed being up here. It’s just lovely. And of course I share all of

Campaign for Generations

137

CHAPTER 2

Lake Michigan La

Platte River

ke M

Mud Lake

ich i

ga n

Lo on La ke

De ad s

tre

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

p Coo

Platte Lake Point Rd

Platte Rd

d er R

Long Lake

Birch

Crystal Lake

Wa rre n

Rush Lake

Rogers Rd

LEGEND GTRLC Nature Preserves

State Land

Other Protected - Private

Embayment Lakes Property

Sagaser Nature Preserve Sleeping Bear Owned Property Sleeping Bear Legislative Boundary

Cliff’s interests and concerns regarding the area.” For the Foxes, those concerns stem from a desire to keep northern Michigan as pristine as possible. Coming from far more populated areas, they see Northern Michigan’s beauty as something that needs to be actively protected from overdevelopment. “The population density is certainly lower up here, and that’s one of the reasons to get out there and save land while we can. As they say, God isn’t making any more of it,” Cliff said. “Whenever you’ve got a piece of river or lake frontage, eventually somebody is going to want to build on it.”

0.6

1.2 Miles

“That made us very sensitive to environmental protection and the importance of keeping the watershed as clean as possible,” Cliff said. The Foxes were familiar with the Embayment Lakes property, which isn’t far from their cottage, and were happy to play a role in protecting it. “Anytime we see something here that has environmental or conservation value, but that one day might be developed, we’re glad to see if there’s some way we can help,” Cliff said. “The more frontage you can keep pristine and not built on, the better things are going to be for wildlife, especially shy species like loons.”

Repeated incidents in the 1980s and 1990s of pollution from the Platte River state fish hatchery that led to aggressive algae blooms in Platte Lake also hammered home the fact that water quality is not something to be taken for granted.

138

Love the land. Pass it on.

PHOTO BY NATHAN LANDIK

A bald eagle nest in a remote area of the preserve. Campaign for Generations

139

CHAPTER 2

140 PHOTO PHOTOBY BYDREW NOAH SMITH JURIK

Love the land. Pass it on.

MOUNT MINNIE COUNT Y

Benzie ACR ES

62 PR O J E C T C O S T

$1,235,833

K E Y F E AT U R E S

Occupies the majority of the isthmus between Platte and Little Platte lakes. Its thickly wooded hills rise nearly 140 feet above the lakes. It has more than 1,500 feet of undeveloped frontage on Little Platte Lake and six acres of highly diverse riparian wetlands.

The twists and turns were almost too much for Chris Sullivan to bear. The deal was on. Then it was off. Then someone died. Then someone else died. Such was the way of things as Sullivan worked to secure protection of a gorgeous, densely wooded strip of land named (for reasons no one seems to know for certain) Mount Minnie. “This was definitely one of the strangest projects in my entire career,” Sullivan said. “Thankfully it had a happy ending.”

Looking southeast over the preserve. Campaign for Generations

Mount Minnie sits between Platte and Little Platte lakes in Benzie County. It’s not one you’d necessarily notice as you drive along Deadstream Road – which forms its southern edge – but it’s unmistakable from either lake. That’s because its lush green hills tower nearly 140 feet above the water, marking a stark and beautiful contrast with its decidedly flat surroundings. PHOTO BY MICHAEL JORDAN 141

CHAPTER 2

Lush, healthy woods cover most of the preserve.

The story began in 2018, when local resident Sally Casey, who lives across the street from Mount Minnie, sent a letter to the property owner asking her to sell or donate it to the Conservancy. Casey’s family had enjoyed the property for generations, soaking up its stunning natural beauty in all seasons.

Delia Arroyo-Schell – to preserve the property.

“It’s gorgeous every time you go up there. In the summer you look down the isthmus, and in one direction is Sleeping Bear Dunes and in the other is nothing but beautiful woods,” she said. “And then late in the fall when the leaves drop, at the very top you get a clear view of both big Platte and Little Platte. And the wildlife is just amazing up there. It’s such a special place.”

This led to a late summer meeting on the property between Chris Sullivan, Arroyo-Schell and her close

After rumblings that the owner might sell or subdivide the property, Casey felt compelled to directly ask the owner – a downstate woman named 142

“I had to do something, and I took a chance and wrote that letter,” she said. “That property has always been a part of me, and it would have just killed me to see houses up there. It really would have.”

“IT’S GORGEOUS EVERY TIME YOU GO UP THERE. IN THE SUMMER YOU LOOK DOWN THE ISTHMUS, AND IN ONE DIRECTION IS SLEEPING BEAR DUNES AND IN THE OTHER IS NOTHING BUT BEAUTIFUL WOODS” Love the land. Pass it on.

few years prior, Harder said, but weren’t necessarily firm on that number. “Ron said that if there was some way we could honor Delia on the property, they might be able to sell it to us at a discount, even half off,” Sullivan recalled. So everyone parted ways with the plan that Sullivan would send a proposal sometime in the coming months. GTRLC’s land staff evaluated the property and decided it was more than deserving of protection. In addition to the beautifully wooded hills so important to the area’s scenic character, it has more than 1,500 feet of undeveloped frontage on Little Platte Lake and six acres of highly diverse riparian wetlands. “We got pretty excited about this one,” Glen Chown said. “Not only are the conservation values tremendous, but we knew the terrain and the potential views gave us a really good opportunity to create a truly spectacular trail system.” Chown had visited the property years ago, in 2003, when Casey, who was a teacher at Old Mission Elementary, took a group of children including Chown’s son, William - on a field trip to the property. PHOTO BY DREW SMITH

friend Ron Harder. Arroyo-Schell, who was 85, stayed in her vehicle as Harder led Sullivan around the property. As they toured the acreage, Sullivan was flabbergasted. “It’s really surprising, because I’ve driven down that stretch of Deadstream Road a hundred times. There’s all of these cottages along Platte Lake, and a steep hill along the other side of the road,” Sullivan said. “I had just assumed once you got up over that hill there were probably a bunch more cottages on Little Platte Lake. But you get back in there and it’s much wilder than you think, and there are these wooded hills, these rolling hardwood hills with large mature trees – it was beautiful.” Harder said they weren’t in a position to donate the land, but he and Sullivan discussed a potential purchase. They had it appraised for $1.2 million a

Campaign for Generations

In line with terms of his discussion with Harder, Sullivan sent an official offer of $600,000 by mail in February of 2019. He then waited. And waited some more. Finally, a few months later, he got a brusque voicemail from Harder saying they weren’t going to sell the property to the Conservancy. Not deterred, Sullivan sent another letter and followed up with a few more phone calls. No response. Then, in June of that year, Sullivan discovered that Arroyo-Schell had passed away. This, of course, potentially changed everything. With guidance from GTRLC friend and supporter Linda Kehr (an attorney), Sullivan was able to track down a copy of her will – which left everything to Harder. Harder, who heard Sullivan was trying to reach him, called Sullivan to discuss matters in July. By the end of that conversation – with Sullivan reminding him of their first chat – Harder re-committed to selling the property to GTRLC. “He came all the way back around and was on board,” Sullivan said. “He said he just needed 143

CHAPTER 2

time for some probate matters to settle, and that I should call him in January after some scheduled hearings.” Come January, Harder’s number was disconnected and he had again fallen totally off the radar. And that’s when Sullivan – during a simple google search – found Harder’s October obituary. “Every time I thought we had this deal set, the world shifted 180 agrees,” Sullivan said. “It was really incredible. Lots of twists and turns.” Through more digging, Sullivan found out that decisions on the estate passed to Harder’s daughter. Sullivan reached out to her, but received no response. At that point he decided watchful waiting might be the best path forward. “I contacted Sally Casey, along with Suzy Voltz, who’s a realtor in the area, and put them both on notice,” he said. “I told both of them to let me know if they saw a sign go up or detected any other potential sale activity – we really didn’t want this one to slip through the cracks.” As it turns out, one of Voltz’ associates, Jon Zickert, was approached by Harder’s daughter for the sale. Zickert contacted Sullivan and a deal was reached within a weekend. The Conservancy agreed to near the asking price. “It seemed a little surreal that after all of the difficulties and uncertainties about getting to that point, we had the deal wrapped up in about 48 hours,” Sullivan said. “It was a good feeling.” “Good feeling” doesn’t even begin to scratch the surface for Sally Casey. Her grandchildren are the fifth generation of her family to explore the wooded hills of Mount Minnie. There’s still a large stone where her mother used to sit and write poetry while overlooking both Platte lakes. Her grandfather hunted there. For her, the connection to family is deep and strong. “I told my daughter that now I can die in peace, because now it’s going to be like that forever,” she said. A limited amount of trail will be in place for the preserve’s planned opening in late 2021, with more planned in the future. The preserve towers between Platte and Little Platte lakes. 144

Love the land. Pass it on.

PHOTO BY NOAH JURIK

Campaign for Generations

145

CHAPTER 2

PHOTO BY TODD VIGLAND

THE GORGE NATURE SANCTUARY COUNT Y

Grand Traverse

This 18-acre property is equal parts visually stunning and ecologically critical. An ice-cold branch of Acme Creek emerges from a slope in the depths of a roughly 100-foot ravine, spilling through an undeveloped forest of hemlock, pine and hardwoods. Of the six branches of Acme Creek, three arise on already protected land owned by the state. Protecting this additional branch was a tremendous step toward further safeguarding water quality in East Grand Traverse Bay, the local source of public drinking water. In addition to providing substantial water quality benefits, this project protects land that is of tremendous value to the surrounding community. While the land had been privately owned and not formally open to the public, locals visited for many years and considered it special. The mosscovered hills, flowing creek and deep ravine create a peaceful and unique environment unlike any other in the area. Founding GTRLC board member Wayne Kladder had long encouraged the Conservancy to secure long-term protection of this special place and made the lead gift to kick off fundraising.

146

Love the land. Pass it on.

PHOTO BY DREW SMITH

HIGH BLUFF DUNES NATURE SANCTUARY

GTRLC owes a tremendous debt of gratitude to Dr. Gary Shanker and the Terry and Constance Timm Family Trust after they donated a remarkable property nestled between M-22 and Lake Michigan in Benzie County in late 2019. What is now called the High Bluff Dunes Nature Sanctuary is a 22-acre property that features open dunes, a coastal moraine bluff and boreal forest habitats, which together represent a high-quality example of a perched Great Lakes dune system. The property is home to Pitcher’s Thistle (a stateand federally-threatened species) and provides important habitat for the state-threatened Lake Huron Locust.

COUNT Y

Benzie

This undeveloped property is also home to a wide array of endemic plants that grow only on Great Lakes dunes and serves as important feeding and resting habitat for migratory birds, while contributing to cherished scenic views from both M-22 and Lake Michigan. The property was previously protected with a conservation easement, but the easement included a building envelope that allows for construction of a home. Until the generous donation of the property, GTRLC was fundraising to purchase it and maintain it as a sanctuary, a move that would extinguish the homesite, allow sensitive species to thrive and preserve scenic views.

Campaign for Generations

147

CHAPTER 2

PHOTO BY NOAH JURIK

RAILROAD POINT ADDITION

This project presented an exciting opportunity to add a critical inholding to a beloved community natural area, protecting natural resources enhancing public recreation.

COUNT Y

GTRLC worked with Benzie County to create the Railroad Point Natural Area more than 20 years ago, and then helped the county expand it on multiple occasions. The natural area now encompasses 207 acres and is a favorite recreation area along the shores of Crystal Lake.

Benzie

Now, as part of the Campaign for Generations, GTRLC helped the county acquire a key 9.34-acre inholding long sought by county officials. Because this inholding separates two disjunct portions of the natural area, zcquiring it and adding it to the natural area protects wildlife corridors, simplifies property management, preserves scenic views and protects against other harms associated with the potential residential development of the inholding. When coupled with the 1,070 feet of frontage on the adjacent state-owned property to the immediate west of Railroad Point at the Crystal Lake Outlet, addition of this inholding completes a 4,300 foot contiguous strip of protected public property on Crystal Lake. This addition also contains a stretch of the beloved Betsie Valley Trail. GTRLC helped Benzie County apply to the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund to cover a portion of the project cost, then helped raise matching funds. 148

Love the land. Pass it on.

PHOTO BY NATE RICHARDSON

WINTERGREEN WOODS NATURE PRESERVE COUNT Y

Grand Traverse

The Wintergreen Woods Nature Preserve protects 22 gorgeous acres adjacent to Acme Township’s popular Sayler Park. Initial plans focused on fundraising to purchase a 9-acre parcel to add to the current park, but when a generous landowner gave GTRLC an adjacent 13-acre parcel, the Conservancy decided to retain ownership of both parcels and open a new preserve. This preserve includes striking natural pine forest and an abundance of its namesake aromatic shrub, along with populations of other plant species in the heath family. These small, tough evergreen plants (wintergreen, partridge berry, pipsessewa and others) do well in the acidic understory of pine forests. Protecting this ecologically rich parcel will help GTRLC add to what has become an impressive mosaic of protected land along the busy U.S. 31 corridor between Acme Township and Elk Rapids. Because the Wintergreen Woods preserve sits immediately east and south of Sayler Park, it effectively doubled the land open to the public in the vicinity. This beautiful preserve is now a wonderful place for local families to relax and learn about nature.

Campaign for Generations

149

CHAPTER 2

PHOTO BY KATHY PARTIN

TORCH RIDGE CONSERVATION EASEMENT COUNT Y

Antrim

Not to be confused with the Torch River Ridge Nature Preserve, this easement protects one of the largest remaining privately held parcels near beautiful Torch Lake in central Antrim County. Although it isn’t on the water, it contains a mile-long ridge that looms over the east side of the lake. The same features that make Torch Ridge ecologically important also made it a prime target for development. Because homes have already been built on the vast majority of shoreline parcels along much of Torch Lake, properties like this are attractive to developers because they provide the next best thing to waterfront property: high grounds that offer exquisite views of the lake. A development plan, completed as part of our appraisal process, shows the potential for dozens of home sites on the property, including as many as 24 along the ridge itself. Although the land remains in private hands and isn’t open to the public, we’ll all benefit from its protection. The property serves a very important role in filtering and cleansing water that enters Torch Lake, a role that would be severely diminished if it were to be developed. Protection also preserves the beautiful natural view enjoyed by those who love the beauty of Torch Lake.

150

Love the land. Pass it on.

PHOTO BY DEKE LUDWIG

ARCADIA MARSH LAND ADDITIONS

In addition to the wonderful universal access trail built at Arcadia Marsh (see page 234), the Campaign for Generations included four separate land additions that added nearly 40 acres to this tremendous property.

COUNT Y

Aside from adding critical wildlife habitat and protecting against the impact that nearby development may have had on the marsh, these additions allow GTRLC’s team to better control the impact of invasive species on the sensitive marsh ecosystem.

Manistee

One addition was an inholding surrounded on three sides by GTRLC property and by M-22 on the fourth side. It includes 550 feet of frontage on Bowens Creek, along with areas of riparian wetland. A single family residence on the site was removed in early 2021. Although there is some ecological value to this parcel, the primary conservation values are the elimination of residential use, and of the possibility of a much more impactful future commercial use. Removal of the house will also expand the scenic vista across the marsh from M-22. Additionally, since this parcel lies adjacent to the existing undersized M-22 parking lot, it was the perfect location to expand parking to accommodate the current and expected future use of Arcadia Marsh.

Campaign for Generations

151

CHAPTER 2

PHOTO BY NATHAN LANDICK

INTERMEDIATE LAKE SANCTUARY

Three separate parcels totaling more than 130 critical acres were acquired as part of the campaign to form this sanctuary, which protects water quality and wildlife habitat.

COUNT Y

Combined, these properties protect nearly three quarters of a mile of shoreline along Intermediate Lake. Two of the three parcels are among the largest undeveloped parcels on the entire lake, and both are composed largely of high-quality wetlands.

Antrim

From a water quality standpoint, protection of parcels like these could not be more important. Undeveloped shoreline in general – and especially shoreline with wetland components – serves the critical role of filtering surface water as it enters the lake. Aside from tremendous water quality benefits, this undeveloped shoreline habitat is also critical for a variety of plants, animals and birds. The northernmost property in this sanctuary has been identified by a bird conservation group as the most suitable loon nesting habitat in the northern portion of the lake. Most quality habitat in that area (and indeed throughout the whole lake) has been lost to development, leaving the local nesting pairs with few options.

152

Love the land. Pass it on.

PHOTO BY ANGIE BOUMA

FINCH CREEK NATURE SANCTUARY COUNT Y

Antrim

This spectacular 56-acre parcel safeguards critical wildlife habitat, builds on previously protected land and is extremely important from a water quality standpoint. It features 1,400 feet of frontage on Finch Creek and 1,100 feet of frontage on Crow Creek, along with significant amounts of riparian wetlands and multiple groundwater springs that serve as headwaters of Crow Creek. It also contains high-quality mesic northern forest and rich conifer swamp, habitats that are of critical importance to a wide variety of flora and fauna species. Both of these habitat types are listed as vulnerable by the state of Michigan. Protection of these two forest types and unique headwater features benefit beloved interior forest bird species found on the property, including Scarlet Tanager, Ovenbird and Red-eyed Vireo, as well as dozens of other bird species that use this wildlife corridor as a passageway to adjacent or nearby natural lands within this ecological hotspot of Antrim County. More than 15 species of ferns, mature cedars and many other plants and animals also are present. Protection of this sanctuary will also help safeguard water quality within the beloved Grass River Natural Area, a 1,492-acre natural area that sits just over a mile downstream from this parcel. Finch Creek flows from this property down to the GRNA, so protection of its upper reaches helps protect GRNA and the larger Chain of Lakes.

Campaign for Generations

153

CHAPTER 3

Farmland Protection

The West Michigan Fruit Belt, which hugs the Lake Michigan coast throughout GTRLC’s entire service area, has been identified as one of the most unique – and one of the most threatened – agricultural regions in the entire country. The diverse farms that dot our landscape continuously enrich our lives by providing fresh, local foods and unparalleled vistas. They also contribute to our local economy by providing thousands of jobs and encouraging agricultural tourism. With development pressure higher than ever before, these farms are also among the most at-risk properties in our entire region. What follows are the stories of those farmers who decided to forever protect their land as part of the Campaign for Generations.

Campaign for Generations

155 PHOTO BY NATE RICHARDSON

MISSION PENINSULA PROTECTED LANDS

Dr od Wo

re S ho

Tompk ins Rd

d Protection Projects

nificant natural, scenic and farm lands, and advancing land stewardship, now and for future generations

Swaney Rd Dr od Wo

re S ho

Wh is pe ri n g T rl

Peninsula Dr

Eimen Rd

! ! ! !

Kroupa Rd !

wR d

d !

oke

2. !

Phelps Rd

r D a ul ns ni

1. Coulter Farms (North & South) 2. Weatherholt Farm

3. Twin Maples Farm 4. Stanek Farm

Blue Water Rd

Sff Rh

Nelson Rd

Blue Water Rd

Cra

Seven Hills Rd

ig R d C ra

ig R d

ip Sh R

View Rd

Seven Hills Rd

r D u la ns ni Pe

Island

Seven Hills Rd

Blue Water Rd

Gray Rd

Gray Rd r

1. Bluewater Farm D

ns ni Pe

Island

View Rd r

nR d

Protected Land Open to the Public

LEGEND W il

Blue Water Rd

Protected Land Including Farmland, Privately Owned

Island

View Rd Nelson Rd

d R ff lu B d R ff

1. Wilson Farm

Lake Ann RdE W McKi nleyL AK

hor e Rd

Cra

ig R d

Cra

Nelson Rd

ig R d

ho re

lL ak es

Gray Rd

nR d

Campaign Farmland Projects Featured in Publication. Other Farmland Projects completed during the Campaign for Generations

s ne

lso

View Rd

Leorie Vineyards

Island

ns Pe

East Shore Rd

Unprotected Land within Agricultural Preservation Area

Na ti o na

Center Rd

W McKinley Rd

Agricultural Preservation Area

yH ol lo

R an m ip Sh

Seven Hills Rd

Peninsu la Dr

d R an m ip

Kroupa4.Rd

Kroupa Rd

LAKE MICHIGAN

Eimen Rd

low

yH ol

oke

wR d

Phelps Rd

Kroupa Rd

yH ol lo

oke

Peninsu la Dr

yH o ll oke

Center Rd

Eimen Rd

1. Bagley Farm

Peninsu la Dr

Wh isp eri

Old Mission Rd

Center Rd

ng Trl

Fo re st A

Old Mission Rd Center Rd

Fo re st A

W h is pe ri n g T rl

Tompkins Rd

Swaney Rd

Kroupa Fo re st

PRESCOTT LAKE

Swane y Rd

PRESCOTT LAKE

Swane y Rd

PRESCOTT LAKE

Old Mission Rd

Dr o od re W

Swaney Rd

Fo re st A

Swane y Rd

Swaney Rd

S ho

PRESCOTT LAKE

Tompk ins Rd Swaney Rd

W h ispe ri n g T rl

OLD MISSION PENINSULA FARMLAND PROTECTION

Phelps

Lon g

Island

View Rd

Peninsu la Dr

s Rd

a Rd ve

OTHER FARMLAND PROTECTION PROJECTS

Ellsworth

Rocky Top Farm & Preserve

LEGEND GTRLC Nature Preserves Other Public Land Protected and/or Managed by GTRLC

Seven Hills Rd

GRAND

Central Lake

Privately Owned GTRLC Protected Lands, including Farmland (not open to the public)

TRAVERSE

Campaign Farmland Projects Featured in Publication. Blue Water Rd

BAY

Other Farmland Projects completed during the Campaign for Generations Other Protected Land

Bellaire

Nelson Rd

Lake Bell aire

Kewadin

Grass River Natural Area Elk Rapids

El k Lake Torch Lake

Interwater Farm

Alden

Rapid City Sk

Acme

Traverse City

Williamsburg

Kalkaska

CHAPTER 3

In this photo, looking west, the northern portion of the Coulter farm is to the right along Eimen Road, with the 158 southern portion in the upper center along Peninsula Drive. The Weatherholt farm is on the left.

Love the land. Pass it on.

COULTER FARM (NORTH & SOUTH) COUNT Y

Grand Traverse ACR ES

37 PR O J E C T C O S T

$967,415

K E Y F E AT U R E S

Prime Old Mission Peninsula farmland adjacent to other protected farms. High-quality soils, drainage, elevation and more make it excellent for fruit farming. Also identified as a critical viewshed property by Peninsula Township. Protection allowed this farmland to transition to young farmers.

Protection was not the predetermined fate of the beautiful orchard that Lew and Ginny Coulter farmed near one of the highest points on the iconic Old Mission Peninsula. Lew is a conservationist at heart, evidenced by his 23 years of service as executive director of the Grand Traverse Conservation District and time spent as a GTRLC board member. And Ginny, whose roots on Old Mission stretch back more than 150 years to the days when the Dohms and Kroupas first plowed the land there, was always proud that portions of the orchard had been farmed by her parents and grandparents before her. But for many years, the Coulters’ thoughts about this special land were more pragmatic than emotional. Conservation is nice, of course, and family history is always special. As their thoughts drifted toward life Campaign for Generations

PHOTO BY NOAH JURIK

159

CHAPTER 3

after work, though, it was easy to see the dollar signs associated with their prime Old Mission property. “We didn’t have our mind set on preserving it, even when I was on the Conservancy board. It was just the economic reality,” Lew said. “It was our retirement, and for quite a while there we figured we’d sell this for top dollar.” But the land, as it often does, has a strong pull that makes any such decision very difficult. “As I’d walk up out of the orchard at sunset and look over what we’ve got, I couldn’t help but think about how special this place is,” Lew said. “Then my heart would swing in the other direction.” That other direction – the one of permanent protection, now and for future generations – won the battle when the Coulters sold conservation easements on the farm to GTRLC and then sold the land itself to younger farmers. This deal allowed the Coulters to get some money for the land while simultaneously making the land much more affordable (land is more affordable once its development rights are extinguished) for the next generation. “We were so happy to have the opportunity to get enough out of it to see ourselves to the finish line while at the same time passing it on to some younger people,” Lew said. Those younger people are Adele Wunsch, who bought a 21-acre portion of the farm, and Raul Gomez and Emma Smith, who bought a 16-acre portion. As Ginny Coulter’s niece, Wunsch shares those deep, multi-generational farming roots (and adds more of her own from the other side of her family). Raul, born in a small village in Mexico, came to the area as a young boy when his mother began working on the Wunsch family farms. The Coulters know their farm will be in good hands. “I’m 72 and Ginny is sixty something, and we just weren’t putting the energy into it anymore that it deserved and needed to be a good farm,” Lew said. “Passing it on to some younger people who have the energy and the vision is pretty exciting.”

PHOTO BY RICK KANE

“How can we make it profitable and more efficient?” Wunsch, her brother Isaiah Wunsch and Gomez – who was treated like a third child by Adele and Isaiah’s father Josh Wunsch, who passed away in 2018, and mother Barb – all have a hand in running the various Wunsch family farming interests that are spread across the peninsula. But the land they are buying from the Coulters will be the first pieces they’ve acquired on their own, and that’s an intensely special feeling.

Both Wunsch and Gomez plan to upgrade their portions of the farm, planting new cherry varieties and high-density honeycrisp apples.

“I think if you farm long enough, and manage farmland long enough, your end goal is to farm your own land and own your own farm,” Gomez said. “So it’s definitely exciting to be able to do that, and to be able to say that we have a farm.”

“We want to think about what’s next,” Gomez said.

That each piece was restricted with a conservation

160

Love the land. Pass it on.

Left to right, Lew and Ginny Coulter, Adele Wunsch, Emma Smith and Raul Gomez.

easement was critical, as it made the land affordable. Access to affordable farmland is a massive barrier for both new farmers entering the business and even multi-generational farmers who want to continue working in the fields. “It would absolutely have not been affordable for us without the easement,” said Smith, Gomez’ partner. “Neither one of us have inherited wealth, so it would have been impossible for us at this stage in our lives.” Part of the problem is that farmers taking over a piece of land almost always have to make major capital investments – new trees and irrigation, for instance – in order to whip it into shape. This is particularly true of tree fruit farms, where many owners speeding towards retirement stop making those sorts of investments. Those looming costs

Campaign for Generations

combined with record-high land prices create a daunting mix that keeps many new farmers away. “Not only are the capital expenses huge, but the market prices for cherries have not been great in the past few years, so we’re all carrying some economic risk, along with weather risk and other risks,” Wunsch said. “So for a young farmer to look at paying off the land and make the necessary improvements with profitability that’s already questionable, that’s really hard.” Considering all this, Wunsch, Gomez and Smith are grateful for GTRLC’s role in protecting land on Old Mission and throughout the region. “Right now, one thing we’re missing is young people getting into agriculture, and I think this program will

161

CHAPTER 3

PHOTO BY RICK KANE

help with that,” Gomez said. “You’re able to buy land at a reasonable price, and as a young farmer that’s very important.” “It’s been really great to have the Conservancy backing farmers on the Old Mission Peninsula, especially as land prices have skyrocketed and the pressures of development are higher than ever,” Wunsch said. “We wouldn’t be able to sustain this business and this community without the Conservancy.” Glen Chown is glad farmland protection plays a big role in fostering the farmers of tomorrow. “It’s all about the next generation,” he said. “The last thing we want is some of the highest quality farmland in the world sitting there fallow because there’s nobody to farm it.” Beyond making the land affordable, of course, a 162

conservation easement’s prime benefit is preserving and protecting land forever. The Coulter farm, sitting on one of the highest points of the peninsula and with views of Grand Traverse Bay, would have been a very attractive place for housing. “The same qualities that make these the best properties for farming make them the best properties for development,” Chown said. “There’s not a lot of undeveloped shoreline left, and the pressure now is shifting inland, and the next best thing are the farms like this that have these spectacular views.” In terms of farmland, land protection also means the preservation of spaces where fresh, local food can always be grown. “We’re grateful for what tourism has done for the region, but you know the old saying – no farms, no food,” said Smith, who grew up in Leelanau County. Love the land. Pass it on.

Gomez is working to replace the trees on his portion of the farm.

“We want to continue to contribute to that by making sure that land is available for generations to come to produce more of the food that we need.” Wunsch, Gomez and Smith also all spoke of a desire to preserve and perpetuate the region’s incredible farming heritage on behalf of those who came before them – and those who will follow. “Growing up, the fruit that we were harvesting was off of trees that my grandpa planted. And the crew that was coming up were people that my grandparents knew when they were teenagers, and now they were bringing their kids and their grandkids,” Wunsch said. Gomez, the son of migrant workers, also hopes to continue a strong leadership role for migrant workers – many of them Mexican – working on the region’s fruit farms. Smith, who called Gomez the hardest worker she’s ever known, is tremendously proud of him. Campaign for Generations

“The workers we have on the farm, they really respect him and look up to him. He’s the go-to person for any issues that they might have, from helping to translate medical documents or other day-to-day things,” she said. “I think he is such a leader for that diverse population, and I hope that people will see him be as successful as he has been, and I’m hoping that can lead to more diversity in our area in the future.” Chown is also particularly proud that GTRLC could play a role in Gomez’ dream. “This is a community that wants to be seen as more welcoming, a community that celebrates its diversity, and I’m so glad that we are able to help open the door to Raul in this way,” Chown said. “He’s one of the most knowledgeable and hardest workers around, and this whole transaction is a celebration.” 163

CHAPTER 3

164 PHOTO BY NOAH JURIK

Love the land. Pass it on.

INTERWATER FARMS COUNT Y

Grand Traverse ACR ES

152 PR O J E C T C O S T

$596,000

K E Y F E AT U R E S

Scenic and productive fruit farm within Acme Township’s Agricultural Preservation Zone. In addition to growing quality apples, cherries and peaches, the farm is adjacent to Petobego Creek Natural Area and serves to protect and connect vital wetland corridors.

Sometimes it seemed like Jack White had more hats than anyone could count. A towering and respected figure in the Antrim County community, White was one of the longest-serving members of that county’s board of commissioners. He racked up more than three decades of continuous service, tackling countless issues in an effort to improve life for county residents. He also logged time on the Elk Rapids school board, as well as with the Masons, Shriners, Order of the Eastern Star and with his church board of elders. “He just felt he should be involved, and he really wanted to be,” said Barbara White, his wife of nearly 65 years. “He just wanted to do better for the community.” But while he deeply enjoyed his community service, there was simply nothing he enjoyed more than farming. As the third generation of farmers to till the land in Antrim and Grand Traverse counties, CampaignFarm, for Generations Sun sets on Interwater with East Grand Traverse Bay in the distance.

165

CHAPTER 3

it was in his blood. But even that might not fully account for the deep sense of pride and satisfaction Jack gained from the entire process, from planting seedlings to harvesting boxes of sun-ripened fruit. “Even if you take a day like today, when you’re hoping that you have the right pollination weather and you’re dealing with a bit of anxiety, he always liked it all and he always had a positive attitude,” his daughter, Joann Brown, said during the 2021 spring weather roller coaster. “He was never a downer about anything. He really loved everything about it.”

and extinguish townships’ development rights, thereby permanently protecting farmland from development. The 152-acre farm grows high-density apples, cherries and peaches, many of which can be found at farmers’ markets throughout the region. It’s adjacent to Petobego Creek Natural Area, so protection of this farm was very important for water quality. The deeply rooted perennial crops grown on this farm (and others like it) prevent soil erosion, preserve groundwater recharge and prevent harmful surface runoff.

“He passed away at 89, and he was out there on the tractor up until he passed,” Brown said. “There just wasn’t anything that was going to get him away from it.”

“With the completion of this project, nearly 1,000 acres of farmland have now been permanently protected through the Acme PDR program, with around 650 more acres currently in negotiation and pending,” said Laura Rigan, GTRLC’s Farmland Protection Specialist. “This farm was a high priority for protection in regards to both agriculture and natural features, and I am so glad we got it done.”

Thanks to early efforts by Jack, Barbara and their children, a gorgeous and productive farm in Acme Township (not far south of the Antrim County line) will now be forever protected as part of that township’s Purchase of Development Rights (PDR) program. As with Peninsula Township’s program, Acme’s uses a voter-approved millage to raise money so the township can purchase

The deal took a few years to put together, and unfortunately Jack died before it closed. But he knew it was headed in the right direction and would have had tremendous satisfaction knowing the farm – which he bought and added to the family holdings about 30 years ago – would be both protected forever and serve as an example of the benefits of farmland protection.

Jack died in 2018, a year shy of his ninth decade. But make no mistake – you really couldn’t consider him retired.

PHOTO BY RICK KANE

Apple blossoms at Interwater 166

Love the land. Pass it on.

PHOTO BY RICK KANE

Joann Brown and Barbara White hold a picture of Jack out in the orchard.. Campaign for Generations

167

CHAPTER 3

“He’d have been real happy,” Barbara said. “He didn’t quite make it, but he’d have been really happy.” Half of the cost of purchasing the development rights was covered by the USDA’s Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP), a program that is funding GTRLC and other partners in the area with the goal of saving farmland and restoring waterways. Another 25 percent was funded by Acme’s PDR program and the White family donated the final 25 percent in value. “Because we were working through the new RCPP program, there was a big learning curve,” Rigan said. “I commend the White’s patience and cooperation throughout the process.”

Brown said farmland protection is critically important to the future of agriculture in the increasingly crowded Grand Traverse region. “It’s just hard seeing more and more houses go up and less and less available farmland. With farmland preservation, you’re assured to have that farmland for a long time,” she said. “Even if you do have to sell it, at least you know it’s going to be farmed and it’s not going to be made into another subdivision.” And the loss of farmland is about more than the loss of fresh produce, farming jobs or even a way of life, Brown said. “You lose a lot of the beauty, too,” she said.

PHOTO BY NOAH JURIK

168

Love the land. Pass it on.

In an early letter to the township and GTRLC in which Jack expressed a desire to protect his farm, he spoke of it as a “critical piece of the puzzle that could help solidify the northern end of the township’s Agricultural Preservation Zone.” Brown spoke of the importance of having large blocks of protected, working farmland, in large part because – to quote neighboring farmer Rick Sayler, another fixture in the Acme farming community – “farmers don’t make good neighbors.” “We have 15 acres right near some homes, and farming it is always difficult,” Brown said. “Everyone thinks it would be real neat to live right next to a farm, but they don’t always realize the work we have to put into it” – work that can be

noisy or smelly, or at all hours of the day and night in peak periods. Brown farms the now-protected acreage with a nephew and her teenage children, Sage and Leland. She wants them to go off to school and get their education, but she hopes that one day they come back to farm. Like her dad, she’s got it in her blood – and she hopes they do, too. “Wherever you are on your land, it’s nice to just take a step back, take a deep breath and say wow, this is awesome,” she said. “I love it here.”

Interwater has long been known for high quality fruit. Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy | 25th Anniversary

169

CHAPTER 3

BAGLEY MEMORIAL EASEMENT COUNT Y

Grand Traverse ACR ES

42 PR O J E C T C O S T

$406,338

K E Y F E AT U R E S

This Old Mission Peninsula farm was a very high priority for protection due to its proximity to other protected farms, soil quality, cropland suitability and a desire to protect the viewshed along a Pure Michigan scenic byway.

After many years in the Big Apple, Ted Bagley decided it was time to return home. A member of the rapidly disappearing “Greatest Generation,” Bagley ended up in the hustle and bustle of New York City after service in the U.S. Army Air Corps training as an aerial gunner during the war years. His professional life in sales and marketing for a drug firm took him to corporate headquarters in New York, a stark departure from his roots in quiet northern Michigan. It was in New York that he met and married his wife Lucille, an accomplished vocalist and pianist who performed with various orchestras in multiple venues, including the famed Carnegie

Love the land. Pass it on.

170 PHOTO BY NOAH JURIK

Campaign for Generations

171

Looking east over the Bagley farm.

CHAPTER 3

Ted and Lucille Bagley.

Hall. Ted became the youngest partner in a leading New York management consulting firm and published a bestselling book for corporate business professionals.

a turn-of-the century farmhouse there. This residence, dubbed “Homeview,” served as their base of operations for a fresh round of community involvement in their “new” home.

But it was the pull of Old Mission that brought Ted (and Lucille) back to Michigan after retirement. Ted’s roots there were almost as deep as possible. His greatgrandfather, Jerome Mortimer Pratt, was the very first keeper of the Mission Point lighthouse.

Lucille served for nine years as a board member of the Traverse Symphony Orchestra and as a founding director of the Old Mission Peninsula Historical Society. Ted was a devoted member of the Rotary Club, a board member of the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation and of the Music House Museum, and first president of the historical society, among other involvement.

Subsequently, Ted’s grandfather and father owned and operated the largest commercial dock on the peninsula at what is now Haserot Beach. They became steamship agents during a time when there were few roads throughout the region, with access primarily by boat. Ted and Lucille bought a beautiful piece of farmland only a short distance from the lighthouse and subsequently restored and moved

172

Foreshadowing his later gift, Ted was also a founding member of the Old Mission Conservancy, a group later absorbed by the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy in the 1990s. He was directly involved in most of the early conservation easements on the peninsula.

Love the land. Pass it on.

Lucille died in 2009, and Ted died in 2017. In his will, Ted instructed that his own 42 acre property be protected with a conservation easement. GTRLC handled this protection before the estate sold the land. “This a phenomenal legacy for Ted and Lucille, particularly Ted. It honors his family history, it honors his role in the formation of the Old Mission Conservancy and his role as a pivotal figure in the history of conservation on Old Mission Peninsula,” Glen Chown said. “Ted and Lucille loved the Old Mission Peninsula so deeply, and they left a priceless gift for future generations.” And the Bagleys’ land isn’t just any land. Its sweeping views, for one, made it a high priority for protection. “You get north of Old Mission Road and you’re starting to think about getting to the lighthouse, and the 45th parallel at the tip of Old Mission Peninsula, and you come up that hill, and you’ve got views both ways to both bays,” Chown said. “It’s amazing. It’s sort of a gateway to the whole lighthouse area, which is fitting with Ted’s heritage.” Tom Dalluge, who now owns the portion of the farm with the house (Township Supervisor and farmland protection proponent Rob Manigold bought the other portion), said those views are nothing short of magnificent. “I don’t know of too many properties on the Old Mission Peninsula that allow you watch the sun rise over East Bay, then sit on your deck and watch boats in the open lake off the north end of the peninsula in the afternoon, and then watch the sunset over West Bay on your deck at night,” he said. “It’s just incredible, and we’re very fortunate to now have one of the few places you can do that.” Dalluge said drivers regularly stop to take a picture capturing those sweeping views. Like Chown and so many others, he’s glad such an important viewshed is further preserved via protection of the Bagley property.

