The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park

Since 1972, the Little Traverse Conservancy has evolved to become one of the most established and effective regional land trusts in the country. From a small group of dedicated volunteers, the organization has now grown to a full-time professional staff and more than 150 volunteers. We are funded entirely by individuals and receive no government funding for operations. The Little Traverse Conservancy is a broad coalition of individuals, families, and businesses who agree that the acquisition and protection of natural land is important if we are to retain the quality of life which makes northern Michigan so attractive. The Little Traverse Conservancy is supported entirely by people who willingly donate their time, talent, and financial support to protect irreplaceable natural land. The Little Traverse Conservancy represents people's willingness to put their money where their heart is to protect natural land. We seek to adorn our communities, as they grow, with beautiful open spaces. Just as an architect uses plantings and gardens to add to the aesthetic beauty of a building, we work to provide scenic views, open spaces, and wildlife habitat to enhance our communities.

Argo Dam, located at the upriver end of Ann Arbor, Michigan, creates a 92-acre pond that has become a vital recreational asset for the community. This historic dam, originally built in 1830 and restructured multiple times, supports local rowing teams and contributes to the area's cultural and physical well-being. The future of Argo Dam remains uncertain as debates continue over its potential removal, which could restore the river's natural flow while also providing economic and ecological benefits. Balancing the needs for recreation, environmental health, and community interests is crucial as decisions regarding the dam's fate approach. Generated from the website