OUR MISSION To protect the natural diversity and beauty of northern Michigan by preserving significant land and scenic areas, and fostering appreciation and understanding of the environment. Our service area includes Chippewa, Mackinac, Emmet, Cheboygan, and Charlevoix counties. WE PROTECT LAND The land is a living resource. When it is overdeveloped or misused, we all suffer. This is particularly critical in the North where natural beauty is our principal attraction, and most people’s livelihoods are derived in some way from the region’s abundant resources. In the last century, the landscape has been changing faster than it has been protected in its natural state. In 1972, the Little Traverse Conservancy was founded as a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization to take action. As of June, 2023: More than 330 private properties have been given permanent protection with conservation easements. Almost 400 nature preserves and 38 working forest reserves are open to the public with more than 100 miles of trails available. Dozens of partnerships with local units of government have protected additional lands now open to the public.