Jim and Toddy spent their careers immersed in the local farming community. Now, their cherished orchards will be farmland forever. Photos by Mark Smith Jim Nugent and Toddy Rieger are […]
Category Archives: Newsletters & Annual Reports
Secrets of the Swamp: Finding Herpetofauna at Cedar River Preserve
Dive into the captivating world of herpetology as a team of experts explore the Cedar River Preserve, revealing the important role of wetland habitat for reptiles and amphibians. Director of […]
Rove Winery Blends Family Tradition with Conservation
The Gallagher family have a vision for the future as they secure a Conservation Easement on their beloved vineyard. With roots stretching back generations, they are not just cultivating grapes […]
Letter from our Executive Director
Enthusiasm is one of the most powerful engines of success. When you do a thing, do it with all your might. Put your whole soul into it. — Ralph Waldo […]
Kiessel Farms Preserved for Future Generations
From Christmas trees to cherries, the Kiessel brothers’ journey has created a farming legacy passed on to the next generation. Bill and Don Kiessel bought what is now Kiessel Farms […]
Wildflower Rescue’s Enduring Legacy in Leelanau County
For 25 years, volunteers have helped rescue wildflowers and native plants, cultivating community and nurturing biodiversity in Leelanau’s woodlands. Every spring in Leelanau County, a group of dedicated volunteers quietly […]
Deer Impact on Forests: Inside Leelanau Conservancy’s Deer Exclosure Experiment
Biodiversity is important for all natural landscapes. Plant and animal wildlife impact each other in various ways, with deer having a particularly powerful effect on plant life. Within Palmer Woods […]
Multigenerational Nelson Farm Permanently Protected
At the tip of the peninsula, Gene and Kathy Garthe’s commitment to land conservation paves the way for continued sustainable agriculture and environmental preservation. Photos by Mark Smith Many of […]
The Therapeutic Effects of Forest Bathing
Time spent in nature has impressive healing powers for mind and body. By Brighid Driscoll Growing up, I spent a lot of time with my grandmother. Her way of living […]
Omena Heights Smith Orchards Permanently Protects 134 Acres
Omena Heights is a picturesque area nestled within Leelanau County, renowned for its natural beauty and panoramic vistas overlooking Grand Traverse Bay. The Smith Orchards are part of the idyllic […]