Campaign for Generations

“It’s always been a special thing, cresting that hill and seeing that view, and to know now that it is protected and that we get to own a piece of it is really cool,” he said. Although a quality farm in its own right, this project drives home the fact that farmland protection provides even more benefits than just the land itself, Chown said. Homes all over that property would have destroyed views that are integral to the Old Mission Peninsula experience. “Tens of thousands of people drive up there to visit that lighthouse, people from all over the world, and the rolling farmland hills are part of the charm. How important is it, two miles before you get to the lighthouse, to have these sweeping views over agricultural land,” Chown continued. “It’s a statement that agriculture matters, and it’s a statement that we cherish our scenic views enough to protect them.” The view is not the only thing that homes would have disrupted. The Bagley farm is also nearly completely surrounded by protected farmland, adding to its conservation priority. “It was definitely another one of those hole-inthe-donut situations we are always talking about. There’s a lot of protected farmland around it, and it would have made it a lot tougher to farm that land had you put a subdivision with a bunch of view lots all over that property,” Chown said. “Hundreds of acres of farmland would have been negatively impacted.”

“IT’S A STATEMENT THAT AGRICULTURE MATTERS, AND IT’S A STATEMENT THAT WE CHERISH OUR SCENIC VIEWS ENOUGH TO PROTECT THEM”

173

CHAPTER 3

174

Grand Traverse Bay is seen in the distance from the peaceful and productive Rocky Top Farms.

Love the land. Pass it on.

ROCKY TOP FARMS AND PRESERVE COUNT Y

Antrim ACR ES

215 PR O J E C T C O S T

$1,287,649

K E Y F E AT U R E S

Located in the beautiful drumlin hills of northern Antrim County, Rocky Top is an extremely high-quality fruit farm that primarily produces tart cherries. In addition to active agriculture, it contains wetlands, ponds, forest and open meadow.

Things were a bit slower-paced in northern Antrim County when Tom Cooper headed north with a dream more than 40 years ago. After several years in teaching and sales, Cooper decided he wanted to farm. It was in him, deep down in there somewhere. Enough sales pitches. It was time to get his hands in the dirt. “Everything comes from heritage,” he said. “I grew up on an evergreen nursery that my father had as a part-time thing, and somehow it got into my genes I suppose.” And while there may have been more land readily available then, long before the Grand Traverse region’s unrelenting time in the national spotlight made it the hottest of real estate buys, Cooper didn’t want just any land. He wanted the best. Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy | 25th Anniversary PHOTO BY RICK KANE

175

CHAPTER 3

Mike, Heidi and Tom Cooper out in the orchard.

So one day he and Warren Studley, a local soil conservation officer he’d befriended, visited a long-vacant Banks Township parcel Cooper was considering buying. Cooper wanted to know Studley’s assessment of the soil, so they conducted an inspection of their own. “I can still remember, it’s right where the first well we ended up putting on the place is. That’s where we were digging,” Cooper said. “Well, Warren looked up at me after drilling a couple holes and checking things out, and he said ‘You son of a gun. This is just perfect for growing tart cherries.’” 176

Add in the elevation, proximity to Lake Michigan and other factors, and it appeared Cooper had found his land. “I started from scratch, borrowed a ton of money – I really didn’t have anything to begin with – and got moving on my dream.” That dream today is Rocky Top Farms, a beloved and productive cherry farm that’s so much more than a cherry farm. It’s got a beautiful natural area. And tons of delicious value-added products like preserves and other treats, along with handcrafted Love the land. Pass it on.

134-acre portion that is mostly farm, owned by Tom, and another on the 80-acre portion that is mostly natural area, owned by Mike and Heidi. Rocky Top is more or less halfway between Petoskey and Traverse City, and development pressure continues to radiate out toward the farm’s bucolic settings. “It’s not even a question of if or when it happens, because it’s already happening right now. And that’s why we’re making the decision to preserve it,” Mike said. “We really want this land to be in sustainable agriculture for a long time, even as land around here becomes more valuable.” Tom’s been in the farming community for decades, serving for six years on Michigan State University’s Extension and Experiment Station Council. That service solidified and reinforced a long-held belief that swift action needs to be taken to preserve Michigan’s agricultural heritage by protecting land. “It’s a gut feeling as much as anything else. I saw the number of acres in the whole state that were being lost,” he said. “Once it’s paved, it’s gone forever. It became critically important to me to help preserve farmland.” So of course Tom had a desire to start in his own backyard, with his very own property. “The values of preserving open space and farmland are absolutely critical to Michigan, and especially Northern Michigan,” he said. “I wanted to have this place protected for generations to come – forever.”

PHOTO BY RICK KANE

cedar gift boxes. And disc golf. And camping. And glamping (think of it as camping, but with a plush mattress and nice pillow). Many of these things were the brainchildren of Mike and Heidi Cooper, Tom’s son and daughter-inlaw. Mike’s been working on the farm for more than 20 years, Heidi more than 10. All three Coopers want the farm to be the best it can be, and they want it preserved forever. That’s why they worked with GTRLC to place two conservation easements on the farm – one on the Campaign for Generations

He’d been talking to Glen Chown since at least the 1990s, not long after Peninsula Township passed its influential and innovative Purchase of Development Rights (PDR) program. “Tom was interested way back when, but basically I ended up having to put him off for two decades. At the time we were focused on areas closer to town where the pressure was much higher,” Chown recalled. “I felt we had a bit more time with Tom because of his location, and there also was the big, big question of being able to fundraise for land protection projects in that area at that time.” The money (half it, anyway) eventually came from the USDA’s Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP), a program that is funding GTRLC and other partners in the area with the goal of saving farmland and restoring waterways. The Conservancy 177

CHAPTER 3

fundraised for the rest. “When the RCPP kicked in, that gave us a lot more bandwidth,” Chown said. “And that coupled with the campaign, and some of the private farmland fundraising that came with it, got us to the finish line.” The deal comes at a time when Tom is eyeing eventual retirement and transitioning the farm to Mike and Heidi. He gets emotional when he thinks about the place they’ve created together and what it will mean for future generations. “You’ll get me to tears if you’re not careful. That is the goal. That’s what it’s all about,” he said. “It’s not about the money – it’s about the future. This next generation and those that come after. Mike has 20 years of sweat equity into this place, and this transition is just so important.” Tom was an early adopter of various conservation practices that protect wildlife and the environment both on and around his farm. Those practices have

been adopted, grown and supplemented by Mike and Heidi, who already own (and are quite proud of) the natural area portion of the farm. “I grew up with a father who loved trees, and I love trees as well. I couldn’t imagine having a farm that was just clear cut with one crop without a natural forest stand. We’ve always had woodlots and ponds that we’ve protected,” Mike said. “And we’ve encouraged and used proper spray patterns and techniques, drift control, things like that. Nature is definitely a very big and important part of the farm for us, and a big part of working with the Conservancy is that desire to preserve both that natural land and the farmland.” The younger Coopers have also worked hard to incorporate the ethics and philosophies that are important to them. Things like slow (and local) foods, immersion in nature, farmland and agricultural education and much more. “We just want to do it right, the best way we know how,” Heidi said. “We’re super passionate about it.”

Rocky Top has long been known for its value added preserves and butters, among other treats.

178

Love the land. Pass it on.

PHOTO BY LAURA RIGAN

The preserve portion of the farm has exceptional ecological value.

In addition to regular guests who come to the farm for fresh produce and other goodies, many of whom show an active interest in the processes of growing and making food, the Coopers have hosted groups of schoolchildren eager to learn. “We’ve got pollinator plants and crops, we’re planting trees galore, the bird population is off the charts,” Heidi said. “We’ve got flowers, vegetables and herbs that we can sell right here to the guests that come to visit and hike around, or spend the night and have a campfire, and it’s just amazing. It’s my dream come true.”

“Sustainability has been a key goal of ours pretty much forever, and working with the Conservancy gives us a big bump and gets us that much closer,” Mike said. Laura Rigan, GTRLC’s farmland protection specialist, is thrilled to protect such an iconic and important farm in the rolling hills of northern Antrim County. “I am very happy we were able to secure funding through RCPP and negotiate a conservation easement, it’s truly a win-win,” she said.

Money from GTRLC’s purchase of conservation easements on the farm will allow the Coopers to reinvest in their operations.

Campaign for Generations

179

CHAPTER 3

WILSON ORCHARDS COUNT Y

Grand Traverse ACR ES

40 PR O J E C T C O S T

$1,041,374

K E Y F E AT U R E S

Prime orchard land within Peninsula Township’s farmland protection zone. Sitting at the narrowest point of Old Mission, the site has a long history of productive farming.

When asked why the Wilson Orchards property is special, Joe Riley gestured to a tall line of mature maple trees on the east edge of the orchard. Take your clubs over there, he said, and you could drive a golf ball into East Grand Traverse Bay. That in and of itself isn’t all that remarkable. But now look at a similar row of trees on the western edge of the orchard. Walk over there with your clubs, he said, and a solid drive will put you in or darn near close to West Bay. The orchard’s position at the narrowest portion of the entire Old Mission Peninsula made it one of the most consistently productive cherry orchards on the peninsula for decades, Riley said, producing bumper crops of tarts and sweets even when other orchards suffered frost-related crop damage. That’s because the moderating effects of the bay that benefit all Old Mission farmers are most pronounced at that particular location. 180

PHOTO BY NOAH JURIK

Love the land. Pass it on.

Campaign for Generations

Wilson Orchards at sunset, with Power Island in the distance. 181

CHAPTER 3

“This is probably the best spot in the entire world to grow cherries,” Riley said. “It might sound crazy to say that, but that’s how it is.” The 40-acre orchard, farmed for nearly 150 years by many generations of the Wilson family (Riley married in), received Centennial Farm certification in the 1970’s. It was notable in recent years for a U-pick cherry operation and has long been a top protection priority for both GTRLC and Peninsula Township. Now, this remarkable orchard is protected forever via a deal that involved Riley, GTRLC and Isaiah Wunsch, himself the latest in several generations of Old Mission farmers. GTRLC purchased a conservation easement from Riley, who then sold the property to Wunsch. The entire deal was possible because a conservation easement extinguishes the property’s development

rights and consequently lowers its market value. After GTRLC paid Riley for the easement, Wunsch was able to buy the farm from Riley at about half of its pre-easement value. “There was just no way that Wunsch Farms or myself would have been able to purchase this farm at full market value,” Wunsch said. “If it had gone on the market it almost certainly would have been developed into a subdivision, but with the conservation easement we were able to put into place with the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy, we were able to come in and buy it as a working farm.” Wunsch, who comes from a multi-generational farming family with deep roots on the peninsula, has been active in farmland preservation for several years. For him, protecting Wilson Orchards is about more than having another good spot to grow cherries for personal gain.

PHOTO BY ART BUKOWSKI

Isaiah Wunsch and Joe Riley on the farm. 182

Love the land. Pass it on.

PHOTO BY RICK KANE

A scene from Wilson Orchards.

“From a strategic farmland preservation standpoint, this is also the southernmost commercial fruit farming operation on the Old Mission Peninsula,” he said. “So not only was it very attractive for us to purchase this farm because of its agricultural attributes, but it also supported our philosophy of maintaining a strong environment for agriculture on the Old Mission Peninsula by preventing further sprawl.” About eight years ago, Wunsch purchased the 80-acre Zientek/Kroupa farm just north of Bowers Harbor under a nearly identical arrangement. In that deal, GTRLC purchased a conservation easement from the Zientek family, protecting the property and simultaneously making it affordable for Wunsch. Wunsch is grateful that GTRLC is actively working to protect farmland on Old Mission as a supplement to Peninsula Township’s Purchase of Development Rights (PDR) program. “It’s gone a long way towards allowing us to continue to make strategic investments in farmland preservation as a community,” he said. Contributions from GTRLC would not be possible, of course, without the support of people and organizations who believe in the Conservancy’s mission. One such person is Dan Bailey, who through his family’s Warrington Foundation has supported this and other Old Mission farmland protection projects. 183

Dan and his wife Fran are longtime Neahtawanta summer residents who live full-time in Cincinnati. Farmland contributes tremendously to the beauty that his family so cherishes on every trip north. “We’re up here for a short time every year, and Old Mission Peninsula is so pretty, probably the prettiest spot in all of Michigan,” he said. “I feel really fortunate that we’re able to come up here. I have five kids, and for the sake of the future, I’d like to keep it as well-preserved as possible.” But it’s not just about the views and scenic character, Bailey said. “At the same time, (farmland protection) is adding value. It’s not just pretty land, it’s usable land,” he said. “Farmland is very important, and we need to preserve as much as we can.” Longtime GTRLC supporter Monnie Peters also said her desire to protect local farmland transcends the purely aesthetic aspects. She looks around the country and sees climate-related droughts, wildfires and other problems causing catastrophic damage to agricultural regions. “Over the last couple of years in particular, I’ve been fully appreciating the advantages that the Old Mission Peninsula has, as does Leelanau and really the whole Western Michigan Fruit Belt,” she said. “As the rest of the country gets hotter and drier, we have all of this clean, fresh water and temperatures moderated by the lake. This is a special place and it must be protected.” Love the land. Pass it on.

CHAPTER 3

BLUEWATER FARM COUNT Y

Grand Traverse ACR ES

69.5 PR O J E C T C O S T

$1,072,703

K E Y F E AT U R E S

Prime section of one of the largest previously unprotected farms on Old Mission Peninsula. Stunning views of East Grand Traverse Bay and waterfront acreage make it extremely attractive for development. In addition to quality farmland, the property contains five acres of wetlands and ephemeral streams that drain into the bay.

When Bret Bachert’s hands are in the dirt, or on a shovel, or on the tractor’s steering wheel, his mind drifts toward the future. This is especially true when he’s out there with his two kids, now teenagers. Working on his land – their land – gives them the power to shape it how they want. The name “Bachert” will be on the barn, and it will be there for a long time. “This is a long-term thing for our family,” he said. “Everything before has felt somewhat secondary or temporary for me, but this is it – a homestead.” In 2019, Bachert purchased a nearly 70-acre portion of the 178-acre Jamieson Farm, one of the largest previously unprotected farms on the beautiful Old Mission Peninsula. GTRLC 184

theGrand land. Pass it on. Bay. The Bluewater Farm possesses stunning views Love of East Traverse

Campaign for Generations

PHOTO BY NOAH JURIK

185

CHAPTER 3

PHOTO BY RICK KANE

Bret Bachert with son Will, wife Sarah, daughter Ellie and dog Lucy. 186

Love the land. Pass it on.

then purchased a conservation easement from Bachert at discounted rate, thereby permanently protecting some of the farm’s best acreage for all future generations. “Besides protecting it for the benefit of everyone else and the benefit of the peninsula as a whole, this is huge for us too,” Bachert said. “The idea that we’ve got a property that was generational and will continue to be generational with my family is really special.” Bachert is a general contractor by trade who grew up in southwest Michigan. He’s lived all around the country running various businesses, and brought his family – wife Sarah and children William and Eleanor – to Michigan in 2013 from his most recent stop in Maryland. After exploring many other places to permanently settle down and raise a family, Traverse City rose to the top of Bret and Sarah’s list. “We’d go through this list, and she’d pick 5 places and I’d pick 5 places, and we’d look at the pros and cons,” Bachert said. “And we just kept coming back to Traverse City.” And in less than a decade, Bachert has seen changes in the area. He doesn’t fault developers for doing their thing – after all, he is one – but he’s tuned into the connection between growth and the loss of open

spaces. In particular, the shift from open fields to buildings is something the avid outdoorsman in him has been keenly aware of. “I’ve been floored by all the growth…when something pops up on what used to be open acreage, you say to yourself, well, that’s too bad,” he said. “I don’t fault people, but you notice it going away.” He felt this on a personal level, too. Although the family moved into a subdivision, Bachert was antsy for something different. He wanted open space of his own, a place to raise his young family in connection with the land. Meanwhile, GTRLC’s land protection team had long eyed the incredible and historic farm of Les and Martha Jamieson, one of the most prominent – and arguably one of the most threatened – on the entire peninsula. For a variety of reasons, it was extremely high on the team’s list. “In addition to its large size and spectacular views of East Grand Traverse Bay, the property has significant water frontage and access from Bluff and Bluewater roads, making it seriously threatened by development,” said Farmland Protection Specialist Laura Rigan. “We had been in contact with the Jamieson family for years, but could never get to the point of negotiation of a conservation easement.”

PHOTO BY NOAH JURIK

Another view of the farm, looking west.

Campaign for Generations

187

CHAPTER 3

In 2017, the Jamieson family notified GTRLC of their intent to sell. After many meetings and conversations with potential conservation buyers (those interested in buying conserved land), the team began chatting with Bachert, an acquaintance of former Development Director Anthony Rupard. In the end, Bachert’s purchase of 70 of the best acres of the farm and subsequent sale of a conservation easement to GTRLC allowed Bachert to acquire his land and GTRLC’s team to breathe a sigh of relief. “Bret was just fabulous,” Glen Chown said. “These are complex transactions, there are always lots of twists and turns, and he totally hung in there with us. He was there when we needed him and he stuck with us the whole way through, and I’m thankful for his patience and perseverance.” Bachert, who retained a small building envelope on his property, was very happy with GTRLC’s efforts to get the deal to the finish line. “Laura and I were on the same page. I understood what she was trying to do, and she worked with me and listened to what I wanted to do,” he said. “It was great to have a team effort.” Now, Bachert plans to transition most of the farm from cherries to honeycrisp apples. He plans to involve his kids as much as he can, something that gives him great joy and them (he hopes) great purpose. “I didn’t grew up with a lot of money, so I would go work wherever I could. I’d put in 15- or 16-hour shifts on tractors planting soybeans, and that’s how I was able to get a car and get through college,” he said. “My kids have had a different upbringing, but this provides a great opportunity for me to say ‘alright, we’re going to go clear brush today.’” “Now that we’re two years in, I already hear them bragging about what they helped with,” he continued. “Being able to have my kids work and appreciate what they’ve got, and understand it, that’s huge for me. And for them.” The property’s farmland quality had degraded somewhat in recent years, a very common occurrence when farmers’ minds shift to selling. Bachert doesn’t mind much. He’s set to work

188

PHOTO BY RICK KANE

removing invasive species, demolishing old, dilapidated buildings and preparing for the transition from cherries to apples. “The fact that it was a little unkempt and not taken care of means I can put my stamp on it and do things my way,” he said. “It will be done with intent and purpose, and it’s a long-term plan.” Chown and Rigan hope protection of the most developable portion of the Jamieson farm will eventually lead to protection of the rest.

Love the land. Pass it on.

Because of its proximity to the bay, this farm was very desirable from a development standpoint.

“If you had to pick the most important acreage to protect first, it’s what we protected. It has the waterfront piece and it’s on the front side of the farm,” Chown said. “I think now it’s likely that another farmer will end up with the remaining acreage, and it will be more affordable.” “Protecting the remaining 100 or so acres is still a top priority for the Conservancy, but knowing a large proportion of it is protected definitely is a relief and reduces the threat to the remaining property,” Rigan said.

Campaign for Generations

In all, Chown called it a “big-time win” for farmland protection on the Old Mission Peninsula, which is currently preparing for another purchase of development rights (PDR) program. “I’m thrilled with this one, I really am,” he said. “This is a signature project for our farmland protection program, and it’s so important for us to keep the momentum moving between now and when they can renew their purchase of development rights program. We have to hold the line. It’s critical.”

189

CHAPTER 3

190

The iconic rainbow roof of Twin Maples seen through the threes.

Love the land. Pass it on.

TWIN MAPLES COUNT Y

Grand Traverse ACR ES

95 PR O J E C T C O S T

$959,270

K E Y F E AT U R E S

Adjacent to other protected farms, this farm has a long history of productive fruit farming on prime soils, producing tart and sweet cherries along with honeycrisp apples. Ranked as one of the highest priorities for viewshed preservation on all of Old Mission.

When Frederic Dohm was in high school back in the 1960s, there were by his recollection more than 100 distinct cherry farming operations out on the legendary Old Mission Peninsula. There are less than 20 now, the result of waves of consolidation combined with plenty of land lost to development or transitioned to other uses. What’s left, Dohm said, is an industry and community that is in many ways much less colorful than it once was all those years ago. “The fruit business was much more enjoyable back when there was romance to it,” said Dohm, 69, a lifelong Old Mission farmer who comes from families that have farmed there for more than 150 years. “And there was romance to it back when you had a bunch of amusing characters on smaller farms, people with some really interesting personalities.” 191

Campaign for Generations PHOTO BY RICK KANE

CHAPTER 3

PHOTO BY RICK KANE

Frederic Dohm on the farm.

What types of characters, you ask? “Well there was one guy out here everyone called Fertile Frank, and he’s the only person I ever knew who had three women pregnant at the same time,” Dohm said. “Then you had one family out here with three sets of male twins. Six kids under five years of age. And there was this one guy who was so crooked that when he died they had to screw him in the ground to keep him there.” Gone are almost all of the characters, Dohm said, but the Old Mission Peninsula is no less of an excellent place to grow fruit, be it tart or sweet cherries, grapes or the red-hot Honeycrisp apple. Dohm’s 95-acre farm was purchased by his grandfather, William Dohm, around 1920. William, who had worked there as a young man, purchased it from the former owner. William, his son Frederic and grandson Frederic have all done some work to improve the land, but 192

all in all it’s always been an excellent spot to grow fruit. Echoing the sentiments of his sister Ginny Coulter, who for years owned property just to the north that also once belonged to William (see page 159), Dohm said there’s not a lot of ground that can’t be put to use for the tarts, sweets and apples he grows. “We don’t have very much wasteland here. It’s all pretty good,” he said. “There’s no wet spots on it, nothing that’s really unsuitable because of the terrain.” Called Twin Maples, Dohm’s farm is probably best known to the casual observer as the location of the barn with the multicolor sheet metal roof (Dohm’s idea) that sits just off Center Road not far south of Eimen Road on the Peninsula’s northern half. From a stand of maples on his farm, he produces and sells maple syrup that can be found at his own farm stand and in other area stores and markets. Love the land. Pass it on.

“It’s not a big operation and it’s not very efficient,” Dohm said. “But we’re doing it and I enjoy it. It’s something you can do in the spring of the year, it lasts for a little while – I’m glad I’m not making syrup year round – and it’s fun to do it.” Now, this iconic and productive farm will be protected forever after Dohm and his wife Kay sold a conservation easement to GTRLC as part of the Campaign for Generations. “This was one of the highest priorities for protection for both Peninsula Township and GTRLC due to its size, stunning views of the bay, proximity to other protected land and its road frontage on both Center Road and Peninsula Drive,” said Laura Rigan, GTRLC farmland protection specialist. Frederic and Kay sold the easement to GTRLC at a 25 percent discount from its full market value, and GTRLC fundraised for the rest. “I am very thankful for our generous supporters who stepped in to make this project happen,” Rigan said. “It’s definitely a keystone farm property of the campaign, and this project not only protected

an important scenic farm, but it also helped a farm family stay in farming and reinvest for the future.” Dohm said their decision was primarily motivated by a need to erase some debt, and he’s thrilled at the prospect of being able to do that while retaining his farm and continuing to do what he loves. “I like doing what I’m doing. I really enjoy it, and I want to keep enjoying it,” he said. “It was just nice to have a little more money.” For a variety of reasons, Dohm hopes farmland preservation on Old Mission continues to build momentum into the future. “I think it’s really good to have a lot of this land kept in agriculture,” he said. “It really benefits the community, and maintaining an agricultural presence out here adds to the nostalgia or the charm, whatever word you want to use.”

PHOTO BY NOAH JURIK

The western portion of Twin Maples, with Center Road out of view to the right. The Weatherholt and Coulter farms can be seen just to the north. Campaign for Generations

193

CHAPTER 3

194

The Weatherholt farm, flanked by the Coulter farms to the north and west.

Love the land. Pass it on.

WEATHERHOLT FARM COUNT Y

Grand Traverse ACR ES

55 PR O J E C T C O S T

$481,000

K E Y F E AT U R E S

Productive orchard within Peninsula Township’s Agricultural Protection Zone (APZ).

For farmers, selling development rights can be a boon on several different levels. First, they know their beautiful land will be forever protected for future generations to enjoy and farm. Many also take solace in knowing they’re helping to preserve a physical and cultural landscape that’s been an integral part of our region for nearly two centuries. But from a practical standpoint, there are also significant financial benefits. Selling development rights allows farmers to keep their land while receiving often substantial payments for retirement, or – as is the case with many – reinvestment in farming operations. “We’ve seen time and time again that farmers pump these proceeds right back into their farms,” Glen Chown said. “They’re excited to upgrade or improve certain elements of their operations, and this allows them to do it.”

195

Campaign for Generations PHOTO BY NOAH JURIK

CHAPTER 3

PHOTO BY RICK KANE

Dave Weatherholt on the farm, showing its views of the bay.

Take Phil and Dave Weatherholt, the second and third generation of Old Mission Peninsula cherry growers who had their eyes on a nice 50-acre piece of farmland owned by a neighbor. A few years back, they took advantage of Peninsula Township’s purchase of development rights (PDR) program and sold the development rights on a 54-acre piece they already owned. Then, they put the money towards the purchase of the neighboring parcel with an eye on expanding their operations. “I think the part we liked best about it is we were able to go buy more farmland. We could do other things with the money and still keep the farm,” 196

Dave Weatherholt said. “That’s a pretty good deal.” Phil, who died in 2020 at age 84, bought the “main” farm – more than 200 acres off of Smokey Hollow Road – from his dad Frank in 1972. He protected the bulk of that farmland in 1998 as part of the first round of the township’s PDR program, using the money to (mostly) retire and reinvest in farming operations. “Phil was one of those early visionaries who helped kick it all off,” Chown said. “Those first several famers who opted to protect their land really led by example out there.” Love the land. Pass it on.

PHOTO BY RICK KANE

The Weatherholt family has an excellent reputation for growing fine fruit.

The groundbreaking PDR program – which has since been replicated elsewhere, notably in Acme Township – began in 1994 when township voters approved a millage that raised money for the township to purchase and extinguish farmers’ development rights, part of a plan to protect farmland, viewsheds and open spaces. The program was renewed and expanded by voters in 2002. “There are some farmers who don’t like it because they don’t like having the government involved in their operations, but plenty of others are really glad to do it because they can get money out of it and still keep their farmland,” Weatherholt said. “It’s voluntary and you don’t have to get into it if you don’t want to, and I think it’s nice to have it available.” For the Weatherholts, the purchase of their additional acreage wouldn’t have been possible without it. “We wouldn’t have been able to do that without the PDR, most likely,” he said. “We really didn’t think it would ever happen, but it allowed us to make that investment. So it worked out well for us.”

Campaign for Generations

GTRLC administers the program on behalf of the township, which leans on the Conservancy’s expertise in negotiating land deals and drafting conservation easements. “The township employees don’t really have experience in running the program, and that’s where the Conservancy really helps,” Weatherholt said. The township’s PDR program is set to expire in 2022 and is already out of money. A citizens group is gearing up for a renewal, and Weatherholt thinks there are still plenty of farmers interested in participating. He – and plenty of others – hope to see as much of that prime farmland protected as possible. “Old Mission, as everyone knows, is pretty much the premier place to grow cherries, and wine grapes too,” he said. “We’ve got the perfect microclimate for it, being an ideal place sitting between the bays.”

197

CHAPTER 3

198

Leorie Vineyards sits on what was once a gravel pit near the southern end of Old Mission Peninsula.

Love the land. Pass it on.

LEORIE VINEYARDS COUNT Y

Grand Traverse ACR ES

20 PR O J E C T C O S T

$1,726,847

K E Y F E AT U R E S

Productive vineyard on Old Mission Peninsula, known particularly for the high-quality red wines that come from its grapes (in an area overwhelmingly known for white wines). HISTORY

For many years the property was the site of a large gravel pit owned and operated by the Wysong family.

For years and years, as he made the trip to Traverse City from his home in Leelanau County, Bernie Rink’s eyes would drift across Grand Traverse Bay and land on a large, conspicuous scar on Old Mission Peninsula. That scar – or gouge, or scrape, or gash, depending on who you were talking to – was a large gravel pit. Rumor has it that gravel beneath the Cherry Capital Airport runways came from that pit, as did the gravel for countless other projects throughout the region over the years.

Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy | 25th Anniversary PHOTO BY NOAH JURIK

199

CHAPTER 3

PHOTO BY DAGMAR CUNNINGHAM

The vines around harvest time.

But there was something decidedly more scenic for Rink’s eyes to settle on in the later years of his life, as that scar has for many years been the site of a productive and beautiful vineyard – a vineyard he proudly helped plan and plant more than 30 years ago. “I really enjoy the fact that it’s nice and green again after driving into town all those years and seeing it as a big gouge in the earth there,” Rink, a legendary local wine pioneer, said shortly before his death in 2018. “It’s a good feeling.” Now, thanks to the foresight of former property owners Bill and Susie Janis, the 20-acre Leorie Vineyard will be forever protected with a conservation easement donated to the Conservancy as part of the Campaign for Generations. Because the many features that make it a truly worldclass vineyard would also make it a prime site for housing, its protection is especially sweet. 200

“We’re just so thrilled for the opportunity to protect this remarkable piece of land,” GTRLC Executive Director Glen Chown said. “For many different reasons, this one would really have been a shame to lose to development.” Janis acquired the gravel pit not long after he bought a house overlooking the property in 1988. He was compelled to purchase it after the previous owner began plans for a housing development there, something he hoped to avoid. But once he became the not-so-proud owner of an old gravel pit, he needed to figure out what to do there. After tossing around a few other ideas – a Christmas tree farm was among them – he consulted with Rink, a librarian and pioneering winemaker who years earlier had established Boskydel Vineyards, the first commercial winery on the Leelanau Peninsula. Rink was quick to see the potential for a vineyard. Love the land. Pass it on.

PHOTO BY DAGMAR CUNNINGHAM

Leorie grows some of the finest grapes on the peninsula, particularly those for red wine.

Campaign for Generations

201

CHAPTER 3

PHOTO BY DAGMAR CUNNINGHAM

The vines around harvest time.

“He said, ‘My gosh Bill, this site is second to none,’” Janis recalls. “There’s nothing like this around here.” Among other factors, the property’s elevation, air drainage and proximity to the water make it an excellent grape-growing location. A wooded ridge surrounding the vineyard helps trap heat early and late in the season, something that is particularly beneficial for the red wine grapes that grow there. In a region dominated by white grape varieties, those reds – merlot and cabernet franc, to be specific – were planted on a whim, Janis said. The whim panned out, as the vineyard is now known for the red wine varieties it produces (though about half is planted with white varieties). Black Star Farms gets them all, producing a special label wine with the reds. 202

Because of its natural features and exceptional red grape growth, Leorie is one of the most unique properties not just on Old Mission, but throughout the entire region. “In hindsight, we made a mistake,” Janis said. “If we had known what could be grown there in terms of a quality red, the whole place would have been planted with red.” From 1994 until Janis sold the entire property to Black Star Farms in 2019, the vineyard was managed by Craig Cunningham, a seasoned vineyard manager who has worked on hundreds of sites from Manistee to Charlevoix for more than 25 years. “This is the number-one site out of all the sites I worked on, hands down,” Cunningham said. “If Love the land. Pass it on.

contributions to this region, and he wants this to be part of his legacy.” Janis had heard of the concept of a conservation easement before, but hadn’t paid much attention until recently when he briefly considered selling the land. As he thought about his beautiful vineyard plowed away to make room for houses, his stomach turned. “If that was to happen, regardless of the amount of money I would have received for the land, I would be very, very disappointed,” he said. “The most important thing here is that forever and a day, this property is never going to be developed.” And for Janis, it’s more than just preserving the physical beauty of the land. He wants to honor the hard work of the people who helped make Leorie into the well-respected vineyard that it is today. “Some great people have been involved in it and put in a lot of effort, and they’ve been really instrumental in the success there,” he said. Janis is a proud Michigan State University graduate and supporter, and he’s also excited about the future of educational opportunities at the vineyard. For years, Cunningham worked closely with MSU researchers on a variety of initiatives, from insect monitoring and trapping to non-insecticide pest treatment, pruning technique studies and much more.

people were to say, regardless of size, which is your favorite, it would be this one. It has a priceless presentation of what this region has to offer.” Because of the stunning views the site offers and its proximity to town, Cunningham and many others assumed it would eventually be developed. The property would allow for as many as 15 high-end homesites had it been available for that purpose, and there likely would have been no shortage of interested developers. “Everybody, and I mean everybody, thought that once Bill was done with his vineyard, this property would be developed and gone,” Cunningham said. “And that obviously isn’t going to come to pass, which is wonderful. Bill has made major Campaign for Generations

The property’s size, mix of grape varieties and location near town make it a perfect classroom, Cunningham said. MSU graduate students have studied pest control on the property, and local Northwestern Michigan College students have learned about viticulture, landscaping and other fields of study. And although his decision wasn’t financially driven, the tax savings tied to conservation easements also were appealing to Janis, he said. He encourages other landowners to explore conservation easements for their properties that possess significant conservation values. “If people can do what I did, it’s really a win-win for everybody,” he said.

203

CHAPTER 3

STANEK FARM COUNT Y

Grand Traverse ACR ES

29 PR O J E C T C O S T

$253,751

K E Y F E AT U R E S

This Old Mission Peninsula property is entirely dedicated to agricultural use (sweet and tart cherries) and is adjacent to two other protected farms. Its protection adds to a “greenbelt” of protected land around Bowers Harbor.

A productive and scenic piece of farmland on the beautiful Old Mission Peninsula is protected forever after a family with deep roots on the peninsula worked with GTRLC to place a conservation easement on their land. What’s known as the Stanek Farm is a 29-acre triangle about a mile north of Bowers Harbor. The parcel, neatly planted with rows of sweet and tart cherry trees, is among the most productive cherry orchards in the immediate area. GTRLC secured a conservation easement on the land in 2016. Though wonderful in its own right, the Stanek Farm is extra special because it joins several other protected parcels in the immediate area, including the Pyatt Lake Preserve and several other conservation easements. The Stanek farm sits immediately north of the 80-acre Zeintek/Kroupa farm, which GTRLC protected with a conservation easement in 2014. Love the land. Pass it on.

204 PHOTO BY NATE RICHARDSON

Campaign for Generations

205

Bright red tart cherries growing on the Stanek Farm in early July.

CHAPTER 3

PHOTO BY ART BUKOWSKI

Nikki and Steve Sobkowski in their historic Old Mission home.

“We’ve worked for years and years to establish a greenbelt of protected land around Bowers Harbor,” GTRLC Executive Director Glen Chown said. “Not only does the Stanek Farm preserve another piece of Old Mission’s wonderful agricultural heritage, but it also helps us add another important piece of protection around this special place.” The farm is also important from a viewshed standpoint. Cyclists and others who regularly tour the peninsula are particularly fond of the Stanek Farm, said former GTRLC Land Protection Specialist Todd Vigland, who worked on the project. 206

“I think it’s certainly one of the most visible farmland parcels out there. Kroupa Road is known for all of those awesome cherry orchards, and this one is kind of a landmark, viewshed-wise,” Vigland said. “People touring or traveling around on the Old Mission Peninsula recognize this one right off the bat.” Despite being called the Stanek Farm, the land hasn’t been owned by a Stanek in more than 90 years. GTRLC worked with owners Steve and Nikki Sobkowski, who inherited the land many decades after Steve’s grandfather purchased it from the Stanek family in 1926. Love the land. Pass it on.

PHOTO BY NATE RICHARDSON

A view from Stanek Farm.

Steve’s family has a very long history on the Old Mission Peninsula. His great-great-grandfather was Jerome Pratt, who moved to the Peninsula in 1854 and served as the very first lighthouse keeper at the Mission Point Lighthouse when it opened in 1870. Steve’s grandparents were prolific and successful farmers of cherries and other fruit, and they bought the Stanek Farm to add to their holdings. Steve and Nikki met while students at Michigan State University and now live in the Old Mission home built by his great-grandparents. They’ve received offers to sell the land for development, but it didn’t seem right. “With my history here, I’d like to see the farming continue,” Steve said. “I take a lot of pride in this.” “To us, it’s important to preserve the history of the area and pass that value along to each succeeding generation,” Nikki said. “It’s leaving a legacy.” Negotiations with GTRLC were smooth, but took lots of time, as these things sometimes do. Steve and Nikki both were delighted by their interaction with the Conservancy. “Todd has been not only incredibly knowledgeable, but so patient as well,” Nikki said. “He’s been great, and working with the Conservancy has been fantastic.” GTRLC raised the roughly $250,000 needed for the project in about 60 days, very fast for a fundraising goal of that size. Much of that money came from Peninsula residents, including those from the fabled summer community of Neahtawanta on the shores of Bowers Harbor. Campaign for Generations

“WITH MY HISTORY HERE, I’D LIKE TO SEE FARMING CONTINUE’’

“A high percentage of people who live on Old Mission Peninsula are intensely passionate about land protection, and this project is another good example,” said Anthony Rupard, GTRLC’s former director of fund development. Neahtawanta resident and steadfast GTRLC supporter David Taft gave a $25,000 lead gift and helped raise additional funds from other residents. Taft said he and others are fond of the Stanek farm, which is scenic and well known by folks in the area. It had been discussed by some as an ideal spot for development, so Taft hoped to convey a sense of urgency as he spoke with other potential donors. “It’s always been a very pretty little orchard, very productive, and it sits in a spot where you see it a lot – it just epitomizes an Old Mission Peninsula orchard,” Taft said. “When Glen brought up to me the fact that the Conservancy was trying to retire the development rights, I thought, ‘Boy, there’s a piece of property you’d really hate to see developed.’’ GTRLC also received substantial support from the Brookby Foundation, the Ralph L. and Winifred E. Polk Foundation, the Shaw and Betty Walker Foundation and a sizable estate gift. “We were thrilled to see support from this project come from such a diverse set of funding sources,” Rupard said. 207

CHAPTER 3

208 Board, staff and supporters gather at the renovated Maple Bay Farmhouse for the 2019 Preservation Celebration.

Love the land. Pass it on.

MAPLE BAY FARMHOUSE RENOVATIONS COUNT Y

Grand Traverse PR O J E C T C O S T

$287,175

K E Y F E AT U R E S

Structural and aesthetic renovations to a turn-of-the-century farmhouse allowed it to be better used to advance GTRLC’s mission.

