Photo:
Beer Cans, Spontaneous Combustion, and Big Mike
A Story of Strength & Leadership
The fight or flight response is fascinating. If you take a beer can and set it on the ground, then put one foot on top of it and lightly hop up with your other foot, there is a moment when the can holds your weight, perhaps quivering, only to implode shortly thereafter. Of course, there are some variables: cans made from thicker/stronger metal will hold up longer. And, folks like me with a little more “heft” will achieve more rapid implosion. Our fight or flight response is like a beer can. I presume my internal beer can is made from low-grade aluminum because it collapses pretty fast in the face of pressure. I highly doubt it has anything to do with my weight. Usually, right before the collapse, as the can starts to quiver, I get a little chatty, often with failed attempts at being funny.
I had a good illustration of all of this a few weeks ago while waiting to meet a donor at the Offield Family Viewlands. Right before our meeting started, Administrative Coordinator Sarah Gurney called me to relay that Mike Lynch, longtime Preserve Stewardship Specialist with LTC, had called her from the barns which were about 100 yards up the hill from where I was standing. Apparently, one of our pick-up trucks had spontaneously started on fire, and emergency vehicles were about to be pulling in with lights flashing and sirens blaring.
I ran the short distance up the hill to find Mike. As a side note, my nickname for Mike is “Big Mike”. Standing at about 6’6”, he is a big man, making the name seem obvious. But my label for him also stems from his big heart and big smile. When Mike laughs, you just feel good. He has a deep appreciation for his family and his co-workers and, while he is more of a teddy bear than a grizzly, I have a hunch that if you cross any lines with people of his inner circle, you might see the grizzly.
Anyway, Mike was standing clear of the rapidly increasing fire and I could tell that he felt badly that the truck decided to combust spontaneously on his watch. He was also nervous, and for good reason. With each passing moment, the blaze rose higher, the tires and airbags were starting to explode, and the concern that it would ignite nearby vehicles increased. He had already tried the fire extinguishers but with the blaze originating under the hood, there was no safe way to get to it. Yet Mike kept control of his composure and the situation.
I inquired if he had any hot dogs to roast as I approached, internal beer can a-quivering. Mike alternated between explaining what happened and taking careful note of what was still going on around him. It wasn’t until after the fact that I realized he was making sure no one suddenly got near the flames and what we thought could be a pending big explosion. The Offield Family Viewlands is our most popular reserve; there are always people hiking or biking
by Kieran Fleming, Executive Director
there. At one point, I think I was mumbling something about s’mores, Mike held his finger up politely indicating he would appreciate less distraction for a minute as he dialed the phone. It turns out that he heard the sirens approaching and detected the emergency vehicles passed the entrance road. I hadn’t noticed any of this, but Mike had them back on track within a minute. Mike’s internal beer can has to be made of iron.
The flames, smoke, scorched tires, melted radiator, and our anticipation of a gas tank explosion were intimidating, to say the least. But when the firefighters arrived, they gained control very quickly. Science hasn’t identified what their beer cans are made of yet, but it’s really strong.
Of course, none of this was Mike’s fault. In fact, he also did more in that situation than most of our internal beer cans would allow. The truck was a total loss but I learned something pretty interesting that day. Leadership and strength are where we rise to them.
For Mike on that day, maybe the grizzly came out a little, or maybe his beer can is always that strong. Or, maybe because of his love and dedication for LTC those things were closer to the surface. Is it possible that when we are passionate about someone or something, we are more able to react? I don’t know. What I do know is that Mike felt terrible, like he let his team down or something. I find it ironic that he felt so bad while, as I walked back down the hill after the flames had been extinguished, I was feeling lucky that this happened on Big Mike’s watch. He handled it like a pro, kept control of his thoughts and actions, and acted like a gentleman. From my seat, these moments affirm how much trust we rightly put into this LTC team.
Mike Lynch and Kieran Fleming
More Pigeon River Protection
JACK AND TUCKER HARRIS RESERVE EXPANDS
Nearly a half mile of Pigeon River protection has been added to the Jack and Tucker Harris Working Forest Reserve near Afton in Ellis Township. The land became available through a DNR auction, and two donors made the 40-acre purchase possible.
Building on the legacy of his mother, Agnes S. Andreae, Fred Andreae and his wife Christine were pleased to help LTC take advantage of the opportunity to protect land downstream from her namesake preserve and beloved cabin that she originally protected in 1983.
After years of intensive habitat management, the Golden-winged Warbler, a Michigan species of special concern, was spotted at the Jack and Tucker Harris Reserve in 2024.
In a similar fashion, Andy Harris, son of Jack and Tucker Harris - the primary funders for the 2016 protection of their namesake, 640-acre reserve — was eager to continue the legacy of land protection started by his parents. Andy stepped forward with not only the lead gift to protect this property, but also made a significant addition to LTC’s stewardship endowment to forever care for this land.
“As human ‘development’ compresses the wild places of Northern Michigan, we praise LTC and its donors for expanding the natural reserves established by earlier generations — for the enjoyment of future generations of people, and the survival of future generations of the wild life of plants and animals that depend on open spaces,” Andy said.
