The Conservancy's land protection efforts were very successful in 1996. Three parcels of land were acquired totaling over 27 acres with 2,144 feet of frontage on inland lakes. In addition, nine conservation easements protected over 818 acres of land with 15,329 feet of frontage on various lakes. The Conservancy also played a pivotal role in helping several communities obtain grants for park projects.
Education programs continue to grow.
The Conservancy involved over 6000 children from northern Michigan schools in programs on our nature preserves and in classrooms. The Conservancy ended 1996 with a record number of members and membership contributions. Contributions were made by 3,238 families last year, up 105 from the previous year. The number of new members was an important part of the success last year. We received contributions from 347 new members in 1996, about 11 percent of the total membership.