Beautiful. Iconic. Historic. Picturesque. There are many words one might use to describe the sturdy old Maple Bay farmhouse along U.S. 31. The Conservancy retained the historic structure and the 11 acres it sits on in 2002 during protection of the contiguous 452-acre Maple Bay Natural Area for Grand Traverse County. And while there’s no shortage of charming adjectives one might apply to the building, the fact is for many years it was simply underused and not particularly functional for Conservancy operations. Sure, it was used for various events over the years, but not much else. “We knew we wanted and needed more from that space,” Glen Chown said. “It was just a matter of realizing its potential.” Now, as part of the Campaign for Generations, the house has been completely renovated and updated. In addition to up-to-date office space for staff and volunteers, the house also now has ADA-compliant Campaign for Generations

PHOTO BY JACQUELINE SOUTHBY

209

CHAPTER 3

PHOTO BY KYLER MORAN

restrooms, an updated kitchen, a conference room, upgraded utilities and a new access ramp outside. Among many other things, this spruced-up house provides a more functional space for meetings and events and a way for the Conservancy to better interact with the public. “We’ve owned that property for a long time, and people already loved it,” said Vic Lane, who for years managed Maple Bay for GTRLC. “But now the house isn’t just something to look at, it’s something to 210

actually use, and that’s pretty fantastic. This helps create a lot of energy for the farm and for the Conservancy.” While the goal was to create an up-to-date, highly functional facility, GTRLC worked hard to retain the home’s turn-of-the-century look and feel. “One of the major guiding principles behind the restoration of the farmhouse was to preserve the character and the feel as much as we possibly could, Love the land. Pass it on.

The farmhouse now serves as a hub for volunteer activities and events. Here, noted butterfly expert Duke Elsner educates a group before taking them out into the field.

because that’s what people love about it,” Lane said. “We wanted to maintain the charm while making it functional and usable.” Many donors, led by Elk Lake summer residents Tom and Debby McMullen and the Novi-based Americana Foundation, allowed GTRLC to complete the current project. Previous donors were instrumental in funding repairs to the farmhouse roof, sugar shack and more. Campaign for Generations

The McMullens, longtime GTRLC supporters, have lived in a 100-plus-year-old farmhouse in Ann Arbor for nearly 60 years. As such, this project had a particular appeal for them. “We have this old farmhouse, and we thought, gee, it would be fun to see another one that we could use some of our funds to help restore,” Tom McMullen said. It helped that the project was not far from the McMullen’s cottage on Elk Lake. 211

CHAPTER 3

“It’s only about five miles from our cottage, and it’s right along U.S. 31 there, so we could see the progress. It was neat to stop in and see the work,” Tom said. “I’m the kind of person that if we invest in something, I have to be able to more or less touch it, feel it. So to be able to see that beautiful farmhouse and the progress on it was really exciting.” In addition to interior renovations, the house also received a fresh paint job. The house was probably last painted shortly before GTRLC acquired it nearly 20 years ago, Lane said. A public access plan for the house is still in the works, Lane said. It is possible that GTRLC will ask volunteer docents to staff regular hours at the house during the high-traffic summer months. That way, visitors to the immensely popular natural area can come to learn about the farmhouse and GTRLC’s mission.

“If you think about it, the Maple Bay project as a whole reflects every aspect of our work,” GTRLC Executive Director Glen Chown said. “It’s along a popular scenic corridor, it includes protected farmland and has active farming, there’s a wonderful and vibrant natural area, and it offers ample recreation opportunities. You can’t get a better place to engage people.” Some of that engagement includes a volunteerrun garden that donates hundreds of pounds of fresh, healthy food to local food pantries each year. And Maple Bay is also the location of one of GTRLC’s most popular events - the maple sugaring demonstration held every spring. “It’s always been a special place for a variety of reasons,” Lane said. “Now, when people arrive for events, or to volunteer, or for any of the many other reasons, they’ll see a farmhouse that looks and functions better than ever.”

PHOTO BY RICK KANE

212

Love the land. Pass it on.

CHAPTER 4

Community Conservation & Universal Access

We believe that lifelong access to nature shouldn’t be a luxury. The Campaign for Generations included several projects that provide this invaluable and cherished access to people of all ages and abilities. These Universal Access (UA) projects – and related non-UA projects that have helped communities meet critical recreation goals – have been some of the most celebrated and well-received projects of the entire campaign. Read on for stories about these efforts.

Campaign for Generations

215 PHOTO BY NATE RICHARDSON

CHAPTER 4

The Lake Michigan overlook allows people of all ages and abilities to bask in Lake Michigan’s splendor. 216 PHOTO BY DEKE LUDWIG

Love the land. Pass it on.

OVERLOOK TRAIL AT ARCADIA DUNES: C.S. MOTT NATURE PRESERVE COUNT Y

Benzie PR O J E C T C O S T

$606,259

K E Y F E AT U R E S

A roughly half-mile trail designed for universal accessibility takes users to a beautiful overlook of Lake Michigan. Benches and other features add to the experience.

Kim de Bruin fought back tears as she described her first trip to the Overlook Trail at Arcadia Dunes in 2016. De Bruin, who has muscular dystrophy, has been in a wheelchair most of her life. The last time she was able to climb across the dunes was decades ago, when she was a teenager. But when the Overlook Trail was completed, she was once again able to explore the forests and dunes of her youth. Shortly before it officially opened, she and her husband, Rob, visited the trail on a beautiful spring day in May. She became emotional as she recalled that first visit. “I can’t even put it into words….I wish I could paint a picture of what that was like the first time and what it meant to me,” she said. “I just cried and cried. It took my breath away.” De Bruin, who has ties to Arcadia that stretch back Campaign for Generations

217

CHAPTER 4

PHOTO BY DEKE LUDWIG

The view looking north.

several generations, had always been able to see the woods and water from a vehicle. But there’s something different – something much more meaningful – about immersing oneself in nature the way that the Overlook Trail allowed her to do.

said. “From the planning all the way through to the very high quality of the construction, we made a statement about how important these initiatives are to us. And they’re important because everyone deserves access to nature.”

“To see those things now, from a car, it’s all still beautiful. But on this trail, my wheels were on the ground,” she said. “Those are my feet.”

David Foote, GTRLC’s director of stewardship, said the Conservancy made the decision to spend considerably more up front on the Overlook Trail – and subsequent UA infrastructure projects at Arcadia Marsh and elsewhere – in order to save hundreds of thousands of dollars in maintenance costs down the line.

The Overlook Trail, finished in early 2016, was GTRLC’s first big foray into universal access opportunities, something that would become a major and highly celebrated theme in the Campaign for Generations. “We stepped up our game with that project. It elevated the entire organization,” Glen Chown 218

“When we do these things we’re looking at not just the initial cost to put something in, but what it’s going to cost down the road to maintain,” he said. Love the land. Pass it on.

“What are the replacement costs? How can you minimize those? That’s when we started to look at these modular systems. We don’t want to have to raise all this money all over again in 15 or 20 years.” The modular system he speaks of involves a rugged, galvanized steel base installed in sections that allows for easy replacement of decking when necessary. “Usually when you have a boardwalk, particularly in a wet area, it’s the bottom parts of the boardwalk – the foundation and main structure – that tend to rot out because of wetness. That’s also the most expensive to replace,” Foote said. “But replacing just the deck is really easy and relatively inexpensive, so if we can keep the metal structure in place for 100 Campaign for Generations

years or more, we only need to periodically re-deck at a fraction of the cost.” Though the trail has seen heavy use from visitors with mobility issues, it’s also seen plenty of happy visits from folks from a wider demographic. That’s not a surprise to Jim Moore, executive director of Disability Network Northern Michigan. “We know that anytime we do something for people with disabilities, it actually makes things safer and more convenient for everybody else, whether you have small children and are pushing a stroller, or using a cane or walker, or have trouble getting around due to age,” he said. “The experience is just better for everyone.” GTRLC’s stewardship staff – along with engineers 219

CHAPTER 4

PHOTO BY ART BUKOWSKI

A group from the Disability Network Northern Michigan conducts an early test of the trail. Their feedback was used to make improvements.

from Gosling Czubak – also wanted to provide the best experience possible once visitors got to the viewing platform. Cantilevered “wings” jut out toward the lake, allowing people to experience not just the big blue expanse of Lake Michigan, but the beauty of the surrounding coast as well. “When we first started looking at that site, we realized that you got a great view of the lake, but you didn’t really have that same look up and down the coast that you’d have if you walked over to Baldy,” Foote said, referring to the preserve’s centerpiece attraction. “The shape and structure of the deck addresses that by getting people out far enough to have those panoramic views.” The Flint-based Charles Stewart Mott Foundation provided a lead grant of $500,000 that was split between the Overlook trail and the Arcadia Marsh UA trail. This was in addition to $4.5 million to be used for a permanent stewardship endowment of Arcadia Dunes itself, which Mott was instrumental in founding nearly 20 years ago. Longtime Mott Foundation Chairman Bill White visited the trail in 2017 and was personally inspired by both the trail itself and GTRLC’s commitment to UA opportunities. “I’ve reached the point where it’s difficult for me to do any walking in heavy sand, but on that accessible 220

trail, I can make it up there and enjoy a great view,” he said a short time after. “We really enjoyed sitting out there and looking at the lake – it’s just a wonderful place.” White, who died in 2019 at age 82, was staunchly in support of providing UA experiences, especially as they relate to the aging population. “If I go to Sleeping Bear Dunes, let’s say, and my grandson is with me, that guy can run up and down the sand dune three or four times without even thinking twice about it,” he said. “Well, I myself have trouble even getting to it. So if you want people in different stages of their lives to enjoy something, you’ve really got to look at things with a long-term view.” Sam Passmore, director of Mott’s environmental program, said that including people of all abilities in outdoor recreation strengthens efforts to protect important natural resources such as, in the case of the Overlook Trail, the Great Lakes. “It’s important that people of all backgrounds and all abilities have the opportunity to experience the grandeur of the Great Lakes and develop that attachment,” he said. “It’s restorative on a personal level, of course, but from a practical level, if people don’t know about it, they won’t care about it, and it won’t be possible to sustain interest in protecting Love the land. Pass it on.

and restoring it. So that’s another reason to build those types of facilities, so that everyone in society gets a chance to experience and value how important that resource is.” Conservation was, of course, on the minds of everyone at GTRLC when the Overlook Trail was built. Most of the trail’s path used an abandoned road left over from old plans to create a subdivision on the property. When the trail had to deviate from that path in order to stay under the maximum fivepercent grade required to meet UA standards, it utilizes switchbacks that zig and zag through the forest. Foote is particularly proud of the fact that precise surveying and measuring allowed for a very minimal removal of trees, with almost no mature trees disturbed during the process. “We had to be spot-on with every twist and turn

because we wanted to go around trees and between trees instead of cutting them down,” he said. “Our main goal was to offer universal access with the least amount of impact to the preserve’s ecology, and we were very meticulous about the path and placement of the trail.” A volunteer team led by GTRLC staff botanist Angie Lucas even moved a large number of native plants about 100 yards from the switchback area to another section of old roadbed. The team completed this “plant rescue” well before construction, moving Jack-in-the-pulpit, blue cohash, woodferns and other sensitive native species. “We prioritized 13 species to dig up and move to a new location on an old section of road where they ended up doing very well,” Lucas said. “These species were selected because they don’t generally grow in clones or groups, and therefore would not be able to grow around or under the trail.”

PHOTO BY RICK KANE

As with other UA projects, switchbacks were utilized to allow the trail to stay within the grade required by federal standards. Campaign for Generations

221

CHAPTER 4

Acme Bayside Park has become a treasured community gathering place. 222 PHOTO BY RICK KANE

Love the land. Pass it on.

ACME BAYSIDE PARK IMPROVEMENTS COUNT Y

Grand Traverse PR O J E C T C O S T

$635,000

K E Y F E AT U R E S

A variety of improvements to Acme Township’s popular Bayside Park, which was greatly enlarged through the efforts of GTRLC starting about 15 years ago. Many of the features include universal access components.

Nearly a full decade before the Campaign for Generations began, big things were brewing in Acme Township. What started then became the story of a community reclaiming one of its most valuable assets, one piece at a time, one step at a time, with big help from their local land conservancy. The goal was simple, but the process was timely and complex. Community leaders wanted to remove the physical barriers to beautiful Grand Traverse Bay and establish a place where citizens and visitors could reconnect with this spectacular and rejuvenating body of water. But in the way stood dozens of buildings, separately and privately owned, that had slowly cropped up over the decades and effectively walled off so much of the bay. “Nobody thought we could pull this off. People absolutely thought we were crazy, they really did,” said Pat Salathiel, who co-chaired the citizens group at the heart of the project. “We had this dream, but it really wasn’t until the Conservancy got involved Campaign for Generations

223

CHAPTER 4

that we knew it could become a reality.”

greatly enlarged by those efforts several years ago.

GTRLC was instrumental in securing funding, leveraging assistance from the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) every step of the way. In addition to helping the township secure trust fund grants and generate private donations, GTRLC also facilitated the purchase of each parcel and managed the on-time and on-budget removal of dozens of structures.

The improvements, largely complete by 2019, include a new parking area, restrooms and play equipment, enhanced beach access, a walking loop and much more. Many of these features are designed for universal access, allowing better enjoyment for people with varying physical abilities.

In all, a total of about six acres of land and 1,500 feet of shoreline were opened for public use by 2013. Several structures – the largest and most notable of which was the old Mountain Jack’s restaurant building near the marina – were demolished to make way for the new park. “Even though it was not the type of project they usually worked on, tearing down buildings and stuff like that, the Conservancy stepped right up and made this whole thing possible,” Salathiel said. “It really wouldn’t have happened without them.” When Salathiel drives by or visits, she sees a dream realized and a need validated. “I’m just extremely happy with how the park is being used. There are almost always no parking spots left in the summer, and that shows you it was a greatly needed resource,” she said. “It’s being used a lot, and that just thrills me.” The project remains a point of pride for GTRLC – an instance of the organization stepping out of its comfort zone and completing a tremendously impactful project. “It’s still one of the best things we’ve done as an organization,” Glen Chown said. “It was a transformative thing for that community and an excellent example of us applying our skillset to help them accomplish their conservation goals.” Now, as part of the Campaign for Generations, GTRLC helped the township secure – and raise matching funds for – yet another MNRTF grant for considerable improvements to the park that was

224

Acme Township Treasurer Amy Jenema called these recent improvements “a boon to Acme Township residents as well as the surrounding communities.” “The park saw a surge of use in 2020,” she said. “I believe our Acme secret has been revealed, as we are already seeing a further rise in use in 2021.” Jenema is particularly proud of the universal access elements of the new improvements. “Acme’s Bayside Park is in the hub of our community, and as such we believe it is imperative it be a resource for all to enjoy. We have received several positive comments on the recent improvements, specifically on how much people are enjoying the ADA-compliant interior walking loop,” she said. “The loop has created a contained area offering many seating options along its path, allowing people of all ages and abilities to enjoy its benefits.” Most people are aware of GTRLC’s role in the expansion of the parkland in the earlier phases of the project, Jenema said, but are less aware that the Conservancy remains actively involved in securing funds to keep the project pushing forward. “Without the Conservancy’s expertise and partnership in raising the matching funds for the Bayside Park improvements, many of the items currently being used would not be in place today,” she said. “We cannot be grateful enough – the Conservancy was an excellent partner.” Chown, who was present at the dedication of these new improvements, vividly recalls a moment that drove home the value of the Conservancy’s work.

Love the land. Pass it on.

“I’m sitting there listening to the Acme Township supervisor, and I turn around, and there’s a woman in a wheelchair being wheeled down to the water,” he said. “The smile on her face was heartwarming. I thought to myself, this says it all. Had we not done all the things we did, that wouldn’t be happening.” So many elements of the project are representative of Conservancy values, Chown said. From universal access and access to nature to a strong sense of community collaboration, Acme’s Bayside Park is a place that represents the best of what can occur during, and as a result of, GTRLC projects.

nowhere close to the finish – is something laudatory,” he said. “I’m really proud of it, because it impacts so many people.” Chown said GTRLC stands at the ready to acquire any more parcels to add to the park, should they become available. Salathiel is glad to hear it. “We’re not finished yet. We still have a few parcels we have to pick up, and hopefully I’ll be alive to see it,” she said. “But if not, it’s ok. It’s going to happen eventually.”

“It’s a statement about what we really value in this region, and the Conservancy’s huge role in that place from start to finish – and we’re probably

PHOTO BY GARY HOWE

Campaign for Generations

225

CHAPTER 4

The new park features a universally accessible kayak launch funded by a grant from Rotary Charities of Traverse City.

226

Love the land. Pass it on.

MILTON TOWNSHIP BEACH COUNT Y

Antrim PR O J E C T C O S T

$782,292

K E Y F E AT U R E S

The park offers nearly 400 feet of waterfront on beautiful Elk Lake and provides an excellent gathering place for the community. Grants from other organizations have funded a universal access kayak launch, greenbelt and more.

If you build it, they will come. Or, in this case, if you deconstruct it, open it up and add wonderful amenities, they will come. And they’ll deeply appreciate your role in making it happen. Early on in the Campaign for Generations, officials in Antrim County’s Milton Township asked the Conservancy for help with creating a waterfront park in Kewadin, a quiet little community along the northern tip of Elk Lake. Now, several years later, the 10-acre park is bustling with activity and community officials are glad once again that GTRLC stepped in to provide critical assistance in making the dream a reality. “The Conservancy has just been such a fantastic partner to our township on a number of occasions, with this park being one of those,” said Bob Kingon, a member of the township’s parks and recreation board. “Without the Conservancy’s assistance with the grants and other aspects of it, we couldn’t have Campaign for Generations

PHOTO BY RICK KANE

227

CHAPTER 4

PHOTO BY TOM VRANICH

Representatives from the township, GTRLC, Rotary Charities, Gosling Czubak and more surround Township Supervisor Lon Bargy at the ribbon cutting.

done it. They were invaluable as an organization.” Back in 2015, the roughly 0.65-acre property that at that point housed the Water’s Edge Resort was the final piece the township needed to create a waterfront park. They had already acquired two neighboring vacant parcels, but needed help in both raising money for and acquiring the resort property. “It was a bit different from normal for us, because it was a small piece of property in a fairly urbanized area, with a bunch of buildings sitting on it,” said former Land Protection Specialist Todd Vigland, who handled the deal. “It’s probably not something that we would have just picked out on our own.” But Vigland still took the potential project to the land protection team, which saw the clear public benefit to creating more and better access to nature. “The team definitely saw the value of having better public access to Elk Lake there, as that lake is relatively underserved from an access standpoint,” 228

Vigland said. “And it’s near the village center, with the township park nearby. Enough of those things lined up and looked appealing enough for us to take a swing at this thing.” That the township had already invested in neighboring properties was also a big deal, Vigland said. “They had some significant skin in the game, which is not always the case when we’re helping municipalities,” he said. “I give them a heck of a lot of credit. They had a great vision and they stuck to it, and it helped us make that decision to jump in.” The Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) was identified early on as a probable source of funding. In addition to helping write the MNRTF grant application, the Conservancy raised matching funds for the grant and negotiated the sale with the former landowner. Since the landowner didn’t want to wait for the Love the land. Pass it on.

lengthy MNRTF process, GTRLC also temporarily purchased the resort and later transferred it to Milton Township. In addition, Vigland oversaw demolition of most of the structures on the property in preparation for the park space. It was quite a bit of work for a tiny property, but it ended up being well worth it. “I just love it – It’s a really great feeling,” Vigland said. “Especially now with COVID. Everything’s different, and being involved in a project like that can provide opportunities that people love really makes me feel wonderful.” In addition to a barrier-free kayak launch provided with a grant from Rotary Charities of Traverse City, the park has a heavily used pavilion, beautiful greenbelt (provided with a grant from the Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council) and more. With nearly 400 feet of waterfront, the park has become a true community resource.

“It’s just wonderful. Everybody comments on how attractive it is,” Kingon said. “People have really complimented it and considered it an asset to the community.” Township Treasurer Liz Atkinson, who worked closely with GTRLC on the Maplehurst Natural Area project (also in the township) said both projects were heavily used during the pandemic. She’s grateful to the Conservancy for stepping up and helping out. “I’ve just loved working with the Conservancy. It’s a bunch of professional, kind-hearted people,” Atkinson said. “To me they have just the perfect temperament. It’s just ‘What do you want to do and how can we help?’ It’s been a great experience.”

PHOTO BY GARY HOWE

Access to Elk Lake was a key desire of public officials. Campaign for Generations

229

CHAPTER 4

The stair portion of the Charlie Kehr Memorial Trail Connector not long after opening. 230 PHOTO BY JACQUELINE SOUTHBY

Love the land. Pass it on.

CHARLIE KEHR MEMORIAL TRAIL CONNECTOR COUNT Y

Benzie PR O J E C T C O S T

$136.550

K E Y F E AT U R E S

Connects the popular Betsie Valley Trail (BVT) with the Mary Margaret Johnson trail at Conservancy-protected Railroad Point Natural Area.

When it comes to Charlie Kehr, all the clichés apply. He really was the type of guy who’d give the shirt off his back to someone who needed it. He really did have boundless passion for all things Benzie County. And yes, it was in fact rare to see him without a big smile, or interact with him without feeling better in some way. Kehr, a dentist, one of the longest-serving GTRLC board members and a friend to many in Benzie County and beyond, died in early 2016 during heart surgery at age 64. The loss was profound for many. “He was a great friend and a tremendous supporter of this organization, both through his board service and his service as a truly incredible and effective ambassador for GTRLC in Benzie County,” Glen Chown said. “He was all-in for the Conservancy.” During the Campaign for Generations, Kehr was memorialized through the Charlie Kehr Memorial Trail Connector, a stairway that links the Mary Margaret Johnson Trail at the beloved Railroad Campaign for Generations

231

CHAPTER 4

PHOTO BY JACQUELINE SOUTHBY

Tom (Charlie’s brother) and Linda Kehr cutting the ribbon at the dedication ceremony.

Point Natural Area to the Betsie Valley Trail (BVT), which passes a short distance below. Despite both trails being popular and beloved natural resources only a few hundred yards from each other, there was previously no easy way to get from one to the other. “Up top you’ve got the best view of Crystal Lake. This is a lake that is arguably world-famous for its water quality, color, scenery – this is Crystal Lake. It’s gorgeous!” Chown said. “And yet many of the thousands of people who regularly passed down right below on the Betsie Valley Trail had no clue there was this unbelievable view right up the hill. They just passed right by it.” When the connector opened in the summer of 2018, it allowed people to walk up (or down) the bluff and easily pass from one trail to the other. Bike racks at the bottom mean cyclists can secure their ride and take a peaceful stroll in the woods or soak in a stunning view of Benzie County’s most famous lake. 232

“It was always our goal to connect these two resources, and make no mistake, both of them are greatly augmented by this connection,” Chown said. “A lot of people like to both hike and bike, and this lets them do both very easily.” Naming the connector after Kehr was appropriate for reasons beyond his connection to GTRLC. As chairman of the Benzie County Parks and Recreation Commission in the early 1990s, he was directly involved in the establishment of Railroad Point Natural Area. As a founding member of the Friends of the Betsie Valley Trail, he fought for its creation despite state indifference and considerable opposition from a small but vocal group of private property owners. “Though many others were also involved and instrumental in both of these projects, Charlie was the common denominator,” said his widow, Linda Kehr. “As the ‘connector’ who helped put these two resources together, an actual physical connector named in his honor makes perfect sense.” Love the land. Pass it on.

PHOTO BY ART BUKOWSKI

The stairway offers beautiful views of Crystal Lake all year long.

Because he staunchly supported and appreciated both Railroad Point and the BVT, Charlie would have been “one of the stairway’s most faithful users,” Linda said, even if the decision to name it for him might have made him blush. “He was a self-effacing type of guy and would be humbled, maybe a bit embarrassed about having the stairway named for him,” she said. “He would also feel deeply honored and proud.”

for Generations. Like its predecessor, this stairway was built to stand the test of time. “We’re building things that are functionally strong and aesthetically beautiful. These structures are built to last, but they’re also very nicely designed,” Chown said. “We could have easily gone a cheaper route, but then you end up spending more in maintenance down the line. We do things the right way, just like Charlie would have wanted.”

The connector has already become a gathering place of sorts in the community, Chown and Kehr said. “The other cool thing is that the stairway itself has already become a place where people really like to spend time and visit,” Chown said. “You’ve got the benches, you’ve got the great views, and when you park your bike below and walk up, you’re transformed.” “Every time I go there I encounter new people who stop, are intrigued and then want to explore further,” Linda Kehr said. “I cannot think of better evidence of the success of the vision that inspired this project.” The connector was built not long after the Overlook Trail at Arcadia Dunes, which proved to be GTRLC’s first major infrastructure project of the Campaign Campaign for Generations

Linda and Charlie Kehr 233

CHAPTER 4

234

PHOTO BY JACQUELINE SOUTHBY

Love the land. Pass it on.

ARCADIA MARSH UNIVERSAL ACCESS TRAIL COUNT Y

Manistee PR O J E C T C O S T

$1,709,015

K E Y F E AT U R E S

Roughly three quarters of a mile of universal access boardwalk trail that allows users of all ages and abilities to immerse themselves in the wonders of Arcadia Marsh. A series of bump-outs with benches, multiple elevated observation decks and two small fishing piers add to the experience.

Energy is a tough thing to measure with any certainty. Not energy in the sense of watts, joules or calories. We’re talking about good feelings, a sense of collective excitement or delight in something. That energy. The Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy is no stranger to good energy at public events. After 30 years of coming together to launch or celebrate the completion of dozens of impactful projects, there’s been no shortage of beaming smiles, hugs and good feelings across GTRLC’s five-county service area.

Children walk the boardwalk at the trail’s 2019 opening. Campaign for Generations

But what unfolded on July 31, 2019, was something else altogether. Maybe the stunningly beautiful weather put it over the top. It was, after all, perfect – one of those bright, clear summer evenings where 235

CHAPTER 4

PHOTO BY ART BUKOWSKI

The boardwalk provides not only UA-compliant passage through the marsh, but excellent views for anyone who visits here.

the warmth of the lowering sun seemed dialed to the exact degree it needed to be for maximum comfort. Or perhaps it was the specific mixture of the people gathered, many of whom played a role in making this special project happen. Regardless of how it happened, the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new universal access trail at Arcadia Marsh was one of the most memorable events of the Campaign for Generations, and indeed the entire history of the Conservancy. “I felt like the pure joy that day was so thick you could cut it with a knife,” Glen Chown said. “It was one of my happiest moments in 30 years, without question.” Arcadia Marsh is a very special place made even 236

more remarkable by the addition of this roughly ¾-mile universally accessible boardwalk trail that extends from the existing parking area along M-22 to a new parking area off St. Pierre Road. The elevated trail follows and extends upon the previously existing footpath at the marsh, which was prone to getting so muddy in spots that it was nearly impassible. A series of bump-outs with benches, multiple elevated observation decks (Arcadia Marsh is developing a reputation as one of the premiere birding spots in the entire state) and two small fishing piers add to the experience. Richly informative interpretive signs along the trail allow visitors to understand why the marsh is such a critically important ecosystem. Love the land. Pass it on.

entire marsh would have been underwater,” Chown said. “You could stand in the parking lot, that’s about it. No one would have been using it.” In addition to many private donations, the project was the recipient of support from the C.S. Mott Foundation and the Manistee County Community Foundation, which provided the first gift from its Minger Family Endowment Fund for this trail. The largest single gift – an enormously generous $600,000 – came from notable Manistee County philanthropists Bill and Marty Paine and their children. “This project would not have happened without the Paine family. It’s as simple as that,” Chown said. “Their love of the Great Lakes is deep and strong, and this is the latest in a long list of wonderful gifts they’ve made to the community.” Bill Paine got to experience the boardwalk before dying in February 2020 at age 89. He and Marty were there for the opening, cutting a bright red ribbon to celebrate the occasion. “It was a heartfelt day, it really was. You could just tell,” Marty said. “There was so much joy. Little kids, people with binoculars, people in wheelchairs. It was so wonderful.” The Paines provided a major gift in 2007 to acquire the first portion of the marsh and have always found it fascinating. And while a trail was established early on, it wasn’t always very inviting, especially when mud and tall summer plants made the experience less than engaging. “I’m just so proud of the organization because I think we did everything right. We didn’t skimp on quality – we wanted it to be the best it could be, built to last – and we were so thoughtful on all the signage and interpretive elements,” Chown said. “And we did all the research on where to place it, when to have it open. We took things to the next level.” GTRLC got a chance to show the boardwalk’s versatility in 2020, when record-high Lake Michigan water levels threatened to swamp it. Luckily, it was designed to be adjustable, so crews simply raised sections of it out of harm’s way. “Had we not put in that boardwalk, there would have been no access at all to that preserve. The Campaign for Generations

“For years and years whenever we were driving by the marsh on M-22 we’d always slow down and look out there, because there would always be something interesting to see,” Marty said. “But you really couldn’t get out there all that well.” Marty is thrilled to know that community members of all ages and abilities can now truly appreciate this natural gem. “Now you feel like you’re out on the water, and no one else is there, and it’s just an incredible feeling,” she said. “This is an area that has touched people’s hearts, and now it’s opened up to so many people.” It’s a sentiment that is often repeated when people talk about the new trail, and it’s by design.

237

CHAPTER 4

“We wanted a place where people would be transformed and uplifted, where at the end of the boardwalk they’d be so very inspired, so in touch with the beauty and the majesty of the natural world,” Chown said. “The level of intimacy that you feel when you’re on that boardwalk is what makes it remarkable. You’re into it. You’re immersed. You’re so close.” Not long after the trail opened, Chown accompanied longtime former C.S. Mott Foundation Chairman Bill White, who was in a wheelchair, across the length of the trail. A half million dollars of the Mott Foundation’s lead $5 million gift to the Campaign for Generations was split between closing out the Overlook Trail at Arcadia Dunes and funding the marsh boardwalk. On this trip, also a beautiful late-summer day, Chown and White ran into Marty and Bill Paine. The group engaged in a lively discussion about how the project came together so wonderfully and what it would mean for the community. Like Bill Paine, White did not have much longer. He died a few months later in October of 2019 at age 82. “That boardwalk is always going to remind me of the two Bills, who I admire so much and came to love. Bill Paine, who was such a gentleman and such

PHOTO BY JACQUELINE SOUTHBY

Access to nature for everyone, regardless of age or ability, was a key component of the Campaign for Generations.

238

a tremendous force for good in his community, and Bill White, one of the most critical and influential supporters of the Conservancy in its entire history,” Chown said. Laura Heintzelman, president and CEO of the Manistee County Community Foundation, said the boardwalk has been well received. The MCCF’s Minger Family Endowment fund supported not only the UA trail, but important land additions to the marsh as well (see page 151). “Our grant in support of GTRLC’s Arcadia Marsh UA Trail, supported by the Minger Family Endowment Fund, is a tremendous source of pride for the Manistee County Community Foundation,” she said. “Knowing the marsh is protected, and making it available for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy and experience, is one of the greatest gifts we can provide to our residents today, and to future generations. “Regardless of the time of day (or night), or season of the year, the marsh is a uniquely special place to recreate, find solace, learn, renew, and become inspired,” Heintzelman continued. “We are deeply grateful to GTRLC for their tireless and important efforts in support of our community and the region.”

PHOTO BY JACQUELINE SOUTHBY

Glen Chown cuts the ribbon with the Paine family. Marty and Bill are to his left.

Love the land. Pass it on.

Remembering Bill White

By Glen Chown

The worldwide network of people and organizations working to make a positive difference in their communities lost a passionate leader, devoted servant and true friend in October of 2019. Bill White spent his career channeling the considerable financial resources of the Flint, Michigan-based Charles Stewart Mott Foundation into organizations that worked tirelessly to improve our world. To us at GTRLC, this support meant (among many other things) preservation of one of our region’s most spectacular landscapes in the form of the 3,600-acre Arcadia Dunes: The C.S. Mott Nature Preserve. To hundreds of other entities it meant grants to improve social justice, health, access to education and so much more.

But for Bill, who served as Mott’s CEO and chairman for most of his career, it wasn’t enough to write a check and walk away. He and others at Mott wanted to make sure that organizations had the staying power necessary to do good work for decades to come. To that end, Mott regularly provided substantial capacity-building grants to strengthen countless nonprofits, including GTRLC. Mott’s investment in our organization during our formative years made it possible to carry out our mission during difficult years and dream big when the time was right. And although someone in his position could have very easily come off as intimidating or formidable, Bill conducted himself at all times with a wonderful, disarming sense of humor and genuine sense of interest and concern. In short, Bill White cared a lot, and it was evident in every interaction he had with others. His warm personality deeply endeared him to me and everyone else who worked with him, and it brought out the best in every organization he touched.

Glen Chown and Bill White

Campaign for Generations

239

CHAPTER 4

The St. Clair Lake-Six Mile Lake Preserve is brimming with natural wonder. 240

PHOTO BY ANGIE LUCAS

Love the land. Pass it on.

MARY BEHRENS SORRELL TRAIL AT THE ST. CLAIR LAKE-SIX MILE LAKE NATURE PRESERVE COUNT Y

Antrim PR O J E C T C O S T

$435,673

K E Y F E AT U R E S

This new trail replaces dated infrastructure at one of GTRLC’s oldest and most beloved preserves. It was designed for universal access, giving people of all ages and abilities the opportunity to enjoy this special place on the Chain of Lakes.

Mary Behrens Sorrell had a deep and profound connection with (and appreciation for) all things wild. Her husband, Cliff Sorrell, saw this many times over the years. On retreats up to Northern Michigan from their home in Texas, Mary would sit and soak up the natural beauty around their cottage. “Mary would talk to the water birds and they would come to her,” he said. “She had a gift – she really did.” Mary, who died in 2017, is now memorialized at one of her favorite places, the St. Clair Lake-Six Mile Lake Nature Preserve. A new universal access (UA) trail there was funded almost completely by Cliff in her memory. Campaign for Generations

241

CHAPTER 4

PHOTO BY ANGIE LUCAS

A group at an overlook platform during the dedication ceremony.

Like UA trails built elsewhere during the Campaign for Generations, the Mary Behrens Sorrell Trail was built to extremely high standards of durability and quality. It replaced outdated infrastructure at one of the Conservancy’s oldest and most beloved preserves. It opened in August of 2018 and has been thoroughly enjoyed since then. “What it’s done for that natural area is incredible,” Glen Chown said. “It’s like all of these other UA projects – it really enhances the experience for everyone, and it makes it more accessible for those who didn’t necessarily have it before.” 242

Cliff Sorrell’s offer to cover the cost was a tremendous act of love and a truly impactful act of philanthropy, Chown said. “We were unbelievably overcommitted and stretched thin at that time in the campaign, and it wouldn’t even have been conceivable to take on that project without Cliff leading in that manner,” Chown said. “We can’t thank him enough.” Sorrell was glad to help. Mary had been a GTRLC volunteer at the preserve, and she would have loved nothing more than seeing its stewardship advanced in this way, he said. Love the land. Pass it on.

“I provided the lead gift for the trail project and then led the dedication not only to honor my beloved wife, but also to instill in young and old alike the deep love and responsibility we both felt for the St. Clair Lake-Six Mile Lake Nature Preserve,” he said. “We know that preserve is one of the most ecologically important on the Chain of Lakes.” “Mary’s dream was for future generations to enjoy the peaceful beauty of this preserve. My wish is that as people of all ages walk the trail, they comprehend the fragility of our natural resources,” Sorrell continued. “They, too, can contribute to a lasting legacy for land, water and wildlife conservation.”

“WHAT IT’S DONE FOR THE NATURAL AREA IS INCREDIBLE. IT’S LIKE ALL OF THESE OTHER UA PROJECTS – IT REALLY ENHANCES THE EXPERIENCE FOR THOSE WHO DIDN’T NECESSARILY HAVE IT BEFORE”

PHOTO BY KIM STRINGER

Cliff Sorrell cuts the ribbon to open the new boardwalk in 2019

Campaign for Generations

243

CHAPTER 4

A family walks toward Fern Lake on the new UA trail at Timbers Recreation Area. 244 PHOTO BY GARY HOWE

Love the land. Pass it on.

TIMBERS RECREATION AREA UA TRAIL COUNT Y

Grand Traverse PR O J E C T C O S T

$340,100

K E Y F E AT U R E S

Universal access trail that takes users down to Long Lake and Fern Lake at one of Long Lake Township’s most popular outdoor recreation areas.

Nearby nature. It’s a concept that the Conservancy draws attention to every chance it gets. A peaceful walk in the woods doesn’t have to be an adventure that involves driving dozens of miles away or that consumes an entire day. Thanks in part to the Conservancy, the area immediately surrounding Traverse City has many wonderful preserves, parks and recreation areas to savor. Timbers Recreation Area in Long Lake Township is one of those places. Its central location close to the region’s population center means it’s only a short commute for thousands of people looking for an outdoor escape. Frontage on three different lakes – including the entirety of peaceful Fern Lake – and trails through beautiful woods and fields offer plenty to see, hear and enjoy. “It’s always been such a special place,” Glen Chown said of the former Girl Scout camp protected by the Conservancy in 2014. “It’s proven to be such a great escape into nature for so many people, many of whom live so close.” Campaign for Generations

245

CHAPTER 4

But while it’s indeed a perfect example of nearby nature, this 250-acre recreation area for many years offered walks that could be simple for some, yet riddled with barriers for others. The outdoor world can be a difficult place for people of all ages with mobility issues, and as peaceful and beautiful as Timbers is, it was no exception to that unfortunate circumstance. “It’s quite a distance from the parking area down to Long Lake or Fern Lake, which are two very popular elements of Timbers that people really want to see,” former Long Lake Township Supervisor Karen Rosa said in late 2017. “We got to thinking that that’s fine for people who can walk well, but what about people in wheelchairs, or who would like to take their children in strollers, that kind of thing?” The township and GTRLC set out to change that as part of the Campaign for Generations. With the Conservancy’s expertise, support and guidance, the township applied for and received a Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) grant to install a beautiful new universal access trail. The Conservancy helped raise matching funds for the project. The trail consists of more than a half a mile of crushed aggregate that leads from the parking lot down to Long Lake. From there, a roughly 100foot boardwalk takes visitors to a new fishing pier on Fern Lake. It also includes a spur to a picnic

area behind the gorgeous and historic barns. UA upgrades were also made to the parking lot, which has been reconfigured and expanded. The beautiful new trail has seen abundant use and has been well received since its opening in 2019. “All I hear are good things,” current Township Supervisor Ron Lemcool said. “People enjoy the ease of the path, the parking, all of it. And it’s really being used.” Lemcool said it’s important to continue to provide universal accessibility to township residents and visitors, and the township is considering expanding those opportunities at Timbers. GTRLC helped the township secure a Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund grant to protect the 250-acre Timbers property in 2012. The Conservancy also negotiated with the landowners (then the Girl Scouts) and helped raise money to match the grant. “This is just one of those natural ways for us to help a community take the next step and further enhance an investment we made together,” Chown said. “Providing universal access here made perfect sense, and I’m proud of the Conservancy and the township working together to show that this type of access is valued and important.”