The Conservancy is grateful for the enormous impact many families have had in protecting this part of the Pigeon River Watershed over the years.
THE BLACK HOLE:
Beginning in 2005, the Little Traverse Conservancy began protecting land around the Black Hole, the iconic, deep, spring-fed channel between Crooked and Pickerel lakes. Over the years, the effort grew by acquiring adjacent land that was once a golf course. After reigniting the protection efforts earlier this year, the Black Hole Initiative has brought the total land protected in this magnificent area to 253 acres! Thank you to the 20+ donors who generously gave to the most recent acquisitions (right), including Oliver and Ana Schwab, Petoskey-Harbor Springs Area Community Foundation, and The Oleson Foundation.
Nearly Two Decades of Waterway Protection
Two properties recently protected through the Black Hole Initiative
Crooked Lake
Pickerel Lake
Black Hole
An Ambassador for Protecting Farmland
Forty acres of Emmet County farmland in Carp Lake Township are now protected with a conservation easement that came about through a unique collaboration between the seller, buyer, and LTC’s new Farmland Conservation Initiative. This program empowers farmers to unlock their financial potential while continuing their vital work as farmers.
Having recently completed the conservation easement process on another parcel, Kirk Sanders had become familiar with this land protection tool. When his neighbor Mark expressed interest in purchasing land from him, Kirk knew that a conservation easement could make the land more affordable while still allowing Mark to do the things Mark wanted to do on it.
Mark and Kirk were able to work with the Conservancy together as they crafted an easement that met both of their goals. “Every conservation easement is unique as we seek to meet a landowner’s personal goals while still protecting the conservation values of the property,” said the Conservancy’s CFO Joe Graham.
Mark agreed that he was pleasantly surprised at how smoothly the process went while complimenting the ease of working with LTC staff. “If you are considering an easement, my suggestion is to listen with an open mind. Ask questions and then decide if it works for you,” he said.
If you would like to learn more about the Farmland Conservation Initiative or make a donation, please visit www.landtrust.org/farmland.
From Easement to Preserve THE NEW MICHAEL FAMILY NATURE PRESERVE
The land was originally protected with a conservation easement donated by Charlene Michael in 2015. Charlene had requested the conversion of the land to a nature preserve in her estate plan. Upon her passing earlier
this year, her children Paul Michael, Sheila Demelle, and Jennifer Staib honored her wishes.
“As children, my sisters and I were fortunate to be surrounded by fields and forest around our home,” Paul said. “We are happy to have fulfilled our mom’s wishes to protect this land and share it with the public. We hope people will continue to enjoy it as much as we have.”
A 75-acre property with 950 feet on Jones Creek, a tributary to the Jordan River, is now open for public enjoyment as the Michael Family Nature Preserve near East Jordan.
Lake Charlevoix
Jordan River
Donor Spotlight: Jan Wingenroth
One of the positive things I can think about turning 73 is that my retirement account requires me to take money out of it, the required minimum distribution (RMD). I guess my husband and I have pretty simple needs. A couple of librarians saved more money than we need to live. Now we get to spend our RMD on things we care about.
Since 1901, my family has been connected to the West Arm of Walloon Lake. My great-grandparents owned a cottage, my grandmother met my grandfather here, and this is where I spent my summers. When I was younger I had asthma, but my mother claimed northern Michigan was the first place she’d seen me run and play. Eventually, my grandmother bought us a cottage, and now my two sisters and I share it.
An important part of my summers here now is visiting LTC properties with my husband. We love sharing ownership with my sisters, but the walls of the old cottage are thin. The banter of loving sisters can make it less peaceful and walking the same road our cottage is on can get boring. So, we head to nearby Conservancy trails for a peaceful escape.
My sisters and I discuss the changes in northern Michigan. Places where we used to picnic or look for Petoskey stones have become parks. Others have become private developments. I hope this doesn’t sound too NIMBY, but I am so happy when I read that LTC purchases land. It is important to me to be able to get outside. I hear of more studies being done to prove the relationship between time spent in a natural environment and one’s sense of wellbeing. This is why I believe that land conservancies have an important role in sustaining the environment, protecting water, and providing solace to the mind. I hope that in a small way, I have helped save some trees and provide green space for people.
Legacy Gifts
Our ability to preserve and protect the natural beauty of northern Michigan is made possible in part by a unique group of LTC members who, through their generosity and foresight, have made plans to support the mission through a gift in their will or estate. These dedicated supporters (our “Legacy Members”) provide enduring gifts that empower the Conservancy to continue its mission of land protection, conservation stewardship, and environmental education.
Legacy Spotlight: Dave and Tracy Case
What is your connection to northern Michigan? Although we were raised in Indiana, we have spent time in northern Michigan since childhood and always dreamed of making it our home. Dave studied the white-tailed deer on North Manitou Island for his master’s degree at the University of Michigan. Through our jobs (Tracy as an international flight attendant and Dave as a conservation consultant), we’ve been fortunate to visit all the U.S. states, most Canadian provinces, and quite a few other countries. And there really is no place like northern Michigan.
What is your favorite outdoor place in northern Michigan? Where the waves, the sandy beaches, the dunes, and the forest all come together. This unique ecosystem makes our hearts sing.
