Conservation made simple

You have more power to conserve Michigan's shared land than you realize.

75+

YEARS OF OPERATION

6

CONSERVATION SPECIALISTS

89

LANDOWNER SITE VISITS IN FISCAL YEAR 2025

5169

WORKSHOP & CLASSROOM INTERACTIONS IN FISCAL YEAR 2025

About US

We've always been neighbors helping neighbors

We started as a group of farmers coming together after the 1930s Dust Bowl. Since then, we've evolved into one of Michigan's most active conservation districts with six specialists making conservation accessible, empowering, and community-focused.

For 75+ years, our mission has been to provide leadership in the promotion and protection of Missaukee County's soil, water, and other natural resources through education and technical assistance.

OUR IMPACT

Making conservation accessible for everyone

Since 2018, we've reached over 2,600 community members through education programs, helped 70+ volunteers monitor watershed health, and supported 52 farms across four counties with conservation practices.

As of June 9, 2025:

172

events held

in fiscal year 2025

5,527

adults reached

through education programs since 2018

14,712

kids reached

through education programs since 2018

Who We've partnered with

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Our Programs

Property Site Visits & Landowner Assistance

Our team of conservation specialists give practical guidance that works for your specific situation.

We offer:

  • Landowner & Farmer Assistance

  • Forest Health & Management

  • Watershed & Water Quality Assistance

  • Soil Conservation & Groundwater Protection

  • Invasive Species Management

Education & Outreach

Learn by doing, connect with neighbors, and discover just how much positive change you can create. No boring lectures - just hands-on fun that sparks genuine excitement about conservation.

We offer:

  • Classroom Presentations

  • Conservation Education Kit Rental

  • Community Stream Monitoring

  • Community Workshops

Financial Support

We help connect you with funding opportunities and affordable solutions that make being a good land steward accessible for everyone.

We offer:

  • Soil Test Cost Share

  • NRCS Cost-Share Opportunities

  • Affordable Tree & Native Plants

  • Cost-Share Opportunities through the CTAP/MAEAP Program

Conservation Shop

Get supplies chosen by neighbors tested in Missaukee County.

All proceeds support our programs and conservation initiatives in the community.

We offer:

  • Tree & Native Plants

  • Garden Kits

  • Seed Mixes

  • Planting Aids

  • Books

How we make conservation simple for you

We Know This Area

We live here too and have been helping Missaukee County landowners for 75+ years, so you get advice from people who understand exactly what works in local conditions.

No Lectures or Pressure

We're here to help, not tell you what to do, so you can ask questions and explore options without worrying about being judged or pressured into expensive projects.

One Team for Everything

Whether it's soil problems, tree issues, or water concerns, our whole team works together, so you don't have to figure out which expert to call or try to coordinate between different agencies.

INTRODUCING

The Simple Backyard Conservation Course

Learn how to transform your outdoor space into a thriving wildlife habitat.

Simple changes in how you maintain your yard or outdoor space can have a meaningful environmental impact right at home. There is no cost for the course because we believe conservation should be accessible to everyone!

Here's what you get:

Get the exact conservation strategies that have helped hundreds of neighbors create real environmental change right from their own yards straight to your inbox.

You'll learn how to:

  • Support fireflies, pollinators and other beneficial insects with a simple lawn care change that actually saves you work.

  • Capture rainwater naturally using materials you probably already have at home.

  • Create pollinator pit stops that bring bees and butterflies to your space without expensive landscaping.

  • Fix common erosion problems with techniques that work in real-world conditions.

  • Build conservation confidence through quick wins that show immediate results.

  • Connect with nature in ways that benefit both wildlife and your family.

TESTIMONIALS

What the community is saying

"Our community is super fortunate to have your organization."

I am always so impressed with the knowledge all of your volunteers have. Our community is super fortunate to have your organization. Thank you!

"We always have a blast with you guys!"

I thought it was great that the kids got to do two hikes rather than just one. We always have a blast with you guys! Thank you so much!

"There was so much I didn't know"

There was so much I didn't know about this place from soil and water testing to spill cleanups these ladies taught me a whole lot about what conservation office does on a daily basis.

"Would go every time there’s a class!"

Great events! I've learned so much about herbal medicine and making tinctures and teas! Amazing class! Would go every time there’s a class!

Get Involved

Volunteer

Join hands-on conservation work that makes a visible difference in our community.

Attend

Join your neighbors at our various upcoming conservation workshops and events.

Partner

Connect your business or organization with conservation-minded residents while supporting meaningful local work.

Donate

Make conservation accessible for everyone. Ensure free expert help for all neighbors regardless of income.