2017 Year in Review People • Land • Legacy
Michigan Nature Association
“We abuse land because we regard it as a commodity belonging to us. When we see land as a community to which we belong, we may begin to use it with Aldo Leopold love and respect. Ecologist
Wilcox Warnes Nature Sanctuary by Jason Steel
Celebrating 65 Years of Saving Our Natural Treasures The great Aldo Leopold, one of the founders of modern ecology and a giant of the early conservation movement, grounded his call for a new “land ethic” (see the quote on the opposite page) on an enlarged sense of community. That sense of community—people of all races and creeds, the land and all its creatures, and the legacy each generation inherits and ultimately bequeaths to the next—has been at the heart of MNA since the very beginning 65 years ago. So it should be no surprise that today, MNA’s accomplishments directly align with our founders’ vision of an organization that would connect people with nature and inspire the protection of rare, threatened and endangered species. Our conservation strategies have necessarily evolved with the times, but the spirit of MNA today continues to embrace the three pillars crucial to our success—people, land, and legacy. First and foremost it is people who make the difference, our generous donors, volunteers, sanctuary stewards, interns and staff who are behind every single accomplishment described in this Year in Review. Our thanks go to all of you and this year’s standout volunteers who were honored at our Annual Recognition Dinner in October. The land we care for is the backbone of our statewide impact—an incredible network of over 175 nature sanctuaries. This year, our volunteers logged thousands of hours on stewardship projects large and small to care for these special places. We worked to expand existing sanctuaries to provide more habitat for rare animals such as the Poweshiek skipperling and the eastern massasauga rattlesnake at Big Valley, and even a rare plant called the Virginia water horehound at Red Cedar River. Finally, it is a profound sense of legacy that shapes MNA today and will do so long into the future. Our duty to the legacy to those who came before us is reflected in our commitment to being good stewards of the land. And our growing field trip program, School to Sanctuary Partnerships, and research and intern opportunities for college and university students link the importance of our work to the next generation of conservation caretakers, the people who will carry MNA’s work forward in the future. The holiday season is time for reflecting on all our blessings, and that includes not only the legacy of our founders but the legacy each and every one of our current supporters leaves for future generations. Thank you for the difference you made in 2017. Happy Holidays and happy 65th Anniversary, I look forward to another terrific year of working together to protect Michigan’s natural heritage.
On the Cover: “Take Off” by William Rowan
“MNA was the first non-governmental land protection organization in the state. It blazed the way and...the work MNA has done is simply irreplaceable.” Dave Dempsey, author Ruin and Recovery: Michigan’s Rise as a Conservation Leader
Karner Blue Butterfly at the Karner Blue Nature Sanctuary by Valerie Lindeman
Protecting Michigan Nature
Building a Geography of Hope Our founders envisioned an organization that would build a geography of hope by connecting people with nature and inspiring the protection of rare, threatened and endangered species. As we celebrate 65 years and MNA’s accomplishments in 2017, their vision still inspires us today as we build on an incredible legacy of land protection. Since our 60th milestone anniversary in 2012, MNA has completed 26 land acquisitions, 18 to expand and improve the ecological integrity of our existing sanctuaries and 8 to create new ones. Hundreds of stewards and volunteers contribute thousands of hours annually to manage and restore our network of over 175 nature sanctuaries across the state. Our expanding education programs are reaching deeper into communities with a stronger emphasis on helping teachers and schools with limited access to natural areas.
The organization acquires its first ten properties, including the first Upper Peninsula property
1960s
1952 What started in 1951 as a birdwatching group signs Articles of Incorporation
MNA partners with the Michigan Karst Conservancy to protect the Mystery Valley Karst Preserve and Nature Sanctuary
Twin Waterfalls in Munising becomes the 100th property protected by MNA
1980s
1970s MNA joins the Save the Pines campaign, and acquires one of its crown jewels: the Estivant Pines Nature Sanctuary
Today, MNA protects more than 175 nature sanctuaries across Michigan
2017
2000s
1990s MNA creates nearly 40 new nature sanctuaries, including many that will become the most frequently visited
2010s MNA is awarded accreditation by the Land Trust Accreditation Commission
< Top row from left: Bertha Daubendiek and early founders mapping out MNA sanctuaries (MNA Archives), Operations Director Paul Steiner and runners in the Rattlesnake Kids Fun Run learning about snakes (Julie Stoneman). Bottom row from left: Eastern phoebe (Steve Lindberg), Glenna Levengood teaching kids about nature at the Lefglen Nature Sanctuary (Ralph Polovich), Dragonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mouth orchid (Raymond Coleman).
