Mission: The mission of huron pines is to conserve the forests, lakes and streams of northeast michigan. This work is done through the coordination of resource conservation and community development projects by building effective private-public partnerships.
Programs: Water program - the watershed restoration priorities of huron pines align with the office of the great lakes, michigan water strategy which means we have a strong focus on inspiring stewardship through education, recreation, and access, promoting economic growth through infrastructure investment and community development and ensuring clean water through monitoring, protection, and restoration. By conserving and protecting the rivers, lakes, and streams across our 12 - county region, we are helping to improve the water quality and the quality of life across the entire great lakes ecosystem.
wildlife program - huron pines is committed to restoring 100,000 acres of prioritized land across northeast michigan in the next 25 years. That restoration includes land management, invasive species detection and removal, active forest stewardship and land protection. By keeping large areas of land intact and actively managed, we ensure the highest quality habitat for local wildlife. As a leading voice for habitat restoration and protection practices in michigan, we use education and advocacy to encourage land stewardship practices that reduce the spread of invasive species, control erosion and decrease polluted runoff.
community program - the health of this region depends on establishing strong advocates for natural resource protection, which means building connections between people and the environment. Developing leaders in conservation regardless of age or sector is our ultimate goal. Between school partnerships that support k - 12 environmental education curriculum, the huron pines americorps program aimed at preparing college graduates for careers in conservation and our ongoing workshop series that builds capacity and operational efficiency for local organizations, we are fully engaged in developing tomorrow's conservation leaders at every stage.
If you care about forests, lakes and streams; if you enjoy clean water, fresh air, and bird songs; if the conservation of our natural environment is important to you, then you'll agree with me that Huron Pines in northern Michigan is a Michigan treasure. Huron Pines is a small organization that does big things, from supporting our Kirtland's Warbler as it comes off the endangered species list to supporting landowners and Americorps volunteers. They work to restore our rivers and to remove invasive plant species. Michigan, especially northern Michigan, and the Kirtland's Warbler, attract visitors and tourist dollars from all over the world. Huron Pines helps to ensure that our state will continue to be one of America's crown jewels for many years to come. I personally enjoy spending weekends up north, hiking the many trails and enjoying the rivers and lakes. I've been known to pull off the road to watch coyotes, birds and other wildlife as I drive from one beautiful park to another. These are things I would miss if conservation organizations like Huron Pines weren't there, doing what they do best. One of my favorite things about Huron Pines, though, is their willingness to partner with other organizations for the greater good of the environment. This is the hallmark of an organization that is focused on making a difference.
