As the year began, Legacy was moving forward with momentum and board and staff were excited about the prospects of a new year. Iron Creek Preserve restoration projects and opening day preparations were well underway. We celebrated the protection of a 198-acre farm seven years in the making. And we shared in the excitement of receiving a federal $24.6M Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) project award to preserve 4,000 acres of forest and farmland across our region. [Click here to read the full report]
That moment tested us following the November 2024 election. When the new administration took office, we faced the reality of an abrupt change in federal priorities and funding sources.
Discouraged, but not defeated, we leaned into what grounds us: our strategic plan, our ten-year sustainability plan, our long-term vision, and our commitment to the land and people we serve. Those guiding principles shaped how we responded–steadily, thoughtfully, and with resolve.
With our focus firmly centered on protecting diverse ecosystems while also expanding access, creating opportunities, and building a more inclusive future in nature, Legacy adapted–like we always do–to the changing landscape, and we persevered. And there’s much to celebrate!
Even amid uncertainty, our mission moved forward in tangible ways.
We completed six land projects, including one donation, one bargain sale, one trade land, and three more Raisin Valley Land Trust conservation easement assumptions.
We officially opened Iron Creek Preserve to the community–thanks to the dedication of staff and volunteers!
We made significant progress on our preserve accessibility plan, installing new a new kiosk at Iron Creek Preserve and adding Spanish-language signage to our Sharon Hill Preserve kiosk.
We devoted staff time and expertise to preparing and filing a formal appeal following the rescission of our federal $24.6M RCPP award.
At the same time, Legacy is on the cusp of strategic, mission-driven growth. Staff and the Board of Trustees are thoroughly exploring, planning, and strategizing in a way that ensures a fiscally sound future for land protection and stewardship at Legacy and in our region.
As part of this work, we took an important step forward this year by securing a $3 million restricted pledge for our stewardship endowment fund. This commitment reflects deep confidence in Legacy’s future and will help strengthen our long-term capacity to care for protected land and explore expanded preserve programming.
The year was demanding and defining. Yet even in challenging times, one thing remains constant: Legacy’s love for the land, and our unwavering commitment to protect it now, and always.
We remain steadfast in our pledge to Michigan farmers, families, and landowners who are counting on us. And this work is possible because of you. Your support, encouragement, and trust fuel our persistence and give us the confidence to keep moving forward, no matter the obstacles.
In 2026, Legacy will celebrate 55 years of land protection–a testament to our resilience, our partnerships, and the strength of our community. Together, we are ensuring Michigan’s farmland, forests, and waters are protected today and for generations to come.
Thank you for standing with us.
Yours in Conservation,
Diana Kern, Executive Director & Bill Strohaver, Board President