As with other UA projects, switchbacks were utilized to allow the trail to stay within the grade required by federal standards.

Love the land. Pass it on.

246 PHOTO BY GARY HOWE

PHOTO BY GARY HOWE

A scene from the trail. Campaign for Generations

247

CHAPTER 4

Coy Mountain has long been a treasured natural escape for the Alden area community. 248 PHOTO BY ERIN SCHUG

Love the land. Pass it on.

COY MOUNTAIN COUNT Y

Antrim PR O J E C T C O S T

$80,520

K E Y F E AT U R E S

Work included completely redesigning a trail system at a beloved Alden-area nature preserve, then helping to acquire more land for a parking lot and trailhead. New signs were also designed and installed.

Campaign for Generations

Reuben Coy

249

CHAPTER 4

Sometimes, it’s about making a good thing even better. Coy Mountain has long been a treasured natural retreat for those in the Alden area. The history of this beautiful natural area dates to 1885, when Reuben Coy preserved 11 acres of virgin hardwoods behind his gristmill. Coy wanted this uncut land to be an example of the original landscape during an era in which entire forests were routinely clear-cut.

“The trail wouldn’t have been redone without the Conservancy. The township paid for an excavator, but we used the Conservancy’s expertise on laying out the trail and figuring out the best route, that sort of thing,” he said. And while the new trail was well received and the preserve perhaps even more beloved than ever before, it still lacked an adequate parking area and suitable trailhead.

The land remained in the family until 1958, when it passed into a trust managed by Marian Coy and two others outside the family. While members of the public were allowed access, Coy Mountain was not formalized as a public preserve until the three trustees formally presented the preserve to Helena Township in 1985.

So, not long after completing trail work, GTRLC helped the township acquire two parcels perfect for these items, ensuring that those enjoying this preserve will have safe and efficient access to its natural wonders. Acquisition of a third parcel prevented residential development of a key inholding.

The preserve was enlarged over the years, notably in 1993 when Harry Swan donated two lots near the entrance, and in 2004 when the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) provided a grant to acquire 19 vacant lots within the preserve.

“The Conservancy came up with the funding for these additions. We participated minimally in closing costs and things like that, but the Conservancy’s role was absolutely essential,” Dell said. “We could not have done it without them.”

Early trails here were built by Youth Conservation Corps workers under the supervision of a local science teacher, then later expanded by Eagle Scout Bob Pennington.

Jim Grady, who has cottages on both Thayer Lake and Torch Lake, gave generously to the project. Having recognized the value of Coy Mountain to the greater community, he helped fundraising efforts by personally sharing information about the project throughout the Chain of Lakes.

And while this preserve and these trails were certainly valued by the community, GTRLC’s involvement beginning in 2018 enhanced this special place even further. First was a complete trail redesign. Land Stewardship Specialist Steve Lagerquist, GTRLC’s longtime trail maestro, helped create an entirely new path that protects sensitive natural features while taking viewers through some of the best portions of the preserve. “The first priority was making the trails much more sustainable, but I think we also significantly improved the user experience,” Lagerquist said. “The old trails were causing lots of erosion and presenting some unsafe conditions.” The new trail has been well received, said Steve Dell, who serves on Helena Township’s parks and recreation committee. He’s grateful for GTRLC’s work in improving the system, which offers more than a mile of trail through the roughly 20-acre preserve. 250

To cap it all off, GTRLC’s communications team also worked to write, design and install a series of informative signs that allow users to better understand the preserve’s natural features, trail system, history and much more. “The signs really make it look like a professionally laid out and operated trail system and natural area,” Dell said. “They look great.” Glen Chown is thrilled GTRLC was able to help. “Coy Mountain is the essence of Community Conservation with two capital Cs. It really is. It might not have super rare plants or animals, but it’s a beautiful and truly special place that is enjoyed by so many people in that area,” he said. “And now it’s more accessible, the trails are more sustainable, there’s much better signage.” “As a result, I think our organization is better connected to the Alden-area community,” Chown continued. “People appreciate our level of expertise and our ability to get things done.” Love the land. Pass it on.

PHOTO BY ERIN SCHUG

New signs help visitors better understand and appreciate this preserve.

Campaign for Generations

251

CHAPTER 4

Pyatt Lake is a tremendously special place for a variety of reasons, from the scientific to the spiritual. 252 PHOTO BY NATE RICHARDSON

Love the land. Pass it on.

PYATT LAKE UNIVERSAL ACCESS TRAIL COUNT Y

Grand Traverse PR O J E C T C O S T

$407,487

K E Y F E AT U R E S

New trail that provides universal access to a botanically rich and beloved preserve in the heart of the Old Mission Peninsula.

On New Year’s Eve, Glen Chown and his family decided to head to Pyatt Lake. It wasn’t just any New Year’s Eve. It was Dec. 31, 2020, the end to one of the most tumultuous and unexpected years many of us have ever had to navigate. Between the dizzying effects of the ongoing global pandemic and supercharged political tensions still lingering from the recent election, millions of Americans had reason to hope 2021 would bring better things. So Chown headed to a place where, in many ways, it all began. Pyatt Lake was the focus of the Conservancy’s first major fundraising campaign, and success there helped set the stage for an organization with big things to come. But this place is special for reasons that transcend work. The three Chown boys – William, 23, Martin, 21, and Leonard, 18 – grew up at Pyatt Lake. It was where they learned to identify trees. Where they heard their first barred owl call. Where they learned about what their dad does for a living.

Campaign for Generations

253

CHAPTER 4

“They – and we – all love that place,” Chown said. “It’s part of our family’s soul.” The year had been a tough one for the boys, and indeed all students. Remote learning, cancelled or altered sports and events and much more left the young mens’ spirits somewhat dimmed. Chown and his wife Becky thought it might be useful to change the conversation. “We just wanted to come together as a family and shift the focus away from what a difficult year it was and instead talk about what we were so grateful for,” Chown said. “So here we are under these beautiful pines, in my favorite part of the preserve, and we just talked about our hopes and dreams for 2021 and what we were thankful for.” One thing Chown is thankful for is what the family encountered at Pyatt – a wonderful new universal access trail that was nearing completion. The trail, now opened, provides safe and easy access to this remarkable preserve tucked in the woods a short distance from Bowers Harbor. “It’s like a dream come true. This was our first acquisition project, our first big campaign. Now to add to that story it will be the site of the first universally accessible trail on the entire Old Mission Peninsula,” Chown said. “It’s a beloved preserve, and this will make it even more beloved and cherished going forward, simply because people are going to have more access. I’m really proud of that.” Much of the previous trail and infrastructure at Pyatt Lake had been underwater for the majority of 2020 due to record-high water levels, accelerating

the need to restore access to this special place. “It was Mother Nature’s way of kicking this project into high gear, I suppose,” said Stewardship Director David Foote. “Even if the water eventually receded, the boardwalk that was there would have been in pretty rough shape after being submerged for so long.” As with other UA projects completed by GTRLC, the boardwalk sections of the trail were built in a modular fashion so that worn or damaged sections can be replaced easily and economically in the future. It also sits upon a metal frame that should last decades, an up-front investment designed to save money down the line. “I’m proud of the magnitude and the scope of the investment we’ve made improving the access to nature for people of all abilities, and I’m proud of the quality and aesthetics of these projects, not just in one part of our service area, but across our entire region,” Chown said. “It’s fitting that we come back to our very first preserve and make this kind of investment.” Another person who would have been proud is Bill Carls, whose Carls Foundation was instrumental in both the establishment of Pyatt Lake and several subsequent expansions over the years. “He’d have been delighted to know that we’re making this type of investment in a place that has become so special to so many people,” Chown said. “Bill had a really big heart and cared deeply about the well-being of both people and nature.” Another view of the new boardwalk.

254

Love the land. Pass it on. PHOTO BY NATE RICHARDSON

CHAPTER 5

Looking Forward

The Campaign for Generations is over, but the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy won’t be slowing down any time soon.

PHOTO BY DEKE LUDWIG

CHAPTER 5

As a direct result of everyone who supported it – every donor, every volunteer, every willing landowner, every partner and every Conservancy board member and every staff member – the Campaign for Generations was a huge success. A success not only in terms of irreplaceable lands protected, but in terms of invaluable access to nature for everyone in the Conservancy’s service area, and in terms of the Conservancy’s ability to care for these precious places forever. But while we look back with immense gratitude for all that’s been accomplished, we also know that our work is far from finished. The forces that necessitated the campaign are in some ways stronger than ever. Development pressure and demand for land is at an all-time high, and the 258

Grand Traverse Region is more renowned and attractive than it’s ever been before. If we do not continue to advance our mission, irreplaceable forests, farms, shorelines and viewsheds will be lost. The land is still calling, and we must be able to answer.

Direction for the Future Prior to beginning the campaign, GTRLC’s board of directors worked closely with staff to craft a Strategic Direction to guide the organization. That direction was updated at the conclusion of the campaign, providing guidance for the Conservancy’s work through 2026.

Love the land. Pass it on.

PHOTO BY DREW SMITH

After thoroughly examining the opportunities and challenges facing the region and reflecting on how the Conservancy should respond to those moving forward, our board and staff crafted a document that meticulously outlines GTRLC’s vision and values. It also provides detailed outcomes, which describe the result of the Conservancy’s work over time. Obvious examples of such outcomes include protection of signature landscapes, healthy habitats and biodiversity, and water quality, but the board and staff dove deeper to address such outcomes as increased quality of life and community character, improved health and well-being, sound public policies, ecologically engaged and informed communities, and more.

Campaign for Generations

The Conservancy exits the Campaign for Generations full of gratitude, energy, and renewed purpose. And in several important ways, GTRLC is even better equipped to face the challenges that lie ahead. But as it was during the campaign, and indeed as it has been since the very beginning, nothing will be possible without the continued support of those who believe in our mission.

These long-term outcomes support the Conservancy’s vision, and the strategic direction then delves into the approaches necessary to achieve and support these outcomes. These approaches are then incorporated into the Conservancy’s annual work plans, creating a wellrounded framework that outlines not only the Conservancy’s vision and goals, but also how to get there. By creating the detailed framework provided by the Strategic Direction, the Conservancy can be assured that its work is truly maximized. The carefully considered goals and outcomes outlined address not just individual pieces of land, but the health of our region - and our communities - as a whole.

259

CHAPTER 5

To read the Strategic Direction in full, head to the About section of www.gtrlc.org.

More Exciting Projects on the Horizon Fulfilling our mission, the Conservancy’s land protection staff remains hard at work on quality projects throughout GTRLC’s five-county service area. We will aggressively pursue protection of the finest natural, scenic and farm lands in every corner of our region. Many upcoming projects are fantastic additions to existing projects, and others stand to protect wonderful and critical acreage in entirely new areas. Despite exiting the Campaign for Generations, our land protection staff is more focused than ever on identifying and pursuing these projects in an effort to further safeguard our region. Knowing that our community conservation and universal access projects were broadly and enthusiastically supported, GTRLC’s staff will continue to identify and implement opportunities to improve access to nature throughout our service area. In addition, GTRLC’s new Regional Forest Protection Program aims to deploy new tools to protect valuable landscapes and migratory corridors throughout our region. We are digging deeper to achieve greater resiliency in our outstanding ecological systems that are important for not only the plants and animals they sustain, but also for human health.

The Conservation Center

Conservancy to better deliver on its mission for generations to come. In addition to providing a centralized place for the Conservancy’s stewardship team to operate, the Conservation Center can solve a clear and urgent requirement for staff and volunteer facilities while allowing the Conservancy to achieve greater efficiency in its work and enhance community outreach on its own property. A greenhouse on site will support the restoration of nature preserves throughout our region as well as partnerships with organizations like the Smithsonian, with whom GTRLC is collaborating to save rare, sensitive species found on its preserves. And having a centrally located volunteer workshop that is usable year-round will allow us to better engage our talented and dedicated volunteer base. The Conservation Center will also be a true “hub” for conservation activities in our region. As the recipient of incredibly generous support during and for years prior to the Campaign for Generations, the Conservancy feels a deep responsibility to aggressively pursue our mission, not only by protecting and stewarding outstanding properties, but by engaging, supporting, and educating valued partners, donors and volunteers regarding the critical environmental issues affecting our region. GTRLC intends to reinforce and expand its leadership role through its operation of the Conservation Center. Fundraising is ongoing for the proposed Conservation Center. While it began during the Campaign for Generations, this is a separate effort with its own fundraising distinct from the campaign.

The unprecedented support for the Campaign for Generations affirms that our mission is more essential and relevant than ever before. New opportunities lie ahead as we consider what the Conservancy should and could be for the next 30 years and beyond. The proposed Conservation Center at the new Mitchell Creek Meadows Preserve (see the story of this extraordinary preserve on page 78) aligns with our Strategic Direction and stands to solve organizational challenges and position the 260

Love the land. Pass it on.

A Letter from Terrie Taylor, D.O. Chair of the Campaign Cabinet

I was born in the card room of the Elk’s Club (which was the delivery room of the first Traverse City Osteopathic Hospital) in 1955, and grew up in Traverse City. Our access to nature, whether it was swimming lessons at West End beach, driving to a public access on Long Lake to swim in much warmer water, building tree forts in the willows along Kids Creek, picking strawberries, blueberries and cherries out on Old Mission, or hunting for morels in secret forest glens, was not so much taken for granted as it was taken as a given. I went away to college and medical school, and in those late-night conversations about where we all came from, people thought I was “unnaturally enthusiastic” about my hometown …. until they visited. Now Traverse City is the preferred destination for our reunions! LouAnn Taylor, my mother, was born and raised across the state, in Alpena. Her family owned a large tract of land surrounding an old farmhouse on the shores of Lake Huron. “North Point” was a refreshing, rejuvenating and restorative retreat from the hustle and bustle of real life for all of us – but in 1990, she and her brothers decided to sell it. The property tax burden had become too high, and there were no other options. Her regret was deep and visceral, and so when she was approached to join the founding board of the fledgling Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy 30 years ago, she leapt at the opportunity! Here was a group that would work with willing landowners to preserve their land in perpetuity – the mission resonated strongly with her and rippled out to the rest of us. I joined the Conservancy as the first “second generation” Board member in 2004, and “re-upped” in 2015.

In those early days of the Conservancy, my mother hosted the finance committee meetings at our kitchen table. “Kitchen Cabinets,” as they came to be known, became a frequently relied upon group of individuals assembled from time to time to help with special projects for the Conservancy. In keeping with that tradition, it has been my privilege to be intimately involved in the Campaign for Generations from its first moments back in 2016 when we formed a “Campaign Cabinet.” This 11-member team spent a year helping staff and board members secure lead gifts during the quiet phase of the campaign. As cabinet members, we shared our passion for the story of the campaign with our networks and helped strategize additional philanthropic resources. I am deeply proud to be able to sustain my mother’s original commitment to the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy and honored to have chaired the Campaign Cabinet. Ours is an organization which entered the scene at an auspicious moment in our region’s history. We have helped to both frame and address important issues of land use and preservation, and our spheres of influence are expanding. The campaign has turned out to be a springboard into the Conservancy’s next chapter --- the land is still calling, and we will continue to answer. Our capacity is expanding. Our supporters, our volunteers and our partners are growing in number and enthusiasm. Our impact is both immediate and sustained: it will reverberate for generations to come. I say, “Onward and upward!”

Campaign for Generations Cabinet Members Terrie Taylor, D.O., Chair

Bobbi Polk

David Taft

Betsy Dole

Stephen Polk

Maureen Templeton

Jim Huckle

Royce Ragland

John Zaloudek

CampaignPalmer for Generations Susan

Maureen Smyth

261

A CAMPAIGN FOR GENERATIONS JULY 1, 2015 – JUNE 30, 2021 The Campaign for Generations was an outstanding success because families like yours chose to prioritize this mission over the last six years. We can’t thank you enough for your investment in permanently protecting thousands of acres of precious natural, scenic and farm lands. Your gifts increased access to nature for people of all ages and abilities, and strengthened the Conservancy’s ability to care for our protected lands far into the future. With your selfless and courageous giving, you have made northern Michigan a better place.

Cash, Pledges and Realized Estate Gifts The following list represents cumulative giving from supporters over the six years of the Campaign.

Gifts of $1,000,000 or more

Gifts of $500,000 - $999,999

Gifts of $250,000 - $499,000

Tripp and Chia Huei Amdur

Anonymous (1)

Anonymous (3)

Brookby Foundation

Rollin M. Gerstacker Foundation

Carls Foundation

Dick and Carol Crout

Kathy Magliochetti

Martin and Valerie Cotanche

Debra Edson

Robert and Joyce Mims

Casey Cowell and Dana Roman

Clifford and Norma Fox

Ken and Susan Morrison

Herbert H. & Grace A. Dow Foundation

Jim and Diana Huckle

Freda O. Smith Trust

Morrissey Family Foundation and Morrissey Equip Corp

Cliff Sorrell

Jim and Diana Huckle Family Foundation Richard and Diana Milock Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Don and Jerry Oleson

James and Debbie Norling

Harry A. & Margaret D. Towsley Foundation

Stephen and Roberta Polk

Shaw & Betty Walker Foundation

Ralph L. & Winifred E. Polk Foundation

Michael Wisniewski

Robert and Pauline Young

John Woollam and the J.A. Woollam Foundation

262

Love the land. Pass it on.

Gifts of $100,000-$249,999 American Farmland Trust Anonymous (3) Harold S. Hansen & Naomi H. Bodenstab Foundation William R. Burleigh Family Foundation Robert and Lucinda Clement Consumers Energy Foundation

McWilliams/Piraino Family Foundation Phillip and Nancy Meek Dan and Lynne Mixer The Nature Conservancy Oleson Foundation John and Sue Paul Denis and Martha Pierce

John and Lynn Collins Kate and Rick Dahlstrom Paolo and Patty DeMaria Mark W. Dietrich Living Trust Paula and Bryce Dreeszen Alan Flory and Monica Schultz Lee and Carolyn Gardner Leonard Goodman

Robert and Leslie Cooper

Royce Ragland and Kenneth Bloem

James Grady

David and Ellen Petrick Foundation

David E. Reese Family Foundation

Estate of Harold and Gwendolyn Groves

Elizabeth G. and Stanley F. Dole

Mary Richards

Linda and Craig Hanson

Dole Family Foundation

Susan and Michael Rontal

Jennifer and Brian Jaffe

George Fabe Fund of the Greater Cincinnati Foundation

John and Barbara Rothhaar

Thomas and Susan Kehr Wayne and Ruthanne Kladder

James and Fran Falender

Bruce S. Shannon Family Foundation

Frey Foundation

David and Sara Taft

Dan and Laura Lorimer

Community Foundation Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy Endowment

Warrington Foundation

Terence Malone

Deborah Crowe and Todd Wilson

Mariel Foundation

Barry Hibben Myrna Hitchman Blair and Gordon Jones Linda Kehr Paula Kelley

Gifts of $50,000-$99,999 Americana Foundation Anonymous (3)

Marcia Lee

Les & Anne Biederman Foundation

Estate of Marlene Loughmiller

Charles and Nancy Brickman

Estate of T. Grace Macdonald

Paul and Amanda Brink

John and Jane Matz

Donna Burt

Minger Family Endowment Fund of the Manistee County Community Foundation

Denise and Mike Busley

Thomas and Deborah McMullen

Harry and Betsy Calcutt

Barbara McWilliams and Thomas Piraino & the

Cherry Republic

Campaign for Generations

Gloria and Leith Butler

Don and Marylou Coe

Roger and Ann Looyenga

Josephine Marquis Steve and Deona Paine Susan and Tom Palmer Monnie Peters Kathy Polk Osborne Rotary Charities of Traverse City Grace Rudd Philip Ruedi and Laura Staich Susan Scyphers Lois Verbrugge Joy and Theodore Whittlesey Max Wicha and Sheila Crowley John Robert Williams and Terrie Taylor 263

Gifts of $25,000-$49,999 American Proficiency Institute, Inc. Andrew R. and Janet F. Miller Foundation Anonymous (5) Robert and Anna Rita Barron Mack and Lorraine Beers

Carol Paine-McGovern and Terry McGovern

Lauren and Jesse Brill

John and Theresa Pelizzari

Michael Bukowski and Karen Kulik

Christine Petersen

Dr. David and Valerie Canter

Gary Pomeroy

Charlevoix County Community Foundation

Prout Financial Tom and Diane Rensberry Scott and Jennifer Rodes

William and Edith Christoph Chris and Julie Conger

William Scharf

Richard Cooper and Jan Tennant

Rick and Kathy Brown

Art and Mary Schmuckal Family Foundation

William and Paula Cordes

Estate of Robert Carstens

Fred and Laraine Schorr

Estate of Elizabeth Case

Ann and Al Taylor

Crystal Lake & Watershed Association

Conservation Resource Alliance

Ralph and Barbara Thayer

Jeffrey Cunard

Brian and Robin Dailey

Mary Tomaszewski

Marcia Curran

J. Bennett and Tauna Donaldson

Traverse City Tourism

Bob and Pam Currey

Rich and Susan Erwin

Andrew M. Vander Molen Foundation

Daniel and Gail Dall’Olmo

Jeannette M. Fehner Trust

Thomas and Kathleen Volle

Estate of John W. & Betty J. Frost

Wege Foundation

Beers Family Foundation Dan and Lisa Brickman

Carlton and Rondi Fry Robert and Kathleen Garvey

Ron and Marty Yocum Mike and Trish Young Pat Zigarmi

Iceman Promotions, Inc. Walter Johnson

Gifts of $10,000-$24,999 Allen-Birge Charitable Trust Anonymous (1)

Matthew and Deborah Knudstrup

Aultra Ventures

Robert and Nancy Marshall

Nan Barbas and Jonathan Sugar

Peggy Martin Estate of Diane McDonald Ann Norman

264

Joyce Delamarter Michael and Rhea Dow Elizabeth Driscoll Jim and Susan Farrington Bob and Ruth Fountain David and Claudia Fry

Dottie Gerrity Hamp Family Fund

Nancy Cotcamp

Martha Garber Carol Gardner Mary and Jim Gilson Dean and Sharon Ginther Lois Goldstein and John Heiam Mark and Elaine Grant

Alison Berry

Estate of Barbara S. Graves

Dick and Sue Bingham

Thomas Greensmith

Norton and Mary Lee Bretz

John Hamill and Pat Temple

Love the land. Pass it on.

Steven and Sheila Hamp

Kevin and Sue Malone

Geraldine Hansen

Andrew Marshall

Liz Hardy and Tom Kienbaum

Robert Martin

Mark Haynes

Ann McPhail

Bill and Kirty Heald

John and Nancy Meade

Stephen L. Hickman Family Foundation

Brian and Lori Meek Carroll Meyers

Gregory Seman and Tracey McVicar Estate of Milburn Shafer Patricia Sharpnack Roy and Lou Anna Simon Michael and Suzette Simpson Donald and Glenna Southwell Tim Sparks

Tracy Hickman and Chad Munger

Paula and Paul Moyer

Jack and Martha Hicks

Mary and Paul Neustadt

Joyce and Garland Hicks

Roy and Susan Nichols

Hildreth Family Fund

Otwell Mawby, PC.

HP Foundation

Carl and Zan Palmer

Catherine Hudak

Joe and Jill Parker

Al and Julie Hurd

Dick and Joanie Paulsen

Trout Unlimited Adams Chapter #676

Mary and Robert Hurley

Raymond and Jan Pezzi

Dori Turner

Abdeen Jabara and Holly Maguigan

Dan and Pamela Prevo Foundation

Sue and Norm Ulbrich

W. K. Kellogg Foundation

Timothy and Margaret Price

Sue and Patrick Kelly

Tom Quinn and Tommy Thompson

Judy Kern Ellen Kerr

Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation

Gordon and Mary Krater

R.M. Young Company

Jackie and Bob Kunnen

Dan Remahl

Penny and Jamie Ladd

Gary Richardson and Cheryl Gross

Land Trust Alliance

Nancy Swift Jim Taup Julie Tebo and Paul Danes Paul Tousley John and Mary Tris

Barbara and James Van Dam M. Sue Waltz Gloria Whelan Harvey White and Alice Lloyd Randi and Mark Woodworth John and Marylou Zaloudek Frank and Faye Zimmerman

Robert and Susan Rinder

Gifts of $5,000-$9,999

The Edward and Elyse Rogers Family Foundation

Charlene Abernethy and Mike Gill

Judy Leege

Pug Rundio

Carl Anderson

Lou Anne and Don Lindemann

Kevin and Lisa Russell

Anonymous (6)

Long Lake Foundation

Matthew and Adrienne Russell

Dennis Arouca and Anne Treadway

Jack Maddox and Janet Garvey

Kenneth and Karen Schmidt

Community Foundation Land Use and Conservation Planning Endowment

Robert and Nancy Baglan

Denny and Deb Malone Campaign for Generations

265

Gifts of $5,000 - $9,999 — Continued

Steven & Kathryn Bandstra Foundation Cindy and Gary Barta Rick and Elizabeth Bellingham Steven and Constance Benz Rosemary Berardi Scott and Christine Blackhurst Brian Blood Lois Breimeier Frederick and Lisa Brodeur

Daniel and Kristine Drake Eric and Kathie Dreier Cheryl and Bill Dundon Michael and Cathy Emerson Natalie Field Foundation Joe Fisher Jane Fochtman Norm and Mary Anne Frey James and Lauri Gartner

Greg Holmes and Katherine Roth Dennis and Janice Hudson Linda and Greg Jaris Kati Johanson June 8th Foundation Kevin Kelly Paul and Diane Kolak Steven Kraft and Carol Burns Kresge Foundation

Robert Buckner

Geary Rimmer Vincent Wolf Foundation

Margaret Bushnell

Marcia Gest

L.T.C. Automotive, Inc.

Jill Byron

Jeremy Gibson and Carolyn McDonald

Louise Ladd

Bruce Campbell

Mark and Barbara Kuhlmann

Gregory and Audrey Landsfeld

Richard and Tracey Cassard

William Gittlen and Sarah Campbell

Harold and Pamela Lassers

Chemical Bank

Gosling Czubak Engineering

Lesley and Stuart Lee

Dale Claudepierre and Melynda Bagley

Hank and Bonnie Graff

Kathy and Tom Lehner

Edward Graft

James and Kirsten Levinsohn

Margaret Griffen

Leslie Li and Brian Ahlborn

John and Andrea Grix

Ross and Cathy Lillie

Kathleen and Mark Guy

Brian and Paula Lohss

Rob and Diane Collier

Jane Hardwicke

Community Foundation for the National Capital Region

Jack and Ruth Harris

Community Foundation LouAnn’s Endowment for Women’s Leadership

Will Heelan

Brad and Amy Lyman

Concerned Citizens of Acme Township

Luann and Klaus Heinert

Nancy Lyon

Robert Condon

Elizabeth Heintzleman

Mark Maddox and Sarah Sutton

Patrick and Carol Conway

Herrington-Fitch Family Foundation

Gregory and Lissa Magel

Daniel and Linda Cline Sara Cockrell Coldwell Banker Schmidt, Realtors

Joseph and Leslie Cook

Sherry Marshall

Clan Crawford

Thomas Hitchman and Keith Hewitt

Robert and Susan McLean

Harry Cribbs

Tracy Hobbs and Eddie Sullivan

Cathy and Paul Minster

Ray and Linda Dornbusch

William and Myrna Holland

John and Nancy Morris

Hank Dow 266

Dave Murphy and Sue Peters Love the land. Pass it on.

Estate of Valerie Nelson

David Silver

Janet Wolf

Tye Nordberg

Evan Smith and Cynthia Anderson

Andrew and Noelle Wolff

Lisbeth Oana Geoff and Mary Paine Melba and Paul Panhorst

Maureen and Paul Smyth Mark and Kathy Spencer

Woodward Family Foundation Jan Wyckoff Arthur and Colleen Yuncker

Karl Pearson

Kathy and Rolf Stadheim & the Stadheim Foundation

Nathaniel and Juanita Peters

David and Lynn Starkey

Gifts of $2,500 - $4,999

Ed and Patty Petrick

J. Terry and Barbara Stein

Alfie Embroidery Inc.

F. Verne Powell

Paul Stimson

Sharon Andringa

Helen Pratt Trust

Anonymous (4)

Pamela and Dan Prevo

Nancy Swanson and Jeff Groenke

Jane Purkis

Pete Swartz and Lori Franz

Randy and Peg Asmus

Anne and Joseph Purpura

Mary and William Swift

Jeffrey Puryear and Myriam Waiser

John and Sandra Thorne

Randall Baidas and William Reeves

Marty Tomb

Helen and Ross Barker

Carol Rabanus

Tom’s Food Markets

Deena Barshney

Polly Rea

Torch Conservation Center

Carl Benner

Carl Rinder

Jeanne Townsend

Michael Roberts and Phyllis Laine

John and Rebecca Bercini & the Bercini Family Foundation

Mary and Robert Treadway

Paula Robey and Barbara Jean Ames

Mary Van Valin Nancy VandenBerg

Judy and Paul Arnold

Jay and Maureen Berger Bruce and Kathleen Berghoff Arleta Bernson

Katie Roth

Greg VandenBosch

Dick Sadler

Chip Visci and Marty Claus

Richard and Linda Saslow

Suzanne Voltz

Nancy Schlichting and Pam Theisen

George Warrington and Drew Gores

Brandon and Melissa Bordeaux

David and Pam Seabury

Jeff Watts

Gloria and Jerry Boyd

Nancy Seasholes

Thomas and Jane Weaver

David and Patricia Brogan

Matthew and Jennie Shaw

Kathy and Paul Weiner

Joe and Elise Brooks

John and Victoria Sheagren

Charles and Ann Weitz

Bruce and Jennie Brown

Jennifer Sherman

Mac and Marilyn Whisner

Ted and Mary Brown

Barclay Shultz and Lori Amsterdam

Bruce and Dorothy Wierman

Jon Bylsma and Jennifer Johnston

Campaign for Generations

Ross and Brenda Biederman Jerry and Drieka Bloom Nena Bonadarenko

Avace and Bruce Wildie 267

Gifts of $2,500 - $4,999 — Continued

Thomas and Dianne Campbell

Michael and Mary Foley

Paul and Laura Jacobson

Timothy Carroll

Steven and Sallie Foley

Rosalind Jaffe and Pat Balmer

William and Sandy Cartwright

Barry and Julie Foster

Century 21 Northland

Pamela Fraker

Lee Jameson and Barbara Nelson-Jameson

Mark Cerny

Leonard and Karen Franseen

Pete and Shari Clason

Stephen and Susan Fry

Richard and Jill Claybour

Douglas Gage and Cheryl Sisk

Donna and Michael D’Alessandro

Bill Garratt and Helen Truesdell

Molly and Jeff Dalton

Jim and Lucy Gerlach

Joachim Janecke Gerald Jehle Thomas and Jane Jenkins Elizabeth Jessup Marilyn Kamp Patrick and Mary Kelly

Barbara Danly

Matthew Godlewski and Jacob Whitman

Tim and Laurie Daum

Cheryl and Luke Goodenough

Charles and Susan Davidson

Doug and Karen Goodkin

John Davies

Christopher Gores

Graydon and Sherri DeCamp

Jeffrey Graft

Anthony Kramer and Barbara Bailey

Paul and Christine Deyo

Michael and Anne Groleau

Jean and Walt Kretzmann

David Dickinson and Jeannine LaPrad

Donna Hagan and James Heffner

Karen Kuehlhorn

Matt and Dana Drake

Diana Hammond

Charles and Evelyn Drummond

Don Harbold

Jayme Lahut and Davin Robinson

DTE Foundation

Barry and Evelyn Harper

Mr. Douglas Landis

Tom and Sarah Dunn

Dave Harrison

David and Marty Leavenworth

David and Dianne Dykstra

Harvey’s Foundation

David and Rebecca Leege

EJ USA

Louise and Larry Haskett

Jan Leuallen

Marjorie Elliott

Brian Hayes

Dick and Linda Lewis

Tom and Diane Emling

Walter Herrick

Jim Lewis

John and Char Ester

Cheryl Hess

John and Cynthia Lhost

Fred A. Farage Jr. and Carl J. Strebel

Kristina Hindert

Daniel and Mary Liechty

Robert and Jane Holdeman

Timothy and Jessica Lindstrom

Thomas and Carol Hollowell

Gerald Linn and LuAnn Orbeck

Michael and Marsha Howard

Nancy and John Lukasiewicz

John and Wilma Hultman

Bruce Luoma and Tammy Hagerty

Tom and Linda Farrell William Farrington Gary and Elizabeth Fazzio Lois Feichtenbiner 268

T. Michael and Joan Jackson

Joyce Kirshner and Frances Wyatt Anthony Klain Marty and Anita Klein

Pauline Lackie

Love the land. Pass it on.

Gregory and Susan Lyman

William and Kathleen Parsons

Steve and Carol Shuckra

Dan Mach and Kathy Flynn Mach

Dick and Ellie Paulsen

Siebenthaler Foundation

Pierce Family Charitable Foundation

Samuel and Veronica Smith

James and Christina MacInnes Magagna Family Foundation

June Prein

Peter Magoun

Tim Prescott and Linda Wessels

Marin Community Foundaton

Robert and Connie Pulcipher

Kenneth and Jo Marks

Larry and Donna Purcey

Robert Marshall

Lynn and June Rayle

Mr. Chuck and Shelley Stockwell

Peggy and Graham Martin

Bradley and Marilyn Raymond

Julie Swidorski

Dave Mathews

Ron and Donna Reffitt

Lester and Joanne Teague

William and Joan McCool

Alexander Robinson

Susan McCraven and Robert Reider

Patricia and Edward Robinson

Jennifer Tobias and Tom McCracken

Bob and Lisa McCririe

Barb and Mike Rodenberg Elizabeth Rodgers

Thomas and Shirley McLenithan

Kristen and Paul Roell

Mead Family Fund

Dan and Martha Rogalny

Sue and Steve Meholic

David and Elizabeth Rollert

Mary Jane Meier

Rosso Family Foundation

Margaret Moran

Diana and Basil Rowe

Karen Mudgett

Anthony and Natalie Rupard

Jennifer Mullan

Jeanne Salathiel

Jo Ann and Gary Munce

Pat and Lyn Salathiel

Debra Lewis and Kevin Nagy

Diane Samarasinghe

Nels and Lynda Nichols

John and Suzette Sanborn

Northern Michigan Mountain Bike Association

John and Margaret Sargent

David and Marilyn Nussdorfer

Thomas and Lisa Schermerhorn

Olson, Bzdok & Howard, PC

Don Schuster

Roland and Sara Pandolfi

Thomas and Suzanne Scott

Cynthia and Scott Paradise Gail Parry and Norman Bell

Serendipity Endowment at the Community Foundation

Scott and Frances Parry

Elizabeth Sharp

Campaign for Generations

Pat Sawin

David and Kathryn Snell Jeff and Judy Spencer Linda and John Spevacek Eric and Nancy Stehouwer

Emily Todd Paul and Ingrid Turner Robert and Lisa Ulrich Diane and John VanderVeen Melinda Wagner Nancy and Kent Walton Sylvia and Jim Walworth Flint Watt Brian Weisman Darragh and Robert Weisman Donna Weitz and Bill Smith Wells Family Foundation Laurence and Carole White Diane Wilbur and Jim Szalay David and Roberta Williams Windward Partnership James and Gera Witte Karla and Stan Woell David and Ann Wood Susan and James Woodburne 269

Richard and Monica Zillich

Bell Title Lakeshore

Don Brown

Gifts of $1,000 - $2,499

Marcia Bellinger

Rik and Carolyn Brown

Scott Adams

Marc Bendick and Mary Lou Egan

Eleanor Brownell

Carol Adler Kirk and Cathy Agerson

Roger and Kathy Benson

Thomas and Judy Aja

James Bergman and Penelope Hommel

Kimberly Albright and Michael Dow

Lynda Bergsma

Alden State Bank Catherine Alfred Brian and Maripat Allen Joe and Kathryn Anderson Karen Andrews Anonymous (5) Arcadia Lions Club Kirsten Ardery Jon and Mary Armstrong Thomas and Barbara Auer Richard and Patricia Austin Jeremiah and Kristi Avery Eric Baghdikian and Kathy Remenar

Betsie Valley Trail Robert Bieder Audra and Nathan Bildeaux Jeremy Birnholtz Mary and John Blanchard Peter and Eleanor Blitzer Steve and Margaret Blouw Boccia Family Foundation Peggy and Robert Bogart Gilbert Bogley David and Roberta Bolig Bondy Charitable Gift Fund Kathy and Chuck Bonneau Joan and Alfred Bonney

Herb and Dee Bucholtz Michael and Sandra Buhrt Builders Exchange of Northwest Michigan, Inc. Deborah Bunker Ruth Starke Burkhead James Burnett Craig and Martha Burns Virginia and Nancy Burt Bruce and Rhoda Bush James and Michele Butcko Eric and Kelly Buth Linda Butka and Bryan Olshove Camp Arcadia Bob and Ruth Campbell Karolina Carls Paul and Jean Carlson Margaret Carmody Sally Casey

Nick and Shirley Baker

Jean Boquist

Peter and Kristine Baldo

Karen Bora

Andrew and Eunice Barbera

Gary and Susan Bowerman

Robert and Gail Barnes

Amy Bowes

Tom and Mary Barnes

Andrew Bowman and Alena Kaufman

Charles and Jeanie Chapin

Anne Brasie

Elise Chapin and Andrea Arnone

Ruth Bay

H. Arthur and Catherine Brereton

Leslie and O. Ann Chinn

Bill and Kathy Beck

John and Marilyn Brickler

Glen and Rebecca Chown

Nancy Beeler

Edward and Ingrid Brophy

William and Laura Christensen

James Bauer Bill and Gail Baughman

Ernie Behnke 270

Ginny Cashbaugh Felix Casillas Diane and Everett Chambers Beth Chan

Roger Clason Love the land. Pass it on.

