Environment & Sustainability

Coverage of green innovations, and climate and environment issues and developments, especially those told by local voices and that offer solutions for community concerns.

A rendering of winter activities at the proposed 285-acre recreation park.

Saving Sugar Loaf: Leelanau Conservancy unveils ambitious recreation plan for former ski resort

The Leelanau Conservancy has big plans for the long-dormant ski resort property, transforming the 285-acre site into a year-round public recreation area.

Latest in Environment & Sustainability
Complete: The last stretch of the White Pine Trail is paved

The last section of the popular White Pine Trail has been paved. The trail is now the third longest paved trail in the United States. 

“Majestic Riverview Park will not only enhance the entrance to Cheboygan’s downtown, but it will also create a welcoming site for river activity viewing,” says Connie Rieger, Majestic River Park Development Volunteer.
Once site to a historic pavilion, empty lot to be activated as pocket park in downtown Cheboygan

“Majestic Riverview Park will not only enhance the entrance to Cheboygan’s downtown, but it will also create a welcoming site for river activity viewing,” says Connie Rieger, Majestic River Park Development Volunteer.

The patio and outdoor tasting bar at Shady Lane Cellars.
Rural ambition: Elevating Michigan’s wine and agricultural future

A collaborative effort in Northern Michigan will create a regenerative agriculture and hospitality destination on the Leelanau Peninsula. The plan is to also amplify the state's flourishing wine and agricultural scenes.  

Ludington’s ‘moment of awe’ trail poised for reconstruction

A popular and scenic trail at Ludington State Park is being reconstructed to meet modern safety and construction standards. 

"Today we’re transforming more abandoned or underutilized property sites into hundreds of units of quality, affordable homes across Michigan," says Governor Gretchen Whitmer.
New housing developments in Cadillac and Elk Rapids receive Brownfield grants to remove contaminants

"Today we’re transforming more abandoned or underutilized property sites into hundreds of units of quality, affordable homes across Michigan," says Governor Gretchen Whitmer.

Growing healthy eaters: MSU Extension initiative helps daycare providers serve healthy food

MSU Extension's early childhood health initiative, Growing Healthy Eaters, is helping home childcare providers serve healthy foods while teaching kids about community agriculture and gardening with a concept of “farm to early childhood education.”  

Stevens Hotel in 2012.
Fennville’s agritourism sector to be complemented by $4.8M ‘regeneration project’ of historic hotel

“The regeneration project will provide new jobs and tourism, boosting the local economy and helping to support Fennville as a premier West Michigan destination,” says developer Dori DePree.

Community collaborations help coordinate shelter, food, clothing, and other basic needs alongside behavioral health services. Community Action of Allegan County home-delivered meals drivers.
Mental health agencies strengthen services through community collaborations

Across Michigan, community mental health (CMH) agencies are expanding their reach through partnerships with local organizations that address housing, transportation, and other barriers to care. These collaborations aim to create a more coordinated and accessible mental health system, particularly for individuals with complex needs.  

Innovative farming: Bear Creek Organic Farm promotes sustainable, local agriculture

The name says it all: Bear Creek Organic Farm. Located outside Petoskey, Bear Creek Organic Farm roots its purpose in connecting environmental stewardship and community by delivering the purest products possible from farm to table.

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