Category: Heart Of The Lakes

2023 in Review

12/26/2023

Starting Off 2023 With A Conservation Win

In January, we shared news and case highlights for an easement violation in Acme Township. Heart of the Lakes partnered with the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy, the Land Trust Alliance, and the American Farmland Trust to file an amicus brief with the Michigan Court of Appeals. We're excited to report that the brief successfully supported a conservation win! You can read an in-depth case summary by HOL's Legal Affairs Committee.

When Flannels, Khakis, and Suits Collide

Heart of the Lakes traveled to Lansing in March to partner with Michigan Recreation & Parks Association (mParks) on a Parks and Open Space Advocacy Day. Members from HOL and mParks teamed up to meet with key legislators and shared issues of importance around conservation and recreation. The day was a loud statement on the vital role our parks, trails, and open spaces play in benefiting the health and economy of our communities and all those who call Michigan home.

HOL also participated in the annual mParks Conference & Tradeshow by leading sessions focused on the impact and capacity for creating accessible urban open spaces (recordings from these sessions here!). And while we were there, we recorded three podcasts as part of our urban conservation work with The C.S. Mott Foundation and The Conservation Fund. The podcasts will host a variety of leaders, stakeholders, supporters, and on-the-ground catalysts!

Mr. Bean Goes to Washington, DC

Heart of the Lakes had the opportunity to join Outdoor Industry Association and other state and national outdoor leaders in Washington, DC. From panels and events to hitting the Hill, it was a packed week spent with many partners and friends. Collectively using our outdoor voices to speak loudly for the places we love — on key topics such as the Farm Bill, Climate Conservation Corps, and Creating Equitable Access to the Outdoors — to name a few.

Representing Michigan in meetings through the Land Trust Alliance's efforts were our members and friends, Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy and Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy. As the voice for Michigan's land and waters, it takes passionate and committed organizations to advocate for the protection of Michigan's natural resources — the benefits open spaces extend to our economy, communities, and health and wellbeing.

Fueled by Caffeine + A Passion for the Outdoors

Heart of the Lakes partnered with Boxed Water and Populace Coffee to launch a collaborative campaign to contribute to our conservation efforts in Michigan.

In May, Boxed Water and Populace Coffee introduced a special instant cold coffee bundle, where 10 percent of the proceeds will be donated to Heart of the Lakes. With each purchase, coffee lovers will enjoy smooth chilled flavors and directly contribute to protecting our land and water.

Creating Open Spaces Close to Home

In August, we had the opportunity to tour the many upgrades and features of Chandler Park and open spaces within Detroit's Poletown East neighborhood that are creating more close-to-home opportunities to get outside. Featured projects ranged from forest and prairie restoration work to outdoor walking trails and areas for spiritual reflection. The tour was hosted by Detroit Parks Coalition and Detroit Future City with support from Heart of the Lakes.

Igniting Passion + Purpose

The 2nd Michigan Outdoor Summit, held on September 26-27th, brought together all sectors of the outdoor economy to connect, learn, grow, and build together with a vision for the future, health, and vitality of Michigan's outdoors. Heart of the Lakes worked with a team of organizers — investing months of planning and preparation to ensure a unique experience for attendees.

The event showcased the growth and increased interest in Michigan's vibrant outdoor community, offering a stoke-packed agenda full of outdoor activities, inspiring presentations, discussions, and technical and breakout sessions aimed at helping more people get outside and protecting the places they love.

Expedition Detroit provided a comprehensive overview of the event's key takeaways, shedding light on significant developments for the outdoor economy and its future in Michigan. The article highlights four main points: the pandemic boost to the outdoor economy, the importance of inclusivity, defining the future of outdoor culture, and the need for investments to continue improving the outdoor economy.

Nearly a Million Acres Protected in Michigan

We're stoked to share that Michigan's land conservancies and the broader conservation community have protected nearly a million acres — 806,560 to be exact — of natural, scenic, and working farms and forest lands throughout the state! This data is collected through our Michigan Protected Lands Survey, tracking multiple protection tools used to protect the places you love.

