From forests and wetlands to prairies and agricultural lands, we work to protect Michigan’s natural places for generations to come. The following three methods are used to protect land in Southeast Michigan: preserves, conservation easements, and assists.

A preserve is land that’s either donated to us or purchased by us to be protected from development forever. Because we own the land, we’re able to care for it directly, making sure natural areas stay healthy for wildlife, water, and people. Popular preserves include Sutherland Nature Sanctuary and Anchor Bay Woods Preserve.

Another important tool we use is a conservation easement. Unlike a preserve, an easement allows the land to stay in private hands while placing permanent legal limits on development and certain uses. This means the landowner continues to own and manage the property, but they work with us to make sure the natural values of the land are protected now and in the future.

The final way we protect land is through a Public Agency Acquisition Assist Program that helps cities, townships, and counties acquire land for parks and nature preserves. Through this program, Six Rivers acquires and holds the property on behalf of the public agency, allowing the agency to apply for grant
funding without losing access to the land. This approach preserves the agency’s grant eligibility while removing the property from the market during the application process. The public agency is responsible for all acquisition, holding, and purchase costs, as well as a facilitation fee paid to Six Rivers. Some examples are Turtle Woods Nature Preserve and Salt River Nature Preserve.

Our preserves, easements, and public agency assists are found across Southeast Michigan and reflect the region’s rich natural diversity. When we protect nature, everyone benefits—with cleaner air, cleaner water, and more beautiful places to explore and enjoy the Nature Near You!