Do you have a favorite nature preserve? Barney’s Lake Nature Preserve on Beaver Island was the first LTC property we ever visited and is still our favorite. Take a hike there and you’ll know why.
What inspired you to choose endowment for your estate gift to LTC? As business owners for 35 years, we recognize the importance of mission and we align very strongly with LTC’s. But we also realize that staff, financial controls, and business processes matter just as much. All of these factors inform our confidence in LTC to steward both nature and the funding and infrastructure to manage the land and continue the mission. As the northern Michigan landscape continues to fill in with more people it becomes all the more important to protect a portion of the land for future generations. LTC gives TLC to those special places. Being able to contribute to LTC’s Endowment was a perfect way to leave an enduring legacy.
Supporting LTC for the Long Haul
NEW ENDOWMENT GIFT CREATES FIRST NAMED STAFF POSITION
“Mike’s here!” was the joyful call throughout the Conservancy each spring when Mike Cameron’s black Chevy Equinox pulled into the parking area.
For us, he was more than a donor or board member - he was a friend and mentor who returned each year from California to spend his summers in northern Michigan, a place he and his wife, Martha, cherished. From their home in Menonaqua, just down the road from the Conservancy office, Mike and Martha became part of LTC’s extended family. When Mike passed away in 2023, our staff had the privilege of working with their loved ones, the Kosts, to help ensure the legacy of this extraordinary couple would endure. The answer to how best honor them became clear: support the Conservancy for generations to come. Or as Mike always said, “The name of the game is to stay in the game.” Transforming their legacy into an endowed staff position became a perfect solution.
Lori Kost described Martha as uniquely thoughtful. Each time Martha and Mike rented a place in northern Michigan, Martha transformed it with her own sheets, trinkets, and touches, making it feel like home. Martha was as comfortable with kids as with adults, and a dinner party connection with Steve and Rob Kost’s parents evolved into a lifelong friendship that saw the Camerons taking the Kost boys on one “big trip” each year, from skiing out west to exploring Europe.
Throughout his life, Mike’s commitment to caring for the land deepened. From serving on LTC’s Stewardship Committee to joining the board, his dedication to
conserving the land he and Martha loved was strong. As Steve Kost put it, “Mike was all in with LTC,” with a dedication that grew each year. After Martha’s passing in 2007, Mike worked with LTC to create the Martha Cavanaugh Cameron Preserve in 2010, with the preserve name updated to the Martha and Michael Cameron Preserve upon Mike’s passing.
The Cameron Stewardship Technician — LTC’s first endowed and named position — has been created in honor of this remarkable couple. Made possible through the Martha and Michael Cameron Endowment Fund, the role will support LTC’s stewardship efforts in perpetuity. Steve and Beth Kost noted that the endowment does not have to fund the most visible projects but should be used to support critical work. Mike, ever pragmatic, “would have been delighted that their gift could meet essential needs, whether that meant funding a trail or making sure the furnace stayed on,” Beth said.
To the Cameron family, land was more than a beautiful view; it was a place of joy, discovery, and connection. Samantha Kost recalls how Mike and Martha made every outdoor moment special. “They taught us to appreciate the land from a young age,” she said. “We took many walks together, marveling at the trees, leaves, and stones. Mike and Martha were incredible gifts in our lives, and they continue to inspire us.”
With the Cameron Endowment, LTC is empowered to continue conserving Michigan’s natural landscapes as Mike and Martha envisioned. We are deeply grateful to the Kost family for facilitating this gift and for trusting LTC with this legacy.
To read eulogies by Charlie and Lori Kost, view more photos of Mike and Martha, and see our list of Legacy Members, visit landtrust.org/planned-giving.
Left (from left):
Samantha Kost, Mike Cameron, Zoe Kost, and Charlie Kost at the preserve dedication in 2010.
Right:
The Kost Family visiting the Martha and Michael Cameron Nature Preserve in 2024.
Long considered the Gateway to Harbor Springs, this scenic stretch of land along M-119 shown below divides two Great Lakes watersheds with Round Lake (left) flowing to Lake Huron via the Inland Waterway and Little Traverse Bay (right), part of Lake Michigan.
Numerous LTC preserves protected as far back as 1977 together create a “green corridor” of land protection that was intentionally conserved over the years by people like Mike and Martha Cameron. The Martha and Michael Cameron Preserve is seen bottom right, adjacent to their beloved Menonaqua Woods.
Keegan Butler (below), who has worked with LTC’s stewardship team for two years, will return next year as the first Cameron Stewardship Technician. Keegan is the perfect fit for the job. Throughout his time here he has demonstrated that he has a strong work ethic and is always ready to jump into the next project. Congrats, Keegan!
Mike and Martha Cameron
Curtis Storybook Trail at the Erickson Center for the Arts
Three Lakes Academy, in the Upper Peninsula, was one of LTC’s first Forest Schools in 2020. Since that time, education staff have met with students every month of the school year for the last four years. The students helped them develop a nature trail at their school that connects to Erikson’s Center for the Arts property creating an opportunity for multiple collaborations. Last spring, the students completed a storybook trail along a portion of the foot trail.