â&#x20AC;&#x153;One of my reasons for volunteering was I wanted to see some of the nature I remember as a kid. Volunteering with MNA not only do I get to see it, I get to help save it.â&#x20AC;? Don Reed, MNA Volunteer and Trustee
Restoration and Renewal
Being Good Stewards of the Land As natural areas continue to disappear to development or are threatened by invasive species, MNA’s work to restore and maintain critical habitat for rare plants and animals becomes increasingly important. MNA manages a network of over 175 nature sanctuaries with the help of our sanctuary stewards, interns and hundreds of volunteers. The numbers add up to be a powerful force for nature. Highlights of MNA’s stewardship work in 2017 include: • Conducting management and restoration activities, including prescribed burns, on over 148 acres of oak and pine barren habitat on private and public lands in Newaygo County to help sustain viable populations of the endangered Karner blue butterfly. • Expanding habitat for the endangered Poweshiek skipperling and other rare species at Big Valley Nature Sanctuary in Oakland County. • Engaging the community in Fenton in a summer-long initiative to make ecological, safety and visitor improvements at Dauner Martin, one of our most popular nature sanctuaries. MNA is grateful for the generous grant from the Franklin D. Adams Fund of the Community Foundation of Greater Flint.
3,632
hours worked by MNA volunteers in 2017, including volunteer workdays
2017 in Numbers 178
sanctuaries monitored (100%)
154
volunteer workdays and guided hikes
69
invasive species control projects
9
partner research projects
8
prescribed burns
1
bioblitz
< Top row from left: Volunteer workday at Grinnell Memorial Nature Sanctuary (Nancy Leonard), Intern Erica Fraley showing lichen on a nature hike at Newaygo Prairie (John Bagley). Bottom row from left: Prescribed burn at Goose Creek Grasslands (John Minar), Bioblitz at McCulley-Bastian Nature Sanctuary (Rachel Maranto), Steward Charlie Goodrich and interns Sara Boersma and Samuel Merring building steps at Barvicks Sand Dunes (Rebecca Kenny).
“MNA has opened my students’ eyes to a whole new aspect of science.” Aaron Wesche, Addison High School biology teacher
Connecting Children and Students With Nature
Inspiring the Next Generation MNA is committed to protecting Michigan’s natural heritage, so the critical question of who will be the caretakers of the future is always foremost in our minds. In the 1950s, our founders answered that question by bringing nature study to schools in Macomb County. Fast forward to 2017 and our commitment to educating young people has not wavered. By supporting experiences that build understanding of the natural world and inspire a life-long love of nature, we will nurture future conservation leaders. Providing Field Trip Grants to Teachers
Hosting Days of Service
Linking Schools to Sanctuaries
Connecting Colleges and Universities
MNA’s field trip grant program provides grants to offset transportation and other costs to provide hands-on opportunities for students to learn about nature outside of the classroom. Supported by MNA’s Education Fund, 11 grants were awarded to schools across the state in 2017 for field trips to natural areas, state parks, nature centers and MNA sanctuaries.
MNA’s ongoing School to Sanctuary Partnerships connect students to MNA sanctuaries for ongoing nature study and service learning opportunities. The Robert T. Brown Nature Sanctuary in Houghton County serves as an outdoor classroom for Jeffers High School, and in past years the students helped build boardwalks, a viewing platform and interpretive signs. Newaygo Middle School students learned about the habitat needs of the federally endangered Karner blue butterfly in their classroom and then helped with lupine planting and invasive species management at our Newaygo area sanctuaries. Addison High School students cut invasive glossy buckthorn while learning about prairie fen ecology at Goose Creek Grasslands Nature Sanctuary.
MNA hosted service days at nearby MNA nature sanctuaries for a number of nearby schools in 2017. As examples, Laingsburg High School planted red and burr oak trees, built and installed protective cages for the new trees, and removed invasive species at A Looking Glass Nature Sanctuary. East Grand Rapids Middle School pulled garlic mustard during a Day of Caring at Dolan Nature Sanctuary.
MNA partners with colleges and universities that wish to conduct valuable research at our nature sanctuaries. 2017 examples include prairie fen research at Calla Burr Nature Sanctuary by students at Central Michigan University, eastern massasauga rattlesnake surveys and habitat assessments by Andrews University students at nature sanctuaries in Berrien County, and the University of Michigan – Flint wildlife biology students’ third annual service learning field trip at Lakeville Swamp to remove common buckthorn. MNA also welcomed several interns whose participation ranged from field work to event support to writing articles and blogs.
