Tip of the Peninsula Fund
The tip of the Leelanau Peninsula presents a landscape unlike any other in the region. Here, the bedrock lies just inches below the surface and the influence of Lake Michigan and Grand Traverse Bay is pervasive, affecting climate, vegetation patterns, and wildlife. Historic lake levels have shaped the dune and bluff features of the land and are still ever changing.
Designated a Great Lakes Portfolio site by The Nature Conservancy, the Cathead Bay area is recognized not only as habitat for endangered species such as Pitcher’s Thistle and Piping Plover, but also as a critical link in the flyway which brings neo-tropical songbirds and raptors through Michigan to their northern nesting grounds. With the Leelanau Peninsula acting as a funnel, at times many thousands of birds collect near the “tip” awaiting good weather conditions for the cross-lake flight.
Northport is a gateway to spectacular natural lands. The Leelanau State Park, and our own Kehl Lake Natural Area are anchors in a four-mile-wide corridor giving wildlife the habitat they need to thrive and preserves healthy ecosystems. Our vision illustrates that being proactive about protecting what is here will preserve the unique nature of the Tip and its ecological value for wildlife and those who come to enjoy the area. We strongly believe in renowned pro-business conservationist Edward T. McMahon’s message that “conservation and economic development can coexist and are necessary to one another.”
When you give to the Tip of the Peninsula Fund, you’ll be helping protect unique places like the Lighthouse West property and other lands critical to maintaining this unique landscape. Click here to donate now.
25 Years: Celebrating Our Living Legacy