Lake Association Partners with Conservancy
to Protect Million Dollar Shoreline Property!

ODEN – For more than 20 years, the Little Traverse Conservancy had identified the channel of land between Crooked and Pickerel Lakes as a high priority for protection. Situated near the top of the 40-mile Inland Waterway that eventually drains into Lake Huron in Cheboygan, this land surrounding the “Black Hole” affects all water that flows down the waterway from Round and Crooked lakes.

Last year, Eagle Beach Development Company began working with partners from the Conservancy and the Pickerel-Crooked Lakes Association (PCLA) to negotiate for the protection of the eastern side of the channel. As a result, a $950,000 fundraising campaign was launched in November with only six weeks to raise the money to protect 3,000 feet of shoreline. Shortly after the holidays, thanks in large part to a $300,000 challenge grant made by a “Santa Claus” donor, the goal had been met.

“We have been so heartened by the outpouring of support that was received for this project,” said Tom Lagerstrom, associate director for the Conservancy. “We were once again reminded of what can be accomplished by a collaboration of dedicated individuals.” The financial support came from more than 325 individuals, families, businesses, and foundations. Generous support from Littlefield Township, Emmet County, Little Traverse Township, Bear Creek Township, and the Local Revenue Sharing Board was included.
The project was officially completed in early May. The Conservancy now owns six acres as a nature preserve along the “Black Hole” and both sides of the preserve are still privately held, but protected with conservation easements. No docks will be constructed on this side of the channel and vegetation in the buffer area between the channel and developable uplands will remain intact under the guidelines of the conservation easements which will remain with the property for perpetuity. The protected stretch of shoreline is known for the wildlife and the sense of “wilderness” that is felt there. “One could say it’s a spiritual place,” noted Ray McMullen, current president of PCLA.

“All of us who enjoy the Inland Waterway can be grateful for the dedication and concern shown by the fundraisers and donors alike,” Lagerstrom said. “This is one beautiful stretch of shoreline that will stay in its natural state forever.”

This is the second time in five years that the Conservancy has partnered with the PCLA and local government. In 2000, many of the same individuals rallied to raise funds for the purchase and protection of the 50-acre Oden Island Preserve, protecting a mile of Crooked Lake shoreline.