< Top row from left: Collins Elementary second graders learning about pollinators and butterflies from an MNA presentation (John Bagley), East Grand Rapids middle schoolers out on a Day of Caring at Dolan Nature Sanctuary (Patricia Pennell). Bottom row from left: Addison High School biology students take on invasive glossy buckthorn at Goose Creek Grasslands as part of MNA’s School to Sanctuary Program (Rachel Maranto), University of Michigan - Flint wildlife biology students on a service learning field trip at Lakeville Swamp (Rachel Maranto).
“The race was one of the best I’ve experienced... and I have been running for 18+ years!” Rachel Ryan, first place finisher in the Turtle Trot 5K
Race for Michigan Nature
Engaging Families and Communities The Race for Michigan Nature, a statewide series of Family Fun Runs & 5Ks, hosted hundreds of runners in six different cities and parks, and one new location. This year the races were held in Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Ann Arbor, Rochester, Detroit, and Marquette.
The runs are endorsed by the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness, Health and Sports and each qualifies for the Pure Michigan Challenge, where runners and volunteers can accumulate points to win special prizes. Moosejaw, an outdoor sports store, also sponsored the races.
Each race spotlights one of Michigan’s rarest species and helps to promote the importance of protecting Michigan’s remaining natural areas. The special species highlighted include Karner blue butterflies, monarch butterflies, turtles, rattlesnakes, lake sturgeon, and moose.
Help protect rare, threatened and endangered species throughout Michigan by registering for a race near you. Races are open to families and are stroller and pet friendly! Find more information about the 2018 race schedule on our website and Facebook page.
Endorsed by: Congratulations 2017 Winners!
Grand Rapids
Location
Top Male Runner
Top Female Runner
Grand Rapids
Connor VanderWilt
Stephanie Robinson
Marquette
Jack Sullivan
Kathy St. Germain
Rochester
Kevin Sherwood
Stephanie Davis
Ann Arbor
Benito Aquino
Rachel Ryan
Kalamazoo
John Donnelly
Elizabeth Kayfish
Belle Isle
Jamie Jurkowski
Alesia Sibrel
Marquette
Rochester
Ann Arbor
Kalamazoo
Detroit
â&#x20AC;&#x153;Nature needs everyone and everyone needs nature.â&#x20AC;? Yu Man Lee, Conservation Biologist and MNA Trustee
Leaving a Lasting Legacy
People Making a Difference Each fall, supporters and friends of the Michigan Nature Association gather to celebrate the commitment of those who have made outstanding contributions to our success. In 2017, MNA was pleased to honor the following:
2017 Volunteer Award Recipients Richard W. Holzman Award Margaret Welsch
Frederick W. Case, Jr. Environmental Educator Award Deb Iwema
Mason and Melvin Schafer Distinguished Service Award Bill Atkinson
Volunteer of the Year Award Dan Burton Brett Harris Bill Houston Phil Quenzi
Good Neighbor Award Valerie and John Vance Clay DeGayner
2017 Volunteer & Donor Recognition Dinner by Julie Stoneman
< Top row from left: Margaret Welsch at the Volunteer & Donor Recognition Dinner (Cassie Miller). Middle column in top row: (top) Brett Harris monitoring the Saline River at the Rodman Memorial Nature Sanctuary (Rachel Maranto), (bottom) Dan Burton working in the field at an MNA sanctuary (John Bagley). Right column in top row: (top) Bill Houston manages Mystery Valley by leading volunteer workdays and maintaining the property (Bill Houston), (bottom) Phil Quenzi participating in a volunteer workday at MNA sanctuaries on Brockway Mountain (Nancy Leonard). Bottom row from left: Deb Iwema and her Newaygo Middle School students on a field trip at the Karner Blue Nature Sanctuary (John Bagley), Bill Atkinson at the Stephen M. Polovich Memorial Nature Sanctuary (Natalie Kent-Norkowski).
A Statewide Impact 3
MNA’s statewide impact is made possible by our dedicated sanctuary stewards and hundreds of volunteers, and we are so grateful for their support. We wish to also thank our valued partners including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Michigan Natural Features Inventory, Michigan Karst Conservancy, The Nature Conservancy, Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area partners, Brooks Township, and the Fenton Community Fund Advisory Committee of the Community Foundation of Greater Flint. Their support made many of these projects possible.