This milestone represents a significant step forward in our collective efforts to protect the places we love and ensure the well-being and accessibility of Michigan's land and water for future generations. In the full report, share and find more information, including numbers for members and other organizations, along with data comparisons over the years (who doesn't like a good bar graph?).

Open Spaces Open Minds: A Call for Access and Investment

The outdoor economy has tremendous value to Michiganders — being outside is good for our physical and mental well-being, helps us connect with family and friends, and is the foundation for a powerful stewardship ethic and a passionate community of advocates.

The recent release of statistics by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) showcases the impact of outdoor recreation on the economy.

In 2022, outdoor recreation contributed $12.4 billion to Michigan's economy, supporting 119,000 jobs and generating $5 billion in wages.
At a national level, these new numbers show outdoor recreation generates $1.1 trillion in gross economic output, 3.2% of U.S. wage and salary employment, and 4.98 million jobs. This means the outdoor recreation economy contributes more to the U.S. economy than mining, utilities, farming and ranching, and chemical products manufacturing.

With outdoor recreation growing, it's even more essential to invest and advocate for statewide policies that bolster access to the outdoors, expand trail networks, and safeguard our open spaces to ensure that every Michigander has the opportunity to enjoy, explore, and benefit from our state's unparalleled outdoor resources.

Support Our Work

When Passion Meets Purpose

6/16/2021

Each year Heart of the Lakes' Board of Directors has the honor of awarding individuals who have gone above and beyond in their volunteerism and leadership for the conservation community. This year we celebrate the Conservation Hero. The Board has selected two individuals from several nominations — congratulations to Jim Lloyd and Sara Woodruff!

We celebrate these Conservation Heroes for their dedication to protecting and promoting Michigan's land and water. We applaud them for going above and beyond — demonstrating passion, courage, and tenacity in tackling some of the vital challenges in protecting Michigan's natural resources.

Jim is a long-time volunteer and board member at Six Rivers Land Conservancy. He has been instrumental in the conservation community while promoting outdoor recreation in Southeast Michigan.

Over the years, Jim has united the Southeast Michigan land conservancies through board gatherings, supported conservation and recreation efforts through his membership with the Trails, Water and Land Alliance in Oakland County, stepped in to manage Six Rivers' Adventure League program, as well as led the effort to assist with a merger between Six Rivers and the former Highland Conservancy.

Jim has committed countless hours to the conservancy and the protection of land and water in SE Michigan, including his own property.

Throughout her role as creative director at Lake Effect Digital in Traverse City, Sara was the creative force behind numerous outreach campaigns telling the stories of Michigan's land and water. She found so much passion in being a part of the preservation of Michigan's beautiful resources.

Sara has worked with the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy, Heart of the Lakes, Huron Pines, Leelanau Conservancy, Little Traverse Conservancy, Walloon Lake Association and Conservancy, and many others. She has consistently dedicated much of her heart to advance the efforts of Michigan's land conservancies. In addition to her work at Lake Effect, Sara has also volunteered her time and talents for several years to the Fresh Coast Film Festival, which celebrates the water-rich environment and resilient spirit of the Great Lakes and Upper Midwest.

Sara and her dog Lou have always had a grand love for Michigan's outdoors and she pulls much of her inspiration from having regularly ventured on lands protected by our members and friends.

2020 in Review

1/26/2021

As we eagerly welcome a new year, we take a moment to look back on a year with so many buzz words — Unprecedented. Uncertainty. Challenging. But Heart of the Lakes would like to share a different list of words that can be summed up by the events below — Community. Opportunity. Restlessness. Gratitude.

A Historic Proposal + protectMI + Vote Yes

In November, Michiganders overwhelming passed Proposal 1 to update and expand the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund so it can continue supporting the places that make Michigan unique – from Great Lakes beaches and public lands to our trails, paths, parks and playgrounds.

The success was shared with a group of conservation partners, including Heart of the Lakes, who spent countless hours speaking with local and state officials, community foundations, news outlets, media and within our own networks.

