The parcel’s previous owners were good stewards of the land, enjoying it for family getaways from downstate. A trail system was created and maintained on the property, and the forest was managed wisely. The lake offers good fishing and canoeing and the family enjoyed watching wildlife that include osprey, eagles, and elk.

In 2002, the Conservancy began talking with the landowners about various conservation options for their property. As discussions progressed, it became apparent that selling the land to the state would be the most logical option, adding to the existing state forest.

Preferring to remain anonymous, the previous landowners commended the Conservancy for their diligence during the countless hours spent over the past seven years on the project.

“The resulting conveyance to the state protected for posterity this magnificent wonderland from the inevitable damage that development would bring to the pristine ecosystem of this area. We are pleased and proud to have made sure that this 640-acre piece of land and Glen Lake within it are protected and available forever for the outdoor recreational pleasure of Michigan citizens and visitors alike,” the donors said.

“The DNR staff deemed the property important enough to the Pigeon River Country State Forest that the boundaries of the Forest were modified to include it,” Fleming said. “The benefits of additional elk habitat, a lake, and the increased opportunities for the public were obvious.”

“This tract was an extremely important piece of land to acquire and place in permanent protection under state ownership,” said Scott Whitcomb, unit manager for the Pigeon River Country Management Unit. “The property is impressive because of its large size adjacent to the Pigeon River Country State Forest and good wildlife habitat in the heart of the elk range. Now the state has the opportunity to manage the forest for a variety of recreational and resource uses.”