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Land Acquisition
4
1. Red Cedar River Nature Sanctuary Addition MNA nearly doubled the size of this floodplain forest sanctuary along the Red Cedar River in Ingham County.
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2. Big Valley Nature Sanctuary Addition With a North American Wetlands Conservation Act grant, another ten acres was added to provide additional buffer to the prairie fen at Big Valley, one of the handful of locations left in the world for the federally endangered Poweshiek skipperling. 3. Keweenaw Coastal Wildlife Corridor MNA supported two successful Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund grants to Eagle Harbor and Grant Townships that will protect more than 600 acres around Brockway Mountain. 4. Bois Blanc Island Property Transfer The Nature Conservancy of Michigan transferred 235 acres in Mackinac County to MNA, including Lake Huron shoreline, coastal wetlands and rare species habitat.
Gray hairstreak butterfly by Marilyn Keigley
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5. McCulley-Bastian Sanctuary Donation Thanks to generous landowners, MNA acquired 70 acres of donated land along the River Raisin in Lenawee County to establish our newest sanctuary.
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Stewardship 1. Prescribed Burns and Savanna Restoration for Karner Blue Butterfly Habitat A partnership with The Nature Conservancy and Brooks Township restored habitat on MNA’s Karner Blue and Newaygo Prairie Nature Sanctuaries, the township’s Coolbough Natural Area, and one other private property with funding support from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
2. Dowagiac Woods Management Volunteers quickly replaced a bridge destroyed by a spring wind storm in time for the spring wildflower display and helped pull invasive garlic mustard.
9. Saginaw Wetlands Management With the help of volunteers, MNA removed invasives such as phragmites and autumn olive and completed repairs on a water control structure.
3. Butternut Creek Prairie Fen Restoration As part of a multi-year project in partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, MNA conducted a small prescribed burn and removed woody growth encroaching on the prairie fen.
10. Mystery Valley Improvements In partnership with the Michigan Karst Conservancy, MNA conducted invasive species and trail management projects.
4. Dauner Martin Ecological and Visitor Improvements A grant from the Franklin D. Adams Fund of the Community Foundation of Greater Flint Community funded two seasonal employees, invasive species removal and improved visitor amenities at this popular nature sanctuary in Fenton. 5. Poweshiek Skipperling Conservation Team MNA, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, MNFI, and many others participated in a complex partnership to address the needs of the federally endangered Poweshiek skipperling. 6. Estivant Pines Visitor Improvements Steward Ted Soldan, a local youth group, and contractors led boardwalk replacement, expansion and trail maintenance. 7. Phragmites Management in St. Clair County MNA teamed up with the Lake St. Clair CISMA* to complete spraying of invasive phragmites patches threatening multiple MNA nature sanctuaries. 8. Black Swallowwort Management MNA worked with the Oakland County CISMA* to treat invasive black swallowwort at the Big Valley Nature Sanctuary and nearby properties in Rose Township. *Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area
11. Prescribed Burn at Goose Creek Grasslands MNA managed habitat for important grassland species with a prescribed burn. Volunteers and Addison High School students helped with removal of invasive glossy buckthorn. 12. Lakeside Daisy Monitoring in Mackinac County An MNA and Michigan Karst Conservancy team planted a reserve population of this rare wildflower in 2016. This year’s monitoring showed promising results.
Education & Outreach 1. Newaygo Middle School at Newaygo Prairie & Karner Blue Nature Sanctuary Students learned about the life cycle and habitat needs of the Karner blue butterfly and helped with planting lupine and pulling invasive spotted knapweed. 2. Addison High School at Goose Creek Grasslands and Lefglen Nature Sanctuary MNA’s ongoing partnership with Addison High School included classroom presentations, work days at the sanctuaries, and nature study for botany classes. 3. Laingsburg High School at A Looking Glass Nature Sanctuary Students planted red and burr oak trees, built and installed protective cages for the new trees, and removed invasive species.
13. Bioblitz at McCulley-Bastian Nature Sanctuary Scientists gathered to document as many species as possible in a day-long Bioblitz at MNA’s newest nature sanctuary in Lenawee County.
4. Eliza Howell Park / Brightmoor Neighborhood Partnership MNA is helping to organize conservation and education partners to promote stewardship for the natural areas at Eliza Howell Park in Detroit.
14. Wilcox Warnes Partnership In a new, developing partnership, employees of L.L. Bean participated in hikes and workdays over the course of the year, and helped with boardwalk construction and invasive species management in Shelby Township.
5. New Education Room MNA constructed a new education room for meetings, workshops and speaker events that is also available for use by conservation partners.
