Grand Traverse Conservation District

The Grand Traverse Conservation District is a community-serving organization that cares for the people and places that make Northwest Michigan so special. We’ve been working for over 70 years to keep our local farms sustainable, the Boardman River healthy, our parklands accessible, and our children outdoors. Our “four pillars” provide the foundation for a sustainable Grand Traverse Region: Stewardship - We recognize that healthy, vibrant natural areas are the centerpiece of our local economy and our overall way of life. Education - From our headquarters at the Boardman River Nature Center, we craft nature experiences that connect children, adults and families to the natural world. Parklands - The Grand Traverse Conservation District models sustainable land management practices as we care for and provide public access to 3,000 acres of the region’s most treasured natural landscapes. Agriculture - For over 70 years, we have worked hand-in-hand with hundreds of local farmers to safeguard our natural resources while providing for healthy, safe, high quality agricultural products. We are based out of the beautiful Boardman River Nature Center in Traverse City. The Nature Center is an interpretive nature gallery aimed to educate and inspire visitors, with themes that change with the seasons. The Nature Center was built by the community, for the community, as a place to expand learning outside of the classroom and encourage children (and adults) to experience the outdoors.