Click here for the new 2007 Project Update!

Pigeon River Country State Forest is the largest block of contiguous undeveloped land in the lower peninsula. Concerns over the ecological integrity of the forest have grown because as private parcels (click here to view project area map) surrounding the Forest come under increased development pressure, important wildlife habitat is quickly being fragmented. Prompted by this concern, the Pigeon River Habitat Initiative (PRHI) partnership was formed in 2001 as a collective of private citizens, State and Federal agencies, and non-profit organizations all with an interest in preserving the ecological integrity of the Pigeon River Country. The partnership includes several divisions of Michigan DNR, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Little Traverse Conservancy, Headwaters Chapter of Trout Unlimited, Headwaters Land Conservancy, Huron Pines, Montmorency Conservation Club, Otsego County Conservation District, Pigeon River Country Association, Pigeon River Country State Forest Advisory Council, and private citizens.

In June, 2005, the Pigeon River Habitat Specialist began meeting with landowners to discuss their personal desires for their property and help property owners explore land conservation options, develop management plans, and implement techniques that will attract wildlife to their properties. The Habitat Specialist meets with interested landowners, inventories their parcel, makes recommendations and coordinates with appropriate PRHI Partners for help and assists landowners in deciding on the most appropriate course of land management options while helping them find the technical and financial resources needed to implement the land management option they have chosen.

The key to the program is that staff can bring the entire tool kit of conservation options directly to landowners. The benefits for landowners participating in this project include enhancing wildlife habitat, providing additional recreation opportunities, and leaving a lasting legacy for future generations. In addition, conservation cost share programs and tax incentives may be available. The process of meeting with landowners and helping them implement conservation management practices to their properties keeps important land intact and improves the natural resources of the area. When a landowner is involved with hands-on management of their land, it forms a special relationship which fosters a sense of ownership and the value of being good stewards of the land. If these values are passed on, it will continue the process of conservation in one of our state’s largest unspoiled wild areas and ensure generations will have an opportunity to enjoy this unique area.

To learn more about how this Initiative can help enhance your property while supporting vital wildlife habitat contact Eric Nelson, Habitat Specialist, at 989-344-0753 or send an email to eric@huronpines.org.