Heart of the Lakes and the other partners launched an educational campaign geared towards telling the stories of the projects funded by the MNRTF. protectMI is still actively sharing stories and urging the protection of our public lands. A political campaign was also launched to educate voters on the proposal.

Social-Distancing Adventure Hub

When the Stay Home order was enacted, Heart of the Lakes scoured the internet to provide up-to-date resources on federal, state and local policy, business tools, inspiration to keep you active in or outdoors, COVID-19 statistics and responsible and safe outdoor activities during the pandemic. The Adventure Hub was widely used by Michiganders throughout the state (and some outsiders!) to help navigate restrictions and for ways to occupy their time.

Recreate Responsibly Coalition

Newcomers and veteran outdoorists alike were spending more time outside and on public lands over the duration of the year's events. This prompted a national group of conservation-minded folk to develop and share guidelines to promote safe recreation. Heart of the Lakes joined the national Recreate Responsibly coalition early on and later became the champion for the state's coalition.

Staying Restless with Friends

The year of virtual events and zoom calls! Heart of the Lakes was no stranger to the new phenomenon and hosted multiple virtual events including film screenings. In the Spring, Heart of the Lakes held a virtual gathering for our members and supporters to celebrate the passion and purpose that drives Michigan's outdoor culture. Heart of the Lakes was also involved in the screenings of Purple Mountains and The Ground Between Us.

Outsiders Film Festival

Heart of the Lakes, in partnership with Six Rivers Land Conservancy and Land of Outsiders, launched the first Outsiders Film Festival this past October. The film festival was held at a drive-in theater in Novi and featured films on outdoor adventure, conservation and family. The film festival is set for an annual appearance in Southeast Michigan!

2019 in Review: New Year, Who Dis?

1/3/2020

At the core of our work is an understanding of people's connection to land and water — how it enriches our lives, defines our sense of place and provides for our most vital needs. As we welcome a new year, we wanted to give you a recap of some of our favorites from 2019. Looking back, we cannot thank you enough for your continued support.

Top Photos

Coastal Adventures

All last year we've been sharing insights into our coastal project that highlights outdoor businesses in Michigan who give back to coastal conservation.

The wait will finally be over on January 8, 2020, when we launch the film and the stories behind each featured brand.

Ahh man, the content in this space is only available for those who subscribe to our monthly emails.

Don't miss out next time!

Michigan's Outdoor Recreation Industry

2019 was a monumental year for Michigan's Outdoor Recreation Industry! In the Spring, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources announced the creation of an Office of Outdoor Recreation Industry, driving the expansion, awareness, and protection of the state's natural resources for recreational purposes that will bolster our economy.

More industry news followed in the Fall during a gathering of conservation nonprofits and outdoor businesses. Governor Whitmer announced Michigan would be signing onto the Confluence Accords in October, moving towards ensuring Michigan brings a unified "outdoor voice" to the national conversation surrounding outdoor recreation and conservation.

Parks, Trails, & Land

Sharing common missions and philosophies, Heart of the Lakes, Michigan Parks and Recreation and Michigan Trails and Greenway Alliance banded together last summer and aligned themselves on several policy issues — including Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund and Michigan Recreation Passport program.

Michigan Creates Outdoor Recreation Advisory Council

5/30/2018

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources and the Michigan Natural Resources Commission have announced the formation of an advisory body to identify new collaborative opportunities and further broaden the base of support for outdoor recreation and natural resource stewardship within the state.

The Outdoor Recreation Advisory Council is composed of leaders in Michigan’s outdoor recreation industry, reflecting the manufacturing, retail and service sectors, as well as employers in health, community finance and other leading industries. Heart of the Lakes' Executive Director, Jonathan Jarosz, has been asked to serve on the Council representing the interests of Michigan's land conservancies and their friends.

“Enjoying the great outdoors in many different ways is a significant driver of our state’s economy, and a big part of what draws people to visit, live and work in Michigan,” said Gov. Rick Snyder. “

The creation of the Outdoor Recreation Advisory Council will pay dividends in both expanding the outdoor recreation economy and further supporting the enjoyment and stewardship of natural resources for all of Michigan.”

The council’s creation recognizes the tremendous economic contributions of the state’s outdoor recreation opportunities and businesses and accessible natural resources, as well as the positive effect those collective assets have on Michigan’s quality of life.

Read more here

The Outdoor Recreation Advisory Council is modeled on similar efforts in eight other states. The Michigan council will be the first in the Midwest.

When asked about the connection between outdoor recreation and conservation, Jonathan Jarosz said, "It's simple. We believe that the precedent exists for the adventurers of today to become the fiercest defenders of wild places tomorrow."

Jarosz continued, "The common narrative of outdoor recreation and conservation is one of relevancy. How we address issues of outdoor access, stewardship, and next generation leadership are all key to the future of Michigan's natural resources. The places we protect, the organizations we support, and the communities we call home — all say something — about who we are, our values, and our passions."

DNR Director Keith Creagh and NRC Chair Vicki Pontz, jointly appointed members to the council. In addition to NRC Commissioner Chris Tracy, they include:

Suzanne Miller Allen, director of Community Responsibility, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Michigan’s largest health insurer.
Bo Brines, owner of Little Forks Outfitters, a Midland sporting goods store.
Troland V. Clay, president and CEO, Mno-Bmadsen, an investment enterprise of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi.
Chris Lampen-Crowell, co-owner of Gazelle Sports, a running gear retailer with five Michigan locations.
Linda Hubbard, president and COO of Carhartt, Inc., a work and outdoor apparel manufacturer.
Jonathan Jarosz, executive director, Heart of the Lakes, a conservation organization representing the state’s land conservancies and affiliate organizations.
Andy Lindsay, VP of Sales Americas, Groupe Beneteau Cadillac Operations.
Chris MacInnes, president and co-owner of Crystal Mountain, a ski and golf resort in Benzie County.
Tracy Mayer, owner of Backcountry North, a sporting goods retailer with three Michigan locations.
Steve Nadolski, vice president of commercial accounts, AMROCK, a real estate title company, and part of the Rock Venture family of companies.
Jeff Poet, president and co-owner of Jay’s Sporting Goods.
Matt Ruiter, general manager of Velocity USA, a manufacturer of bicycle wheels.
Chuck Smith, CEO of Hemisphere Design Works, manufacturer of kayaks, fishing boats, canoes, pedal boats and hunting/fishing accessories.
William Smith, CFO of Detroit RiverFront Conservancy.
Lindsay Struve, store manager, Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI) in Ann Arbor.
Paul Vitrano, vice president of global government relations, Polaris Industries, manufacturer of ORVs and snowmobiles.
Dennis West, president of Northern Initiatives, a community development financial institution.

The council also will benefit from two ex-officio members representing state agencies:

Claire Stevens, for Director Kirk Steudle, Michigan Department of Transportation.
Brenda Stewart, for Director Jeff Mason, Michigan Economic Development Corporation

Heart of the Lakes Announces New Board Chair

2/18/2015

Susan Lackey has been appointed Chair of the Board of Directors at Heart of the Lakes Center for Land Conservation Policy. Lackey is the Executive Director of Legacy Land Conservancy, and brings brings a significant amount of land trust expertise to her new position.

In addition to her position as Executive Director of Legacy, Susan was President of the Washtenaw Development Council and first president of the Ann Arbor IT Zone. In those positions, she was twice recognized by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation as their economic development partner of the year. She is one of just two people to win both of the Michigan Economic Developers Association awards in lifetime achievement and for further professional education.

During her tenure with Legacy Land Conservancy, the organization became one of the first in the nation to receive accreditation from the Land Trust Alliance Accreditation Commission, a third party organization that evaluates professional and technical best practice in the conservation community. Over the past 10 years, Legacy has increased its conservation holdings by 230%, through creative partnerships with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation, Dahlem Conservancy, Raisin Valley Land Trust, Huron River Watershed Council and others.

Susan resides in Chelsea, on the edge of the Waterloo Recreation Area, with her husband, Steve Daut, and dog, Chili.