Timothy and Mary Clulo

Dee and Ron Crawford

Marissa and Manny Duque

Dotti Clune and Jill Henemyer

Tom and Jeanne Crosby

David Durham

Julie Clynes

Tom and Judy Croxton

Chris and Donna Earle

Marilyn Cobb

Mary Culik and Robert Sharrar

Lois Eaton

Richard and Laura Cobb

Don and Yvonne Cunkle

Emily Eby and Mark Baranoski

Max and Reatha Cochran

Jim Cunningham

Barbara Cochrane

Dan Daigger

Ann Edwards and Robert Parnes

Ben and Tracy Coe

Pat Daisy

Robert and Debra Coffey

Cortney and Chris Danbrook

Jack and Maddie Coleman

David Webster Construction

Elizabeth Collins

Christopher and Patricia Davis

Ernest Collins

Lois DeBacker

Michael and Carolyn Collins

Ann and Richard DeBoer

Michael Collins and Margaret Grano

Rick and Lisa Delaney

Stella Collins Comfort Keepers Eleanor Comings Patricia Compton and Barbara Bleyaert Cone Drive/Textron Christopher and Martie Conner Birgit and Keith Conway

Gretchen Deo Nancy Deo Doug and Margo Detzler Rich and Mary Devon Daniel DeWitt and Lisa Deferrari Charles and Janet Dickerson Nancy Dickinson Preston Dilts

Gary and Ann Edwards Ronald and Michelle Edwards Richard Elias Doris and Rick Ellery Neal and Margaret Elyakin Endoman Promotions, LLC Mary Engdahl Dan and Ann Ernst Dan and Joy Ernst Linda and Jim Ernst Michael and Rhonda Estes Chad and Monica Evans Jack and Donna Fahlen Charles Fahlgren and Kay Harley Margaret Farrington Emily and Laurence Fasan

Ralph Coolman and Sara Curran

Donna Dinkmeyer

Robert and Karin Cooney

Michael Dively

James Cooper

Diane and James Dixon

Chris and Merrie Corbett

Ron and Carol Dooley

Susan Flynn and Jeff Corwin

William and Ginny Dorner

Karl and Nancy Couyoumjian

Claudia and Ken Drake

William and Romona Crain

Drew Smith Photography

Thomas Crampton

Jack and Janice Ducsay

Margaret Mudd Fletcher Charitable Foundation

Barbara Crumpton

Roger and Angelica Dunlap

Joanne Folsom

Campaign for Generations

Jan Faulkner David Feenstra Judy and Tom Feldmann James and Creda Feller Andrew and Daniela Fischer Brian and Vera Fisher

271

Gifts of $1,000 - $2,499 — Continued

George and Mary Ford

Elliott and Sandra Greenspan

John and Shirley Hoagland

DeAnne and Todd Frank

Jo Grindem

Mark Hoffman and Sue Harmer

Timothy and Mary Frank

Michael Grusenmeyer

Mary Hoiles

Charles and Julie Frayer

Bill and Robin Hall

Sue Holcombe

Jyl Fredette

Nancy Hammond

Jo Holmes

Suzanne Freshour

Nick and Susan Hansen

Gary Holt

Peter and Patricia Gaines

Hansen Family Charitable Fund

JoAnn and David Holwerda

Paul Gambka

William and Kathleen Hanson

Walter Hooper

Dilys Tosteson Garcia and Lola Jackson

Mark and Cathy Harrell

David Horn

Bradford Harrison

Beth Hubbell

Community Foundation Gardner Mahalo Fund

Jessica Hatch

Dennis and Janice Hudson

Ellie and Gus Garrett

David and Margaret Hauser

Pam Huffer

Dan and Rachele Gartland

Bethany and Robert Hawkins

Larry and Diane Hughes

John and Grace Gast

Hawthorne Family Foundation

Donald Gatz

Hayden Foundation

Community Foundation Robert T. Hughes Endowment

Kevin and Sharron Gay

Willa Elizabeth Hayes

Mark and Mary Beth Gentry

Hazelnut Kids

David and Helene Gidley

Kandace Heck

Mark Gilmore

James Heddins and Donna Bartholomew-Heddins

Francis Gingras and Jacqueline Merta-Gingras

Robert and Barbara Heflin

Kenneth Goebel

Bruce Henderson

Richard Goerke

Mike Hennesey

Jim and Carol Goetz

Sandra and Mark Henschell

Steve Perdue, Grand Traverse Industries

Sharon and George Hermach Carol Hess

Community Foundation Kenneth F. and Elizabeth A. James Endowment

Michael and Christine Gravlin

Janet and Kirk Hewlett

Mary Janik

Great Lakes International Trading

Doug and Martee Hickman

Jennifer Jay and Evan Johnstone

Jeffrey and Donna Green Thom Greene and Nadeen Kieren Jane Greenfield and Janet Nesin 272

Ann and Don Highlands David Hilbrands John and Jane Hilliard Richard Hitchingham

Huntington National Bank Craig and Ginger Hupp Gretchen and Ted Iorio Heather Irvine Judith and Thomas Ivacko J.P. Landscape & Irrigation, INC. Ronald and Janet Jackson Kenneth James

David and Christine Jaymes Hollis and Karen Jencks John and Joanne Johnsen Keith and Claudette Johnson Love the land. Pass it on.

Sue Johnson

David and Patricia Leege

Charles and Kay McDowell

Jill and Ron Johnston

Tracey Lev-ary

Tom and Shelle McElwee

Edward and Ann Kalat

John and Carolyn Lewis

John McGilliard

Charles and Mona Kalil

Richard and Colleen Lewis

Jim and Louann McKimmy

Michael and Donna Kaplowitz

Brenda Lewis-Roth

Jane McKune

Carol and H. Peter Kappus

Katherine and Keith Lindstrand

Michael and Karen McMahon

Joe and Angela Karbowski

Dency Lippert

Timothy and Nancy Mead

Elizabeth and David Karczewski

Scott and Vickie Lizenby

Robert Kasperek and Lynn Formanczyk

Dusty and Caitlin Lopez

Rita Melotti and Andrew Bishop Amy and Dan Meyer

Donald Kegley

Carleton Lorig and Yolanda Colson

Kegley Family Foundation

Katie Lowran

Timothy Milford

Ray and Jane Kendra

Barbara Lukasiewicz

Albert and Deirdre Miller

John and Connie Kerns

Tim Lund

Mary Beth and James Milliken

Phyllis Kidd

Donald Lynch

Friends of Milton Township

Carol and Robert Kindt

David Lyon

MLC Realty, INC

Donald and Barbara King

Louise Ann Lyon and John Banks

Carolyn Moats

Bob and Karen Kingon

Philip and Connie Micklin

Shane and Kimberly Lyons

Bruce Monroe and Cynthia Giacobone

Susie Mackay

Stephen and Diana Morgan

Tom and Gladys Maguire

Susan Morley

Dave and Barb Mahan

Richard and Elizabeth Morris

Bill and Kathy Main

Lloyd and Mary Morrisett

Roger and Aimee Mali

Sladie Morrison

Sally and Patrick Manke

Douglas and Chandra Morse

Rev. Oscar and Shirley Kraft

Bo Manning and Catalina Salas

Jacqueline Morse

Bruce and Libby Krone

Jon and Mary Ann March

John and Victoria Moseley

Vernon and Tina Lalone

Charlotte Marx

Richard and Marilyn Mumaw

Keith and Bernice Lamkin

Marilyn and Bob Masten

Molly Murbach

Becky Lancaster

Chris Mauch

Dennis and Judy Murphy

Thomas and Alison Larabel

Carol McAnulty

Joan Murray

Cynthia Lattin

Suzanne McCarthy

James and Myra Muth

Jeffrey and Marcia Lee

Meredith McComb

Peter and Susan Neithercut

Lewis and Char Kirchner Kevin and Ann Kitchin Donna and Jerry Klinefelter Joan Knudson Charles and Susan Konieczny Richard Kosinski and Deborah Ochs

Campaign for Generations

273

Gifts of $1,000 - $2,499 — Continued

Dirk and Mary Nelson Heather and Andrew Nelson

Jose Perez-Sanz and Catherine Bosher

John and Julie Rodes John and Rachel Roe

Michele and Joe Nerone

Kathleen Connell and Dave Peters

Ann Rogers

Patrick and Jennifer Nestor

Mary Peters

Terry and Robbi Rogers

George and Jami Nicholson

David and Ellen Petrick

Denny and Fred Rohn

Michael and Kathleen Nicholson

Althea Petritz

Bill and Karen Rosa

George Petritz

Paul and Carol Rose

Cheryl Phelps

John Ross

Stephen Phillips

Community Foundation Rotary Endowment

Carol Niemi Shirley and Jerry Niemi NMEAC Thomas and Anita Nordberg Ellen Northway William and Carin Northway

Nancy Podurgiel Nancy and Carl Pohly Alison and Dennis Prindle

Dan Ruffe and Heather Hudson Mary and Jerry Rupley

Emerson and Elizabeth Pugh

Tom Sampson and Nancy Wonch

Junia and August Querio

Matt and Sara Satkowiak

Robbie and Joe Rabanus

David and Melissa Sawin

John and Linda Racine

Wylie and Donald Schaffer

Leonard Radwanski

Kurt and Colleen Schindler

Samuel and Jo Rahaim

Diana Schmiedicke

Rebecca Ramirez

Thomas and Beverly Schmitt

Ricki Ravitts

Bob and Mary Scholl

Melissa Reed

Susan Schuler

Ruth Reeve

Earl and Georgann Schuster

Terri Reisig

Matthew Scott

Emilia Rennie

Wendy Scott

Jerry and Linda Ozanne

Pam Reno and Dayne Bess

Anita and Chris Scussel

Victoria Palmer

Kent and Mary Ann Reynolds

Gary and Nancy Seabrook

Richard and Debbie Pascoe

Michael and Alice Rhyner

Gary and Eiko Seevers

Greg and Susan Payne

Tom and Diana Riekse

George and Deanna Seifried

Kate Pearson and Steve Cruzen

Robert Riney and Sandra Bowman-Riney

Frederic S. Shaffer Jr. Family Partnership

Madeline Robinson

George and Roberta Shambaugh

Northway Orthodontics Erin O’Connell Patrick OConnell Richard and Adrianne Odell Mike and Daniele Okma Gloria Olds Thomas and Mary Osborn Kristi Osga Kipp Owen Dennis Owens Leroy Owens and Mary Lou Henderson

Stephen and Lorrie Peck Patricia Pelizzari Dennis and Mary Penney 274

Michael and Libby Robold

Love the land. Pass it on.

Lowell and Ellen Shaw

John and Irene Stuart

Dana VanAmberg

Susan and David Sheldon

Chris and Ali Sullivan

Marion Shroyer

Robert and Cheryl Sunday

Norman Veliquette and Judy Brummeler

Susan Shurin

Sharna Sutherin

Thomas and Pamela Siegenthaler

Sue and Kjell Svensson

James Siegmann Robert and Andrea Sigworth Thomas and Maura Slack Gail Smith Lynn Smith Matthew and Denise Smith

Herbert Swanson Judith and Fred Swartz

Douglas and Linda Verellen Richard and Mary Vervisch Tom and Maggie Vinette William Vodra

Scott Swinton and Sylvia Morse

Jane and Mark Vogel Family Foundation

Phyllis Takayama

Sharon and Victor Vreeland

Dan and Kristi Takens

Karen Wachs

Mike and Terry Tarnow

Stephen Wailes and Jane East

Gary and Carol Tasch

Sherwood Smith and Suzannah Tobin

Dave and Lisa Taylor

Rep. Howard and Dianne Walker

George and Shirley Spaniel

Margie and Graham Teall

Doug and Ann Ward

John Spencer

Dean and Maureen Templeton

Margaret Ward

Patrice Spitzer

June Thaden

Dave and Janice Webster

Judith Spohn

Paul Thomas

Michael and Ann Welch

Peter and Barbara Springsteen

Susie Tobin

Doug and Cheryl Welday

Colette Stanish

Tom and Mary Torbet

Wallace and Gloria Wells

Gary and Jane Stauffer

Corey Treadway and Sarah Bancroft-Treadway

Karly and Tim Wentzloff

Jocelyn Trepte

Gregory and Karen White

Herm Triezenberg

Erin and Ben Whiting

Dan and Joanne Tubbs

Steve and Amy Whitlatch

Brian and Laurie Tuck

Julie and Joe Whitsett

Sara Tucker

Dennis and Karen Wiand

Kathy Tuckerman

George Wickstrom

Richard and Sally Turk

Rick and Raj Wiener

Beau Vallance and Jack Carpenter

Charles Wilbur and Caroline Blaum

Patricia and Howard Van Houten

Wildlife and Wetland Solutions

Lynn Steben Harry Steck Fred and Mary Ann Stehr Matthew Steinmetz David and Dianne Stephan Steve Fritz Art Service D. W. Stibbs Daniel and Jenifer Stiebel Stone Services, Inc. Elizabeth and Phil Straebel Judith Strickland Derek and Jerry Ann Strine Campaign for Generations

Barb Van Pelt and Dave Varga

Carol and Mark Werts

Cynthia Wilhelm

275

Gifts of $1,000 - $2,499 — Continued

Frank and Judith Wilhelme

Jennifer Abel

Ronnie Alff

David Wilkins

Stacey Abella

Bonnie Alfonso

John Wilkinson and Robin Silva-Wilkinson

Kristen Abner

Margianne Alfonso

Ross and Emily Abrahamson

Frances Alfs and Edward Crippen

Joe and Michelle Will Jeanie Williams Bart and Patty Wilson Julie Winkler Nathan Winkler and Jenna Scheub Kenneth and Marguerite Winter Gary and Margaret Withall

Dwain and Christina Abramowski Community Foundation Access to Recreation Endowment James Acker Jeff Ackerman David Acra Jay Adams

Jerome and Sharon Allaire Jim and Julie Allaway Maurice and Elizabeth Allen Jason and Suzanne Allen Judy Allen and Patrick Ginley Robert and Jane Allen Susan Allen

Dan and Julie Wolf

Perry and Mary Catherine Adams

James and Mary Allender

Michael and Gloria Wolf

Armand and Eileen Addonizio

Lewis and Anna Allendorph

Timothy Wolf

Daniel Adler

Dan and Jane Allensworth

Wendy Wolfe and Paul Wawrzynek

Rebecca Adler

Martha and Kenneth Allman

Mark and Karen Aepelbacher

William Allsopp

Karen Aeschlimann

Katharine and Randall Almirall

Brian and Lynne Agar

Terry Almquist

Pat Ahlberg

Patricia Alpers

Catherine and Roland Akre

James and Jane Alstrom

Joseph and Dacia Albaugh

Morton Alterman

Bernadette and Peter Albers

Helen and Fred Altman

Julia and Anthony Albrecht

Wesley Alwang

Kenneth and Patricia Albrecht

Alward, Fisher, Rice, Rowe & Graf, PLC

Jesse and Molly Wolff Fred and Barbara Woodruff Wayne and Sharon Workman Delores Wurst Laura Yeo Yoga for Health Martha Zahn Diane and Matthew Zender Michael and Ann Zipser Zach and Megan Zupin

Mary Albrigo Joshua Aldorisio Katherine Aldrich

Gifts of $1 - $999 Elizabeth Abbatiello Joan Abbott Michael and Kim Abbott

276

Marjorie Aldrich Ethel Aldridge Elizabeth Alexander Frank and Lisa Alfano

Joseph and Patricia Amalfitano Nicoline Ambrose Doug and Chuanping Amick John Ammar Al and Margaret Ammons Kris Ammons Jim and Roberta Amstadt Love the land. Pass it on.

Aaron Anderson

Arcadia House Bed & Breakfast

Fred and Jean Auch

Barbara Anderson

Elizabeth Arendshorst

Jean and Bob Aukerman

Bernard and Lorraine Anderson

Ted and Pam Arens

John and Marion Auld

Bruce and Cheryl Anderson

John Arevalo and Gloria Torello

Jim and Louise Austin

Carol Anderson

Jim and Betsy Argo

Bruce and Susan Auten

Chris and Diane Anderson

Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance

Avalon & Tahoe Mfg., Inc.

James and Janis Anderson John and Karen Anderson John and Kristin Anderson Julie Anderson Loraine Anderson Maudie Anderson Richard and Linda Anderson Sallee and Thomas Anderson William and Paula Anderson Jeff Andreasen Roland and Marilyn Andreasson Jennifer Andres Marsha Andres

Terry and Barbara Armbruster Hal and Kathryn Armstrong Katherine Armstrong Ben Arnold Dale and Joycalin Arnold James and Diane Arnold

Judith Avitts Mae Ayers Lynda Tomaszewski Baatz Jerry and Annette Babb Anna and John Bachman Backcountry North

Judith Arnold

Faye Backie and Stephen Szilvagyi

Richard and Janice Arnold

Carole Backman

Susan Arnold and Ralph Poelling

Sharon Bacon

Deanna Arntson Richard and Marion Arps William and Deborah Arthur

Chris Baddeley Jill Bader Sara and William Bageris Amy Baglan

Gary Andrew and Jean Braxton

Christine Arvidson and Henry Doss

Kathy Baglan and Rob Frazier

Janine Andrew

Jeanne Ascione

William and Jennifer Baguley

Sarah Andrews and Seth Ponder

Gail Ashley

Baha’is of Elmwood Township

Jill Andringa

James Ashmore

Lois Bahle and Larry Mawby

Phil and Carolyn Angel

John Ashton

Stephen Bahlke

Anonymous (108)

Arthur Atkinson

Ted and Jo Bahry

Joseph and Edwina Anthony

Chuck and Lilo Atkinson

George and Martha Bailey

Nicholas and Paige Anton

Donald and Maria Atkinson

Kate Bailey

Frank Anzalone

Robert and Elizabeth Atkinson

William and Marjorie Bailey

Marianne and David Appelt

Gisele Atterberry

Foy and Joel Baillie

Bob and Molly Appleford

Richard Atterberry

Gary and Janet Baillod

Wayne Appleton and Laura Septic

Kathleen Attwood

Tim Bair

Campaign for Generations

277

Gifts of $1 - $999 — Continued

Walter and Marilyn Baird

Sandra Barger

Joan Bauer

Art and Theresa Bak

Bob and Amy Barickman

Patricia Bauer

Betty Baker

Colleen and Robert Barker

Thomas and Merrily Bauer

Diane Baker

Linda and Walter Barkey

Robert and Margaret Baum

Jannine Baker and Craig Locke

Brooks Barnes

Julie Baker

Constance and Michael Barnes

Community Foundation Charles Stephen Baum Endowment

Karen Baker

Jim Barnes

Donna Bauman

Robert Baker and Kimberly Fletcher

Leonard Barnes

Vickie and Herwig Baumann

Marvin Barnes

Mark and Kathleen Baumhardt

Peter and Karen Barnes

Kay and Earl Baxter

Shirley Barnett

Janet and Judith Bay

Robert Baker Stacy Baker Tom and Lori Baker

Donald and Anita Baron

Dianne Baker-Hale and Calvin Baker

Bay Area Contracting

Kevin Barre

Bay View Flooring

Linda Bakke

Barbara and Pat Barrett

Bayer

Mark Baleja

Joseph and Bonny Barrett

Anthony and Susan Baynard

James Ball

Theodore Barris

Catharine and David Bayse

Barbara and John Ballantyne

Douglas Barry and Lara Treemore-Spears

Michael and Patricia Beach

Nicolaas and Rhonda Ballintyn Carl and Nancy Ballou Michael and Denise Balon Deborah and John Balser Keith and Kelly Bandli Elizabeth Banker Jennifer Baragar Janice Barber Jim and Prudy Barber Mark and Karen Barbera Joseph Barcheski Gerry Barczak Douglas Bard Rachel and Gentry Barden William Bardens 278

Gabor Barsai Mark and Renee Bartell Cheryl Bartholic Anne and Dave Bartolo Martha Barton Butch and Elizabeth Bartz Cheryl Bartz Lois and David Baru Donald and Jeanette Basch Robert and Judith Basch Donna Batch Sarah Bateman Judy Bates Harriet Batson-Benson and James Batson

Rebecca Beach William and Luann Beach Dan and Holly Beachum Bill and Marti Beals Elaine Beardslee Thomas and Tina Beatty Lois and Wallace Beauchamp Ken and Pat Beck Ken Beck Anton Becker Joy French Becker Sandra and Mike Becker Dave Bedell Bedford Cottage John Bedick Love the land. Pass it on.

Carl and Lisa Bednarski

Rosemary Bennett

John Bevans

Royce and Marj Beers

Wendy Bennett-Wiltse

Randy and Mary Bevier

Ben Begley and Kathleen Wills

Darl and Brianna Bennink

Laura and David Bexfield

Marta and Nick Begley

Richard and Maria Bensel

Dan and Nancy Behring

Thomas Bensley

Aaron Beyette and Lisa Herkelrath

Reverend Ted Beiderwieden

Dennis and Marilyn Benson

Robert and Carol Beidler

Debra Benton

Dennis and Marlene Bienkowski

Robert and Nancy Beine

Matthew and Erika Benz

Barb Bierlein and Tom Dillon

Ronald Beitel

Benzie Sunrise Rotary Club

Big Boy, Inc.

Priscilla Belden

John Beranek and Karen Park

Dayna Bigbee

David and Sara Belknap

Cynthia Berg

Carol Bigelow

David Bell and Lora Metcalf Bell

Eugene Berg

Steve Bigelow

Fran Berg

William Bila

David Berge

John and Jan Biliti

Jay Berger

Dr. Charles and Mrs. Maria Bill

Fred Berghoefer

Don and Bonnie Bills Cara Binder

Ruth Bell

Berkshire Hathaway Home Services New England Properties

Sally Bell

Mark and Cynthia Berley

Ron and Stacey Bing

Travis and Joan Bell

Cathy Berlin

Donald and Nannette Binns

William and Sharon Bellinger

Lenore Berlin

Michael and Mindy Binsfeld

Dave and Janice Bellingham

Kathy and Will Bernardi

Keith and Ethel Birchler

John Bellingham

Janet and Albert Bernat

Richard and Terrie Birndorf

Michael Bemis

Marjorie Berndt

Susan and Sanford Birnholtz

Steve and Pam Bemis

Barbara Berry

James and Doris Bischoff

Raymond Bendig

Dodie and Dennis Berry

Louise Bishop

Rosemary Benedetti

Barb and David Bersuder

Brian and Rhonda Bissell

Cathy and Dave Benedict

Michael Berta

Robert Bissot

Benevity Fund

Warren and Barbara Berthelsen

Madeline Bitzan-Powell

Jonathan Benjamin

J. G. Marc Bertrand

Eric Black

Eric and Anita Bennett

Scott Bertschy

Mary Black

Juanita and Susan Bennett

Caitlin Betz

Black Star Farms

Jean Bell and Catherine Mullin Jeffrey and Kathleen Bell Kathryn and Stephen Bell Mary Ellen Bell and Randy Smith

Campaign for Generations

Ashley Biebel

Tim and Mary Binder

279

Gifts of $1 - $999 — Continued

Brent and Teresa Blackwelder

Carol Bocskay

Donna Boris

Amy and Tom Blair

James and Gayle Boecker

Lillian and William Borland

Beverly and Robert Blair

Boehringer Ingelheim

Amy and Mike Boros

Michele and Ken Blair

Dale and Lynne Boersema

Andre and Jamie Borrello

Scott and Suzette Blair

Frederick Bogaert

Rosaleen and Richard Borton

Kenneth Blakey-Shell

Andy Bogard

Naomi Borwell Trust

Mary Blandin

Marilyn Boger

Susan Bosler

Blarney Castle Oil & Propane

Earl Bogrow and Julie Upp

Kenneth and Jennifer Bosma

Cynthia Blasses

Colin and Margaret Bohash

Roger and Dorothy Bosse

Donald and Nancy Blasy

Eric and Lou Ann Bohman

Nicholas and Theresa Boudjalis

Stephanie Blatchley

Suzanne and Thomas Bohnhorst

Boulevard Used Cars, Inc.

Donald Blewett and Ann Wilson

Robert Boisvert

Angie and Scott Bouma Nicholas Bouma

Sharon Blight

Linda Boldizar

Alan Bliss and Jan McNish

John and Susan Boles

Wes and Sharon Blizzard

John and Diane Boley

Carolyn and Richard Block

Paul and Karen Bolhuis

Roger and Carla Bloom

Steven Bolhuis

Kathleen Bloomfield

Luise Bolleber

Bowers Harbor Vineyard & Winery

Tim and Cheryl Bloomquist

Craig and Alicia Bond

Kerry and Thomas Bowes

Susan Bloye and Shawn Pollack

Joseph Boner

Bernadette and Gary Bowker

Ken and Frances Bluhm

Michael Bonnell

Gilbert Bowlby

Dale Blum

James Bonney

Jeff and Barbara Bowlby

Richard J. and Carolyn M. Blum Foundation

The Book Store

Anne Bowles

Daniel and Kay Boone

Guy Bowman

Mary Boone

Kenneth and Gail Bowman

Norman Booth and Gail Zink

Connie Boyd

Christina Boothman

Jeanne Boyd

Susan Bopp

Rupert and Marcia Boynton

Gloria Borden

Linda Bozgan

Wenche Borgnakke

John and Linda Bozzelli

Boride Engineered Abrasives

Margaret Brace

Sandy and Maxine Blumenfeld Diane Blumson Brad Boals Clare and Connor Boals John Boals Bill and Patrice Bobier Louis and Barbara Boccaleoni

Katherine Bourdow Fred and Judy Bournay John B. Bowers John E. Bowers

Laurie and David Boccia 280

Love the land. Pass it on.

James and Deanna Bracewell

Joyce and Robert Brenner

Elizabeth Brouwer

Kathryn Bradbury

Susan Breuer

Gary and Beverly Brouwer

Curtis and Donna Braden

David and Julie Brewer

Steven and Beverly Brower

Ed and Jennifer Bradford

James Brewer and Leslie Littlefield-Brewer

Audrey Brown

Fiona Bradford David Bradley and Beryl Krasner

John and Phyllis Brewster Bob and Nancy Brick

Beatrice Brown Donald and Frances Brown Elliott and Saundra Brown

Terry Brick and Barbara HaleBrick

Esther Brown

Tim Brick

Irene Brown

Charles and Pamela Brickey

Jim Brown

Brad and Susan Brickman

Kathleen and Berry Brown

Ralph and Lorraine Brickman

Larry and Connie Brown

Mary and Thomas Bridge

Laura and Jim Brown

Bruce and Marilyn Bridges

Lee and Richmond Brown

Elaine Bridges

Pamela and Ronald Brown

Nancy Briggs

Robert L. Brown

Susan Brightheart

Robert S. Brown

Steven and Mary Branstner

Carl and Ruth Brighton

Roger and Lynn Brown

Constantine and Linda Bratsis

James and Bonnie Brinks

Scott and Jennifer Brown

Richard and Marty Brauer

Ronald and Patricia Britt

Scott and Karen Brown

Jim and Mary Jo Braun

Drew Broadway

Steven and Kelly Brown

Dr. Dan and Dr. Jeri Lynn Braunlin

Karl Brockmiller

Susan Brown

Arlene Brodsky

William Brown

Jim and Candy Brody

Cindy Browne and Neil Lau

Dianne Braybrook and Robert Venner

Ron Broering

Larry and Lori Brownell

Julie Brazaski

Pepper Bromelmeier and Thomas Brown

Paula Brown-Gray

Carol Breimeier and Fred Nelson

Max and Sandra Bromley

James and Danielle Bruckbauer

Michelle Breinholt

Robert Brook

Barry and Linda Brummer

Vivian Breining

Alec Brooks

Deborah Brunelle

Margery and James Breit

Jean and Brian Brooks

Richard and Carolyn Brunelle

Dave and Marcia Bremer

Paula Brousseau

Richard and Sharon Bruner

Thomas and Cynthia Bradley Patrick and Carole Brady Marjorie Braem Nancy and James Brake Mary Bramlage Marilyn and Arthur Branco Paul Brandenburg Kurt and Angela Brandstadt Bruce Brandt Debbie Brandt and Mark Burnett

Eric Braverman

Campaign for Generations

Dawn and Daniel Bruce

281

Gifts of $1 - $999 — Continued

Sean and Darlene Brunetti

Peter and Lyne Burkey

Liz and Peter Bruning

James and Barbara Burkholder

Linnea and Gary Brunk

Julie Burks

Gordon Brunner

Burnette Foods, Inc.

Michael and Kathleen Bruno

David Burnham

Michael Cain and Linda Raymond

Linda and Buzz Bryson

Doug and Susan Burns

Robert and Sue Cain

Buchanan Builders

Eunice Burns and Dennis McGowan

Nikki and Christy Cairns

Cheri Buchbinder James and Justine Buck Janet and Bill Buck Daniel Buday and Deborah Smith

Gary and Elizabeth Burns Gayla Burns Jack and Susan Burns Moira Burns

William Byrne and Lois Veenema Byrne Peter Byron Roger and Janice Byron

Elizabeth Calcutt Harvey and Kathryn Calcutt Alicia Caldecott Julia Caldecott

Jennifer Buddenborg

Jill Burnside

Ellen Calkins and Joseph Cipparone

Marilyn and Jack Budrow

Teri and Kenneth Burritt

Stephen Calkins

Amy and Jamie Buff

Burritt’s Fresh Markets

Tim Calkins and Carol Saltoun

James Buff

Lucinda and John Burton

Virginia Calkins

Allie and Art Bukowski

Faith Bushnell

Michael and Nancy Call

Bullard-Bigler Memorial Fund

Leon Bussa

Sandra and Layne Cameron

Linda Bullen

Carolyn Busse

Barb and Skip Campbell

Patricia Bulliss

Chris and William Bussell

Braun and John Campbell

Ruth Bump

Linda Bussell

Bruce and Linda Campbell

Doug Burcicki

Daniel Butler

Donald and J. Elaine Campbell

Marvin and Marilyn Burdinie

Patricia Butler

Marilyn Burfiend

Edward and Leslie Butt

Douglas Campbell and Sandy Robey

Leann and Roger Burger

Munawar and Joanne Butt

Edwin and Rose Campbell

Eileen Burgess

Susanne Buxton

Frederick and Denise Campbell

Arthur and Susan Burghes

Eric and Carolyn Buzzell

Grant Campbell

Lorena Burke

Joel Buzzell and Saskia VanWolferen

John and Mary Campbell

Dorothy and Harold Byers

Mary Campbell

Michael and Karen Burke

Mary and Bruce Byl

Maureen Campbell

Stephen and Christine Burke

Amy and Jim Byrne

Paul and Carole Campbell

David and Linda Burkey

Michael and B.K. Byrne

Matt Burke and Teresa KriegerBurke

282

Jonathan and Erin Campbell

Love the land. Pass it on.

Robert and Cathy Campbell

Robert and Marilyn Carpenter

Samuel and Sally Catanese

Robert Campbell

Cindy Carr

Virginia Cates

Candle Factory

Diane Carr

Richard Catts

Ellie Canfield

Brad and Beth Carrington

Vernette Cauchy

Kip and Sherry Cantrick

John and Elaine Carrington

Robert and Darlene Caulkins

Beatriz Capper

Joel Carroll

Russell and Vivian Cecil

Rick and Joan Caprathe

William Carroll

Kevin and Shannon Celarek

Thomas and Amy Capua

William Carruthers

Fred and Michelle Cepela

Kelly Caraher

Scott and Mary Carson

Peter and Pat Cesere

Nancy Card

Cathy, Erynn and Doug Carter

Mary and Lew Chalker

Laurie Cardinal

Janice Carter

Bill Chamberlin

Barb and Mike Carey

John and Cindy Carter

David and Nancy Carey

Lindsay, Rodrigo and Raul Carter

Michael and Elizabeth Chamberlin

Steven Carey and Diane Dupuis John Carey and Vicki Arroyo Mitchell and Nancy Carey William and Patricia Cari Carol Carlson Marianne Carlson Keith and Susan Carlyon Mary Ann Carmichael

Melia Carter Neil and Mary Carter John and Barbara Carton CJ Cartwright James and Holly Cartwright Lori Caruso Douglas and Jane Carvell

Mike Champion William Champion and Beverly Pylman Ronald Chao Noreen and James Chapin Elizabeth Chapleski John Chapleski Jan Chapman

Dean Cary

Stephen and Jeannine Chapman

Charles Casanova

Harold Chappell

Harold and Marsha Case

Michael Charboneau

Dan Casey

Nicole Chardoul

Albert Cash

David and Jody Charlton

Meghan Cass

Diane Charron

Robert Cassell

Kay Charter

Edward Castleberry

Alice Chema

David and Donna Carpenter

Dr. Salvatore and Mary Castronovo

Gary and Mary Chenoweth

Kathleen Carpenter

Marlene and Terry Caszatt

Mary Ann Carpenter

Julie and Albert Catallo

Robbie and Archie Carmichael Amy Carmien Edward Carmien David and Marcia Carney Dennis and Pamela Carney Kathy and James Carney Robert and Almira Carol Anne Carpenter

Campaign for Generations

Thomas Chesebro Michael and Susan Chesney 283

Gifts of $1 - $999 — Continued

Linda and David Chesterfield

Bill and Karin Chung

Robert and Susan Cline

Michael Chetcuti Foundation

Lou Ann and Robert Churchill

Larry and Julie Clingman

Alan Cheung

Richard Cicone and Carolyn Burke

Donald and Nancy Clover

Burton and Christopher Chickering

Jane Cisluycis

Patti Clower

Carol and Fred Chidester

Mary Anne and Richard Civiok

Kathy Coates and Donald Engelhard

K. Ross Childs

Holly Clack

Daniele and Michael Cobb

Marty and Carole Chirgwin

Patrick Clagett

Caitlin Chism

David Clapp

Timothy Cobb and Sophia McLaren-Cobb

Dale and Jo Ann Chittenden

Ann Clark

Brian Chodoroff and Patricia Benson

Jody and E. Terry Clark

Daniel Choike

Edward and Elaine Clark Gary and Jane Clark

David Chown and Janet Mortensen-Chown

Kelli Clark

Eric Chown and Rachel Beane

Kelly Clark

John Chown

Kristine and Tina Clark

Joe and Sandy Chrabot

Renee Clark and David Stein

Allan Chrenka

Thomas and Mary Clark

Roberta and James Chrestensen

Eric Clason

Deborah Chrisman

Ken and Cheryl Clawson

Les and Judy Christensen

Gertrude and Sperry Claypool

Sharon Christensen

Alicia and Sean Clayton

David and Eunsook Christian

Bevin and Jeanne Clayton

Helen and Steve Christian

Kevin and Janell Clayton

Jane and John Christian

Marykae Clayton

Julie Christian

Joanne Cleaver

Kay Christian

Jon and Caryn Cleland

Michael and Audra Christian

Kathy and William Cleveland

Julie and Lonnie Christopher

Catherine Cline

Norman and Laura Christopher

Jean and Robert Cline

Joseph and Nancy Chrzanowski

Patricia and Alan Cline

Todd Clason

Dennis and Debra Coburn Chris and Susie Cockrell Michael Coco Joyce Cody Cecelia Coffey Dan and Katherine Coffield Douglas and Suzanne Coffin Richard Coggeshall Bob Cohen and Kathleen Abate Joan Cohen Avern Cohn Jim Colando Jeryl Colby Dorothy Cole Henry and Bonnie Cole Herbert Cole William and Joanne Cole Juanita Cole Thomas and Barbara Cole Mindy Cole-Frank Dan and Shirley Coleman Clare Coles Peter and Sue Coles Matthew Colf

284

Love the land. Pass it on.

Jimmie and Melissa Colflesh

Jeff Cook

James Costello

Chris and Audra Collie

JoAnne Cook

Elmer Cote

Daniel and Cynthia Collier

Maralee and Tyler Cook

Ann Cotter

Cynthia Collins

Melissa Cook

Irene and Mike Cotter

E. Todd Collins

Nancy Cook

Jane Coulson

Edward and Barbara Collins

Paul and Laurie Caszatt Cook

Barbara and Bob Coulter

Jo Collins

Roger and Shellie Cook

Lew and Ginny Coulter

Patrick Collins and Clair Leighton

Sally Cook

Melzar Coulter

Tom and Janice Cook

Keith and Barbara Counsell

Kathy Cook-Dowd

Melinda Counsell

Bernadette Cooke

Michele Counsell

Lisa Cooley

Countryside Sunshine Committee

Richard and Kathleen Collins Steven Collins Ralph and Charlotte Collyer Lois and Fernando Colon Nick and Virginia Colucci David Colyer George Comden Peg and Thomas Comfort

Phyllis and Brent Cooley Izzy and Duncan Cooper James and Darlene Cooper James Cooper

Carol and Howard Cousineau Sherri and Jeffrey Cousins Stephen and Therese Cousins Joanne and Kim Couturier

Jane Comings

John Cooper and Sally Backburn

James and Dorothy Compere

Lisa and David Cooper

Thomas Cowell

Jerry and Jackie Compton

William and Kaye Cooper

Jane Conard

Cooper-Gerhart Forestry

David and Glenys Cowperthwaite

Dan and LuAnn Condon

Sharon Cope

Paul Conlen

Charlotte and Edward Coquillard

Patricia Conlon Len and Janet Connolly Thomas and Susan Connors Rick and Karen Conrad Sheri and Steve Constantin Mike Conway Sandy and Dean Coobac Doug and Sally Cook James and Liz Cook

Campaign for Generations

Theresa Coventry

Jim and Nancy Cox Kenneth and Cynthia Cox Bonnie Craig and Dan Sylvester

Mark and Joan Cordeniz

Evan Craig

Suzanne Cork

Jeffrey and Jill Craig

Jean Cornelius and Pete Weber

Jerry and Ann Craig

Don and Dolores Corning

Richard and Robin Craig

Allyn Kay and Robert Cornwell

Bonnie and Scott Crandall

John Correia

Julie Crandall

Andrew Correll

Nancy Crandall

Mary Corwin

Steven and Karen Crane

Richard and Joyce Cosaro

Charles and Susan Crawford 285

Gifts of $1 - $999 — Continued

Helen and Gary Crawford

Amy D’Ancona

Jeff and Sharon Davis

Helen Crawford

J. Dewey and Barbara Daane

John and Josie Davis

Piper Crawford

Diane Dabich

Lawrence and Cynthia Davis

Ronald and Paula Creed

Stephen and Nancy Dabrowski

Pamela and Eric Davis

Katherine and Ralph Crew

Thomas and Betty Dageforde

Paul and Kay Davis

Richard and Constance Crittenden

Laura Dahl

Sarah and Jason Davis

Don and Arlene Daley

Steven and Nancy Davis

James Dalley and Lois Brennan

Nicholas and John DavisPiotrowski

Robert and Gail Crompton Jennifer Crossen and Joan Callahan

Raymond and Julie Daly

Robert and Barbara Crossman

Paul and Amy Damian

Elizabeth Crowdus

Lucia Danes

Jane and David CrownerFriedman

Stacy and Carol Daniels

Donna and Steven Crum

J. Lawrence and Margaret Dannemiller

Crystalaire Camp/Camp Lookout

William and Dea Danly

Eugene and Joanne Dawson Versile and Sylvia Dawson Joseph and Barbara Day Sheryl Day Haley De Korne Debra Dean

Joan Dans and Jean Nelson

James Dean

Tom Cullen

James and Marjorie Daoust

Robert and Arlene Dean

Hugh and Barbara Culton

Sharon Dean

Ruth Cunningham

Nancy Dash and Cheryl Thompson

Rick and Chris Curran

David and Nancy Daugherty

Charles and Penelope Curry

Mary Daugherty

Dorothy and Bill Curry

Mark and Karen Davey

Janice and Jed Curtis

George and Gail David

Karol Nelson Curtis

Betsy Davidson and Sheryl Coston

Lindsay Decker

Dennis and Carol Davidson

Joan Dedo

Jonelle Davidson

Deerhaven Family Dentistry Arlene DeForest

Beverly Cuthbert

Robert and Jacqueline Davidson

Elizabeth Cutrona

James and Beverly Davies

Christopher and Katherine DeGood

Nancy Cyberski

Ray Davies

Dan and MaryAnn DeGood

Scott and Barbara Czarnecki

Michael and Dixie Davis

G. Michael and Barbara DeGraeve

Thomas Czarny

Don and Evelyn Davis

Susan Curtis Arthur W. Curtis, III Garry and Marlene Curtiss

286

Mary Deason James Deaton Shannon and Arie DeBruyn Rosemary Decamp Alice and Jerry Deck

Dave and Lori DeHaan Love the land. Pass it on.

