Last June, two additional parcels were purchased by Little Traverse Conservancy with funding provided largely by the J.A. Woollam Foundation. Both parcels became part of the Vivian VanCampen Preserve, adding more than 22 acres and 2,600 feet of undeveloped river shoreline.

“These additions were especially important because they provided protection on both sides of the river at this preserve,” said Ty Ratliff, Conservancy land protection specialist.

Ratliff pointed out that one of the additions includes an river oxbow that provides important riparian habitat for a variety of waterfowl species and a host of mammals such as mink, otter and raccoon. The Vivian VanCampen Nature Preserve now totals more than 58 acres and 3,700 feet of protected Pigeon River frontage.

“This is a long, long stretch of undeveloped stream where – as a fisherman or a hiker – you can get lost in your thought and experience the joy of solitude,” said John Woollam, whose foundation also funded the initial preserve purchase.

The cumulative impact of LTC’s work along the Pigeon River is clearly visible on the map to the right. Designated by the State of Michigan as both a Natural River and a Blue Ribbon Trout Stream, the river is a high priority for protection to ensure its long-term health. As part of the Lake Huron watershed, the Pigeon drains into Mullett Lake where its waters join the Inland Waterway and eventually flow to Cheboygan and Lake Huron.

Last fall, the Conservancy staff held its annual strategic planning meeting at the Andreae Preserve cabin. “It had been some time since I had visited the preserve and was struck by the special beauty of the river,” said Alison Berry, Conservancy education specialist.

For a copy of the Conservancy’s nature preserve map highlighting the Pigeon River preserves and beyond, please call 231.347.0991 or visit www.landtrust.org where it can be viewed online.