15. Eagle Scout Projects Terry Baut and Sean Leverenz finished their Eagle Scout Service Projects. Terry built a new split rail fence at Big Valley Nature Sanctuary and Sean completed several boardwalk sections and cleared brush at Wilcox Warnes Nature Sanctuary.
E. Environmental Education Fund Mini-Grants MNA funded field trip opportunities for eleven schools to bring students to natural areas. K. Race for Michigan Nature MNA hosted the Race for Michigan Nature, a statewide series of six Family Fun Runs & 5Ks.
Thank You to Our Supporters MNA receives generous support from thousands of individuals across the country. In addition to these financial gifts, MNA is extremely grateful for the contributed services and work of its many volunteers, whose names may not appear on these pages. Every gift to MNA makes a difference, and we thank each of our supporters for their dedication to saving Michigan’s natural treasures. MNA is very appreciative of the contributions by each and every member, donor and volunteer. We have made every attempt to be accurate in our list, which includes donations made between November 1, 2016 and October 31, 2017; any name not included was done so unintentionally and we apologize for the omission. Names with a (*) next to them denotes our Guardians of the Future, supporters who, through estate planning, make a planned gift to MNA. These individuals and families create a lasting legacy and protect even more of Michigan’s natural heritage both during and beyond a donor’s lifetime.
Black-eyed Susan by Winnie Chrzanowski
$10,000 and up Community Foundation of Greater Flint Harry Elkins Helstrom Memorial Fund of Community Foundation for Muskegon County Addison and Debby Igleheart J.A. Woollam Foundation Michael and Libby Robold* David and Jeannette Sharpe Anonymous (2)
$1,000 to $9,999 Anna Paulina Foundation Doris Applebaum* Leon and Linda Bakke William and Jan Bingham Greg and Linda Bodker Carol Branch and Deb Ledford William Cooke* Melvin and Mary Ann Czechowski Donald and Christine Diehl Ducks Unlimited Frank G. and Gertrude Dunlap Foundation Darcy and David Dye Feelgood Tap Charles and Nancy Goodrich David and Carrie Grellmann Rex Guelde Nancy Hammond
The Highfield Foundation Clifford and Shirley Johnson Kurt and Maura Jung Stephen Kelley and Mary Catherine Rentz Gisela Lendle King John and Joanne Kleis Scott Klus Douglas and Celeste LaBar Leuthold Family Foundation David Lindberg Bruce and Patricia Loughry* Robert and Marion Martin Gregory and Nancy Maze Frank and Nancy Moore Noel Moore Margaret Pekarek Gary Pomeroy Ward Randol, Jr. Don and Carolyn Reed* Bill and Donna Remer Debbie Remer* James Rogers Ken Ross Ruth Vail Janet Jung Victor David and Joan Wendling Betty White* James and Marva Williams Cathleen Zepelin* Anonymous (7)
Thank You to Our Supporters
$500 to $999 Alec and Judy Allen Walter and Mary Louise Arnold James Bauer Judith Becker James Bizer Stuart Bolinger Eleanor Brownell John and Patricia Case Community Foundation for Southeast MI William and Harriet Cook Kirk and Carly Fifer Don Gilmer and Lynn Weimeister Aubrey and Martina Golden Chris and Tammy Hamilton Linda and John Harris Neil and Mary Hodges* Anna Holden IBM Corporation Matching Grants Program Nora Iversen and John Talbot Robert Kachman Margaret Kirby Land Trust Alliance Frances Lewis Paul and Susan McEwen
Maureen Michael Janet A. Morosco Patrick and Christine Muldoon Constance Peltier Glenn and Ellen Peterson Ron and Helen Priest Tony and Susan Reznicek Jim and Pam Rossman John Schlansker Rebecca Sive and Steve Tomashefsky Donald and Karen Stearns Paul and Aggie Steiner Martin Tatuch Michael and Marcia Torrey Kyle Troyer Craig Tylenda Phyllis Valentine Joyce Van Ochten Brian and Joan Wake* Glen and Edie Walter Marshall and Karen Weingarden George Wickstrom Christian and Clare Winkel David and Joanne Wood Stan and Kathy Zasuwa Anonymous (6)
$100 to $499 Academic Internal Medicine Matthew Alder George Alpervitz Lorna Amsbaugh Leon and Beverly Anibal Nick Annicchiarico Bill and Mary Atkinson Mark Atma and Ruth Ten Broek Thomas and Linda Baes Phyllis Barents Clifford and Isabel Bath David Baur and Bernice Natoli Kim Beal and Gladys Chrostek-Beal Pat and Ronald Beechem Michael and Diane Bennett Cathy and Terrence Blake Blossom Home Stacy and Timothy Bosch Robert Bowden Jr. and Ann Fitzpatrick William and Angela Bowman Kristine Bradof Stephanie Bradshaw The Bradtke Family Betsy Briere Jon and Linda Brorson
We Remember
Carl E. Bouton (1950-2017) Dedicated Steward Carl developed his life-long love of the natural world as a child growing up on 80 acres of woodlands and fields in southwest Michigan. Always concerned about human-caused destruction of the natural world, Carl orchestrated a donation from the Bouton and Mortensen families of richly-biodiverse floodplain and mesic southern forest along the South Branch of the Black River near Breedsville. The Black River Nature Sanctuary, notable for a great blue heron rookery and beautiful spring wildflower displays, was established in 1993. It remained a special place for Carl and he volunteered there as an MNA steward for decades.