Ellen Dehm and Catherine Adler

Desmond Liggett Wealth Advisors

Charles and Patricia Dehn

Robert Dettling

Jen and Ryan Deisler

Larry DeVergilio

Colleen DeKay

Philip and Marsha DeVergilio

Rodney Dimock and Marilee Porter

Dale and Deborah Dekuiper

Wondella Devers

Ann Dinan

Maureen Delaney-Lehman

Helen and Robert DeVol

Kathleen and Joe Dingler

Elizabeth DeLaRossa

Michael and Ann DeVries

Don and Deborah Dinkmeyer

Sarah Delavan

Christina Dewey

Jane Dinkmeyer

Michael and Cheryl Delehanty

Roger and Helen Dewey

Jane Dinnen

Elsa Della Torre

Dewey Insurance Agency

Victor Dinsmoore

Kristen DelMonte

John Dewildt

Sue and Tom Dionne

Donald and Susan Delong

John Dewitt

Robert and Barbara Disse

Margaret Delorme

Nicholas Deyo

Kelly Dissette

Lorraine Demars

Peter Deyo

Larry and Eileen Dittmar

Bob and Linda Deneen

Charles and Lorie DeYoung

Marian and John Doane

Peter and Nancy Deneen

Harold and Edna DeYoung

David and Stacy Dobreff

Nancy and David Denison

Karen Diamond

Daniel and Lois Dockery

Shirley and Terry Denman

Stephany Diana

Larry and Donna Dodd

Peter and Pamela Dennison

Marsha Dicenzo

Dennis and Nancy Dodge

Karen Denolf and K.T. Hayes

Karen Dick and Ramona Jesse

James Dodge

Dental Advisor

Cynthia Dickey

Sandra and Stewart Dodge

Robert Denton

William and Roberta Dickie

Scott and Sue Dodge

Jules and Sharon DePorre

Monroe and Elizabeth Dickinson

William and Gabrielle Dodge

Janet Derdall Brian Derisley and Elizabeth Richard-Derisley LaRayne Derisley Bill and Sandy Derman William and Barbara DesJardins Kent and Victoria Des Jardins Deborah and Craig Desmet Campaign for Generations

Kathryn Diebel

Kelly Dillan Carole and Richard Dills John Dillworth

Rita Ann Doerr

Phillip and Sally Dieck

Kathleen Doerr Parker and Bill Parker

Kevin Diels and Jane Damschroder

Susan Manning Doetsch and Douglas Doetsch

Eleanor Diesing

Nadine Dolan

Dietz & Watson

Peggy Dolane

Virginia Dike and Ijeoma DikeYoung

Howard, Elizabeth and Haley Dole

287

Gifts of $1 - $999 — Continued

William and Linda Dolinski

Ann Dressel

Cherlyn and Timothy Durham

Kathy Dols and Al Stevenson

John and Charmaine Dressler

Frank Durham

John and Sharon Dolton

John Driscoll

David and Sharon Durrant

Aileen Dombrowski

Matthew and Nancy Driscoll

David and Susan Durtsche

Nancy Donald

Richard Druffel and Catherine Nally-Druffel

Keira Duvernoy and Robert Braveheart

Anne Dryden

William Dvorak and Gela Boebel

Carole Donaldson James and Joyce Donaldson Jean Donaldson Joseph and Meghan Donati

Noan and Jim Dublinski Stephen and Janet Duchon

Jim and Cathy Dye

Evelyn and Howard Ducker

Celeste Dykas and Bryan Bringat

Dale and Anna Ducommun

Robert Dyke

Nancy Duede

Theresa Dykhuis

Steve and Betsy Duede

Brian and Jennifer Dykstra

Sue and Tad Duemler

Theresa and David Dysarz

Clayton and Michelle Duffy

Dana and Barry Dyson

Sonia Duffy

Sybil Markey Eady

David Duggan

Colin and Theressa Earles

Walter and Lynn Dorfstatter

Rita Dukes

Norman and Kelli Earles

Edgar and Michelle Dorrington

Georgette and Dan Dulworth

Martin Easling

Robert Dost

Charles and Marge Dumanois

Jeanine Easterday

Robert Dotterrer

Luka Dumon

Betsy Easterwood

Maureen and James Dougherty

Robert Dumont

Dick and Guyla Doumanian

Robert Dunbar

Laurie Eberhardt and Peter Martin

Michael and Stephanie Dow

Maggie Duncan

Sue and Charles Ecker

Roberta Dow

Sylvia and Thomas Duncan

Edwin and Susan Eckert

Katherine and James Downer

Vernon Duncan

Barbara Mae Ecklund

Sara Downey

Duncan Cottages

Lois and Robert Eckstein

Mary and Roy Downie

Don and Sally Dunlop

Edel Consulting

Lester and Natalie Dragstedt

Judy Dunmire and Mark Plamp

Diane and Robin Edgington

Naome Dragstedt

John and Anna Dunn

John and Ruth Edick

Duane and Patricia Drake

Lisa and Robert Dunphey

Tim Edman

Molly Drayer

Rod and Joan Durgin

Shirley and Paul Edmond

Dana and Doug Donnell Lisa and John Dood Dooge Veneers, Inc. Jill Dooley and Annette Brown Liza Dora Barbara and Sam Dorchen Karen Mauro-Doren and Peter Doren

288

Love the land. Pass it on.

Carol and Fred Edmonds

Alexandra Elliott

Todd and Janis Erickson

Jean Edwards

David and Sally Elliott

Bill and Gail Ericson

Jeanne Edwards

Joseph and Sheryl Elliott

Ronald and Joyce Erkis

Ned and Barbara Edwards

Mark Elliott and Heather Kingham

Raymond Erlandson

Phil Edwards and Laura Reid Trina Edwards Frank and Carol Egan Dave and Kelli Eggebrecht Jean and Steve Eggemeyer Werner Egger Scot and Jilanne Egleston Russell and Pat Ehler Jeffrey Ehlers Sandy Ehlers Ted and Andy Ehlert Kathy and Don Ehrenberger Donald and Sally Eichberger Harry Eick Harry and Kathy Eiferle Debra Eifler John Eikost Dawn Eilenberger and Jim Zirkle

Daniel and Carly Ellis Elizabeth Ellis Frank Ellis Phil Ellis Jeffrey and Barbara Ellison Erwin and Gayla Elsner

Charles Ellinwood Kristen Elliot and Perry Harmon Sarah Elliot Campaign for Generations

Randall Esler Mark and Christine Esper

Pamela Esterline

Robert Ely

Cathy Eubanks

Dorothea and Bill El-Yasir

Laura and Thomas Evans

Ed and Ann Emenheiser

William and Pamela Evans

James and Mary Emerson

Frank Even

Todd and Michelle Emery

Evenings in the Garden

Mackenzie and Marcia Endo

Thomas and Sandra Evens

Betty and Randy Enell

Tamara Everett

Kenneth and Janet Engle

Gordon Everhart

Dorothy Schulz Englehart

Ted Ewald

Joyce and Mike Enlow

Robert Eichenlaub and Becky Ewing

Environmental Sustainability Solutions

John and Sally Ellinger

Michelle Ervin

Nancy Elwood

Barry and Carole Eisfeldt

Elk Rapids Rotary Club

Phil and Florence Ernzen

Timothy Esser and Linda Blakkan

Alice Entwisle

Elk Rapids Garden Club

Rich Ernsting

Amie Elve

Timothy and Irene Eiseman

Jack Elder

Jason and Heidi Erlenbeck

Ceri and Timothy Faas Carol Faber

Envision Development

James Fabinski

William and Michelle Eppel

Rachel Facundo

Lawrence Epple

John Fahey and Kelly Kin

John and Gina Erb

Cindy and Mike Fairbanks

Erdmann Family Fund

Mary and Bill Fairgrieve

Gerri Erickson and Margaret Platner

Cynthia and Kent Fairless Barbara Faja 289

Gifts of $1 - $999 — Continued

Margaret Fako and Michael Slawnik

Ferguson & Chamberlain Associates

Bill and Denise Faler

Charles and Mary Anne Ferguson

John Fisher

Douglas and Kate Ferguson

Ryan Fisher and Kelly Harrison

Jeanne and Joseph Fern

Ron and Mary Fitch

Juliana Fernandez

Pasqualina Fitzgerald

Joan Ferrari

Kenneth and Betty Fitzhugh

Phillip Ferrier

Walt and Martha Fitzhugh

Eugene Ferries

Dennis and Barbara Fitzpatrick

David and Toni Ferris

Fitzpatrick Agency

Kevin Farron

Brett Fessell

Beth and Joe Fitzsimmons

Terry and Kim Farrugia

Donna Fiebig

Sean Flanagan

Richard and Lori Fasi

Joe and Marianne Fields

Michael and Julie Flashner

Sarah and Barton Faylor

Charles and Mary Fierle

Anita Flassig

Gregory and Nancy Fazzoni

Mary Jo Fifarek

Diane and John Flatley

Harless Feagins

John Fikse

David Fleisher

Roche and Leslie Featherstone

Susan Finarelli

Nancy Fleming

Tim and Ellie Feddersen

Bob Finch and Melissa LainFinch

Tamurla Fletcher

David and Pamela Feidner

Ronald Fine and Marcy CookFine

Diane Florkowski

Walter and Susan Feiger

Alice Finger

Scott Feille

Peter and Patricia Fink

John Fekete and Marilyn Wiesner

Rollie and Brenda Fink

Richard and Barbara Faller Walter Fallows Michael Falter Saeed and Dorothy Farhat Judith Farley Connie and Steve Farmer Taffy Farrand and James Modrall

Donald and Renee Fedrigon

Donita Feldman Virginia Feldman James and Deborah Fellowes

Beverly and Jim Finlayson Charles Finley Thomas and Janice Fiola

Bruce Fisher and Julie Adams Jim and Kari Fisher

Temple Florip

Mary Flynn Michael and Donna Flynn Robert and Lee Foerster Bill and Mary Fogarty Robert and Judith Fogarty Randall Fogelman

Jane Fiore

David Foley and Margaret Willman

Ethel Fischer

Kathleen and Daniel Foley

Jack and Joyce Fischer

Lauren Foley

Curtis and Karen Ferber

John Fischer

Robert Foley

Mary Ferens

Jane and Steve Fish

Christal and Paul Follett

Neal and Deborah Fellows Fenner, Melstrom & Dooling, PLC

290

Love the land. Pass it on.

Cheryl and David Follette

Mary Kay Fox

David Freye

Merceditas Font

Fox Hair

Dean and Debra Frick

Richard and Susan Ford

Joyceann Francis

Denise Frick

Robert and Marcy Ford

Steven and Deborah Francis

Madelyn and James Frick

Neil and Shirley Foreman

David and Martha Frank

Marsha Foresman

Joseph and Gail Frank

Debi Friedrich-Mikko and Karl Mikko

Margaret Forgione

Karen Frank

Gordon Friese and Mary Anne Rivers-Friese

Ruth Forrest

Linda Frank and Klaus Lehrer

George and Maiga Friess

Lois Roper Forrester

Nancy Frank

Angela Friske

Barbara Forslund

Robert Frank

Katrina Fritz

Robert and Beverly Forslund

Franke Family Dentistry

Meredith Fritz

Robert and Sandra Forsman

Lora Frankel

Steve Fritz

Linda Forster

Frankfort Garden Theater

Hollis Fromm

Catherine and Frank Forsyth

Mary Franklin

William and Nancy Fronk

Kelly and Christopher Forsyth

Susan Franklin

Scott Forthofer

Lisa Franseen

Wilhemina Frost and Bernie Oakes

Barbara Forwood

Joanne and David Frantz

Roger and Karen Frueh

Richard Forwood

Don and Nancy Fraser

Andrea Fry and John Floyd

Andrew and Sharon Foster

Wei Fraser

Erin Fry

Bud and Nancy Foster

Alta Frears

Margaret Fry

Richard and Pamela Foster

Bill and Sue Frederick

David Fuhrhop

Michael Fotinatos

Joe Frederick and Emily Cook

Judd Fuller and Jean Bedell

Brian and Cathy Foust

Richard and Margaret Frederick

Russell Fuller

Nancy Foust

Karen and Gregory Fredericksen

Edward and Rita Furdak

Ginny and Carl Freeman

Amy and Matt Gabriel

John Freeman and Mary Rose Farrington

Gary and Karen Gabriel

Wendy Fowler and Michael Oxley Fowlers Camp Lot 6 LLC Bruce and Martha Fox Christopher and Patricia Fox Elizabeth Fox Lisa Fox Margaret Fox

Reed and Janet Freidinger Marjorie French David and Esther Frey Patricia Frey William Frey

Campaign for Generations

Michael and Sherley Furgueson

Joel and Lucille Gaff Christopher and Mary Gaffield Elyse Gagne Richard and Rebecca Gagnon Stephen and Gloria Gainsley 291

Gifts of $1 - $999 — Continued

Elizabeth and Keith Gaiser Alex and Mary Anne Galbraith Larry and Debra Galehouse Diana Curran Galejs and Lars Galejs

Caroline Garrick and Janice Newhouse Susan Garrison Christopher Garrock Dawn Garrock

Laetitia Gervais Hilary and John Gessner Thomas Getz and Margaret Burrows-Getz Pam Yee Gianola and Ron Gianola

Marc and Janie Gall

Brian Gartland

James Gallagher

Patrick and Erin Gartland

Joseph Gallagher

Tom and Karen Gartland

James Gibson and Marzena Fryc Gibson

Lance Gallagher

David and Cheryl Garvin

James and Nancy Gibson

Nancy Gallagher and Robert Longman

Doug and Terri Gast

Kathryn and Patrick Gibson

Thomas Gast and Sue Leason

Steve Gibson and Doug MacKay

Arnold and Eleanor Gatzke

James Gies

Susan Gaughan

Lisa Gies

Gary and Victoria Gallup Donna and Fred Galster Robert and Christine Gamble

Debina Gibbpotts

Carolyn Gauthier

Corinne Gann and Nancy Martin

Marc and Pauline Gilbert

Byron and Sheila Gay

Randy Gilbert

Mike and Ruth Gannon

Larry and Jane Geiger

John and Barbara Gillen

Philip and Lois Gannon

Douglas and Shirley Gembis

Jerri Marie Gillett

Carl and Eileen Ganter

Douglas and Rebecca Gentry

William and Whitney Gillies

Karen Garber and John DesMarais

Martha and Philip George

Bill and Jayne Gilligan

Linda and Lee Gerard

Richard Gillikin

Bonnie and Allen Garbrecht

Andrew Gerber

Gillison Excavating, Inc.

Sebastian Garbsch

Joanie Gerberding

Jerry Gillissen

Julia Garcia

John and Ann Gerhardt

Michael Gillman

Cathy Gardner and Paul Deceglie

Bruce and Valerie Gerhart

Norbert and Patricia Gilman

Brad Gerlach and Xiomara Cordova

Joe and Lois Gilmore

Gretchen Gardner and Joshua Pokempner Sallie Gardner Harold and Robin Gardynik Kimberly and James Gardzulis Richard and Bobbi Garner Heidi Garrahy Clay and Linda Garrett 292

Don-Nee German Neil Gerrity Patrick Gerrity John and May Gerstle Roger Gerstle and Marjie Rich Walter and Virginia Gerstner Earl and Maud Gervais

Susan Gilmore Amy Ginebaugh Kimberly and Robert Gingell Robert and Joyce Gingras Jennifer Ginther Cliff Girard Eileen Girard and Angela Ward Love the land. Pass it on.

Sivert and Marian Glarum

Warren and Susan Goodell

Barb and Leonard Graf

David and Betsy Glass

James and Sharon Goodheart

Lois Graham

Robert Glassman and Jennie Lieberman

Arnold and Rochelle Goodman

Marcia and Ross Graham

Glenn Goodman

Michael and Donnel Grahl

Jack and Liz Goodman

Guy and Kimberly Gramzow

Janet and Stanley Goodman

Grand Traverse Audubon Club

Kay Goodman

Grand Traverse Oral Surgery

Maryanne Goodman

Grand Traverse Organic Landscapes

Janice Glatzer Carol Gleason Jerry and Sharon Glenn Tim Glidden Global Remediation Technology, Inc.

Margaret and John Goodnoe

Patricia and James Glossi

David and Terri Goodwin

Robert and Margaret Glover

James and Nancy Goodwin

Susanne Glynn

T. James and Marilyn Goodwin

Grand Traverse, Leelanau and Benzie County Medical Society

Richard and Shirley Gobba

Armen and Carolyn Googasian

Barb and Chris Granner

Kathleen Gober-Waggoner and Rod Gober

Anita DeMarco Goor

Carey Grant

Sandra Gorecki

James Grant

Craig and Sharon Goble

Robert and Mary Ann Gorlin

Judy Grant

Joe and Denise Godfrey

Eleanor Gorman

Georgine and Tom Grapes

Mary Joan Godfroy

Greg and Patti Gorno

Bob and Donna Grassa

Barbara Godleski

Andrea and Wayne Goryca

Bob and Michelle Grassa

Peg Godwin

James and Lori Goss

Laura Grathwol

Christine, Jeff and Tom Goebel

Karen and Steven Goss

Barbara and Bob Gray

Rick and Mary Goedert

Jack Gossett

John and Kathryn Gray

Steven Goerke

Elizabeth Gotsch

Mark and Cheryl Gray

Lita Goess

Ruth and John Gottlieb

Robert and Sandra Gray

Wesley and Lorene Goff

Thomas and Inez Gotts

Donna Goggin-Dolwick and Alan Dolwick

Paul Gottschalk

Great Lakes Business Systems, Inc.

Richard and Alice Gold Cheryl Goniwiecha Don and Barb Good Gloria Goodale and Dan Wood Ron and Sandy Goodale

Campaign for Generations

Mark Gottsleben Steve and Mary Gould Gourdie-Fraser Associates John Goy and Margaret Monsour Chuck Grabiel and Connie Armstrong

Grand Traverse Radiologists, PC.

Judith Greaves Frank Greco and Joanna Collins Wendy Greeley Lisa and David Green Rose and Mary Green Kate Greene

293

Gifts of $1 - $999 — Continued

Arthur and Susan Greenlee

Linda Grubaugh

Sam and Toba Haberman

Tiffany Greenman and Bess German

Josh Gruber

Salim and Geraldine Haddad

Lowell and Mary Gruman

Helen Haddick

Alan and Phyllis Grunewald

Peter and Margaret Haddix

Evelyn Gryson

Carol and Dale Haddon

Debbie and Tyler Guenther

Janis Hadley and Gary Fernham

Timothy Greenman Tristan Greenman Lorne Greenwood Bruce & Erica Greer Family Foundation

Guidewire

Jerry and Christy Gregorski

Tom Guldberg

John and Margaret Gregory

Julianna and Joseph Gulish

Matthew Gregory and Christine Phelps

Kenneth Gum

Leonard Grey

Sharon Gunn

Kim Gribi

Beth and Wayne Guntzviller

Christopher and Marlene Griffin

Ronald Gurdak

Mary Griffin Matt and Inger Griffin

Hans and Linda Gundersen

Lionel and Carol Guregian Sarah Lutes and Linda Guthrie

Lois Haertel Joe and Marie Haezebrouck Brian Hagan Kathleen Hagan Denise and Mick Hager Richard and Patricia Hager Hagerty Insurance Agency Sandy Hagman David and Elizabeth Hague Barry and Cathy Hahn

Robert and Jane Griffin

Werner and Marianne Gutknecht

Ruth and Keith Griffioen

Anthony and Christa Gutowski

Carolyn Hahne

Thomas and Elizabeth Griffith

James Guy

John Haine

Anne Griffiths

Jeff Guy

Rick and Chris Halbert

Martha and Joe Griggs

Charles Guyton

Carol Hale

Lorrie Groenevelt

Daniel and Anne Guyton

Michael and Mary Haley

David and Laura Groenke

Emily Guziak

James and Judith Hall

Marjorie and Richard Groenwald

Jan and Dave Gwinnell

John and Genevieve Hall

Robert and Sheridan Haack

John and Kelly Hall

Derek and Dorothy Grossman

Christine Haack and Mark Hood

Justin Hall

Nancy and Richard Grote

Lois and Gordon Haack

Helen Grove and Theodore Wagenaar

Paul and Marcia Haack

Randy Hall and Lori Andrzejewski

Barbara and Eugene Haak

Susan and Robert Hall

Richard Haan

Susan Hall and Donald Buchbinder

Norman Groner

Cathy Groves James Groya 294

Karen Haase

Lucinda Hahn

Kathryn Hall

Love the land. Pass it on.

Deborah and Michael Haller

Dennis and Barbara Hansen

John and Loretta Harris

Glenn and Kristine Hallett

Edward Hansen

Beverly Harrison

Gail Halliday and Tim Laney

Gene and Joanne Hansen

Brent and Letha Harshman

Gloria Halligan

Law Offices of Gene H. Hansen

Cornelia Hart

Barbara Halperin

Lyle Hansen

Gary and Beth Hart

Stan Halpin and Meg Harding

Mary Ann and Gary Hansen

James and Cynthia Hart

David and Judith Halsted

Barbara Hanson

Laura Hart

Jeff and Christine Halvorson

Byron Hanson

Nancy and Larry Hart

Caroline Ham

Diane Hanson

Eryn Hart Dutta

James Hamaty

Marilyn and Dick Hanson

Dorothy Hartley

Robert and Elizabeth Hamel

Terri and Mark Hanson

Dan and Cynthia Hartman

Anne Hamilton and Susan Gillen

Philip Hardacre

Joanne and John Hartmann

Jason Harder

Carrie Hartt

Mindy Hardin

Louise Hartung

Veralee Hardin

Maureen Harty

Theresa Harding

Noreen and Kevin Harty

Leslie Ann Hargett

Clara Hasenick

Ed Hargis and Peggy Anderson

Amelia Hasenohrl

Jane Hamilton Larry and Barbara Hamilton Mike and Eileen Hamilton Mary Jo Hamlin Mark and Charlene Hamlyn Edward and Jeanne Hammond

Dale and Barbara Hargreves

Will and Mandy Haskett

Rebecca Hammond and Philip Lombard

Frances Harju

Christine Hassett

Jim and Leslie Hamp

Sid and Elizabeth Harkema

Floyd and Jana Hassett

Rose Hamway and Linda Krynak

Donald and Barbara Harmer

Brenda Hasso

Phil and Mary Harmeson

Hilary Handler

Robert and Carol Harmon

Carolyn Hastings and Leigh Daniels

John and Jane Handloser

Gary Harper

Wyn Ellen and David Handwerker

William Harper

Don and Meg Haney Perry Hanna Anna Hannan Daphne and James Hanrahan Craig Hansen

Campaign for Generations

Philip S. Harper Foundation Janice and Thomas Harrington Kirk and Liz Harrington David Harris Edward Harris Fay and Steve Harris

Charles and Judith Hatcher Charles Hathaway April Haulman and Ed Cunliff Eric Hausman Gerry and Mary Haw Nickolas and Sara Hawkins Jon and Peggy Hawley Gary and Allison Haworth

295

Gifts of $1 - $999 — Continued

Jill Hayes

Jane Heirich

Hugh and Patricia Hessler

Kimberly Hayes

Roger and Judy Heit

Ron Heverly

Shaun Hayes

Buzz, Karen and Luman Hejl

Bill and Heather Hewett

Timothy Hayes

Nancy and David Hejna

John and Linda Hewett

William Hayes

Gregory Hekel

David and Kathleen Heyboer

Jeanne and Michael Haynes

Susan Helton

Anne and Daniel Heyns

Richard Haynes

Harry and Sally Hempy

Timothy Hibbard

Vickie Hays

Karen Hendrick

Wallace and Dolores Hibbard

R. Joseph and Sally Heagany

Toni Hendrix

Sean Hickey

John and Maureen Heakin

Patricia Hendry

Alan and Cindy Hickman

Healthcare Business Media

Cameron Henke

Paul and Ruth Anne Hickman

Gail Heath

Debbie Henn Jones

Barbara Hicks

William Hecht

Michael and Joni Hennard

David and Judy Hicks

Scott and Nancy Hedberg

Carolyn Henne

Jason and Dana Hiemstra

Christopher and Elizabeth Hedden

Stephen Hennessy

Frances and Thomas Higginbottom

Teri Hedrich Colleen Heflin and Bill Whipps Duane and Shirley Hefty Thomas Hegewald

Bill and Ann Henning Richard Henry Henry Family Karla Herbold

Geoffrey and Mary Heidbrink

Penny Hergenroeder and David Weiss

Paul and Cathy Heidel

Lynne and Jose Hernandez

Kathleen and Kevin Heikkila

Vera Hernandez

Joe Heiler

Elizabeth Herrmann

Sandy Heilman and Mark Neracher

C. Richard and Susan Herrold

Charlene Heim Jerry and Jamie Heim Jerry Heiman Sumitra Heinert Alison and Conrad Heins Laura and Scott Heintzelman Phyllis and Dykstra Heinze 296

Michael and Sharon Herron Roger Hersey and Shelly Bryde William and Debra Hershey Faith and John Hershiser Dan and Karen Hess Mackenzie Hess Roxan Hessenaur

James and Lois Higgins Timothy and Sandra Higgins Carol Highsaw Jim Highsaw and Linda Prentice Cheryl and Richard Hiipakka Jean Hilbert Marty Hilbrands Sid Hilderley Bruce and Anne Hildreth Timothy Hildreth Audrianne Hill and Misti Trap Fredrick and Judith Hill Michelle Hill Paul and Joan Hill Matthew Hilliard Mollie Hilliard Love the land. Pass it on.

Ralph Hillman

Suzanne Hoff

Mark and Yvonne Holtz

Sharon Hillquist

Anne Hoffa

Sue and Bob Holtzmann

Colleen Hill-Rakunas

James and Virginia Hoffa

Holy Trinity Church

Richard Hill-Rowley

Carol Hoffman

Sharon Holz

Benjamin Hills

Heather Hoffman

Betty Holzhauer

Hillshire Brands Company

John Hoffman

Richard and Lorraine Hominga

Bruce Hilty

Mary Sue Hoffman

Diane Hong

Steven Hilty

Alison and Rick Hoffman

Anne Honhart

Alan and Elizabeth Hindmarch

John Hoffmann

Jake Hood

Jean and William Hines

Daniel and Jody Hofstra

Joel and Marilyn Hood

Leigh Hinkamp

Cherie Hogan

Mary Hood

Ruth Hinricks

Deborah Hogan

Ed Hoogterp

Warren and Suzanne Hinsch

Robin and Patrick Hogan

Pam and Mike Hooker

Daniel and Susan Hintz

Virginia Hogan

Julia Hooper

James and Marlene Hintz

Andrew and Terry Hogarth

Jim and Mariah Hope

Betty Hinzmann

Steve and Annie Hogler

Cynthia Hopkins

Carolyn Hiraishi

Dr. Gary and Karen Hogue

Jennifer Hopkins

Don Hirt

Carole Hokkanen

Linda and Carlton Hopp

Michael and Janet Hluchaniuk

Mary and Chris Holcomb

Mel and Marlene Hopp

Art and Carol Hoadley

John and Catherine Holcombe

Brad and Jan Hopwood

Paul and Deanna Hoadley

Stephen Holder

Deborah Horner

George and Mary Hobig

Marie and Doug Holem

Daniel and Susan Hornkohl

Steve and Becky Hobig

Gordon Holland

Robert Horstman

Sue and Ken Hobig

Dani Hollingsworth

Virginia Horton

Nancy Hoblit

Donald Holman

Anna and Oskar Horyd

Ann and George Hockin

Charles and Susan Holmes

Georgina Hosmer

Brian Hodgkinson

Chris Holmes

Donald and Carolyn Hoss

David and Liane Hodgman

Marie and Daniel Holmes

Mary Hotson

Tom Hodgman

Robert and Frances Holmes

David Houchins

Linda and Dan Hoemke

Karen Holstad

Mark and Cora Houghan

Melissa and Chad Hoeppner

Carolyn Holt

Linda and Bill Householder

Ryan and Erik Hoff

Julia and Paul Holtgreive

Frank Houser

Campaign for Generations

297

Gifts of $1 - $999 — Continued

Kathi Houston and David Reid

Hester Hull

John and Kathy Imboden

Lynette Houtman

Mark and Sharon Hullman

Charles and Val Impellizzeri

Constance Hoveland

Cynthia Huls

Debra and Pierre Ingold

David and Sandra Howard

Joseph Hulsebus

Edward and Joyce Howard

Bruce and Marlene Hulteen

Inland Seas Education Association

Lynn Howard

Jennifer Humberson

Gary Howe

Dawn Humphreys

John and Jenine Howe

Don Hunt and Mimi Bruder

Patricia and Charles Howe

John Hunt

Dan and Katherine Howell

John Hunter

Sharley Hower

Eileen Huntzicker

Joan Howison

Susan Huntzicker

John and Patricia Howlett

Sherry Hupp

Don Howson

Robert Hurley

Richard Hoxie

Hurley Investment Counsel LTD., INC.

Robert and Suzette Hoxie

Carol Inman Gia Interlandi and Tom Healy Elizabeth and Fillipe Iorio Rachel Iorio Bill and Pat Irish Catherine Irwin Ann Ivers Dean Iverson Bob and Ann Ivinskas David and Deb Jackson Isabel Jackson

Steven and Kamala Huron

James Jackson

Mike and Abby Husband

Jeffrey and Lynda Jackson

Kathy and Rich Huseltine

Kori and James Jackson

Mary and Jeffrey Huspeni

Laurence and Barbara Jackson

Mike Hussar

Mark and Debra Jackson

Nicole Hudson

Teresa and Daniel Husted

Phred and Elaine Jackson

Carol Hueller

Alan and Lenore Hutchenreuther

Stephen and Debra Jackson

Ann and Jon Hubbard Amy Hubbell James and Dawn Hubbell Diane Hubert and Richard Sutton

Henry Huffman Richard and Sally Hug Michael and Lesa Huget Caroline Hughes Dennis and Tina Hughes Leo and Sharon Hughes Timothy and Lisa Hughes David Hulefeld Nancy Hulka and Duane Dunlap 298

Beverly Hutchins David and Patricia Hutchins Amy Hutchinson Michael and Tafel Hutchison Ruth Hutchison Mary Louise Hutson William Iams Ikebana International 165

Tom Jackson John Jacobs Paul and Nancy Jacobs Gary and Lynn Jacobson Thomas Jaenicke and Kim Kolb John and Kathy Jahoda Dave and Chris Jahr Robert and Mary Jaklevic Sheri and Chris James

Dan and Barbara Ilgen Love the land. Pass it on.

Calvin Jamieson

Mary Lou and Thomas Jennette

Paula Johnson and Steve Parks

Bill Jamnick

Sue Jennings

Ronald and Sharon Johnson

Durkhanai Jan

Teresa and Martin Jennings

Tom and Marie Johnson

George and Joann Janes

Ellen and Richard Jensen

Johnson/Clark Printers

John and Tracy Janevic

Kallie Jensen

Darcell and Mark Johnston

Patricia Janick

Mark Jensen

Jane Johnston

Allen Janis

James Jensen

Rowland Johnston

James and Hillary Janis

Phyllis and Nancy Jenson

Greg and Jennifer Johnstone

June Janis

JenTees Custom Logo Gear

Paula Jonas

Mark and Janet Janis

David Jeschke

Brad and Leslie Jones

Rus Janis and Connie Snow

Robert Jessup

David and Nancy Jones

Stuart Janis

Debra Jezek

Jefferson Jones

Jann Jansen and Rayan Anastor

John and Patricia Jimenez

Joan Jones

Michael and Jean Johns

Margaret Jones

Amy Johnson

Maria Jones

Barbara Johnson

Michael and Linda Jones

Bruce and Margie Johnson

Molly and William Jones

Bruce Johnson

Pam, Jason, Sylvia and Aaron Jones

John Jansen Thomas and Linda Janson Lee and Shirley Janssen Lonnie Jantsch Kathleen Jarema Steve and Karen Jarema Mary Jarman James Jaroh Brent Jarosz Philip Jarvi Jay Jasinski John and Susan Javens Eric and Pamela Jean Frank and Janet Jeffs Marti and Steven Jeffs Janet Jehle Diane and Greg Jenks Donald and Liela Jennette

Campaign for Generations

Dan and Charlene Johnson David and Kathy Johnson Dean and Laura Johnson Delbert and Nancy Johnson Fran Johnson Gary and Carol Johnson James Johnson Jeff and Joann Johnson Joseph and Kristine Johnson Karol and Dennis Johnson Kim and Margaret Johnson Larry Johnson Linda Johnson Marlene and Chuck Johnson

Kathleen Jordan Tom and Jeanne Jorgensen Linda and William Joseph Philip and Susan Joseph Janet Joslyn Gabrielle Joubert Lynne Joyrich Steve and Linda Juday Terry Judd Jane Juett Cynthia and Allen Julian Susan and Chuck Julian Junior Achievement Up North

299

Gifts of $1 - $999 — Continued

Juniper Garden Club

Michelle Keast

Paul and Rebecca Kennedy

Juniper Shores Homeowners Association

Lisa Keder and William Pohlman

Keli and Chris Kenny

Thomas and Sarah Juntune

Debra Kehr

Raymond Jusick

Charles and Margaret Keil

Kathleen Kaczynski

Marilyn Keil

Cyndi Kadzban

Kirsten Keilitz

Steve Kalchik

Dean Keiser

Rick Kamel

Anne and Elvin Keith

Karen Kamerschen

Bradford and Joan Keller

Julie Kanak

Timothy and Karen Keller

Annette and Ed Kandel

Alan Kelley

Thomas and Mary Kandel

Patrick and Christine Kelley

David Kane

David and Jean Kellom

Emily Kania

Ann and Pete Kelly

Elaine and David Kanski

Anne Kelly

Robert Kantner

Bill and Nancy Lou Kelly

Linda Kao

Charles and Dolores Kelly

Forrest Karbowski

Joe and Donna Kelly

Christopher and Jules Kariher

Judy Kelly

Linda Karlen

Kerry and Kathy Kelly

Vicki and Barry Karlson

Kevin and Nancy Kelly

David and Susan Karmon

Robert Kelly

Donald and Sharon Kieliszewski

Claire and Jesse Karner

Kelly Orchards, Inc.

Corey and Rebecca Kienholz

Karen Karolionok

Ellen and William Kelso

Laura Kierig

Leonidas and Geraldine Karras

Cliff and Kathy Kelto

Connie and Thomas Kiessel

Lisa Karriveau

Lindsey Kemmerling

Peter and Christine Kiewit

John and Ann Kassen

Mary Kemp and Ruth Heile

Brad and Amanda Kik

Armen and Kimberly Kassouni

Mary Campbell Kemp

Janet Killian

Alex and Phyllis Kato

Ann Kennedy

Theodore and Janet Kilmer

Martha Katz and Marshall Kreuter

Brian and Joy Kennedy

Michaline and Gerald Kilts

John and Mary Ann Kennedy

Diana Kimball

Tracy Kenny Mark Kenworthy Jack Kerby-Miller Sharon and James Kerfoot Cathy and Tom Kerr Karen Kerrigan Ron and Bonnie Kershner Donna Kessler Jeff and Sue Kessler Margaret Ketchum Anne Ketner Ellen Ketz Ms. Jo Keusch Wendell Kevwitch Dale and Theresa Keyes Wendy Keys Charles Kibby James and Melody Kiefer John Kiefer

Brian and Angie Keas 300

Love the land. Pass it on.

