Michigan Conservation Trail

Long recognized as a national and even international conservation leader, Michigan must commemorate and promote knowledge of its conservation history, making it vivid and meaningful to the state’s citizens and visiting tourists. To that end, the Michigan Environmental Council, in partnership with the Michigan Department of History, Arts and Libraries, launched the Michigan Conservation Trail project in 2006.

The project emphasizes three themes: citizen activism, Michigan’s special place globally, and bold leadership. When complete, it will include numerous markers throughout the state illustrating key landmarks and turning points in the state’s conservation history, along with associated educational materials.

The first marker, commemorating the recovery of the Detroit River from pollution and habitat loss, was dedicated in September 2007.

Commemorating the placement of the state’s first Conservation Trail marker on Sept. 1 were, from left to right: Jack Dempsey, Michigan Historical Commission; David Howell, Friends of Detroit River; George Mans, International Wildlife Refuge Alliance; Jim Beaubien, Gibraltar Mayor; Joey Palamara, Wayne County Commission; Hugh McDiarmid Jr., Michigan Environmental Council, Wayne County Executive Robert Ficano; Bill LeFevre, Mayor Pro-Tem of Trenton; John Hartig, Refuge Manager of Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge; Congressman John Dingell; State Representative Kathleen Law; State Representative Kate Ebli. Photo Credit: John Covert

For more information, see The Michigan Conservation Trail: A Trip through Time and Place in the Protection of Michigan’s Majesty.