Thank You to Our Supporters
$100 to $499 Cont. Erik Brown and Barbara Weinstein Marie Buckerfield Lee Burton and Roberta Shaw-Reeves Tony and Jane Burton Daniel Burton James Buschmann and Shirley Sampier Carolyn and Kerry Bush Cathy and David Butts Richard and Beverly Buzinski Marilou Capo Kathleen Cavanaugh Phillip Chamberlain Kristi Chapman Lucy Chargot Robert Christensen Christopher Clampitt Pete and Shari Clason Molly and Gary Cole John Copley and Jan Berry Patricia Cornett Conni Crittenden Marilyn Currier Edward Curtis Elizabeth Dapson Bill and Margie Darooge Lorraine Davidson Catherine Davis Nancy Davis William and Kathy Davis Bill Deephouse and Marcia Goodrich Davide DeGraaf Wayne and Marj Dennis
Larry and Diane Detter Mike Devarenne DeWitt Millennium Garden Club Allen and Alisa Dodson Anne Doran Stephen and Jayne Dunseith Rachel Dupuis John Dye Mary Edgar Harry and Sara Eick Deborah Elliot L. Edward Elsholz Annajean Elvey Ron Emaus and Jan Sovak Barry and Judy Endsley Jennifer Enzer Daniel and Martina Ezekiel James and Fran Falender Harvey and Elly Falit John and Anne Farmer Liz and Sam Febba Finlandia Foundation of Michigan Theresa Fish May and Terry Foltz Robert and Ruth Fountain Janet Fox Susan Frazier Frank Galante and Paula DeGregorio Paul Gambka Liz Gannon Harold Gleaves Richard and Marianne Glosenger Malcolm and Rita Goodwin Chris and Elaine Graham
Judith Grantz Gratiot Lake Conservancy Greater Lansing Orchid Society Richard Greening Susanne Greenlee and Geoffrey Hoyer Grosse Pointe Audubon Edward Groves and Heidi Grether David Gruenawald Suzanne Grywalski Susan Gumpper Sondra Gunn Haines Philanthropic Foundation Dan Hardie James Harris Virginia Hathorne John and Mary Kay Heidtke Mark and Judith Herman Gretchen Hirsch Martha Hitchiner Bill Hixson Gary Hofing Doug and Marie Holem David Holzschuh and Pattie Boettger* David Howell Julie and Michael Hussar Keith Alan Huth Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish Kerry and Mary Irons Mark and Nancy Isken Abdeen Jabara and Holly Maguigan* Robert Johnson Doug and Katharine Johnson Rachel Juris Bill and Linda Kail
C.W. and Carol Kauffman Janet Kauffman Jean Kegler Jeanette Keim Steve Keim and Vera Kraft Brian and Anita Kelley John and Elaine Kentala Joellyn and Kelly Kieren Sue Ellen Kingsley and Terry Kinzel Bill and Deborah Kingsley Jacqueline Kinsman Bruce and Mary Ann Klosner Don Klotz, Jr. Leah Knapp Thomas and Judith Knox Marjorie Kohler Margaret Kohring Marsha Korroch Richard and Ann Kraft Diane Krause Joe Kravetz Kroger Community Rewards Stan and Brenda Kuchta Leslie Kuhn Ponon D. Kumar, M.D. Frederick and Susan Lamb Lawrence and Judith Larson Glenn Latinen Deb Ledford Don Leduc and Susan Coley Yu Man Lee and Jon Noyes John Lehman and Maureen Delaney Kyle Lehrmann Bill and Nancy Leonard
Thank You to Our Supporters David and Alice Lewandowski Bill and Wendy Lewis Richard Lorey Mary Lorimer Barry and Karen Ludwig David and Sarah Lynch Joann Lynch Kit and Wendell Lynch Diane Macaulay Jay and Beth Machielse Scott MacLean Merry MacRae Erwin Madorsky Georgia Makens Kathy Malone Rachel Maranto Ralph and Marena Markel* Jeanne Marsh and Steve Shevell Kyle Martin David Martz Colleen Matula Peggy Maycock JB McCombs and Grace Menzel* Barbara Mead James Mertens Yvette Messing Barbara Metting Michigan Botanical Club - Huron Valley Chapter Michigan Gateway Community Services James Mihelcic and Karen
Curry Moran Robert Miller Susan Miller Tracy Miller Dennis and Pauline Moore Margaret R. Moran Amanda Morgan Aubrey Morris Wayne and Karen Moss James Munro* William Nakalsky Robert and Kimberly Ness Jill Neuville* Quock Ng Glen Nichols Catherine Niessink Ken and Emily Nietering Mr. and Mrs. Richard Norling Bert and Pam Nunneley Oakland Audubon Society Anthony O’Keeffe Martha Oleski Angela Page Charles and Sun Ok Pearson Joanna Pease People’s Church of Kalamazoo Michael and Patricia Petelle William Pflager Mark and Rosemary Pinsky Joe Pitlanish Kristy Placido John Porter Martha Porter
