The Leelanau Conservancy’s DeYoung Natural Area on Cedar Lake got a big boost recently when the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund announced a $910,164 grant for the project. Director Brian Price, who was in Lansing for the Trust Fund meeting, phoned the news to elated staff and board members. “This much-needed grant puts us one giant leap closer to completing the purchase of this 145-acre historic farmstead in Elmwood Township,” said Price.

The Conservancy went out on a limb to purchase the land nearly two years ago, taking on a $2 million loan. “If we did not seize the opportunity then, the land would have been lost forever to development,” said Price. “We’ve been fundraising for the project ever since, and it has been a marathon run.” But today’s news of the $910,164 grant, coupled with the $756,759 the Conservancy has raised to date, puts the organization much closer to the finish line. “We have $333,079 left to raise and hope people will think of DeYoung as they consider their year-end giving plans.”

The Conservancy applied for the grant in partnership with Elmwood Township, which will be the ultimate recipient of the money (the Trust Fund only allocates funds to governmental units). Elmwood Township will own 65 acres between the shoreline and Cherry Bend Road and the Conservancy will own the remaining 80 acres on the upland. The Conservancy will manage both parcels seamlessly as the DeYoung Natural Area. “Under this arrangement, all 145 acres will be protected forever and accessible to the public,” says Price.

The DeYoung Natural Area is an historic farmstead with nearly a mile of natural, Cedar Lake shoreline. Just minutes from Traverse City, the property has frontage on both sides of Cherry Bend Road. Seen by many as an oasis in a rapidly developing area and a gateway to Leelanau’s agricultural landscape, the property is bisected by the TART Leelanau Trail. Future plans for the property include many opportunities to recreate, enjoy nature and learn about agriculture. “Once we complete the purchase of this land, we can then move ahead with great plans on the drawing board to make DeYoung Natural Area the community resource we have all envisioned,” concludes Price.

To learn more about the DeYoung Natural Area on Cedar Lake, or to make a donation, visit www.theconservancy.com.