Heart of the Lakes
  • HOME
    • Board and Staff
    • Members and Friends
    • Strategic Vision
    • Support Our Work
    • FAQ
  • News
    • Events
    • Protected Lands
  • People & Place
    • History of MI Conservation
    • Land Conservancies
    • Find Your Conservancy
    • Landowner Options
    • Community Building
  • Tools
    • Michigan Model
    • Funding/Partnership Options >
      • Michigan DNR
      • MI Dept. of Agriculture
  • Initiatives
    • Taking Action // The Path Ahead
    • Places Create Stories
    • protectMI
    • Passion & Purpose
    • Getting Outside During a Pandemic
    • Farmland Preservation
  • Adventure Hub

2020 in Review

1/26/2021

 
Picture
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

Picture
​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

Picture
​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

Picture
​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

Picture
​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

Picture
​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

 
Picture
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.
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
DOWNLOAD GRAPHICS

2019 in Review: New Year, Who Dis?

1/3/2020

 
Picture

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

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM!

Coastal Adventures

Picture
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. 
SUBSCRIBE
Don't miss out next time!

Michigan's Outdoor Recreation Industry

Picture
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

Picture
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

 
Picture
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

Picture
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.


Read More

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.”

Read More

Michigan Conservancies Achieve National Recognition 

2/26/2014

 
Heart of the Lakes Center would like to congratulate the Michigan Nature Association and Chikaming Open Lands—both the nonprofit land conservancies achieved first time national accreditation and accreditation renewal, respectively.

“We applaud both these organizations on these significant accomplishments,” said Jonathan Jarosz, Executive Director of Heart of the Lakes Center for Land Conservation Policy, a statewide organization that strengthens the collective efforts of organizations dedicated to the conservation of Michigan’s environmentally and economically significant lands. “Accreditation means that these groups meet national standards of excellence and uphold the public trust with the organizational strength and ability needed to ensure the permanence of the important lands they work to protect.”

Read More

    Categories

    All
    Accreditation
    Advocacy
    Agriculture
    Conservation Easement
    Executive Director
    Farm Bill
    Farmland Preservation
    Heart Of The Lakes
    Jobs
    Land Conservancies
    Michigan
    Outreach
    Position Closed
    Tax Benefits

    Archives

    April 2021
    March 2021
    February 2021
    January 2021
    October 2020
    September 2020
    August 2020
    May 2020
    March 2020
    February 2020
    January 2020
    November 2019
    October 2019
    September 2019
    July 2019
    June 2019
    May 2019
    March 2019
    January 2019
    November 2018
    October 2018
    September 2018
    July 2018
    June 2018
    May 2018
    March 2018
    June 2017
    September 2016
    August 2016
    July 2016
    June 2016
    May 2016
    April 2016
    February 2016
    January 2016
    November 2015
    October 2015
    September 2015
    July 2015
    June 2015
    April 2015
    March 2015
    February 2015
    January 2015
    December 2014
    November 2014
    September 2014
    May 2014
    February 2014
    April 2013

    RSS Feed


Heart of the Lakes strengthens the collective efforts of organizations dedicated to the conservation of Michigan’s environmentally and economically significant land and water. We provide leadership, innovative ideas, and advocate for smart public policy for the benefit of our communities and for generations to come.
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Heart of the Lakes
PO Box 1128
Bay City, MI  48706
Heart of the Lakes is a statewide organization that concentrates and strengthens the efforts of Michigan’s land conservation community. Founded by Michigan’s land conservancies, Heart of the Lakes does what no individual organization can do on its own-- unites them under the common goal of protecting Michigan’s land. 

BACK TO TOP

Heart of the Lakes
P.O. Box 1128 Bay City, MI  48706
989-292-3582

© DivTag Templates Ltd | All Rights Reserved