Daniel Price Qualcomm Matching Grant Program Rada Radebaugh Carol and Stephen Rall Arlene Rampson Mary Rasmussen and Dan Sandin Michael and Susan Raymond Blair Reamy Christine Reineke Florence and Benjamin Rhodes Mary Rhodes Jeff Richards Timothy Richards and Constance McGuire Patricia Richardson Clayton and Anne Roberts Rochester Hills Women’s National Farm and Garden Fran Rosen Dr. Lewis Rosenbaum Stephen and Barbara Ross* Bruce Rossman Joseph and Patricia Roti Roti Jerry and Fran Rucker Sandra and Michael Ruddick Ruth Sablich* Kate and Ralph Safford Christine Samida Mary Saylor
We Remember
Mark A. Sellers, Jr. (1940 – 2017) Passion for Protecting Copperbelly Water Snakes Soon after earning a natural resources degree, Mark discovered a population of Copperbelly Water Snakes in Hillsdale County in 1983, a species that is endangered in Michigan and is listed as federally threatened. From that discovery, MNA acquired properties from 1988 to 1993 to establish Sarah Jane’s Nature Sanctuary. Mark identified the sanctuary as some of the best of the few remaining habitats left for the “coppers” in Michigan. Through the years, Mark contributed his considerable knowledge about the snakes and other reptiles in the area, and was a crucial advocate for protection of this special species.
Thank You to Our Supporters
$100 to $499 Cont. Edward Scharrer Horst Schmidt Manfred and Judith Schmidt Lynn Schram Edward and Carol Schrand Phyllis Schroeder Dr. Elizabeth Schultz Marcia Schwarz Jan and Jim Senneker Chip and Nancy Sestok Michael and Cynthia Sevilla Mark and Mary Shantz Jack and Myrna Shapiro
Lefglen Nature Sanctuary by Eugene Lidster
Elvera Shappirio Ken Shaw Larry Shulman and Rhonda Rochambeau Dick and Posy Shuster Ted and Alice Soldan Ioana Sonea and Chris Brown Southwestern Michigan Botanical Club Bill Spengler Jeff Stein Nancy Steiner Les and Jackie Stiner Kay Stremler and Ron Sell Joan and Mark Strobel Teresa Strzalkowski Elly Sullivan* Matt Swanson Neal and Sharon Swanson Adam Szymczak Betty Tableman Andy Tenka and Ping P Kho James Tercha Rhonda Thede Laura Bethany Thomas William and Lenora Thurston Paul and Alice Tomboulian Cheryl Topash Raymond Travis* Vainutis Vaitkevicius Alice and Dale Valaskovic Charlene Vanacker
Robert Vanderkamp Richard and Jo Ann Viinikainen Curt and Janet Vogel Margaret Walter Robert Walter Kenneth Walz David Wanty Tom and Nancy Washburne Paula Watson Celeste Watts Leonard and Margaret Weber Richard and Annette Weiser Sue Welch Carolyn White Blanche Wicke Marshal Wied Wild Ones Kalamazoo Center Clarice and Robert Williams Williamston Red Cedar Garden Club Lee Wilson James Wilton Gordon Witte Pat and Peggy Wolf Nancy Yeager Dean Yeotis David and Sarah Young Lars Zabel Ted Zahrfeld Mark and Andrea Zajac Walter Zarnoch Debbie Zolynski Anonymous (47)
Guardians of the Future (not previously listed)
Delrae M. Abbott John Assenmacher Steve and Karen Benkert Elizabeth S. Bishop Phillip and Mary Borkowski Roger W. Cooney Betty Debus Stan and Betsy Dole Dorothy Louise Fisher Richard Foster Stephen Fox Jeff Ganley and Asansaya Pondet Barb Haman John Hand Fay Hansen Shannon Horne Rama and Gokul Jinka Sharon Johnson Linda Luneack Fran McCauley Donn and Kathy Miller Betty Muller Ernest Nassar Don and Susan Schmitz Gerard and Lynette Szydlowski Scott and Linda Thomasma John and Peggy Zachel Anonymous (5)
Financial Summary Fiscal Year 2016-2017 This condensed financial statement for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2016 and ending September 30, 2017 is based on an audit prepared by the independent certified public accounting firm of Flegal and Melnik CPA. Copies of the audit and MNAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Form 990 Report to the Internal Revenue Service for FYE 2017 are available upon request.
