Restoring Michigan's natural lands
An abandoned golf course that became a dumping ground has been protected and mended to become a well-loved nature area for the Grand Rapids, Michigan, community.
The Land Conservancy of West Michigan has something to celebrate. In partnership with Blanford Nature Center in Grand Rapids, the conservancy recently acquired and conserved the Highlands, a 121-acre natural area adjacent to the nature center in downtown Grand Rapids.
Before becoming the Highlands, the property was abandoned — following decades as a golf course, it was used as a dumping ground for debris for nearly a century. But the conservancy and the nature center saw hope for what the open area could become for Grand Rapids residents. Over the last few years, the partners worked on restoring the land and water, one project at a time.
With a 2023 Land Trust Alliance water quality grant and by leveraging additional state and federal funds, the conservancy began restoring the last of the damaged wetlands. When complete, the revived wetlands will allow stormwater to naturally filter more than 100,000 gallons annually, reducing pollution runoff.
“This grant came at the right time to complete a very large project,” said the conservancy. “We’re grateful the Alliance made so much more possible.”
This wasn’t the Land Conservancy of West Michigan’s first Alliance grant. A 2020 land and climate grant enabled a strategic conservation plan identifying critical habitats to protect in the urban area, increasing access to nature downtown.
“We’re still implementing that plan years later,” said Justin Heslinga, conservation director of the Land Conservancy of West Michigan.
As the land heals, wildlife has moved in, and volunteers have planted native wildflowers, grasses and hundreds of climate-resilient trees. In total, eight revived wetlands provide habitat for ducks, herons, turtles, frogs and more, bringing biodiversity to the city.
Because the Highlands is downtown, the acres are accessible to all Grand Rapids residents via public transportation.
“Even though restoration isn’t complete, the community already loves this place,” Heslinga said.
Nicole Feenstra, an avid runner and trainer, shared that having the space nearby allows her to enjoy nature while staying connected. She also leads outdoor classes through the nature center, another benefit for locals.
“That time alone in nature can be carried with them and used anytime they step outside,” said Feenstra.
The restored natural area provides clean water, habitat and a peaceful place to relax and connect with nature and others.
“I’m jazzed about what we’re accomplishing here,” said the conservancy’s executive director, Kim Karn. “It demonstrates that when people work together, we can preserve nature and positively change the world.”
Steve Wilson, interim president of the Blanford Nature Center, added, “We have been pleased to participate in this long-term partnership to make The Highlands a much-valued greenspace in Grand Rapids and West Michigan.”
With support from caring individuals and partners, the Alliance continues to empower local land trusts like the Land Conservancy of West Michigan to make their communities healthier, happier places.