On August 24, 2022, HeadWaters Land Conservancy and Huron Pines gathered with residents of the Grand Lake area in Presque Isle Co. at the Fletcher-Gilchrist Pavilion overlooking Grand Lake for a discussion about land preservation.
Julie Rubsam, HeadWaters Executive Director, kicked off the event with an activity inviting participants to break into small groups and share what they love about living in the Grand Lake, Presque Isle, Lake Huron area. Lively discussions ensued, stories and memories were shared about what people found endearing about this special place.
After groups shared stories from their small group discussions, Julie provided information about HeadWaters Land Conservancy and how their organization preserves land using conservation easements and preserve ownership. Her presentation highlighted how private landowners can utilize conservation easements to preserve what they love about their properties and featured information on the three preserves they currently own in Presque Isle County: Dault Nature Preserve, Hess Nature Preserve, and Porcupine Run Nature Preserve.
Logan Hawley, Coastal Restoration Team Lead for Huron Pines, followed with a presentation on land stewardship focusing on invasive plant management and native plant restoration techniques. Logan shared information on two helpful free apps, iNaturalist, for identify plants, and MISIN, which can be used to report invasives.
Julie Rubsam shared, “It is wonderful meeting with other individuals who have a desire to protect our special natural areas. In addition to the excitement of the residents, presenting alongside Logan who was pleased by the turnout and for the participants enthusiasm for land stewardship including native plant restoration and invasive species control within the region, was such a pleasure.”
Stacy Holmén, resident of Grand Lake, shared, “The interactive workshop presented by HeadWaters and Huron Pines last week was so motivating. As participants we were given tools and resources that can be used to help preserve the natural resources of Presque Isle. The opportunity to network was also fantastic. This week, for example, one of the participants has invited us to her lakefront home to see how she’s been turning her “traditional” lawn and garden into one rich in native plants. I’m excited to be part of a community that really wants to work to maintain the jewel that is Grand Lake and PI!”
The mission of HeadWaters Land Conservancy is to protect the natural diversity and beauty of northeast Michigan by preserving significant land and scenic areas and fostering appreciation and understanding of the environment. HeadWaters Land Conservancy serves 11 counties: Alcona, Alpena, Arenac, Crawford, Iosco, Montmorency, Ogemaw, Oscoda, Otsego, Presque Isle, Roscommon. Find more about HeadWaters Land Conservancy at http://www.HeadWatersConservancy.org
The mission of Huron Pines is to conserve and enhance Northern Michigan’s natural resources to ensure healthy water, protected places and vibrant communities. Huron Pines serves 12 counties: Alcona, Alpena, Arenac, Cheboygan, Crawford, Iosco, Montmorency, Ogemaw, Oscoda, Otsego, Presque Isle, Roscommon. Find more about Huron Pines at http://www.HuronPines.org.
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact Julie Rubsam at 989-731-0573 or e-mail at JRubsam@headwatersconservancy.org.