Douglas Kimble and Priscilla Walmsley Dennis Kinder Diane and Donald King Elizabeth and Guy King Mary Lonn King Darrell and Shirley Kinnan Kevin and Kimberly Kinnan

Jack and Jan Kline

Marilyn Koons

Linda Klump

Donald and Susan Koontz

Marge and Joe Knable

Richard Kooyman and Melanie Parke

Norbert Knapke George Knapp Phil and Margaret Knapp Thomas Knaus Garold and Janice Kneale

Rita Kopin Steven and Kathleen Kopitz Rob and Lisa Kortman Barb and Chris Korynski

Andrew Kinnear and Jennifer Powell

Mary and Steven Knebel

Paul and Dorita Kint

Barbara Knight

Kathleen Kircher

George and Cheryl Knight

Thomas and Leah Kirchner

Tami Knight

Valerie Kirn-Duensing

Russ and Leslie Knopp

Judith Kirscht

Jerry and Sharon Knoppow

Marvin Kirsh

Kenneth Knowles

Delphine Kott and Mary Jo Totch

Tom Kirwin

Bill Knudstrup

Richard and Shelley Kotz

William Kirwin

Barbara Knuth

Helen Kovalcik

Andrea Kish

Ray and Liz Kobe

Cathy and Mike Kowaleski

Rhea Kish

Victoria Kobliner

James and Karen Kowalski

Eric Kivisto

Yvonne and Richard Koblinski

Megan Kivisto

Susan Koenig

Rosemary and Charles Kowalski

Bob and Pat Kjolhede

Nancy and Steve Koerber

Carol Kozelka

Pamela Kladzyk

Don Kogut

Tom Kladzyk

Ellen Kohler and Matt Cauchy

Joe Kozlowski Scholarship Fund

Jody Klein

Mera and Peter Kohler

Leonard and Constance Klein

John and Nancy Kokinakes

Rebecca Klein

Timothy Kolanowski

Valerie Klein

Kirk and Laura Kolberg

Marcia Klemp

Dan and Linda Kolhagen

Molly and Charles Klettner

Jacalyn Kolk

Tim Klifman

Laurie Konarska

Edward Klim

Bob and Donna Kondek

Campaign for Generations

John and Sandra Korzek Lorna and Bryan Koscielny Mark and Sandy Koslen Mark and Debra Kosowski Sanford and Ellen Kossek Cynthia and Allen Koster

Koffi and Teresa Kpachavi Fred Kraft and Gayle Davis Kelly Kraft Robert and Debra Kraft Tristan Kraft Kima Kraimer Ted and Jeanne Kraimer Walter Kraimer

301

Gifts of $1 - $999 — Continued

Bill and Bev Kramer

Margrit and Werner Kuehnis

Sharon and Tim Laduca

Charles and Judy Kraus

Kenneth Kuenzer

Gail and Al LaDuke

David and Barb Krause

David and Teri Kuffner

Tammy and Don LaFaive

Leigh Kraushaar

Anne and Matt Kuhlmann

Pierre and Loretta Lafoille

Nancy Kraushaar

Frederick and Ann Kuhlmann

Pamela and David Lagattuta

Joanne and John Kreag

George and Betty Kuhn

James Lagowski

Keith and Holly Kreag

Robert and Kelley Kuhn

Kenneth and Diane Lahti

Walter and Karen Kreger

Christy Kuhnke

Bruce and Andi Laidlaw

Eileen Kreiner

Johanna Kuieck

Hugh Laird

Jon Krempel

Jerry and Judy Kulka

Lake Effect

Charles and Dinah Kretschmer

Susan and Duane Kullberg

Lake Shores Garden Club

Amy Krigbaum and Phillip Conroy

Kathy and Michael Kurap

Lois Lamb

Ellen Kurath

Karen and Tim Lambert

Jeff and Kelly Kurburski

Pat Lambert

James Kure and Karen Smith

Robert Lambert

John and Kathy Kurfess

Dr. Timothy Lambert

Bill and Louise Kurtz

Janice and Randall Lambirth

Rodney and Christine Kurtz

Shuggie Kubiac Lamkin

Ruth Kurtz

Christopher and Mary Lamping

Carol Krigbaum Edmund Krigbaum David and Linda Krill Jeff Kroeger Lisa Kroeger Gretchen Kronk Michael and Janet Kronk

Stanley Kurzman

Mary Jo and Timothy Lampton

Krozlczyk and Son Construction

Nicole and Zak Kustok

Tom and Deborah Lance

Elton and Judith Kruger

Kenneth and Nellie Kuzma

Sandra and Richard Landback

Nicholas Krupansky

Jeannette and Jeffrey Kyff

Martha Landis

Richard and Galen Krupka

Laura Kyger

Vic Lane

Stephanie Krupka

Harold and Kelly La Londe

Amy and Victor Lane, Sr.

Dennis and June Krus

Pat and Jim Laarman

Frank and Wendy Laney

William Kubat

Patricia Labelle

Laura Lange

Robert and Patricia Kubic

Scott and Kerry LaBonte

Tom and Linda Kucera

James and Eva Lacivita

Keith Langlois and Francine Melotti

Carl and Carolyn Kucsera

Janis Lackey

Elmer Kuebler

Janet Lacoste

John Kuehn and Elaine Crowley

Jim and Linda Lacy

302

Michael and Becky Lanham Theodore and Natalie Lanham Robert and Penfield Lanphier

Love the land. Pass it on.

Louise Lantz Julie and Richard Lapinski Michele and Dennis Laporte Steve and Sharon Largent Russell and Deborah Larimer Medley Larkin Cliff Larkins Craig and Susanne Larrabee Daryl and Brian Larsen Gary and Cherilyn Larson Lynn Larson and Paul Christ Marilyn Doty Larson John and Mary Anne Larzelere Mary Lou LaTorre Marilyn Latterman and Frederick Hambly

Arleen Lawson-Willey and Rick Willey Eleanor and Donald Layman Ben Layne and Ruth Virkus David Lazorski Paula Leach David and Jane Lean Shannon Lean Elizabeth Leavens Francis and Margaret Leblond Virginia LeClaire Carole and Willie Lee Christine Lee Jeri and William Lee Katherine Lee Ryan Lee

Andrew Lepere and Family Ruth Ann Leppala Marilyn Leppek Bertram and Mary Lerchen David Lerner Steven Lesko Mark and Juliana Leslie Joseph and Kathleen Lessard Marjorie Lessard Justin Lessek Katherine and Gregory Lett Lori and Mark Leugers Connie Leutloff William and Nancy LeValley Clarissa Levi Carol and Danny Levin

Duane and Kathleen Laubach

John and Darlyne Leete

Margaret Laubach

Chantal Lefebvre and Michael Newman

Robert and Margaret Levine

F. R. and Gloria Lehman

Patricia and Robert Lewallen

Bruce and Janine Lehmann

Barbara and Eldon Lewis

Patricia Leino-Jones

Cynthia Lewis

Audrey LeLievre

Dorothy and John Lewis

Roger LeLievre

Dylan Lewis

Terry LeLievre and Janine Anderson

Mark Lewis and Elaine Cornelius

Ron Lemcool

Richard and Sally Lewis

David Lawrence

Donn and Sharron Lemmer

Samuel Lewis

Hazel Lawrence

Dan and Angie Lemon

Fred and Jane Libbing

Andrij Lawrin

Mary Lenling

Tom Lieb

Garry and Mary Lawson

Ted and Yolanne Leno

Gordon and Kelly Liechti

Roger and Ila Lawson

Steven and Kitty Leonard

John Lien

Joseph and Betty Lepak

Ronald Liesemer

Kelsey Lauer Dorothy Laufer Frederick and Jeannie Lauppe Ann Laurimore James and Margaret Lautenschlager Michelle Lauterbach Elena Lavastida and Linda Lavastida-Kapp

Campaign for Generations

Joel and Mary Levin

303

Gifts of $1 - $999 — Continued

Zach and Misaeng Liggett

Rodney and Kathleen Lofquist

Joy Luecke

Lisa Lightfoot and Marshall Rugg

Robert Logee

Mark and Brenda Luikart

Patricia and John Lohman

Michael and Margaret Lumm

Matthew Lohrentz

Nelson Lumm

Lynne Lombard

Jane Lund

Miles and Sharon Lombard

John and Barbara Lund

Charles and Kathy Lombardo

Phillip and Usha Lundberg

Janice London

Cliff and Jo Lundeen

James and Donna Long

David Lundeen

Judith Long

Karen Lundeen Kurgan

Miriam Longcore

Carl Lundgren

Carolyn Longmire

Emily Lundmark Judith and Arne Lundmark

Kelley Linzie

Ellen Longmire and John Glatzmaier

Lisa Lis

Raymond Longuski

Barry and Linda Lishawa

Catherine Look

Deana Liston

Catherine and John Loomis

Patricia Littlefield

Dale and Judy Lopus

Jean A. Livingston

Staton and Carol Lorenz

Jean M. Livingston

Audrey and John Losey

Gary and Sharon Lloyd

David and Beverly Lotz

Thomas and Lucy Lloyd

Rene Louchart

Wayne and Terry Lobdell

J. Ron Lovasz

Randy and Judy Locatis

Mildred Nora Love

Valerie Locicero

Sam and Linda Lovio

Nell and Lee Lockhart and Lynn Guernsey

Scott Lowe

Rebecca Lyman and Andrew Bridges

Donald and Suellen Lowther

Gail Lynch

Dwilla and Clarence Lubahn

Roy and Asta Lynch

Mike and Kay Lubert

Will and Barbara Lynch

Doug and Lynne Luciani

Carson Lynes and Michael Conrad

Lucienne Lightfoot Marilyn and Tony Ligi Jeanne Lillibridge Kim and Mary Lind Marcy and Jordan Lindberg Jim and Jan Lindner Daniel Lindsey Lance and Mary Lindwall Michael and Sandra Lininger Scott Lint

Patricia and Stephen Lockman Ryan and Logan Lockman Bob Lockwood Susan Lockwood Rena Harold and Linda Loewenstein 304

Terry and Beth Ludford Ray and Nancy Ludwa

Ben and Sally Lundquist Charles Lundstrom Cathy Lundy Gail Lungershausen Richard and Karen Luther Lutheran Camp Association Tonya Lutz Jim and Evona Lutzke Gregory and Stephanie Luyt Karen and Nicholas Lygizos Jeremy Lyman

Peter and Janet Lyon Roger and Barbara Lyon Love the land. Pass it on.

Thomas and Barbara Lyon

Dan and Kara Madion

Barbara Manning

Cathy Lyons

Dr. Matthew and Jody Madion

Ben Manning

Margaret and Mark Lyons

Maureen Madion and Timothy Tompkins

Jan Manning

Robert and Sue Lytle Rosalyn Maben-Feaster John and Anne Mabley Barbara and Rudy Macander Kyle MacDermaid Diane MacDonald Hedges MacDonald Mary MacDowell Thomas and Lois MacGregor Andrew Mach Brian MacInnis Maxine MacInnis David and Lorah MacIntosh Vincent Mack Laura Macke

Dale and Nancy Magoon Lillian Mahaney Ruth Mahler Gerard Mahoney Stephen and Carole Mahoney Joseph Mahr Jean Maiville Stephen Majercik John Makinen Judith Malaski Dianne Malesko Karl Malin Michele Mallozzi Rosemary Malocsay

Jillian and Craig Manning Michael and Mary Manning Aaron and Lori Mansfield Pete and Mary Mantei Karen and David Manthei Kathryn and Gary Manthey Marathon Automotive Alan Marble Sharon March Routly Louis and Lori Marchi James and Evelyn Marchio Linda and Anthony Marchio Robin Marchio Gary Marek and Ann George Andrea Maresca

David and Paula MacKenzie

Dan Maloney and Barbara Soricelli

Sharon Marhewka

Robin and James MacKenzie

Tad and Brenda Malpass

Joseph and Norma Mariage

Mr. Douglas and Eleanor MacKinney

Ma-Me-Ne-Sewong Garden Club

Tracy and Sandra Mariage

Ellen MacKinnon

Gerard Mandziuk

Sharon Markey

Roderick and Julia MacLachlan

Beth and Tom Markowski

Helen and Ken Macleod

Rebecca Mang and Dr. Homer Nye

Brigit Macomber

Mark Mangelsdorf

Gordon Macowan and Carolyn Meyer

Manistee Veterinary Hospital

John MacRae

Dale and Marie Mankin

Mickey MacWilliams Gary and Shirley Madden

Leonard Mankowski and Andrea Hinsenkamp

Richard Maddin

Francia Mann

Barbara and John Marshall

Carl and Diane Madion

Nancy Mannausa

Beverly Marshall

Campaign for Generations

Manitou Restaurant

Jim and Jolayne Markey

Richard and Lori Marl Lee and Pauline Marmion Robbie and Barbara Marsden George and Carol Marsh Jamie and Barbara Marsh Michael and Kerry Marsh

305

Gifts of $1 - $999 — Continued

Bruce and Katrina Marshall Joyce and Eugene Marshall Anna Marten David and Nicole Martin Dirk and Mary Martin Henry and Ginny Martin John and Marjorie Martin Joseph and Marilyn Martin Kay Martin Margaret Martin Megan Martin Porter and Carren Martin

Michael Maurer and Nancy Hopkins-Maurer

Rosalie and Patrick McCarthy

John and Kathryn Maxson

Daniel McClain and Susan Martin

Janet and Randall Maxwell

Karen and Bill McClain

Chip and Sarah May

Kathleen and Thomas McClanaghan

Jack and Joann Mayer Joshua Mayer Mike and Linda Mayer Curt Mayes Monte and Nina Mayes Dale and Karen Mayhew Frank and Lisa Maynard

Gloria McClay Richard and Johanna McClear Honor McClellan Jack McClellan John and Susan McConnel Will and Carole McCord

Lee Maynard

Lawrence and Margaret McCormick

Pauline Mayo

Jeanie McCoy

Dan Mays

Michael and Janice McCrackin

Stuart Martin

Michael Mazor

Janice and Tom McCraner

Gerald Martineau

Jeffrey and Mary Mazure

Christy McCreary

Shirley Martuch

Paula Mazzer

Allen and Midge McCreedy

Julie Martz

Tom and Carolyn McAnallen

Cookie and Dick McCullough

David Marvin

Lucy McArtor

Alanna McDermott

Andrew Mason and Natalie Riquelme

Richard and Florence McBrien

Hugh McDiarmid

Betty and Richard McCaghy

James and Judith McDivitt

Barb McCall

Jeffrey McDole

John and Havala McCall

Douglas and Susan McDonald

Michael McCally Beverly McCamman

John McDonald and Donna Miller

John and Jan McCann

Michael and Patricia McDonald

Paul McCann

Michael and Sandra McDonald

Barbara McCarthy

Patrick and Coleen McDonald

Karen Mattheessen and Timothy Bueter

Dennis and Beth McCarthy

Janet McDonell

John Matz and Terry Griffin

Dennis and Megan McCarthy

Matt and Ann McDonough

Charlene and Chuck Mauch

Karen McCarthy

Barbara McDowell and Victoria Kiley

Porter and Sherrie Martin Roger Martin and Elizabeth Footh

Bill and Lorna Mason Jeanette Mason Lawrence and Lorna Massa Marcella Massa Bob Masta Mel and Judy Matchett Emily Matteson

306

Love the land. Pass it on.

Kurt and Donna McDowell

Janette McMahan

Mary and Larry Melendy

Allison McDowell-Jonas and Gary Jonas

Mary Jean McMaster

Lisa Meleski

James and Janice McMillan

Elizabeth Melkild

Jeff and Annette McMullen

Jo Meller and Jim Sluyter

Rebecca McMullen

Daniel Mello

Patricia McMurtrie

James and Mary Virginia Mellow

Chris McDuffie Robert and Jane McElroy Brad and Carolyn McFarlane Jan McFarlane Chloe McGehee Kevin and Barbara McGraw David and Sherry McGregor James and Michelle McGuire Ann and Doug McInnis Michael and Susan McIntyre Paula and Ben McIntyre Patricia and Timothy McIsaac Larry and Joan McKay Dan and Lucy McKeen

Rick McNally Thomas and Sue McNally Arian and Shawn McNamara Pat and Karen McNamara Kent and Lindsay McNeil Kim McNeil Sarah McNeily Patrick and Jan McNerney Elizabeth McNicholas Heide and Tom McNichols Michelle McNulty

Bill and Jill Mendenhall Ernest and Barbara Mendenhall Julian and Victoria Mendoza Deb Menninga Jim and Lynnea Mensching Thomas Menzel Daniel and Lynn Merchant Ralph and Marylin Merchant Bodhi Mercury Bora-Cooper and Shannon Bora-Cooper

Greg and Cindi McPherson

James Meredith and Roberta Lindeman

Mark and Catherine McPherson

David and Jan Merrell

John and Barbara McVey

Margaret Mertz

Ed and Judy McVicar

Jessica Merwin

Peter McKnight

Douglas and Mary Anne McWhirter

Katherine Messenger and Will Wright

Carol and Bruce McLachlan

Stephen and Sally Meach

Kristi Messing

Sally McLain

Thomas and Linda Mead

McLain Race Team

Rod Meade

Linda Messing and Kenneth Rudisel

Kimberly McLaren

Michael and Cathy Meagher

Suz McLaughlin

Marta Meengs

Joan McLay

Paul and Mary Meernik

Mary McLean

Luke and Kathleen Meert

Walter and Janet Mclellan

Maria Meingast

Rosalie McLenithan

David and Joni Meister

Sean McKenzie Dave and Debra McKeon Jennifer McKervey Cathy and Bob McKinley Sharon McKinley

Campaign for Generations

Liz Messing Constance Metcalf Robert and Adeline Metzger John and Pat Metzker Faye Meyer J. Thomas and Janice Meyer James Meyer 307

Gifts of $1 - $999 — Continued

Jean Meyer

Richard Miller

Steven and Sandra Mitton

Pete Meyer and Elisabeth Del Buono

Sally Miller

Bob and Michele Mizell

Wayne and Jane Miller

Margaret and Henry Moczul

William Miller

Harold Modeen

Helen Millhouse

Stephen M Modell Philanthropic Fund

William Meyer Dan Miarka Judith Mich Steve Michael Maureen Michaels Susan Michener Tina Mickelson Pat and Jim Middleton Shawn Middleton

Rebecca Millican Donald and Elizabeth Millington Claud Mills and Janet Brzezinski Jennifer and Jay Mills David Mindell

Sharyn and Frederic Modlin Leslie Modrack Judy Moehle Ann and Gary Moeller Linda and Eric Mogren Chris Mohn

Ralph and Kathleen Mielke

Dylan Miner and Estrella Torrez

Douglas and Mary Sue Mohnke

Norman and Shirley Mientkiewicz

James and Peggy Miner

Susan Mohr and Ken Krentz

Robert and Kristen Miner

Kathy Mohring and Kelly Campbell

Bonnie Mikkelsen and Tim Dewick

Susan Miner

Martha Mollema

Curt and Eileen Mikulski

Russ and Brenda Minnerick

Maureen Milarch

Martha Minow

Sharyn Miles

Morton Mintz

Bridget and Michael Millar

Michelle Mirasola

Brian Miller

Bill and Gail Misaki

Carolyn and Jess Miller

Robert and Shirley Misekow

Charles and Elaine Miller

Vivian Mishler

David and Donna Miller

Mitchell & Associates, PC.

Donna Miller

Carol Mitchell

Ellen Miller

Lisbeth Mitchell

Judith Miller

Samuel Mitchell

Louis and Jennifer Miller

Mark Mitshkun and Diane Rosenblum

Jim and Amy Moore

Michael and Laura Mittelstaedt

Kristin and Bruce Moore

Erin Mittendorf

Michelle Moore

Marilyn Mittenthal

Mildred Moore

Joseph Mittner

Nancy Moore

Louis and Karen Miller Mary and Emmett Miller Mary Miller Richard Miller and Barbara Cribar 308

Peter and Sharon Moller Ellen Monahan Marcia and Dana Monks Monsma Marketing Corp Norine and James Montgomery Donald Moon Ralph and Maria Moon Cynthia Moore Dennis and Linda Moore Donna and James Moore Jackie and Mike Moore

Love the land. Pass it on.

Sherri Moore-Ratcliffe

MarySlade Morrison

Dick and Dianne Munt

Bill Moorey

Robert Morrison

Jean and David Muntz

Marie Moorey

Robin Morrison and Charlie Boulding

Peter and Sheila Murdoch

Noelle and Scott Morell Pauline Morell and Dana Pratt Mary Morgan Todd Morgan and Amanda Brushaber

Susan Morrison Will and Jane Morrison John and Laura Morrissey Barb and Gregory Mort

Victoria Morgan

Nicole and James Morton

William and Katherine Morgan

Megan Motil

Douglas and Jennifer Morgenstern

Jim and Loraine Mottern Karen Mountz

Ann Murphy Barbara and Brian Murphy Carol Murphy Catherine Murphy Denise Murphy Dennis Murphy Michael and Dustine Murphy Patricia Murphy

Tom Mountz

Sharon Murphy and Sharon Montonye

Gregory and Karen Movsesian

Victoria Murphy

David Moyer and Barbara Hastings

Betty Jean Murray

Bob Morningstar Dorothy Moroff

Timothy Moynihan

Marellene Morrell

Anne Mudgett and Scott Furgueson

Michael Murray

Janice Mudgett

Richard and Shirley Murray

Eric and Amy Mueller

Rich and Elizabeth Murrell Paul and Carol Muscianesi

Patty Morris

Harold and Gwendolyn Muenchow

Paul Morris

Aaron Mukerjee

Muskegon Yacht Club

Rebecca and Tyler Morris

Anthony and Beth Mulac

Kenneth and Patricia Musson

Richard and Suzanne Morris

Amy and Sean Muldoon

Shari and Merle Muszynski

Barbara and Gregory Morrison

Patrick and Christine Muldoon

Josh and Sarah Myaard

Dorothy Morrison and Barry Brown

Debbie and Martin Mulhall

David Myers

Arnold and Allison Mummert

Gregory and Nancy Myers

Carol and Henry Mundie

Karen and Steven Myers

Cassidy Munger

Kathryn Myers

Larry Munsey and Brenda Corner

Maureen Myers

Tim Moriarty Dennis and David Morin Peter Morman and Mary Faber

Andrew Morrill Herbert Morris Dr. James Morris

Duncan and Toni Morrison J. Elliot and Florence Morrison Mariquita Morrison and Nat Balch Mary Beth Morrison

Munson Medical Staff Campaign for Generations

Bruce and Natalie Murray Edson Murray

Christopher Mushall

Roger and Martha Myers

309

Gifts of $1 - $999 — Continued

Yvonne Myers

Thomas and Avis Nelson

Jack and Cindy Niederhofer

James Mynsberge

Thomas and Scott Nelson

Ron Nielsen

Judith and George Mynsberge

Thomas Nelson

Jill Niemi

MyRaceSticker.com

Brian Nerbonne

John and Marilyn Niesen

Mark and Joan Nadolski

G. Patrick and M. Judy Nerbonne

Karen Nigg and William Lorne

Bob Naftali Mary and Robert Naftzger Matt Nahnsen Kristen Naidoo Linda Nanez Thomas and Edith Nanick Richard and Cheryl Naperala Sarah, Troy and Amelia Naperala Andrew and Trish Narwold

Mike and Nancy Nerbonne Nick Nerbonne

Stuart Nightingale Dean and AnneMarie Nishi

Kathleen Nesbitt

Nissan Vehicle Connected Services

Becky Nettles

Karen Noel

Maxi Neugebauer

Jane Nolan

Jean and Larry Neuhardt

Mary Nolan and Bob Bronson

Gerald and Jan Neumann

Timothy and Vicki Nolan

Newcomers Club of Traverse City

Val and Lynn Nolan

Joshua Newman

Elizabeth Nolan-Greven and Michael Greven

Rick and Kathy Newman

David and Rachel Noller

Jaqueline Newmyer-Deal

Carrie Noone

Dan Nearing

Mary Ellen Newport

Timothy and Jeanne Nehez

Beverly Newson

Daniel Norbeck and Colleen Carol

Catherine Nehil

Charles and Cynthia Newton

Eileen and August Neitzel

Gwen Newton

Roger and Stephanie Nelsen

Abigail Nichols

Fred Nelson

Molly and Paul Nichols

Gary and Donna Nelson

Ray and Paula Nichols

John Nelson and Lynne Moon

Rob Nichols and Marilyn Butler

Judith Nelson

Robert and Christine Nichols

Larry and Kelly Nelson

Chris Nickerson and Pamela Ripsom

Randall and Sheila Nash Branch 79 National Association of Letter Carriers

Marianne Nelson Mark and Sandy Nelson Michele Nelson and Brett Cohen Nancy and Henry Nelson

Diane Nord Richard and Sondra Nordin Amy Noren Doris Norling Michele Norling Kat Norman Ann Norris Michael and Linda Norris Rebecca Norris

John and Debbie Nickerson

George North

Amy Nickolas

North Country Cars & Credit

Marilyn and Michael Niebel

Northern Business Network Traverse City

Marion and Joseph Nied

Northern Michigan Chapter 310

Love the land. Pass it on.

Kathleen O’Connell

John and Carolyn Olson

Patricia Oconnell and Loren Judge

Sharon Olson

John and Debra Northrup Richard and Debra Northway

Eric Oconnor

Northwoods Ski & Spree Club

Bruce and Cathy Odom

Matthew Norwood

Timothy O’Donnell

Mark and Tricia Noss

David and Mary Ellen Oellerich

Gary Noteware

Bruce and Rebecca Ogilvie

David and Pat Nothstine

Robert and Ann Ogur

Julaine Novak

Dawn and Kean Oh

Kevin and Mickie Novorolsky

John O’Hair

Don Nowak

Stacy O’Hair

Carol Gaffield Oppenheim and Philip Oppenheim

Kathryn and James Nowak

Louis and Linda Okma

Sue Oppliger

Ken and Marilyn Nowak

Susan Olcott

J. Thomas O’Reilly

Ronald Nugent

Old Homestead Association, Inc.

Mark O’Reilly

of the American Institute of Architects

Scott Nugent

Michael and Katherine Olsson Erin O’Malley Thomas and Lisa O’Neil Onekama Marine, Inc. Elizabeth Ong Sandra O’Niel Clifford Onthank Michael and Bethany Onthank

Brian Ormond

Sandra Nuske

Old Mission Peninsula Historical Society

Jessica O’Rourke

Michael Nutt

Old Mission Women’s Club

Thomas and Connie O’Rourke

Andrew Nyce

Althea Olds

Oryana Community Co-op

Jan and Mary Ellen Nyland

Pat and Linda O’Leary

Patrick and Nancy Osborne

Laura and Timothy Nyquist

Donna and Donald Olendorf

David and Renee Osgood

Marti O’Brien

Lisa Oleson

Nancy Lee O’Shea

Jessica O’Rourke

Paula Oleson

Dale Ostema

Tammy and Doug Oberski

Franklin O’Loughlin

Gary Osterfeld

Cynthia O’Boyle

Andrew and Stephanie Olsen

Calvin and Robin Osterhaven

Alyssa and Adam O’Brien

Edward and Susan Olsen

Jerry Ostlund

Donald O’Brien

Joan Olsen

Lauren Osuch

James and Margaret O’Brien

Vicki and Craig Olsen

Judith Oswald

Kimberly O’Brien

William Olsen

Don and Bette Oswell

Laurie Goodrich O’Brien

Dave and Betsy Olson

Thomas and Bonny Ottney

Theresa O’Brien

Eric and Kim Olson

Nancy Outten

Cheryl and Bill Oconnell

Jack and Carol Olson

Randall and Ann Over

Campaign for Generations

311

Gifts of $1 - $999 — Continued

Donald and Christine Owen

Gloria Parsons

Jean and John Pearson

Judy Owen

John and Judith Parsons

Muriel Peavler

Thomas and Sarah Oxnard

Kathy Partin

Barbara and Carl Peck

Elizabeth Ozden

Mike and Stacy Pasche

Don and Eileen Peck

Carl and Josephine Pace

Glenn Pascoe

Kassandra Peck

Robert and Christine Pacer

Patrick and Kaitlyn Pasik

Sarah and Lawrence Peck

Michael and Victoria Pachulski

Dennis Pasini

Amy Packard

Patty Pasley

Victoria Peck and Brendan Hunter

Dan and Jill Packer

Maureen Passalacqua

Beverly Page

Craig and Judy Passon

Kevin and Rebecca Page

James Pastore

Wayne and Deborah Pahssen

Blair Patch

Phyllinda and Dewey Painter

June and John Pate

Ted and Lori Pall

Himanshu and Heena Patel

Bonnie and William Palmer

Patriot Harley-Davidson

Paul Palmer

Lis Patterson

Philip and Heidi Pandolfi

Nancy and Jerold Patterson

Douglas Panhorst

Charles Patton

Caren Panizzo

Denise and James Patton

William Panzarella

Penelope Paulley

Donald Peppard and Elizabeth Bowen

Arthur and Barbara Papazian

John and Susan Paulson

Linda Peppler

Roger Papineau

Leo and Patricia Paveglio

Jo Peregrine

Scott Papineau

Suzanne Pavel

Jared and Kristin Perga

Dave and Sara Parker

Sarah, John, Noah and Owen Pavelek

Elizabeth Perkett

George and Donna Parker Robert and Julee Parker Sarah and Chad Parker Victoria Parker Wendell and Mary Parker William and Mary Ann Parker Paul and Sally Parks Nick Parmer 312

Judy Pavwoski Erin Paxson Priscilla Payne Bruce Peabody Phyllis Peacock Tad and Margie Peacock Virginia Pear

Marilynn and Jim Pecott Diane and Thomas Pederson Henry and Sally Peet Kathy Peipert Pamela and Charles Pelizzari Robert and Judith Pelto Terri Pelton James Pennell David and Beth Pennington PEO Chapter EV Tokeah and George Peplinski

Holly Perkins Michelle and Matt Perkins Connie Perme Krin and James Perreault Robin Perry Roger and Heather Perry Stephen Perry Perry Electric Inc. Love the land. Pass it on.

Art and Ruth Peschke

Claudia and Daniel Phipps

Thomas Plough

Miles Peterle and Lise Anderson

Beverly and Byron Photiades

Adam Poch and Sarah Omen

Elmer and Ruth Peterman

Donald and Jeanne Piche

Paul and Barbara Poehlein

Jean Peters

Kenneth Pickering

Steve and Karen Pogue

Kathleen Peters

Larry and Kathy Picklo

John and Kathy Polanski

Mary Peters and Patrick Mcmanaman

Daryl Pieczynski

Steve and Lucy Polemitis

Cheryl Pierce

Tom Poll

Mary Pierce

Jon and Jill Polmateer

Patrick Pierce

Elizabeth Pomeroy

Stephanie Pierce

Patricia Ponte

Donna and Robert Pierson

Brenda Pontious

Richard and Susan Pierson

Kristin Poole Walter and Judy Popyk

Lowell and Rosemary Peterson

Cynthia Pike and Douglas Otlewski

Mike and Laura Peterson

Robert and Ann Pike

Pete and Elaine Peterson

Charles and Claire Ping

Rebecca Peterson

William and Karen Pioszak

Ruth and James Peterson

Paul and Mary Piotrowski

Theresa and Bob Petko

Thomas and Kathy Piotrowski

Candy and Stephen Petrick

Kathie Piper

John Petrovich

Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf

Michael and Kathryn Pettersen

Mary Pitcher

Jane Pettinga

Janette and Alan Pivitt

Frank and Angela Petty

Thomas and Gretchen Pixley

Gary and Lyn Petty

Denise Plakmeyer

John and Amy Pflughoeft

Guy Plamondon and Anneke Wegman-Plamondon

Rob Peters Katie and Robert Petersen Robert and Sally Petersen Curtis and Gussie Peterson Jean and Reuben Peterson John and Kathy Peterson

Joyce Phelps

James and Anne Porritt Robert and Diane Portenga Heide-Marie Post Janice and Dave Post Thomas and Ann Post Deb and Mark Posthumus Kathleen Postler Anca Potroanchenu Christine and Gary Potter Nancy Potter Ellen Poulson Candace and Larry Powell George and Nancy Powell

Platte Lake Improvement Association

Lisa Powell

Denny Phillips Lisa and Michael Phillips

Joy and Louis Platteborze

Connie Powers

Scott and Pam Phillips

Marie Plester

Seth and Carolyn Phillips

Betty Plough

Kathy Powers and Richard Wernham

Thomas Phillips

Corinne Plough

Laura Powers

Campaign for Generations

Patricia Power

313

Gifts of $1 - $999 — Continued

Gary and Sandra Pownall

Tim and Julie Puckett

Eric and Joni Rammelkamp

William Poyfair

John Puetz

David and Laurie Randall

William and Judith Prakken

Charlotte Pugh

Elsie and Don Randall

Allen and Linda Pratt

Tolli Pugh

James and Lisa Randall

Anthony and Annette Pratt

Patricia and Brian Pulver

William and Amy Ranger

Terry and Anita Pratt

Bradford and Katherine Purcell

John and Cathleen Ranke

Joan Preece

Bonnie Purvis

William Ranseen

Kurt and Maria Pregitzer

John Putz

Woneta and Robert Prenger

Katharine Pyott

Jeannine Ransom and Carol Wellington

Larry and Lauren Prentice

Gary and Karen Qualmann

Judi Pressick

Nancy Quandt

Lloyd and Shirley Preston

Edith Elliott Queeny and Warner Guild Queeny

John Price Mathew Price and Nicole Frazier-Price Roger Priest Judith Primak

RJ Rant Herb Ranta Katherine Ranta Mark and Kim Rapanos

Janet Quensen

Ross and Shelly Rapaport

Questers Wequetong

Michael Raphelson and Carla Langerveld

Hedwig Quick and Cindy Fletcher

David and Ellen Rapson

Mrs. Marilynn Quick

Joe Rathbun

Nancy and Peter Quigley

Richard and Judith Rathburn

Larry Quimby

Arnold and Joan Ratkowski

David Quinlan

Porter Ratliff

Robert Probst

Brian Quinn and Patricia Forster Quinn

Margie and Lou Rauh

Michael Prochaska

Julie Quinn and David Wright

Bill Rauschert and Carolyn Agosta

Derk and Shannon Pronger

Judith Rabbai

Elaine Raven

Todd and Angel Pronger

Robert and Elaine Rabideau

Patricia Raven

Janet Prote and Marilyn Schumaker

Peter and Chieko Racine

Robert Rayfield

Diana Raddatz

Richard and Holly Raymond

Ruth Radomski

John and Virginia Raz

Paul and Katy Rady

Re/Max of Elk Rapids

Railway Systems Suppliers Inc

Woody and Laura Rea

James Rainey

Jeffery and Linda Reau

Etta Rajkovich

Bruce and Linda Redman

Kathleen Primo Timothy Prindle David and Joan Pritchard Donna and Lawrence Probes

Elizabeth Proulx Frank Proulx Peter Prouty Scott and Beth Pryde Jan Pryor David Puckett 314

Love the land. Pass it on.

Kate Redman

Dean and Bonnie Rhoads

George Rinder

Leslie and Richard Redmond

Donna and Lyman Rhodes

Ian Rinehart

Thomas Reeber

Judith Rich

Heather Rinkel

Hilda and William Reed

Paul and Robin Rich

Constance Riopelle

Jim and Barb Reed

Jane and Gary Richards

David and Kathy Ripmaster

John and Barbara Reed

Julie Richards

Mary Risley

Patricia and William Reed

Mary Richards

Carol and Alan Ritter

Richard Reed

Nick Richards

Nathan Ritter

David and Elizabeth Reeves

Clark Richardson

Riverside Title Company

Kathleen Regnier

Jon Richardson

Tom and Ellen Roan

Nancy and Stephen Rehrer

Kara Richardson

Richard and Janet Robb

Judith Reich

Karen Richardson

James Robberts

Patricia Reich

Merrick and Toni Richardson

Jack Robbins

Ann Reichert

Nate Richardson

Robert Robbins

Jodie, Joey, Rod and Ruth Reid

Palma Richardson

Todd and Carrie Robbins

Mike and Kathy Reid

Pamela and Darrell Richardson

Sue Ann Robert

Herb and Florence Reiley

Phil and Joan Richardson

Charley Roberts

Laura and Jabin Reinhold

Vicky Richey

Dale and Judy Roberts

Donald Reinke

Lorie and Mark Richmann

David Roberts

Norman and Carol Reinke

Becky Richmond and Jon Rovick

Karen Roberts and Mike Madden

Ken and Joan Richmond

Karen Roberts

Judith Remmert

Yasmin Richmond and Ruth Hoppe

Cynthia and Robert Robinson

William Renis

Mori and Cedric Richner

Conrad and Adele Reiter Joanne Reiter

Harriet Rennie-Brown

James and Kathleen Rickard

Casey Ressl and James Morse

Lou and Kathy Ricord

Judith Retallick

Ridgewood Condo Association

William Reusch

Laura and Peter Rigan

Linda Rexer

David and Ann Rigney

Catherine Rhem

Judy and John Riley

Denise and Kim Rhoades

Helene and Dan Rimer

Imogene Rhoades

John and Kathleen Rinck

Campaign for Generations

Michael Robinson Phyllis Robinson Theodore and Maureen Robinson Walter and Jan Roch Von Rochsburg Larry and Elaine Rochon Joanne Rochow Tom and Jana Rockne Gordon Rockwell 315

Gifts of $1 - $999 — Continued

Charles and Sara Rodeck

Frank and Joanne Rosengren

Signe Ruddy

Nelson and Martha Rodes

Tom and Marilyn Rosi

Julie Rudziensky

Rick and Judy Rodes

Ricky Ross

Janet and Scott Ruggles

Philip and Susan Rodgers

Keith Ross and Louise Doud

Donald and Judith Rumelhart

Sally Rodgers

Susan Ross

Jeff and Jen Rundio

Nancy and Robert Rodriguez

Tracy and Judy Ross

Barbara and Mike Runyon

Ann and Albert Roeseler

Walter and Pat Ross

Jeff Runyon

Harold and Colleen Roesner

James and Brenda Rossi

William Ruppell

Angela Roeters

Edward and Mildred Roth

Gary and Barbara Rupprecht

Bruce and Joyce Rogers

William and Linda Rotramel

Charles and Diane Rushlow

Christine Rogers

Ken and Sue Rottet

Christina Russell

Edward and Elyse Rogers

Lewis Roubal

David and Cynthia Russell

Gerald Rogers

Deborah Rough

Richard and Phyllis Russell

Gwen Rogers

Fred Rounds

Russell Hardware Company

James Rogers

Gary and Kathryn Roush

Brenda and Joseph Rust

Mary and Jim Rogers

Raven Routly

Rudy and Jill Ruterbusch

Megan Fandrei Rogers

Richard and Judith Rovetto

Elizabeth Rutila

Steven and Linda Rogers

Matthew Rowbotham

Weldon Rutledge

Kathleen Rohrer

Claire and Ron Rowe

Duane and Rebecca Ruttan

Rhonda and Thomas

Ellen and Dale Rowe

Louise and John Ryan

Daniel and Diane Roketenetz

Jim Rowe

Nancy and Hubert Ryan

Richard Romanowski

Karl and Barb Rowe

William and Madelyn Ryan

Joyce Rombouts

Theresa Rowe

Frank and Kay Ryde

Mike and Sharon Root

John and Kathleen Rowley

Karen Sabin

Terry Roote

Vaira Rozentals

Rick and Cynthia Sack

Robert and Marion Rorich

Bernie and Donna Rubin

Madelyn Safronoff

John and Tina Rose

Linda and Steven Ruby

David and Carol Sagaser

Verna and John Rose

David and Sharon Rucinski

Donald Sagaser

Mary Rosebrough

Sara Rucker-Thiessen

Jerome and Brenda Sage

Judy and Ted Roseman

Glen Ruczynski and Ali Bridson

Dan and Eileen Sajkowski

Sarah and Joel Rosenbaum

Elizabeth Rudd

James and Verna Sak

James Rosenberger

Thomas and Anna Rudd

Kristin and John Sak

316

Love the land. Pass it on.

