The Livingston Land Conservancy (LLC) recently received a grant from the Community Foundation for Livingston County for the restoration and public access project on the Charles and Albert Parker Families Nature Preserve.
The property — owned by the Brighton District Library and protected under a permanent conservation easement held by the Conservancy — is a 4.5-acre natural area along Charles Orndorf Drive in Brighton. The property was donated to the Library by Elizabeth and Helen Parker in 1994, with a conservation easement to permanently protect it. The multi-phase project, beginning this winter, will include a significant habitat restoration effort, new walking trail development, and educational signage.
“We’re thrilled that the Community Foundation approved our vision to make improvements to the Parker Families Nature Preserve to enhance outdoor educational opportunities for the benefit of residents of Livingston County and beyond – especially young people, to help increase their understanding and appreciation of nature.” said Sara Thomas, president of the LLC.
An affiliate fund of the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan, the CFLC grant of $8,430, combined with additional funding donated by the Brighton District Library and the Conservancy, will be used to begin ecological restoration over the winter, using contract services from PlantWise of Ann Arbor and volunteer help from the community to remove invasive non-native shrubs and vines. Over the summer and fall 2024, the existing single dead- end trail will be improved, and a new, mulched loop walking trail will be added that will take people past a scenic wetland view where a bench will be installed for quiet contemplation. Signage identifying native species and natural features will also be added.
As part of the project planning, volunteers are needed and will be trained to assist with invasive plant removal and trail maintenance. Members of the public and community service organizations are encouraged to contact the LLC at livingstonlandconservancy@gmail.com, or call (810) 229-3290 for more information.
An all-volunteer 501(c)(3) private non-profit founded in 1994, the purpose of the Livingston Land Conservancy is to protect the natural heritage and rural character of the greater Livingston County area by preserving quality natural areas and productive farmland, and to promote an appreciation and understanding of the environment for the long-term benefit of the public.
The Conservancy is currently permanently protecting over 735 acres throughout the County and is completely self-supporting by memberships and donations and receives no funding through taxes or municipalities. To find out more, visit the LLC website at livingstonlandconservancy.org.
“The Brighton District Library is grateful for our relationship with the Livingston Land Conservancy, our preservation and education partner,” said Cindy Mack, director of the Brighton District Library. “This funding will ensure the Parker Preserve continues to provide a unique, interactive community experience for generations to come.”
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