Little Forks Conservancy Permanently Protects 45 Acres in Clare County

CLARE – In the northernmost reaches of Clare County lies a unique property that feels as though it is deep in wild country. Walking across the land takes you through several landscapes. Upland hardwood forests give way to lowland conifer swamps and, farther north, to wide stretches of wetland.

This 45-acre property is now permanently protected through a conservation easement between the Helmick family and Little Forks Conservancy. For the family, the land has been a quiet retreat for hunting, wildlife viewing, and spending time outdoors since they acquired it seven years ago. For the land itself, the easement ensures that its forests, wetlands, and marshes will remain protected for generations.

This project marks the second conservation easement the Helmick family has completed with Little Forks Conservancy. Their first partnership took place in 2010. Together with a neighboring conserved property, these efforts have helped protect more than 200 acres of connected natural land in this part of Clare County. This creates a rare stretch of uninterrupted habitat for wildlife.

“Some of the best memories have been sharing my love for the outdoors with my best friends, kids, and grandkids as they grew up,” said Mike Helmick, owner of the conserved property. “It feels great to know that this property will be protected for generations to come for my family to enjoy.”

“Creating a conservation easement is about more than protecting land, it is also about building a lasting legacy,” said Elan Lipschitz, Executive Director of Little Forks Conservancy. “We are deeply grateful to the Helmick Family for partnering with us once again to ensure this special place remains protected forever.”

Projects like this reflect the broader work of Little Forks Conservancy across mid-Michigan. Since its founding, the organization has partnered with private landowners to protect more than 3,150 acres through 35 conservation easements. These voluntary agreements allow landowners to protect the natural features they value most, even as properties change hands.

By working with landowners like Mike Helmick, Little Forks Conservancy continues to protect important natural lands throughout the region. This work supports wildlife habitat, preserves water quality, and strengthens the connection between people and the landscapes they care for most.

Little Forks Conservancy remains committed to partnering with private landowners to protect land. To learn more about land protection options, visit www.littleforks.org or call 989-835-4886.

The Little Forks Conservancy works to permanently protect and improve natural environments in mid-Michigan by leading and inspiring actions that conserve vital habitats and waterways for the benefit of our entire community. The Conservancy has helped private landowners protect over 4,000 acres in mid-Michigan, including over 20 miles of waterways and shoreline.