Kristen Salathiel and John Failor Wilfred and Kirsten Saldanha Nancy and Fritz Salden Karen and Geno Salomone Marybeth and Gary Salowich Janie Saltarelli Michael and Jacqueline Sander

Colleen Savanna

Jan Schmidt

Douglas and Laura Savela

Johanna and Ty Schmidt

Terry and Gloria Savory

Kurt and Karen Schmidt

Marvin Saxton

Louis and Mary Schmidt

Anne and Mitchell Saywitz

Marilyn Schmidt

David and Sharon Scales

Randy and Maryann Schmidt

Vincent and Kathryn Scanio

Wayne and Kathleen Schmidt

David and Karen Scapini

James and Heather Schmiedicke

Paul Sander and Lori LichtmanSander

Kristin Scarlata

Faith Sanders

Dorothy Schaefer

Todd and Maura Sanders

Howard Schaefer

Richard and Patricia Sanderson

S. Philip Schaffner

Chris and Mariana Sanford

Ruthann Schallert-Wygal

Kurt Sanford

Fred Schankin

Louis and Nancy Sanford

Troy and Claudia Scharlow

Stephanie Santoro

Marilyn Scheck

Joel Saper

Melody Schell

Sarafa Family

Sarah Scheuerle

Mary Ellen Sarasin

Scott and Shari Schiefer

Laura and Larry Saret

Pam Schiewe

Connie Sargent

Jim and Janis Schilling

Edna Sargent

Gary and Margo Schimmel

Mary and Sue Sarles

Theresa Schleede

Andrew and Ann Marie Schoenherr

Donald and Margaret Sarna

Louise Schlief

Aaron and Margaret Scholnik

Richard and Norma Sarns

Charlie Schlinger

Robert and Sharron Scholz

Roy Sartin

Logan Schlipf

Katharene Schoof

Lowell and Sara Satterlee

Shelley Schlump

Dan and Janice Schoonmaker

Elizabeth Saunders

Neill and Joan Schmeichel

Russell and Joanne Schopieray

Gretchen Sauvage

Allan and Kay Schmid

Mike and Nancy Sauve

Walter and Marilyn Schmid

Joseph Schorer and Mildred Calhoun

Burton Savage

Donald and Kim Schmidt

Miriam Schreck

Carissa Savage

Douglass and Connie Schmidt

Maria Schrems

Campaign for Generations

Kirsten and Todd Schmitt Richard and Jennie Schmitt Carl Schmult Barbara Schneider Davina and Virgil Schneider Jane and Fred Schneider John and Elizabeth Schneider John and Gail Schneider Molly and David Schneider William and Judith Schneider Brent and Laurie Schnell Greg and Joanne Schnesk Kathy and John Schoedel

317

Gifts of $1 - $999 — Continued

Jonathan Schroeder

John Scott

Carolyn Shah

Judith Schroeder

Leonard and Loretta Scott

Marcia and Keith Shahan

Phyllis and Paul Schroeder

Sharon Scranton

Kristine Shahmirza

Sandy Schroeter

Sea-Legs

Wallace and Patricia Schroth

John and Susan Seaman

Benjamin and Adele Shambaugh

Bob Schuelke

Eliza Searles

Erin, Alan, and Rowan Schug

William and Laurie Sears

David and Mary Jo Schuhardt

Maggie Seats

Marilyn Schuler

Freya Secrest and Jeremy Berg

Thomas and Nancy Schulte

John and Lesa Seefeld

Jane and Roger Schultz

Mark and Charles Sehi

Jean Schultz

Sehi Computer Products, INC.

Joseph Schultz

William and Marian Seidenstucker

Katherine and Steven Schultz Patricia Schultz Yvonne Schultz Cathy Schulz Wesson and Janie Schulz David and Erica Schulze Kyle and Katherine Schumacher Jean Schurch Ann and Max Schwandt Art and Karen Schwarm Jeffrey and Marie Schwartz Susan Schwartz Victor Schwenke Jean Schwerin Betty and Richard Scott Bill and Irene Scott David Scott Doug and Marge Scott John and Gloria Scott 318

George and Jaqui Shambaugh Shari and Benjamin Shambaugh Steve and Shirley Shane David and Megan Shapiro Linda Sharp Phil Sharp and Stacy Bruss Scott and Lynn Shattuck Eleanor Shaw Lillie Faye Shaw

Beverly Seifert

Ted and Karen Shaw

Gertraude Seitter

Virginia Shaw

William and Kathryn Seitz

Sondra Shaw-Hardy

Eugene Selden

Sarah Sheafor

Rita Selden and Zachary Bell

Scribner and Patricia Sheafor

Richard and Eloise Selleck

Joan Sheard and Myrna Yeakle

Semco Energy

William and Patricia Shearer

Semler Brossy

Adam Sheer

Colleen Seney

Jim and Marilyn Sheets

Thomas Senior

David and Barbara Sheldon

Bernard and Phyllis Senske

Bonnie Shepard

Cynthia Serbent

Judith Shepelak and George Vinyard

William and Laura Serocki Shirley Sevener Darlene Sexton Chris and Michele Shafer Jim and Pat Shaffer Martha Shaffer

Sharon and Cary Sheremet Jon Sherk William and Maridel Sherk Timothy and Sharon Sherrow Sherwood & Coupe Family Foundation Love the land. Pass it on.

Shift Chiropractic, PLC

Jeff Silagy

Patricia Skifstad

Susan Shimmons

Nina Silbergleit

Denise Skipinski

Edward and Susan Shipman

Marcie Sillman

Robert and Anne Skoff

Clare Shipstead

Robert Simanek

Paul and Joan Shirilla

Kim and Steve Simmons

Barbara Skurdall and Ann Strehle

Mary Shirley

Alex and Mary Simon

Tom Shockley

Kimball Simon

Robert and Dana Sholten

Elizabeth Simonds

Michael and Linda Shomin

Dennis and Ruth Simoneau

William and Judy Shoskey

David and Tami Simonelli

Nancy and Chris Shotwell

Fritz Simons

Mason Showalter

David Simpson and Anne Pawlak-Simpson

Shugart Builders Amy and Clark Shuler Dianne and John Shullenberger Heather and Rick Shumaker Peter Shumar Michaela and Michael Shupe Megan Shutes Stephen and Peg Siciliano Leslie Sickterman Liz Sidebotham Peter Siebert and Candace Nelson

Marilyn Slabaugh Stacy Slater William Slater Elaine and Chuck Slaybaugh Mary Ann Slazinski Joan Sleder Sleeping Bear Farms Donna and Thomas Sloan

Jodi and Aili Simpson

Paul and Margaret Sloan

Howard and Kathryn Simpson

Chris Sloane

Peggy and Kimberly Simpson

Donna and Wayne Slowinski

Daniel Sims

Louis and Joan Slyker

John and Marilyn Sims

Randy Smale

Ann Sinclair

Ronald Smeltzer

James Sington

Smith & Eddy Insurance Agency

Lynn Sipher Michael Sipkoski Leah Sirrine Margo and Bill Sirrine

Angela Smith Ann Smith Barbara Smith Catherine and Mark Smith

Allan Siefert

James and Shannon Sitek

Helen Sieg

Jay and Linda Siwek

Stephanie Siegel

Six Mile Lake Association

Randolph and Judith Sierras

Roy and Margaret Sjoberg

Jane and Francis Sievert

Deborah Sjoberg Carlson

Robert Sigler

Robert and Jo Ann Skabo

Ellie Smith and Charles Brackett

Sigma Investment Counselors

Ernest and Debbie Skeans

Glenn and Marilyn Smith

Laura and Steven Sikkenga

Thomas and Catheryn Skellett

H. and Autumn Smith

Campaign for Generations

Chantel Smith Dena Smith Donald and Linda Smith Drew Smith and Erin Currier

319

Gifts of $1 - $999 — Continued

Jay and Janice Smith

Patti Sode

Philip Spangenberg

Jean and Brook Smith

Margaret Soderberg

Bradley and Catherine Spanski

Joan Smith

Karen Sodke

W. R. Spayde

Julie and John Smith

Patricia and Edward Sokol

Bob and Jill Spencer

Julie Smith

Gerald Solanics

James and Kelli Spencer

Larry and Ruth Smith

Violet Solomonson

Sandra Spencer

Margie and Phil Smith

Autumn and Matthew Soltysiak

Scott and Mickey Sperlich

Marianne Smith

Peter and Mary Jo Solwold

Spicer Group

Marilyn and Hal Smith

Janice Somers

Dave and Barb Spinniken

Mark and Ann Smith

Steve and Pat Somers

Lorry Spitzer

Mark and Susan Smith

Jamie Somerville

Charlie and Kathy Spoering

Marsha Smith and Tom Gilbert

Owen Sommerfeld

Jim and Dottie Spousta

Stiegemeyer Family

Sally Somsel

John and Elizabeth Sprague

Molly Smith

David and Kristi Soper

Reg Sprik

Murray Smith

Amanda and James Sorensen

Jerome Springer

Pam Smith

Helen and Mike Sorensen

William Springstead

Patrick and Kathleen Smith

Richard and Rebecca Sorensen

Jandy and Brad Sprouse

Susan Marie Smith

Eric Sorenson and Cathy Kashanski

Stephen Spurr

Tim and Julie Smith William and Mary Smith Suzanne Smitley and Keith Sparrow

Scot and Katherine Sorenson Jerry Sorgi

Michele and Tom Squires Sue St. Clair Bernard St. Pierre

Suzanne Sorkin and Eliot Singer

Penny and Steve Staelin

Eve Sorum

Darwin and Nancy Stafford

Richard and Diana Sosnowski

Jeanine and Carl Stafford

Teresa Sotuyo

Kristen Staggs

William and Gretchen Soutear

Nick and Rachel Stagman

Deborah and Tom Southworth

Barbara Stahler-Sholk

Freda and Patrick Southworth

Dan and Beth Stainforth Julie and Terry Stalla

Steve and Nikki Sobkowski

Donna Sowers and Louis Wojtowicz

Greg Socha

Ronald and Kathryn Sowers

John Stamm

Hinde Socol

Russell and Tina Soyring

Marlene Stanczak

Patrick Smolinski Shirley Snare Brian Sniokaitis and Maggie Smith John Snodgrass and Janet Fleshman Grant and Susan Snyder Thomas and Lynn Snyder

320

Linda and Leo Stallman

Love the land. Pass it on.

Jim and Jill Stander

Carol Steiner and Robert Fike

Sally Stilwill

Daniel Stanford

Sue and Martin Steiner

David and Linda Stimpson

Jane Stanley

Vern and Joan Steinfort

Martha Stimson

Rather Stanton

Patti Steinmayer

Rebecca Stimson

Robert and Teresa Stanulis

John and Tina Steketee

Samantha Stites

Laura and Roger Stanwick

Peter and Joan Steketee

R. Troy and Carrilyn Stobert

Gloria Stapp

Aila and Noah Stengl

Dorothy Stock

Stardust Memorials, LLC

Robert and Christy Stengl

Richard Stocker

Star-Key Home Owners’ Association

Robert and Michelle Stephanoff

Leigh Stocking and Beverly Galbraith

Jill Staszak

Jonathan Stephens and Carla Kish

Heather Statfield

Mark and Ann Stephens

Janet Stokes

Gretchen Staub

Steve Stephens

Christian Stoldt

Don Stauffer

Yvonne Stephens

Ken Stolpmann

Rick and Nanci Stauffer

Catherine Stephenson

Lee and Tom Stoltmann

Cecile and Andy Stebbins

Dave and Lynn Stephenson

Donald and Betty Stone

Julie Stec

Ross and Dianne Stephenson

Lin Stonehouse

John Steck

Steppers and Sliders

Joan Storey

Matthew Stedman and Katie Ororke-Stedman

Sherry Stepulla

Deborah Storms

Louise Sternberg

Steve and Mary Storms

Fred and Bettie Sterner

Nancy and Mickey Story

Carol Stetter

Eleanor Stottlemyer

Diane Stevens

Barbara Stout

Jane Stevenson

David and Kathy Stout David Stout

Kris Stegmann

William and Kathleen Stevenson

Charles and Jackie Stegmier

Daniel Stewart

Robert and Kay Stehouwer

Evart and Cheryl Stewart

Ken and Mary Ann Stein

Gayle and Stephen Stewart

Robert and Grace Stein

Honour and Douglas Stewart

Michael Steinberger

Kent and Ann Stewart

Ann Marie and W. Daniel Steiner

Edward and Kris Stieg

Thomas and Eugenia Steel Michael and Barbara Steer Thomas Stefanski Frances and Richard Steffen Bethany Steffey

Campaign for Generations

Mark Stoddard

Joni Stover Robert and Ruth Stow Bruce and Jane Stowe Sue and James Strabel John and Marilyn Strader David and Carol Straight Nancy and Chuck Stramecki

Frank and Jill Stiltner 321

Gifts of $1 - $999 — Continued

Nicholous Stratton

Summit Industries

Carolyn Swift

Joseph and Carol Strauss

Glenn and Kathy Sundbeck

Elliot Swift

Richard Streit

Heidi and Andrew Sung

Robert Swift

Laura Strejc

Thomas and Lisa Suntrup

Ward and Francoise Swingle

Strine Family Charitable Fund

John Suomi and Heather Butler

John and Linda Switzer

Jason Stringer

Jerry Sura

Karen Szcodronski

Kim and David Stringer

James and Dona Sutherin

Jim and Penny Szczechowski

David and Stephanie Strolle

Marian and Thomas Sutter

T.E.S. Filer City Station

Margaret Strong

Judith Sutton

Patricia Tabbert

Sue Strum

Mark and Susan Sutton

Carl and Eleanor Tacke

Steven Stryd

Todd and Anne Sutton

Kingsley Taft and Gillien Todd

Charles and Judy Stuart

Stefan and Susan Svensson

Bing Tai and Catherine Allen

Bob Stuber and Debra ClineStuber

Dawn Swadley

Sakura Takano

Nicole Swager

Glenn Takayama

Judy and Darrel Swain

Mitz and Mary Takayama

David Swan

Miwa Takayama

Gerald and Ann Swaney

Makram Talia

Joel and Ann Swanson

Lauren Talley

Joel Swanson

Lawrence and Marianne Talon

John and Lois Swanson

Tamarack Gallery

Michele Swanson

Alice Tang

Karen Swarbrick

Jason and Jennifer Tank

Alan and Nancy Sward

Marylou Tanton

Eileen Sweazy

Carl and Emily Taphouse

Hannah Sweeney

Melinda Jo Tapia-Schmeling

James and Penny Sweeney

Ehsan and Nighat Taqbeem

Sweetwater Evening Garden Club

Joseph Taraskavage

Irene Sullivan Roger and Charlie Sullivan

Josh and Nanci Swenson

William and Cheryl Sullivan

Jeffrey Swesky and Bridget Callahan

Randy and Michelle Stuck Marcia Stucki Craig and Mary Stucky Margaret Studier Marvin and Carol Studinger Kristin Stuedemann Susan and Bob Stuedemann Janet Stuhlmann Jim and Margaret Stuhr Kelly Stupple Steven and Debra Styers Doris and Joe Suarez Karen and Daniel Succarde

Robert Summers and Kathy Campbell Shirley Summers 322

Richard and Rosemary Swidorski

Philip and Susan Tarczon Rick Tasch William and Karen Tasch Paul and Debbie Taube Catherine Ann Taylor Love the land. Pass it on.

Janet Taylor

Nancy Thayer

Tom and Janet Thompson

Jodee Taylor and Joe Mielke

Nicolas Theisen

Thomson Reuters

John and Nancy Taylor

Ron and Jane Theobald

Bill and Marilyn Thornton

Michele and Robert Taylor

Steve Theobald

Dennis Thorpe

Rick and Luvon Taylor

Sharon Theroux

Esther Thorson

Robert and Janice Taylor

Doris Thibedeau

Jon Throop

Scott Taylor and Andrea Verier

Cyril and Jacqueline Thiel

Dave Tibbetts

Stephen Taylor

Homer Thiel

Robert Tibbott

Terry Taylor and Angela Gingras

Barbara Tholin

David and Lydia Tiede

Jenn Thom

Matthew Tiemann

Audrey Thomas

Timberlee

Bruce and Jacquelyn Thomas

Tammy and Mark Timm

Carol Thomas

John Timmer

Deborah and Jean Thomas

William and Sharon Timmins

Jacqueline Thomas

Tom Tinker

Janet Thomas

John and Janet Tinnette

Kenneth Thomas

Frederick and Diane Tinsey

Randy and Susan Thomas

Diane Todd

Robert and Janice Thomas

Samuel Todd

Sarah Thomas

Stanley Todd

Ted Thomas

William and Mary Todt

Ashley Thompson

Kathy, Glenn and Aaron Tomford

Timothy and Janet Taylor TBA Credit Union TE Connectivity Michael and Jacquelyn Teagan James and Roberta Teahen Clara Teall Gillian Teall Nancy and William Tebelman Marjorie Teglhoj John and Marcia Teichman Laura Tellez Nancy Templeton Stephen and Ann Templeton Allen and Maureen Terbeek Elizabeth Terrell Cooper Terry Sam Tesaker Margaret and Timothy Tewson

Bruce and Maurine Thompson Carolyn and Clif Thompson Connie Thompson Dennis and Sheri Thompson Donald Thompson George and Sally Thompson

William Thacker and Anne Cavanaugh

John and Janice Thompson

Tim and Trish Thane

Mollie Thompson

Kelly and Carolyn Thayer

Patty Thompson

Mary and David Thayer

Paul Thompson

Campaign for Generations

Matt Tomlinson Jacqueline Tompkins-Weede Paul and Sally Ton Steve and Amy Tongue William and Christine Toole Clinton and Irma Tooley Richard and Anne Tooley Martha Topol and David Kirby Andrew Topper

323

Gifts of $1 - $999 — Continued

Bonnie Topper-Bricker

Kathryn Turman

Asher Tourison

Bernice Turner

William Towle

John and Sandra Turnquist

Harriet Townsend

Jennifer and Andrew Tursman

Jon Townsend

Kendra Tutsch

Stephanie and Phillip Van Winkle

William and Virginia Townsley

Carrie Twigg

Deb Van Zegeren

Toyota

Judy Twigg

Terry and Laura VanAntwerp

Glen and Diane Tracy

Thomas Twigg

Amy and Matt Vance

Heidi Trafidlo

Lynne Twining and Alan Mass

James and Carol Vance

Carole Trahan

Joseph Tylutki

Richard and Shirley Vance

Seth and Sara Tramm

Sharon Tyson and David Frankel

Sam and Ginny Vance

Garth Trask Traverse Area Association of Realtors

Kevin Uhl and Hannah Israel Beth Ulbrich and Jeff Tabak

Michiel and Lin Van Nieuwstadt Donald Van Suilichem Sally Van Vleck

Sharon Vance Keith and Linda Vandeman

Traverse City Noon Rotary Club

Susan Ullrich

Jo-Ann and Bruce Vanden Bergh

Traverse City State Bank

United Way of Northwest Michigan

Marcia Vandenbelt and James Cutler

United Way of Washtenaw

Phillip Vandenberge

Wayne Unwin

William and Jan VanDenburg

Molly Updike

Doug and Linda Vander Hoff

Craig Urquhart

Merry Vander Linden and Claudio Vacas

Traverse Magazine Linda and Stuart Travis Debra and Keith Treiber Vicki Trent Kyle Trevas John Trezise Tria Bordo Farm, LLC Trinity Lutheran Church Mens Club

Wendy and Donald Urquhart Eric Vaandering James and Michele Vacca Michael Vahey

John and Barbara Vander Molen Stephen and Jen Vander Roest Marcy and Kevin Vander Tuig

Lewis Tripp

Josh Valdmanis

Steve and Sarah Trippe

Phyllis Valentine

Paul and Marcia Trokhan

James and Carol Valko

Amy Truchan

Dayna and Roderick Valpey

Cynthia and Ron Tschudy

Audrey Van Alst

Dave and Karen Tubolino

Susan Van Duine

Margaret VanderWaerden and Lee Falco

Becky Tucker

Rebecca Van Horn

Gary and Anita VanderZiel

Gordon and Kathryn Tulgestke

Therese van Houten

Robert VanDis

324

Eric and Julie VanderHaagen Al Vanderklipp John and Jeanne VanderMeer Laura Vanderveen

Love the land. Pass it on.

Robert VanDragt and Jackie Norton Margaret and Steven Vangrouw

Gloria and Adam Veltman

James Vredenburgh

Richard and Gail Venner

Pamela and William Vredevoogd

Beverly Verhage Stanley and Judy Verheul

Kathryn Vreeland-Rapai and Joseph Rapai

Vervisch Homes

Matthew Wachoski

David Vanhammen and Phyllis Crowell

Veseys Family

Margaret Wade

Suzanne Vette

Phil and Lori Wade

Esther VanHammen

Camille Vettraino

Warren and Sharon Wade

Mark and Margaret Vanhoose

Alan and Bev Vicstein

Dawn Waggett

Ann VanMeter

Sara-Jo Vidor

Bob and Ann Wagner

Dana Vannoy

Susan Vigland

Harry and Sharon Wagner

Bill VanPetten

Todd and Susan Vigland

Sidney and Susan Wagner

Jill and Jim VanStratt

Barbara Vincent

Sue Wagner

Hal and Shirley VanSumeren

Bill Vincent

Wendy Wagoner

Carlene VanVoorhies

John and Judy Vincent

May and Paul Waldron

William and Elizabeth Vanwesten

John and Lynn Vinkemulder

Paige and Benjamin Waldron

Hank and Bonnie Visser

Kenneth and Beth Walker

Dennis and Brigid Vitton

Kent and Suzanne Walker

Georgia Vlamis

Richard and Mary Walker

George and Lauri Varga

Helen Vogel

Terry and Jane Walker

Sharon Varga

Mark and Jane Vogel Family Foundation

Darian and Kira Walkup

Joan Osborn VanGunten Daniel and Margaret VanHaften

David VanWinkle Gordon and Margaret Vanwylen

Christine Varner and Peter Romeo

Gary Vogt and Anita Staubach

Beth Varty

Robert and Candy Voigt

Clifford and Bonnie Vatter

Phil and Barb Von Voigtlander

William and Barbara Vaughan

Margaret von Walthausen

Duane Vaughan

Rolf and Mari von Walthausen

Donna and Allen Vaughn

Richard and Consuelo VonAchen

John and Patricia Veach Leslie Veda Eddie Veenstra Nathan Veeser

Campaign for Generations

Michael and Andrea Wall Ruth and Randolph Wall Ursula Wall Barbara Wallace Dan Wallace and Dale Treese David and Frances Wallace Floyd and Betty Wallace

John and Maureen Voorhees

Jacques Wallace

Michael and Lisbeth Votruba

Melanie Wallace

George and Alyce Voulemenous

Cathy Walle

David and Pat Vranesich

Victoria and Ray Wallick 325

Gifts of $1 - $999 — Continued

Ken and Joanne Walrad Bertram Walsh and Jean Larson

Tony Warning and Martha Peterson Anne Warren

Kathleen Weede Linda Weeks Jeff and Allison Weemes

Dan and Leslie Walsh

Waterfire Vineyards

Chris and Ashlea Walter

Water’s Edge Dentistry

Christopher and Renna Walter

Don and Sharon Watkins

Christopher and Sarah Walter

Becki and Richard Watson

Richard and Lucinda Weiermiller

John Walter

Bryn Watson

Weiermiller Family Fund

Kendra Walter

Juanita and Noel Watson

Anita Weinraub

Richard and Christine Walter

John and Pauline Watt

Laura Weintraub

Robert and Elinborg Walters

Karen Watters

Melinda and Chris Weinzapfel

John and Kathy Walthorn

Price and Jane Watts

Peter and Nancy Weir

Brent and Norma Walton

Steve Waugh

Wally and Judy Weir

Steven Walton

James and Sharon Wawrzyniak

JoAnn Weirich

Andrea Walworth and Douglas Endicott

Kathleen Way and Robert Molloy

Robert and Jane Weisbrodt

Kyle and Kari Walworth

Mary Weadock

John and Ann Walz

Camille Weatherholt

Robert and Helen Wangard

Kennard and Judith Weaver

Todd Wanley

Mark Weaver

James Wanner

Marti and Jay Weaver

Lawrence and Jamie Warbasse

Laura and Craig Webb

Harmon and Joyce Ward

Tim Webb and Gail Roberts

James Ward

Kathy Webber

Nancy Wardwell

Joan Weber

Priscilla Ware and Robert Davis

Joshua Weber

Jane Wares

Judith Weber

Jeni Wares

George and Patricia Weber

Suzanne Waring

Dayna Webster

William and Di-Anne Warmbein

Julie and Andy Webster

Kenneth and Patricia Warner Matthew Warner 326

Veronica and Donald Webster

Thomas and Cheryl Wegener Sherri Wehrmeister

Bob and Maurine Weisenburger Pamela and Jerome Weisler Linda and Daniel Weist Barry and Mary Welburn Dan and Polly Welburn John and Anne Welburn Thomas and Marcy Welburn Paul and Delphine Welch Brad and Cheri Weller Mattea Wellnitz Karen and J.D. Wells Tom Wells and Rebecca Jones Donna and Bill Weltyk Shayrrl Wenonah Carolyn Wentworth

Greg and Maggie Weddell

Robert and Michelle Wentworth

Joan Weddell

Dale and Barbara Wentzloff Love the land. Pass it on.

Jeff and Jennie Wentzloff

Carolyn White

Mary Wila

Pamela Wenzel

Haley White

Ginger Wilber

Jacklyn Werner

Jeff White

Bryson and Emily Wilbert

Bruce and Catherine Werts

Dr. Katherine White

Barbara Wilbur

Thomas Wertz

Kathleen White

Steven Wilcox

Janis and Liam Wesley

Kathryn White

Willard and Kay Wilcox

Alan West

Kathy and Ted White

Lora Wildenthal

Michael and Jessica West

Kimberly White and David Bucholtz

Christina Wilfling

West Front Primary Care, PC. Patricia Westen Rick and Sigrid Westerhof Alan and Fran Westerholm Dale and Tracy Westerman Laura Westerman Richard and Janet Westerman Tom and Shannon Westgate

Margaret White Marilyn and Jacklyn White Martha White Richard and Anne White Tom White White Birch Lodge Georgia White-Epperson Whiteford Associates Inc.

Susan and Gerald Wilgus Gary Wilke John and Kathy Wilkinson Margaret Wilkinson Mickey Wilkinson Patti Wilkinson Phyllis and Ron Wilkinson Jacqueline Wilkosz

Tim Whitney

Mark and Virginia WilletteGreen

Jenny Whitson

Larry and Elizabeth Willey

Keith and Judith Westphal

Marilyn Whittaker

Andy Williams and Judy Yates

Steve and Deb Westphal

Carl and Christine Wiatr

Calvin and Ellen Williams

James Weygandt

Harry and Susan Wiberg

Carol Williams

Mary Weygandt

Matthew Wiberg

David and Judy Williams

Dennis Whalen

Charles Wicht

Gary Williams

Tim and Colette Whalen

Luann Wieber

James Williams

Joe and Linda Whelan

Mark and Ann Wiedelman

Karen and Jack Williams

Leigh Whelpton

Joe and Glenda Wierzbicki

Ken and Kim Williams

Clyde and Sonja Whipple

Janie and Dan Wiest

Koelle Williams

James Whipple

Carol and Rick Wiggers

Roger and Barbara Williams

Whistling Frog Tile

Casey Wiggins

Temeka Williams

Alexander White

Linda Wikle and Gail Trill

Williams Chevrolet-Honda

Barbara White

Cal Wila

Karin Williamson

Roger and Mary Westover Jo Westphal and Dave Edmondson

Campaign for Generations

327

Gifts of $1 - $999 — Continued

Robert and Sandra Williamson

Tim Winslow

Jean Woods

Ron Williamson

Emma Winter

Meredith Woods

Nancy Willihnganz

Holly and Larry Winter

Michael and Emily Woods

Bonnie Willings

Kay Winter

Ron and Diane Woods

John and Angela Willis

Sanda Wiper

Robyn and Jim Woolcock

Philip Willson

Walter and Patricia Wisdom

Kathleen Woolson

Thomas and Gwen Willson

Sue Ellen Wise

Donice Wooster

Bob and Mandy Wilson

Alfred and Barbara Wishart

Erin and Zachary Word

Cheryl Wilson

Charles Wisler

Gary and Jill Worden

John and Mona Wilson

Charles Wissner

Patricia and James Workman

Kathryn Wilson

Paul Witek

Tom and Mary Jo Workman

Kemp Wilson

Michael and Laverna Witkop

John and Kathleen Worm

Laura and John Wilson

Anthony and Kathy Wittbrodt

Jim and Priscilla Worrall

Lyle and Nancy Wilson

Dwight and Georgie Woessner

Richard and Betsy Wilson

Ellen and Rick Wojtowicz

Laura Worst and Dr. Robert Bracey

Ross Wilson and Joan Narodowiec

Vivian Wolbrink

Steve and Karen Wilson Steven and Mary Wilson Sue Wilson Tom and Susan Wiltse Clyde and Nancy Wimmer

Carolyn Wolf Cameron and Fran Wolfe Catherine Wolfe Joan Wolfe Shirley Wolfe

Franklyn and Diane Wosek Helen Woytowich Douglas and Margaret Wozniak Kathleen Wray Douglas and Kelly Wright Kathy and Mike Wright Lin and Bill Wright

Barbara Winckler

Elizabeth Wolfe Brusher and Gerald Brusher

Michael and Arlene Windbacher

Karin Wolfe Morris

Sandra Wright

Frank and Beverly Winders

Irvin Wolfson and Brenda Forbrig Wolfson

Scott Wright

Delaney Wing Julie Wingett Mr. and Mrs. William Winkel

Edward and Mary Wolking Dan Wolter

Michael Wright

Stacy and John Wright Carl Wroubel John and Charlotte Wuepper

Cathy and Michael Winkler

Charles and Elizabeth Wolterink

Barbara Wunsch

Maxwell Winkler

Gordon Wolters

Charles and Ellis Wunsch

Anna and Ryan Winn

Barbara and Douglas Wood

Vivian Winn

John Wunsch and Laura Wigfield

Daron and Kori Woodruff

328

Kandee and Donald Wyatt Love the land. Pass it on.

Steven and Margot Wynkoop

Dolores Zakrzewski

William Zinser

David and Janet Wynne

Elden and Carole Zang

Michael F. Zipser, CPA.

Jason and Melissa Wyper

Erick Zanner

Stephen and Nancy Zirkle

John and Janet Wyrwas

John Zaremba

Jan and Daniel Zolik

Maureen Yahrmatter

Ali Zawadzki

Dan and Cindy Zolkowski

Mr. Howard and Dr. Patricia Yamaguchi

Ronald and Jeri Zawlocki

Jay and Sharma Zollinger

Chester and Marjorie Zbojniewicz

Constance Zoutendyk

Ron Zeeb

Nelson and Dolores Zuchetto

Bruce and Diane Zeeuw

George Zuidema

Catherine and Thomas Zemanek

Jonathan Zuidema

Nathan Zemanek

Robert and Elizabeth Zurschmiede

Michael and Christine Zenn

Heidi and Andrew Zwerk

Joseph Zepf

Zynga Inc.

Adam Yanalunas Nancy Yang Matthew Yanke Gary and Janet Yankee Melissa Yard Pam and Jay Yarwood Daniel and Judy Yeager Jean Yeager Thomas Yeo Thomas and Kaye Yocum Fred Young and Julie Youmans Georgia Young Laurie Young Linda Young Michael Young Sandra and David Young Susan and Jim Young

Linda and James Zeratsky Douglas Zernow and Merilyn Ueno Amy Zesbaugh and Tim Tibbetts Alan Zetterberg and Pam Goodwin Pierre and Sally Zetterberg Corinne Zgliczynski Jon Zickert Jessica Ziecina Rudy Ziehl Rick Zieser

William and Elaine Young

Thomas Zieziul and Natalie Killingstad

William Young

Sandra Palmer Zilincik

Judith and Peter Young van Wageningen

Albert Zimmerman

Michal and Jay Youngflesh John and Peggy Zachman Garry Zachritz Richard Zaebst

Barbara Zimmerman Liz and Scot Zimmerman Scott and Kelly Zimmerman Sharron and George Zimmerman Frank and Ruth Zinn

Lise Zahn Campaign for Generations

329

GRANTS FROM LOCAL, STATE AND FEDERAL GOVERNMENTS AND PARTNER ORGANIZATIONS Public grants from federal, state and local municipalities helped to leverage and maximize the value of private dollars. We are grateful for the support from these organizations throughout the campaign.

Acme Township

Peninsula Township

Benzie County

State of Michigan Department of Environmental Quality

Environmental Protection Agency, Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, Invasive Species Network Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians Grand Traverse Conservation District Grand Traverse County Road Commission

State of Michigan Department of Environmental Great Lakes and Energy State of Michigan Department of Environmental Quality Nonpoint Source Program

US Fish & Wildlife Service, Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Restoration Act US Fish & Wildlife Service, Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, Coastal Program Village of Elberta

State of Michigan Department of Natural Resources

Milton Township

US Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service

National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, Sustain Our Great Lakes administered by The Nature Conservancy

US Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service Stewardship Program

330

US Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service

Love the land. Pass it on.

GIFTS OF LAND These landowners have made donations of land and conservation easements that will protect and enhance land, water, and wildlife habitat quality, ensuring that the health and wealth of these precious lands are maintained forever.

Eva Arnold Bret L. Bachert and Sarah E. Schin Trust

Arthur, Paul, Richard and Stephen Hoadley

Donna Rottenbucher

Gordon G. Hunsaker Trust

The Robert L. Schiewe Living Trust

Edward R. Bagley Trust

Bill and Suzy Janis

Chris and Anita Scussel

Jeanie Chapin

Doug and Jackie Johnson

Gary Shanker

Thomas and Bonnie Cobb

Charles E. Kehr and Linda Moorey Kehr Trust

Nathan Shultz and Stephanie Woodfin

Louise Ladd

Michael Srdjak

Tim and Jessica Lindstrom

Debbi Stevens, Building Ideals Inc.

Tom Cooper Lew and Ginny Coulter Alan and Luann Davis David Davis and Julie Kavener Charles and Lorie DeYoung Mark W. Dietrich Living Trust Fred Dohm and Kay BumsteadDohm

Susie MacKay Terence S. Malone Trust Rob and Lois Manigold Maple Ridge Hardwoods, Inc Kirk Marckwald

Bruce and Linda Eckerman

Patrick Nichols

The Estate of Mary C. Francis

Gary Pomeroy

Tom and Annette Hart

Jack B. Robbins Revocable Trust

Robert and Sara Howard The Estate of Huldah Hill and Gladys Hill Trust

Campaign for Generations

Terry and Constance Timm Katy and Robert Tondu William Weiss, Jr The Jack D. White Trust and Barbara A. White Revocable Trust

Phyllis Robinson Rotary Camps and Services, TC

331

‡ Deceased

VANGUARD SOCIETY The following Vanguard Society members have documented their plans to make a legacy gift to support the Campaign for Generations through their estate plans. These gifts will help to ensure that the places we protect today will be cared for — for generations to come.

Carl Anderson

Debbie Edson

The Joseph Magliochetti Family

Anonymous (4)

Phil and Laura Edwards

Mark and Catherine McPherson

Christine Arvidson and Henry Doss

Fred A. Farage Jr. and Carl J. Strebel

Deb Menninga

Robert and Nancy Baglan

Jeannette M. Fehner ‡

Tom and Ellen Baird

Jamie and Beverly Finlayson

Jannine Baker and Craig Locke

John H. Fisher

Rosemary Benedetti

Dean and Nora Francis

Carl and Sally ‡ Benner

Barbara Arnold Bigalke

Karen Garber and John DesMarais, In Memory of Dr. Frank W. Garber and Ellen A. Garber

Kenneth and Jennifer Bosma

Andrew Gerber

Nancy Eshelman Brickman

Michael J. Gillman

Grace and Eric Bries

Tom Hitchman and Keith Hewitt

John and Rebecca Bercini

Jill C. Byron Richard ‡ and Marilyn Cobb Rob and Diane Collier Jim Cunningham Kate and Rick Dahlstrom Lois R. DeBacker Graydon and Sherri DeCamp

332

William Holland Donald E. Hunt Brian and Jennifer Jaffe Jennifer Jay

Amy and Jim Moore David and “Weezie” Reese Daniel and Martha Rogalny Don Schuster Eda June (Novak) Scott ‡ Chris and Michele Shafer Marilyn Slabaugh Erik Takayama ‡ Ann and Al Taylor Chip Visci and Marty Claus M. Sue Waltz Donna M. Weitz and Bill O. Smith Frank and Judith Wilhelme Randi and Mark Woodworth

Susan K. Jennings Karen G. Kerrigan

Love the land. Pass it on.

MATCHING GIFT PROGRAMS Many companies offer matching gift programs to encourage employees to contribute to charitable organizations like the Conservancy because it’s an easy, structured way for them to support good work in their communities. The following companies made donations during the Campaign for Generations to match their employee’s gifts.

ADP Aetna Foundation Allied World Assurance Company American Endowment Foundation

Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Chevron Humankind CNA Foundation Elk Rapids Rotary Club GE Foundation

American Online Giving Foundation

Google Matching Gifts Program

Amgen Foundation

Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation

AT&T Employee Giving Baird Foundation, Inc. Bank of America Matching Gifts Bayer Benzie Sunrise Rotary Club BlackRock Cardinal Health Caterpillar Foundation CDW Charities Aid Foundation of America

Campaign for Generations

Guidewire

Monsanto Fund Motorola Solutions Foundation Pfizer Foundation Red Bull Shell Matching Gifts Program Skillman Foundation State Farm Companies Foundation Steelcase Foundation TE Connectivity

HP Foundation Matching Gift Program

Thomson Reuters

IBM Corporation

Thrivent Financial Foundation

IBM International Foundation

Traverse City Noon Rotary Club

Illinois Tool Works Foundation

UBS Employee Giving Program

International Monetary Fund

ViacomCBS

Kirkland & Ellis Foundation

W. K. Kellogg Foundation

Kresge Foundation

Wells Fargo

Microsoft Corporation Matching Gifts

Zynga Inc.

333

Words cannot adequately express the gratitude we have for everyone who has supported the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy throughout the years. From the bottom of our hearts THANK YOU!

30 YEAR PROTECTION TOTALS

45,908 total acres protected

149 total miles of shoreline (rivers, lakes & streams) protected

PHOTO BY DREW SMITH

3860 N. Long Lake Rd., Ste. D Traverse City, MI 49684 231.929.7911 GTRLC.ORG BOUND PRINTED MATTER US POSTAGE PAID TRAVERSE CITY, MI PERMIT NO. 29