Our Current Projects

AuSable River Watershed Program

Since its inception in 2006, the heart of the AuSable River Watershed Program has been the protection of a very special river.  This world-renowned gem is a vital resource to northern Michigan, serving as the largest watershed supplying fresh water to Lake Huron.

HeadWaters Land Conservancy has identified 40 priority parcels in the AuSable River Watershed whose protection are critical to the long term preservation of the AuSable River. 

Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, the Conservancy has already preserved 23 of the 40 priority parcels, totaling over 8 miles of river frontage protected forever.

Over the course of the next three years, HeadWaters will educate landowners, negotiate and acquire conservation easements, and steward those properties already protected. 

The goal of the program is to preserve over 20 miles of the AuSable River by 2011, allowing the river to remain natural and wild for future generations to enjoy. 

Pigeon River Habitat Initiative

The Pigeon River Country State Forest is the largest tract of contiguous undeveloped land in Lower Michigan. Located in the heart of the Conservancy’s service area, it is home to many types of wildlife, including the state's only elk herd, and 3 of Michigan's finest trout streams: the Pigeon, Sturgeon, and Black rivers. Cherished by residents, visitors, and businesses alike, it is truly one of the finest examples of what northern Michigan has to offer.

Private lands surround the Pigeon River Country State Forest.  As these lands, and ultimately the wildlife within them, become fragmented from increased development the need arises to preserve the natural integrity of these precious places.

 The Pigeon River Habitat Initiative was formed in 2001 as a partnership of private citizens, state and federal agencies, and non-profit organizations all with an interest in preserving the natural integrity of the Pigeon River Country.  However, in response to increasing development pressure within the region, the partnership recognized the need to proactively expand its work to have the greatest possible impact.  

In December 2008, HeadWaters Land Conservancy examined previous efforts for the ability to meet the rising threat, determined the parcels at greatest risk, helped to establish a 4 year operating budget, and identified the project areas where the Conservancy could effectively increase its objectives; land use planning, landowner stewardship, land protection, and sustainability.

The goal of the Pigeon River Habitat Initiative is to work with private landowners and local units of governments bordering on or near the Pigeon River Country State Forest to conserve the integrity of these large natural lands, vital for wildlife to thrive. The key to the Pigeon River Habitat Initiative is presenting the entire tool kit of conservation options directly to landowners and local governments. For example, while partner groups write and implement forest stewardship plans, or install native wildlife plantings, HeadWaters Land Conservancy can permanently protect threatened parcels, or help place important lands in public trust.