Category: Michigan

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.

Investing in Michigan's Parks + Outdoor Recreation

6/10/2021

Michigan State Parks to Receive $250 Million in Federal Funding

Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced $250 million will be invested into Michigan’s State Parks to address infrastructure needs. This monumental investment, which is part of the American Rescue Plan, comes at a time when we are experiencing record-breaking attendance and use of our public spaces met with limited funding.

According to the Michigan DNR FY 2021 Capital Outlay Five-Year Plan, the Michigan DNR Parks and Recreation Department has identified and documented the need for 558 priority renovation and upgrade projects, estimated at a cost of $278 million. News of this funding will support nearly all of those needs.

“Addressing the backlog of infrastructure needs within our State Parks has been a goal of many
organizations for a number of years. This investment will not only help Michigan’s State Parks but in the long run, it will truly help all parks in the state. By meeting the needs of the State Parks, your local city, township, county, and regional park systems will now be priority recipients of grant funding and other alternative sources. This is a huge win for all Michigan residents and will provide safe, accessible, and inclusive park systems for all,” said Clay Summers, Executive Director of mParks.

The COVID-19 pandemic brought to light how parks, trails, and public lands shape public health. Michiganders found respite in their neighborhood parks; people developed daily routines of walking local trails, taking their children to playgrounds, and connecting with each other safely outdoors.

“With more public land than any state east of the Mississippi, outdoor recreation plays a vital role in the mental and physical health of every Michigander. While physical activity has long been established as having a positive effect on people with mental health challenges, studies have found that effect increases significantly in an outdoor setting versus indoor,” said Jonathan Jarosz, Executive Director, Heart of the Lakes.

While the benefits of the outdoors have been touted for years, the investments have not always
matched. As outdoor recreation and park use continues to increase, park systems are struggling to keep up with infrastructure needs and staffing.

“Investments in outdoor recreation, the businesses and organizations who support them, play an extremely vital role in how thriving communities do their best work for the health outcomes of their people,” added Jarosz.

mParks, Heart of the Lakes, and Michigan Trails & Greenways Alliance are excited to be part of the tremendous announcement. Michigan’s public spaces have been serving its residents for years and this is an opportunity to give back to those places.

“Last year, Michiganders showed up in droves to their local parks and trails. They were demonstrating the importance of these outdoor places in their time of need – and making it clear that they use these parks, trails, and open spaces to invest in their own physical and mental health. It’s time for the state to invest in the critical infrastructure needs of these special recreational assets. I’m delighted to see that the Governor is making this a priority – and this significant investment will benefit today’s users and generations to come,” commented Andrea LaFontaine, Executive Director, Michigan Trails & Greenways Alliance.

New Report Highlights Economic Benefits of Outdoor Recreation

Outdoor business alliances across the country — known as the State Outdoor Business Alliance Network (SOBAN) — have joined forces to elevate the vital importance of a thriving outdoor industry. A new report highlights the many ways that communities across the country benefit from increased investment in outdoor recreation.

Outdoor recreation in Michigan generates 26.6 billion in consumer spending and employs 232 thousand individuals. Nationwide, in 2019, outdoor recreation employed almost 5.2 million people who earned more than $226.3 billion dollars. The report shares information from states around the country that illustrates the positive benefits of the outdoor recreation economy.

Read the Full Report

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!

HOL Urges You to Vote YES on Proposal 20-1

10/1/2020

Heart of the Lakes is proud to stand with a diverse group of environmental, conservation, business, labor and community leaders from across the partisan spectrum to endorse Proposal 1 to invest in protecting and expanding access to our natural spaces for future generations.

For decades, the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) has been protecting our drinking water sources, wildlife habitats and outdoor spaces by receiving oil and gas royalties and directing them towards land acquisition and public recreation projects in all 83 counties across Michigan. However, the MNRTF reached its cap in 2011. These royalties are now directed to the State Park Endowment Fund to fund land acquisition for state parks and maintenance, operations and capital improvements of state parks. But that has a cap too.

This November 3rd, Michigan voters have a historic opportunity to update and expand the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund so that it can continue supporting the places that make Michigan unique – from Great Lakes beaches and public lands to our trails, paths, parks and playgrounds. Best of all, it achieves this as it always has, without tax dollars from Michigan families.

Proposal 1 will protect our water, wildlife & parks by:

Removing the cap on the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund, allowing it to again receive revenues from the royalties on oil, gas, and mining on state-owned land once the SPEF reaches its cap – safeguarding a constitutionally protected revenue source for conservation and recreation for future generations.
Adding renovation and redevelopment of public recreation facilities as an allowable use of Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund dollars, allowing it to help communities reinvest in their aging recreation infrastructure in addition to creating new facilities.
Requiring at least 25% of Trust Fund disbursements be made available for development, renovation and redevelopment of public recreation facilities to match the minimum 25% for land acquisition and protection, allowing the flexibility needed to fund and update trails, playgrounds, parks and more in communities across the state, while continuing to prioritize land conservation and protection.

These changes were put on the ballot with unanimous support from the Michigan Legislature and are endorsed by a wide range of environmental, conservation, business, labor and community leaders from across the state. You can learn more about the proposal and the organizations endorsing it at www.miwaterwildlifeparks.com. Join us in voting YES on Proposal 1 to protect Michigan’s water, wildlife & parks on November 3rd or by absentee ballot.

#RecreateResponsibly Michigan

5/21/2020

In anticipation of Memorial Day weekend, I want to highlight the launch of the new #RecreateResponsibly coalition and its message. As supporters of our outdoors, I hope you might join us and consider sharing this content with your own constituents and network of partners.

During this public health crisis, spending time in outdoor spaces has become so important for many, and we anticipate this trend will continue. People are drawn to the outdoors for fresh air, stress relief, and the freedom it provides. As our public lands and waters reopen, our special places could get overwhelmed and people could be at risk.

To help ensure people thrive outside and stay safe, a national coalition launched today: www.recreateresponsibly.org.

The #RecreateResponsbily campaign shares guidelines and best practices to protect each other and our natural landscapes. We are a diverse community brought together by our love of the outdoors and a desire to help everyone experience the benefits of nature safely during this public health crisis.

If you’d like to join the movement:

Use the hashtag #recreateresponsibly on your social media posts.
Download graphics and social contact specific to Michigan at
bitly.com/recreate-responsibly.
Adopt, integrate, and promote this content in any way you wish!
Join the national coalition by visiting www.recreateresponsibly.org/coalition.

We're not out of the woods and there will be updates of course and continued conversation over the long term including aligning efforts with other messaging efforts. The Fourth of July and Labor Day will see their own special needs.

DOWNLOAD GRAPHICS

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.”

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