Dear Friends,
We’re very excited to announce that this majestic forest is now open for you to enjoy! The new Palmer Woods Forest Reserve holds much promise for recreation in all four seasons. At the moment, we have marked two trails for cross-country skiers, hikers and snowshoers to enjoy. This spring we hope to expand the trail system further.
The Palmer Woods Forest Reserve is the largest and most expensive land protection project in the Conservancy’s 27-year history. These spectacular forestlands will help protect the water quality of Glen Lake and will also allow ecologically sustainable forestry practices to strengthen this quintessentially Michigan northern hardwood forest.
None of this would be possible without overwhelming community support—nearly 600 families contributed. We have been talking with the Palmer family for over two decades, hoping to have the chance to keep this forest intact, and we are grateful for their partnership in this project. I will be leading a hike at Palmer Woods during Earth Week; stay tuned for details. A dedication is planned for summer 2016. As always, thank you for making projects like Palmer Woods possible!
Sincerely,
Thomas Nelson
Executive Director
P.S. Please have patience as we work to mark more trails over the coming months. We strongly encourage you to stay on the two trails we have already marked. Finally, please be aware that cell phone service is spotty to non-existent at Palmer Woods. We hope you enjoy this spectacular new Leelanau Conservancy property!
Posted March 2, 2016
