Hess Preserve Expands

Hess Nature Preserve (photo from Headwaters Conservancy)

from M-Live

Hess Nature Preserve on Lake Huron in Presque Isle County, Michigan, has expanded from 12 acres to 213 acres! This growth protects a Michigan imperiled coastal fen, wooded dune-and-swale habitat and an additional 450 feet of shoreline from future development.

Headwaters Land Conservancy has been working toward this for five years. The acquisition came in the form of three separate purchases which are all connected. The total cost has not been disclosed.

The preserve is home to state threatened Houghton's goldenrod.

Boundary signs will be installed, and hiking trails are planned.

See Headwaters Conservancy


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Onaway Trailhead Nears Completion

Onaway Trailhead (photo from Top of Michigan Trails Council)

a news release of Top of Michigan Trails Council

Onaway's great new trailhead on the North Eastern State Trail is still progressing and nearing completion. All the paving is complete and workers are putting the finishing touches on the open-air pavilion, which will also serve as the town's Farmers Market.

The North Eastern State Trail is a 70-mile rail-trail between Alpena and Cheboygan. It carries part of the Midland to Mackinac Trail. The surface is crushed limestone.

See North Eastern State Trail


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Headwaters Conservancy Seeks to Expand Hess Preserve

Dune and swale ecosystem ( graphic from Headwaters Conservancty)

from Headwaters Land Conservancy

In January 2026, Headwaters Land Conservancy officially closed on its 100th conservation easement — permanently protecting 328 acres of forest, wetland, and lakefront.

Headwaters covers the northeast Lower Peninsula of Michigan. It preserves coastal lands along Lake Huron among other projects. HeadWaters is seeking to acquire 200 acres of dune and swale, as well as coastal habitat bordering the Hess Nature Preserve in Presque Isle County. With its undeveloped Lake Huron shoreline, rare and threatened plant species, and a unique coastal fen, Hess is overflowing with biodiversity and ecological significance.

For years, HeadWaters Land Conservancy has been working with local landowners and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to expand the preserve from its original 12 acres to more than 200 acres, ensuring the permanent protection of this critical landscape. In December, 40 acres were purchased, and funds are being raised to purchase a parcel with 1500 feet of Lake Huron Shoreline.

Donations are being accepted.

See more about this project


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