GLBLC conducts annual seminars on  conservation easements for professional advisors.

FARMLAND AND OPEN SPACE The rate at which good Michigan farmland and open space are being consumed by urban sprawl is alarming. Conservation Easements. People who do not want to see their land subdivided and developed can arrange for the Conservancy to hold title or development rights as a means of providing protection in perpetuity. Resident Land Stewards. Conservation easements are just the first step in preserving the rural character of our communities. Farmland and open space need continuous care and stewardship. The Conservancy recruits and trains land stewards who monitor and care for protected land. Public Awareness. The Conservancy also supports the work of local organizations, such as Lapeer County Citizens for Farmland Preservation and Quality Growth, in their efforts to bring land preservation issues to the attention of governmental officials and the general public.

The Conservancy is currently supporting environmental education programs at two land stewardship centers.

Tibbits Land Stewardship Center. This 130 acre farm is located near the village of Columbiaville in northern Lapeer County. The Center was established in l991 as a nature sanctuary and demonstration of how to increase bio-diversity on farmland.

Sutherland Land Stewardship Center. This 75 acre wooded property is located near Hadley in the southern part of Lapeer County. It was formally dedicated on Earth Day, 1999.

The current focus of the Conservancy is building a network of stewardship demonstration sites in Lapeer County, the thumb area of Michigan, and eventually throughout the Great Lakes Bioregion.

Seeing is Believing. One of the best ways to encourage better land use decision making is for people to become aware of good stewardship in their own communities and have a chance to learn from their neighbors' experiences.

Supporting Local Demonstrations. The Conservancy has identified a number of worthy stewardship sites, ranging from sustainable farms to backyard sanctuaries, which could serve as local demonstrations in their communities. The Conservancy can support both outreach (publicity, tours, brochures) and project development (grants for educational programs, interns, workdays) for these demonstrations.

Creating a Stewardship Network. If you are using good stewardship practices on your land or are interested in doing so in the future, consider joining other like-minded people in creating this supportive network
 
 

The Great Lakes Bioregional Land Conservancy is a small, all volunteer organization with a big name and a big mission. Additional volunteers are always needed. Tax deductible donations are also appreciated. Becoming a supporting member is a good way to be involved in all aspects of the Conservancy's work.
For more information about volunteering, making a donation or becoming a member, please call Leo Dorr, at (810) 664-5647 or write to: