Every good story has humble beginnings–small creeks that gather momentum as they trickle toward swifter waters.
In 1971, along the banks of the Huron River, a small but mighty group banded together to push back against the rising tide of development in Ann Arbor. Neighbors gathered neighbors, and an idea began to take root: the nature in our backyards is precious, and we have a responsibility to protect it.
This group of visionaries formed Washtenaw Land Conservancy, which would eventually become Legacy Land Conservancy. And during the spring of 1970, they collected $90,000 to save 60 acres of what is now Bird Hills Nature Area from a proposed condo development.
From there we sprang forward–powered by the idea that southern Michigan is home to rare and important ecosystems that provide value and deserve the space to thrive. And dedicated to providing our community with places to immerse themselves in the natural world, creating wide-reaching and inter-generational healing opportunities.
Fifty-five years later, and Legacy is still driven by the grassroots ideal that we can make a meaningful local impact to safeguard water quality and biodiversity by coming together.
Today, the Save Bird Hills Campaign would cost approximately $726,000. It didn’t happen with billionaires swooping in to power the cause or big federal funds. It happened with every day people, stepping up to support the land they loved.
“One 12-year-old youth gave half his $20 life savings to the fund,” reported the Ann Arbor News. “Another high school girl donated one week’s wages earned at a local slimming salon: $25. Still another woman, a student wife with a baby, said she could only afford to donate $3. Most of the contributions and pledges have been of the $5, $10 and $25 variety, with occasional donations of $100 and $500.”
This dedication has weathered five decades of political lows and social highs because our community is strong.
And on June 25 we’re hosting a special evening at Revel Run in Chelsea to celebrate Legacy’s 55 years of community-powered conservation.
We’d love for you to join us! [BUY TICKET]
It will be an evening full of community and connecting with people who are passionate about building a future with cleaner water, fresh locally-grown food, lush forests to roam, and prairies full of pollinators.
Plus, we’ll enjoy locally crafted food and drinks, live music, hands-on experiences, a raffle, and meaningful connections with others who care deeply about the land.
Legacy is still driven by the grassroots ideal that by banding together we can make a meaningful local impact to safeguard water quality and biodiversity. This June, we’re excited to celebrate our roots with you.
Get your tickets now and celebrate the people, places, and shared commitment that made 55 years of conservation possible. [BUY TICKET]