“We are using the Arts Center’s storybook trail to highlight what the school has been learning all year with us,” said Sarah Mayhew, LTC’s Director of Education. “Each class is given three storybook boards for which they create interpretive signage to educate the public on their topic.”
Last May, a community open house was held at the trail and students invited their families to see what they had built and what they were learning. Over 100 people attended including grandparents, parents, siblings, and many others joined the students as they walked the trail together.
Storybook Trails Integrated Learning in the Outdoors
Over the past year, LTC education staff have worked with students and community partners to build four storybook trails across the Conservancy’s five-county service area. Instead of the traditional method highlighting a children’s book, these trails were used to display the educational art created by the students. This teaching method brings ages and subjects together in an integrated and fun way!
Lake Superior Academy
At Lake Superior Academy, another Forest School located south of Sault Ste. Marie, also broke ground on a storybook trail this fall at the neighboring Little Leaf Nature Preserve. Elementary students in grades 3-5 had first-hand experience measuring, digging postholes, and using a drill to install the boards on the trail.
The school plans to use these boards to highlight and educate their classmates about what is living on the Little Leaf Nature Preserve.
Sally and Jack Clark Nature Preserve in Petoskey
This was an amazing opportunity for our kids to spend time learning at a local preserve. The collaboration and teamwork that came as a result of this project was outstanding! Our students and staff are so thankful for the incredible outdoor learning opportunities that LTC provides.
-Mark Oberman, Sheridan Elementary Principal
A nature preserve within Petoskey city limits, and walking distance from two schools, now features a true community storybook trail.
As part of their service learning project, students in Emmet County’s Lakeview Academy day camp constructed the storybook trail early last summer in partnership with LTC. Lakeview Academy is a court-facilitated program for adjudicated youth in Emmet County with a focus on helping juveniles become contributing members of their communities.
These students worked vigorously to install a storybook trail at the Sally and Jack Clark Nature Preserve. From digging 12 holes to using power tools and levels to attach the faces of the boards with precise measurements, this was a hands-on project.
We appreciate the LTC programming opportunities for our youth all year long. Sarah and Sarah do an excellent job interacting with Lakeview students on field trips and provide excellent hands-on experiences.
- Cara Copeland, Lakeview Academy
Last August, children enrolled in a summer day camp with Crooked Tree Arts Center who partnered with LTC to make art for the storybook trail at the preserve entitled “The Art of Nature”. The camp focused on designing artwork that was then displayed on the trail.
In November of this year, Sheridan Elementary second graders in Karry Swanson’s class made new boards to update the storybook boards. The goal of this project is to involve different schools and groups in the community. It will hopefully become a revolving door of opportunity in Petoskey.
LTC’s environmental education programs are made possible by the Andreae-Brown Family Environmental Endowment Fund and members like you.
Alanson Storybook Trail
At Alanson High School, some of the same young men who just a few years earlier had helped clear a new trail near the school rose to a new challenge this fall. As part of Donna Magill’s Horticulture class, the students built a storybook trail to be used by all grades for learning in the outdoors.
“This year’s senior class, with the help of the Conservancy, started working on the trails when they were in the 6th grade and will finish their work with the storyboards,” Donna said. “These storyboards provide information about the numerous trees found in the school forest. Students completed eight storyboards that will be changed periodically through the seasons.”
Donna and her students encourage the public to walk the trails and learn about the flora and fauna that can be found there!
Woody Gardner smiles with LTC CDO Emily Hughes while creating a new trail at the Woody’s Woods Reserve in Good Hart. The one-mile trail is now flagged and hikeable heading west from Church Road. Glimpses of Lake Michigan can be seen along the trail, and combined with the trails at Elmer Johnston Nature Preserve, this destination is bound to become even more beloved!
Crushed gravel was added to the beginning segment of the trail leading to the Five Mile Creek overlook at the Seberon “Boo” Litzenburger Nature Preserve.
HAPPENINGS FROM THE FIELD
Located uphill from the Bluestem Meadow Labyrinth, new stairs were constructed at the Offield Family Viewlands in a steep area that was experiencing erosion.
Janet and Russ Cieslak and family installed a bench and plaque at the Oden Island Nature Preserve in memory of Janet’s parents.
A beautiful universally-accessible parking area and platform were donated by angler Delia Fritz and placed at the Joan and John Hutto Family Nature Preserve on the Maple River. A bench was donated by Linda Weimer in memory of her husband Gerry.
Several sections of single track boardwalk were added along a portion of the Aldo Leopold Nature Preserve trail on Marquette Island near the Duck Bay dock. Funding was provided by the Les Cheneaux Community Foundation.
An extensive amount of work was recently completed to create a new trail at the L. John and Helen Bishop Reserve including 120 feet of new boardwalk, 40 steps, and a 16-foot bridge. All told there are now more than 10 miles of connected trail at the Bishop Reserve, Boyd B. Banwell Nature Preserve, and Agnes S. Andreae Nature Preserve.