Expenses 2017 ASSETS
Administration & Fundraising 14%
Cash
331,490
241,598
Receivables
275,950
294,424
6,292,451
5,995,403
632,848
576,446
12,045,014
11,835,749
91,958
21,804
19,671,711
18,965,424
Accounts Payable
29,188
19,012
Payroll and Payroll Taxes
27,003
24,754
Annuity Liability
19,534
22,617
TOTAL LIABILITIES
75,725
66,383
TOTAL NET ASSETS
19,595,986
18,899,041
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS
19,671,711
18,965,424
Investments at Market Value Outreach & Education 34%
Conservation 52%
Property and Equipment Sanctuary Properties Other Assets TOTAL ASSETS
Income Grants & Restricted 10% Endowment 41%
2016
Contributions 45%
Miscellaneous 4%
LIABILITIES
About Us Our Mission The purpose of MNA is to acquire, protect and maintain natural areas that contain examples of Michigan’s endangered and threatened flora, fauna and other components of the natural environment, including habitat for fish, wildlife and plants of the state of Michigan and to carry on a program of natural history study and conservation education. We envision a future where Michigan’s rare, threatened and endangered species and imperiled natural communities thrive, and where they are valued by people and communities that embrace and benefit from Michigan’s natural heritage.
Board of Trustees
Staff
Aubrey Golden President
Garret Johnson Executive Director
Yu Man Lee Vice President Ruth Vail Secretary Kurt Brauer Treasurer Paul Messing Trustee-at-Large Bill Bobier David Cartwright Mary Ann Czechowski Kara Haas Steve Kelley Gisela Lendle King Stan Kuchta Don Reed David Sharpe Karen Weingarden Margaret Welsch
Paul Steiner Operations Director Julie Stoneman Director of Outreach and Education Andrew Bacon Conservation Director Jack Flakne Land Protection Specialist Natalie Kent-Norkowski Regional Stewardship Organizer, N.L.P. Rachel Maranto Regional Stewardship Organizer, E.L.P. Jess Foxen Outreach & Communications Coordinator Sherry Stewart Member Services Coordinator
Goat’s Rue at Newaygo Prairie Nature Sanctuary by Susan Sorg Back Cover Photography: Top row from left: Millmine Lake at the George and Jessie Krum Nature Sanctuary (Joshua Chrisman), Eastern phoebe (Cindy Mead), Karner blue butterfly at the Karner Blue Nature Sanctuary (Valerie Lindeman). Bottom row from left: Blueeyed Mary at Dowagiac Woods Nature Sanctuary (MNA Archives), Red admiral butterfly (Mary Rasmussen), May apple at Timberland Swamp Nature Sanctuary (Jonathan Schechter), and Kid’s Day at Coolbough Natural Area (John Bagley).
All uncredited photography is taken from the MNA archives. Please direct questions about this publication to Outreach & Communications Coordinator Jess Foxen by emailing jfoxen@michigannature.org or calling (866) 223-2231. © 2017. Except where used with permission, entire contents copyright 2017 Michigan Nature Association.
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award-winning author of Ruin and Recovery: Michigan’s Rise as a Conservation Leader
White-crowned sparrow by Cindy Mead
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