ALLOUEZ, Mich. (WLUC) – On Tuesday, The Nature Conservancy in Michigan (TNC) hosted a Keweenaw Heartlands Project Update to update the community on the latest on the project.

TNC was joined by representatives from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at the meeting.

“Our quarterly Heartlands Updates are a great opportunity to provide the community with important updates on key milestones of the Keweenaw Heartlands Project and answer questions from residents,” said Julia Petersen, Keweenaw Heartlands Project Manager for TNC in Michigan. “I appreciate everyone’s comments, questions and spending some time with us to learn more about the project and what lies ahead.”

TNC says it has provided updates on the development of a local forest and recreation governance entity. Meanwhile, the DNR provided a recap of its recent meetings on the overall management plan for the nearly 10,000 acres of Heartlands it will purchase and manage under state ownership.

“The general management plan for what will become Keweenaw Point State Lands is a critical part of our process to protect the land’s natural and cultural resources while ensuring access to outdoor recreation,” said said Debbie Jensen, DNR park management plan administrator. “I want to thank everyone who attended our meetings in person or virtually and provided feedback to share their vision for the region.”

The MNR is also accepting feedback through an online survey, available here. The investigation will remain open until November 24.

The land the DNR plans to purchase is south and east of historic Fort Wilkins State Park and adjoins more than 8,000 acres of forest land it currently owns and manages. The DNR says additional land will allow the State of Michigan to expand its outdoor recreation offerings at the tip of the Keweenaw and maintain forested lands, protecting the unique natural and cultural heritage of the Copper Country.

The Heartlands November update follows two months of in-person events in the community and Keweenaw Heartlands. The “Heart the Heartlands” series included guided hikes in the TNC preserves offering stunning views of the Heartlands and a slow ATV ride, in conjunction with the Keweenaw ATV Club, through the forest to provide a close-up view of the terrain.

TNC purchased the Keweenaw Heartlands, which includes more than 32,000 acres of land, in two separate sales, one closing late. October 2022 and the second just before Christmas 2022.

Although owned by TNCs, the lands remain open to the public under Michigan’s commercial forestry program and on the community tax roll. TNC, as a temporary owner before these lands become public property, works closely with area communities to plan for the future of the Heartlands and ensure its long-term protection for wildlife and people.

TNC is a global conservation organization dedicated to conserving the lands and waters on which all life depends. Guided by science, TNC says it strives to create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to the world’s toughest challenges, so nature and people can thrive together.

Learn more about TNC here. People can also connect with the organization on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn And TikTok.

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