A new look at a parasitic plant
by Brad Von Blon, Ecology Technician
Dwarf Mistletoe
(Arceuthobium pusillum)
Parasites in Michigan are often reviled and in need of eradication, but what if they’re helping to make food and habitat for birds? I believe our Dwarf Mistletoe ought to be elevated to a higher status than most would think. Some parasites are not purely diabolical, and our best case is Arceuthobium pusillum, our very own version of the mistletoes that grow in the southeastern US. This species infects Black Spruce trees that occur in acidic bogs and spur a chain of ecological wonders! Once a population of Dwarf Mistletoe infects a spruce, the tree takes measures to survive the invasion by creating thickets of new branches and needles in a significant, uniform clump. These clumps not only create great nesting habitat for boreal birds, but the resulting seeds of the mistletoe provide food for those same birds. The birds unwittingly spread seeds by eating and depositing them on new branches.
Brad leads the Ecological Conditions and Response (ECAR) program and is documenting habitat conditions on all LTC lands. Thanks to all of the ECAR funders, including the Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Restoration Act through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service!
A Grateful Little Traverse Conservancy Staff
Do you know someone in your life that is outdoorsy or loves to learn the history of our Great Lakes? We have some gift options to choose from that are great for them! Beanie, trucker, and now flat billed hats are available along with the newest edition of Life on the Lonely Shore, A History of the Vermilion Point Life-Saving Station. You can stop by our office or order them in our online store landtrust.org/store.
Holiday Gifts
Gift Membership Donations
Happy Holidays!
A gift membership to LTC is a meaningful and impactful holiday gift that supports the preservation of our natural northern Michigan landscapes for future generations. This gift is perfect for nature lovers and those passionate about making a positive environmental impact on a place they love. By giving this membership, you’re not only providing a loved one with a sense of connection to the environment but also helping protect outdoor spaces, creating access to the outdoors, and providing education programs to people in our service area. It’s a thoughtful way to contribute to conservation efforts while giving the gift of nature, outdoor exploration, and community involvement.
Welcoming familiar and new faces to our board
Erin Burns Cheboygan
“It’s always a pleasure to give back to something that has provided such enjoyment for me and my family. LTC’s mission, which includes preserving our beautiful northern Michigan land and scenic areas, is so very important now and for future generations. It’s an honor to serve on the board to continue this work. LTC staff and board members are true professionals. I look forward to learning from them and doing my part. ”
Charles McLravey
Harbor Springs
“My wife and I have a home in Harbor Springs and have been members of the Conservancy since 1984. We have recently included the Conservancy in our estate plan. I’m both grateful and excited to serve on the board. I have been active in conservation for over 35 years and believe it is vital to preserve, conserve, and restore wild places. The Conservancy’s mission aligns with my goals. I hope I can do some good and help with the Conservancy’s great work.”
Anne T. Melvin
Burt Lake
“I am pleased to be on LTC’s board after years of deep involvement with the organization as someone who uses and loves their protected properties that make northern Michigan a special place. I’ve seen they are smart in where they focus their energies, get things done, and work with a high degree of integrity. I’m excited about helping take Little Traverse Conservancy to the next level in terms of bringing in the support necessary to protect more of the lands, waters and open spaces we all love so much in northern Michigan.”
Frank Ettawageshik
Harbor Springs RETURNING TO THE BOARD
Mackinac Island
Marta Olson
On October 1, Little Traverse Conservancy was awarded the Marty Van de Car Community Ambassador Award by the Harbor Springs Area Chamber of Commerce at its annual Harbor Heroes event.
Hello and welcome to new members who kindly donated
between August 9 and November 11, 2024
Michael and Deborah Aeling
Aleyn Airey
Julie and Jim Armstrong
Phillip and Kristin Bajor
Craig and Diane Bell
Alan Berezansky
Alex Berezansky
Joey Berezansky
Joseph and Emily Besel
E. Frazer Buntin
Floyd Byerly
Barbara Camp
Mr. Scott Cecil
Joseph Chiappetta
Can
Tom Ciccone
Buck Colyer
Christopher Danbury
Tom and Sue Dionne
William and Janice Dodge
Anne Engvall
Denise and Randy Evans
James and Julianne Fritz
Jan Goike
Jess Goodwin
Barbara and Dave Hall
Niki and Bruce Hansen
Corbin Harrington
Robert and Kim Harvey
Jay and Mary Hawley
Tom Hazelton
Jill Johanson
Thomas and Deborah Kincaid
Karen Madden
Mr. Kenneth Matzick
Jennith L. Palmer
Lorraine Parker, Liz Starrs, David Francis and Catherine Parker
Robert and Jenna Pim
Nick Reed
Ahley Scott
Mrs. Edna Shaw
Christopher Smith
David Sommer
Marc Sorrell
Mr. and Mrs. Leon W. Stadt
Glenn and Susan Stanton
Dale and Suzanne Swartz
Robert Tiplady
Devin Tulgetske
Mary Pat and Rich Van Dam
Kyle Volp
William and Mary Ellen Walls
Alex Wangeman
Ashley Whennen
you help us with some member business this winter?
Calling all current LTC members (all individuals who gave any amount to LTC in 2024).
Some of the original indemnification language in the Little Traverse Conservancy’s existing articles of incorporation is outdated and needs to be removed. We also need to add language to the articles confirming LTC is a membership organization. This process requires a special membership meeting that will be held on Wednesday, January 15, 2025
at 2pm via Zoom. A quorum for that meeting requires that at least 25 members attend.
Interested members are asked to visit www.landtrust.org/ articlesupdate to review the language of the resolutions and to find a Zoom link for the meeting. It will be a short meeting, and we appreciate all who can attend at that time.
VOLUNTEER HIGHLIGHTS
Jennifer Reynolds volunteers as a LTC preserve steward, with the Jordan Valley 45 chapter of the North Country National Scenic Trail, and has guided wilderness trips for Camp Daggett, West Michigan Hiking & Backpacking, and Outdoor Book Club.
“I never thought that I would ask for a chainsaw as a Christmas present or attend an intensive Wilderness First Aid course, but in retirement, I find myself spending a lot more time in the woods, whether helping to maintain trails, remove invasive plants, or leading group trips! Backpacking has been a way for me to ‘get away from it all’ for many years, and through training from Little Traverse Conservancy regarding invasive plant removal, and the National Park Service to become certified as a sawyer, I am able to help preserve the trails and lands that I love. Sharing these beautiful places by planning and facilitating backpacking and paddling trips for kids and adults has also added to my joy, witnessing others experience the awe of nature’s beauty!”
Liam Cleary completed his Eagle Scout project for St. Francis Xavier Scout Troop 7 in Petoskey with LTC this fall. Liam and his troop built four trailside benches for the new mountain bike trail and the fishing platform at the Offield Family Viewlands Reserve. Thank you, Liam!
Sherry Kovach has been a dedicated preserve monitor for 13 years at the Curtis and Margaret Anderson Nature Preserve on Drummond Island.
Here is her report from this year:
“It’s a great trail. Met a lady who lives down the road from us and was seeking solace on a trail walk after the death of her husband this summer. She had never met anyone at the trail before and as we talked, four more nature lovers came by and it was a very pleasant conversation. She came with me on my site survey the next day for the Michigan Nature Association. A walk in the woods can be so comforting.”
Lakeview Livestock 4H Club in Petoskey built six Wood Duck boxes for LTC nature preserves and recently helped install them at the Waldron Fen Nature Preserve in Alanson.
Mark Sibel from Top of Michigan Mountain Bike Association installs a biker rescue tool box at Tanton Family Reserve.
Straight from the Source
Reviews and photos from users on LTC’s AllTrails pages.
The LTC Explorer App has been discontinued. We are now using AllTrails and Google Maps for navigation. To share your reviews and photos on the LTC AllTrails pages, visit www.alltrails.com and search for the property you’re exploring!
William B. Derby Nature Preserve Hessel
Just a nice brisk winter walk. It was sunny out for once, so along with the fresh snowfall from the night before, it was beautiful. It is a well marked trail.
- Rick Z.
Allan and Virginia McCune Nature Preserve Petoskey
Always an enjoyable hike on this trail. Easy to navigate even in snow. A little slippery on wooden steps, but there are hand rails so not to worry. Well marked. 3.5 miles around outer perimeter. Snow makes roots less of a tripping hazard.
- Barb B.
Seven Springs Nature Preserve Indian River
Point Nature Preserve Sault Ste. Marie
One of the top 3 best marked trails I've ever been on. - Anya A. Round Island
Charles A. Ransom Nature Preserve Charlevoix
- Valerie
Beautiful views of Lake Charlevoix and Lake Michigan. Moderate hills. Beautiful foliage.
M.
Really pretty, cute trail. Not super long or crowded. The view of Burt Lake is beautiful though! - Liza V.
WE COULD NOT DO IT WITHOUT YOU
Ryde Marine for loaning a pontoon boat for a Friendship Center field trip.
Mac McDonald for donating fly tying material and Marcus Quintilian for donating two fly rods for LTC education programs.
John Griffin for a boat ride to Marquette Island.
Nathan Fairbanks for the use of Shay Elementary School’s fishing poles for some of our summer fishing programs.
Caitilyn Allen for underwriting LTC ads in the Drummond Digest newspaper.
Mark Melvin for helping our team look great in new logo gear.
Anne T. Melvin for helping our development team learn more essential skills.
Scout Troop 55 from Harbor Springs for splitting and stacking firewood for winter use at the cabin at the Agnes S. Andreae Nature Preserve.
Greenwood Foundation for hosting a fall wildlife hike at their property in Wolverine.
Jeff Moyer and Todd Petersen for their beautiful photography of our lands.
Ben Musielak for adding “bookseller” to his list of things to do at the Vermilion Point Nature Preserve.
Michael Turisk and Jim Conboy for being event partners at LTC preserves during Tap into Trails 2024.
Tom Allan for leading a cranberry picking field trip at Vermilion Point Nature Preserve.
Woody Gardner for helping build the new trail at Woody’s Woods Reserve.