Stabenow Leads Bipartisan Conservation Coalition

2/4/2015

Heart of the Lakes applauds Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) for introducing the Conservation Easement Incentive Act of 2015 in the U.S. Senate this week with her colleague, Senator Dean Heller. Representatives Mike Thompson and Mike Kelly also introduced similar legislation in the House. The bills would provide a permanent enhanced tax incentive to family farmers and other landowners who choose not to develop their land and instead preserve their property for conservation. By providing tax benefits to landowners who choose conservation, the bill will help preserve Michigan’s and the nation’s farm lands and open spaces for public benefit.

Over 588,000 Acres Protected!

5/2/2014

Heart of the Lakes is pleased to announce that its member land conservancies are protecting 588,000 acres of natural, scenic and working farms and forest lands in Michigan. Based on data collected from 27 organizations in its annual Protected Lands Survey, the total cumulative acreage reflects an increase slightly less than 10,000 acres since the last survey conducted at this time in 2013.

“These protected lands support a wide variety of critical conservation purposes, including improved water quality, wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation, local foods and healthy forests, “ said Jonathan Jarosz, Heart of the Lakes’ Executive Director. “Moreover they contribute to the economic vitality of our communities and regions, creating exceptional places to live and work.”

Heart of the Lakes Announces New Executive Director

4/1/2013

Heart of the Lakes Center for Land Conservation Policy, a statewide support organization serving Michigan's nonprofit land conservancies since 2004, has announced the selection of Jonathan Jarosz as its new executive director. Jarosz will fill the vacancy created by Rachel Kuntzsch's departure in September of 2012. Julie Stoneman, who has been serving as Interim Director will continue to play a key role in the Heart of the Lakes Advancing Conservancy Excellence (ACE) program. Jarosz's appointment was made after a national search and selection process. He begins his new position April 1.

No stranger to Michigan's land conservancies, Jonathan Jarosz has worked as a conservation planner and consultant to non-profits throughout Michigan for the past fifteen years. Jonathan earned his graduate degree in Resource Development from Michigan State University; and holds graduate certificates in Watershed Management and Geographic Information Systems. Prior to joining Heart of the Lakes, Jarosz was employed as the Director for University Outreach at the University of Michigan-Flint. Jarosz has also served as the Midwest Field Representative for the Land Trust Alliance and as a conservation planner on behalf of The Little Forks Conservancy in Midland, MI.

Jarosz has had the opportunity to work in collaboration with staff from national non-profits, state, and federal agencies on a variety of community and non-profit based conservation initiatives. His focus has primarily been organizational capacity building in the areas of technology, strategic planning, and public engagement. Through all of his employment experiences his work has been focused on the development of collaborative solutions to community issues, with the dual purpose of public empowerment and capacity building for environmental and place-based organizations.

"We are very pleased and excited to announce this appointment," reported Tom Bailey, Heart of the Lakes Board Chair and Executive Director of the Little Traverse Conservancy. "Jonathan will bring leadership and creativity to Heart of the Lake's programs and a deep sense of commitment to our state's land conservancies. He has served nonprofits at a variety of program and leadership level, and has a breadth of perspective and experience as related to our state's natural resources."

"I look forward to continuing to serve and partner with Michigan's land conservancies in this new capacity," remarked Jarosz. "I am dedicated to this work because it provides critical services tied to the health and economy of the state. Heart of the Lakes plays a key role in supporting and developing conservancies' contribution to our state's quality of life."

Jarosz also commented "The sustainability of Michigan's land conservancies is built on a culture of conservation that is fueled by people's desire to preserve the open spaces and natural resources that characterize their communities around the state. The future success of Michigan's land conservancies will ultimately be judged by how effectively they unite their individual actions around a common goal - protecting Michigan's land."

Bailey added: "Now more than ever, Michigan needs thoughtful leadership, innovative ideas, and sound management of our environmentally and economically significant natural resources. Michigan needs effective land conservancies to ensure the permanent protection of critical land assets. Heart of the Lakes is positioned to meet those needs, ensuring a prosperous future for Michigan."