Thursday Preserve Perfectionists Pat Alguire, John Baker, Laurie Baker, Patrick Dougherty, Jeff Harmon, Richard Jenkins, Bill Klco, Barb Mathes, Peri McGuiness, Mary Merrill, Edward Newcomb, Christine Reyes, Stan Royalty, Jon Sangeorzan, Steve Schultz, Mike Schwedt, Dennis Sczechowski, Kim Somsky, and Ed Tenkel for taking on many tasks such as building boardwalks and trails, fixing fences, cutting firewood, paint blazing, installing signs, and more!
EcoStewards volunteers Pat Alguire, Katie Allen, Elizabeth Asbury, Alyssa Elgart, Wendy Fought, Nancy and Roger
Halle, Richard Jenkins, John McClain, Peri McGuiness, Mark Pachla, Deb Pruitt, Rose Pyant, Stan Royalty, Mary Jo Schultz, and Amy Waller for collecting native wildflower seeds, planting native flowers and trees, and removing invasive plants at various preserves.
Richard Jenkins and Stan Royalty for removing a massive and well built deer blind at Parker and Ebbers Nature Preserve.
Richard Jenkins and Peri McGuniess for planting 2,300 trees in one day at Goodhart Farms Nature Preserve!
Latitude 45 and High Gear bike shops in Petoskey for sponsoring biker rescue tool kits. Thank you to TOMMBA for help with funding and construction.
Mailing volunteers JoAnn Astolfi, Sally Bales, Barb Bechhold, Sandy Bollinger, Diane Cookinham, Nick and Michaleen Karay, Karen Knapp, and Ellen Waller for folding, stuffing, sealing, and stamping our fall mailing.
Pat Alguire and Barb Mathes, John Baker, Dan Dueweke, Richard Jenkins, John McClain, Jennifer Reynolds, and Stan Royalty for clearing blown-down trees off trails.
Paint blazing volunteers who went above and beyond to paint purple and blue blazes to make sure you don’t get lost on the trails: Pat Alguire and Barb Mathes, JoAnn Astolfi, John Baker, Dan and Linda CasaSanta, Bill Henne, Richard Jenkins, Mary and Bill Kunst, Peri McGuiness, Chris and Elaine Nesbitt, and Christine Reyes.
John Baker, Bruce Booth, Scott Davis, Chris Ford, Doug Fuller, and Richard Jenkins for monitoring conservation easement properties.
Thomas and Sheila Moore for donating old deck sections for use as boardwalks on LTC trails.
Volunteer coordinator Cacia Lesh (front middle) in the field with (from left) Nate Dionne and LTC volunteers John Baker, Chris Reyer, and Peri McGuiness. To join this fun crew email Cacia at cacia@landtrust.org or call our
HONORARIUMS & MEMORIALS
IN HONOR OF
Rip Carruthers
Matthew Krieger
Mary Faculak
Anne Fleming
Doug Fuller
John F. and Deborah J. Rohe
Gow Litzenburger
Dianne Litzenburger
Consie and Seth Pierrepont
Sarah Gurney and Book Friends
Sarah and Tom Post
Robb Aikens, Health Quest
Ham Schirmer
Mark and Joann Baker
Joe and Barb Traub
Mike and Joanne Besel
Casey and Tyler Vernon
Chris Ford and Ali Hill
Mary Whitmore
Barbara and Jerome Hoganson
IN MEMORY OF
Patricia Allen
Mr. Richard Allen
Mike and Bonnie Brunett
Bob and Valerie Griffith
Mr. and Mrs. Larry A. Kepner
Tad and Elizabeth Krear
Linda Last
Don and Dianne McCulloch
The Moores
Mr. and Mrs. James Nield
Robert Nix
Brenda Hines and Tom Wojnowski
Jack Barkholz
Bruce and Connie Booth
John G. Beam Jr. and W. Tyler Beam
Mrs. John G. Beam, Jr.
from those who donated between August 9 and November 11, 2024
Mary Karol Breen
Karie and Warren Day
Gary and Kathy Fleming
Joan Hecker
Bill and Nancy McCormick
Robert Mueller Family
Catherine Stroh
Denise and Lyle Tyler
Jacob “Skip” Bunn IV
Dotty Reynolds Brotherton
Jeff James
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Kost
Peggy Campbell
Tom Hoster and Joan Zwiep
Ruth Clausen
Cheboygan Lab
Women’s Study Group - First
Presbyterian Church Harbor Springs
Diane Curtis
Mary and Alexander Ross
Mrs. Walter L. Ross, II
Lois Dean
John and Lindsay Bardes
Mike and Wanda Barnes
Matthew and Amy Sheldon
Rick Donaldson
Mr. and Mrs. Robert R. Sweeney
Terry Dupuis
Brandie and Michael Dunn
Helen Evenson
Dave and Pat Menzel
David FitzSimons
Lisa and Chris Imbs
Consie and Seth Pierrepont
Mrs. Joan F. Smith
Patsy Warner
John Graff
Lee and Anne Davis
David and Alyce Dick and Margaret Mackey Dick
Robert B. Dick, PhD
Peter Haensel
Paul Callen
Anne E. Hammond
Julie and Jim Armstrong
Tobey Hansen
Jean Hudson
William Heidebreicht
Mrs. Linda Heidebreicht
Weslie Jean Hofland
Vanaman German LLP
Kathleen “Kay” Hoogland
Ryan Electric
Susan Howbert
Mr. and Mrs. Tom Smith
Brenda Hoyt
Jean and Walt Lindsay
Mary Bartush Jones
Mary Bartush Jones Foundation
Henry Laveran
Eliza and James Gowen
Mrs. Joan F. Smith
Patsy Warner
Larry Levengood
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Bogart
The Corvo Family
Tracy Fukuoka
Steven, Eryn, Mayve and Westley Kemp
Jim and Sandi Schwartz
Teresa Sotuyo
Virginia McCoy
Tom Hoster and Joan Zwiep
Tom McLain
Chuck and Lynette Johnson
Robert McMurtrie
Jacqueline McMurtrie
Jinny Palms
Kurz Family
John Paulus
Dianne Litzenburger
Chuck Raisanen
Bruce and Connie Booth
Arch Reeves
Ty and Sarah Ratliff
Louis Seelbach
Dotty Reynolds Brotherton
Ronald Strutz
Mr. and Mrs. John H. Rohrbeck
Jeanne Tennent
Tony and Julie Foust
Joellyn and Kevin Gray
Sara W. Ingold
Joy Loewe
Mrs. Dorothy Johnson
Dean & Fulkerson PC
Ben Tumminello
Ron and Lori Giddings
Lois and Leo Judge
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph O’Neill
Mike Ziegler
Matt and Erin Bescoe
Dr. James Moore, Patti Eddington, Molly Moore, Erik and James Erhorn
Emily Falicki
Thomas Gooderson
Mark and Tammy Glover
Nancy and Jim Heffel
Beth Miller and Bruce LaPointe
Jerry and Darla Lindeman
Jason and Staci Pawloski
Polish Falcons Ladies Auxiliary
Stu Swart and Pat Partridge
Martha Brownscombe and Jay Rosen
Drew Westeen and Gregory Squire Mills
Kristen Tatro
Team LTC
Our members and volunteers
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Phil Porter, Chair
Susan I. Stewart, Vice Chair
Jon Lyons, Treasurer
Karie Slavik, Secretary
Josh Baker
Lisa Blanchard
Richard M. Bolton
Erin Burns
George M. Covington
Frank Ettawageshik
Mary Faculak
Jeffrey S. Ford
Gregg K. Garver
John Griffin
Eric Hemenway
Dave Kring
Darrell Lawson
Glen Matthews
R. Charles McLravy
Anne T. Melvin
John Merrill
Emerson Meyer
Marta Olson
Consie Pierrepont
Bill Roney
Tom Rowland
STANDING COMMITTEE CHAIRS
Mary Faculak, Land Protection
Gregg K. Garver, Stewardship
John Merrill, Education
Susan I. Stewart, Nominating Jon Lyons, Finance
STEWARDSHIP
Derek Shiels, Director
Charles Dawley
Nate Dionne
Cacia Lesh
Amy Lipson
Mike Lynch
Brad Von Blon
Keegan Butler, Cameron Stewardship Technician
LAND PROTECTION
Caitlin Donnelly, Director
Joe Graham, Chief Financial Officer
Melissa Hansen, Director of Easements
Dirk Ruff
ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION
Sarah Mayhew, Director
Sarah Koetje
COMMUNICATIONS & OUTREACH
Anne Fleming, Director Taylor Sobczak
DEVELOPMENT
Emily Hughes, Chief Development Officer
Lindsay Hall
Kyle Volp
ADMINISTRATION
Kieran Fleming, Executive Director
Thomas Lagerstom
Sarah Gurney
AND A TRIBUTE TO OUR FOUNDERS
John Fischer
Dave Irish
Ed Koza
Earl Larson
Little Traverse Conservancy 3264 Powell Road Harbor Springs, MI 49740 www.landtrust.org
Address Service Requested
Find a trail near you:
Seberon “Boo” Litzenburger
Frank Pierce
John Tanton
The mission of the Little Traverse Conservancy is to protect the natural diversity and beauty of northern Michigan by preserving significant land and scenic areas, and fostering appreciation and understanding of the environment.
WINTER 2024-25 EVENTS
Seberon “Boo” Litzenburger Nature Preserve
Don & Eileen Klein Trail
Friday, January 24 | 5-7pm Friends of the Jordan Watershed Center
Snowy Owl Festival
Friday-Sunday, January 31-February 2 Hessel Schoolhouse/Avery Arts & Nature Center, Hessel
Greenwood Foundation Winter Outing Saturday, February 1 | 10am-Noon Lake Holy Smoke, Wolverine
Snowshoe Lantern Hike at the William B. Derby Nature Preserve Saturday, February 8 | 6:30-8:30pm Part of the Les Cheneaux annual Snowsfest, this is an open event with no registration required. www.lescheneaux.net/snowsfest.
Open House on the Pigeon and Little Pigeon Rivers
Saturday, February 22 | 1-5pm Boyd B. Banwell Nature Preserve
Winter Ecology Hike with Brad Von Blon Friday, March 7 | 2-3:30pm Naas, Mauger, Raunecker Nature Preserve
To see the full event descriptions and to sign up (unless otherwise noted), please visit our website www.landtrust.org/events or scan the QR code.
