We have all profoundly felt the importance of having healthy forests and wilderness in which to rest our minds these as the COVID-19 situation has continued. We at the UP Land Conservancy hope that you are able to enjoy the natural areas, preserves, and waterways that the UP Land Conservancy protects as we weather these unknown times together. We are humbled to be able continue working alongside you to protect vital places where we can rest our minds and souls. 

Our job is to continue protecting the land and to provide recreation outlets while protecting safe water, clean air, and deep wilderness to explore. We promise that we will continue protecting land for the benefit of our community through this crisis.
Whenever you talk to a resident or visitor to the UP, there is always one thing that comes out - a deep love and connection to the land that surrounds us. While we work through these troubled times - apart, together - keep in mind that, like the land around us, our roots are deep. Our human and natural ecosystems are strong and, like our ecosystem, we support one another when one of us is in need. Just like a spiders' web, when there is a tug on one string, all aspects are affected and we all must do our part to keep this community strong. 

The Vielmetti-Peters Reserve, the Chocolay Bayou and Tory's Woods are open for public use during daylight hours as usual! Please head out to the woods to let your mind take a break from the news and let your your lungs breathe in the clean air that nature provides to us. Safe and responsible outdoor recreation while practicing social distancing is currently allowed. Check out the "Protected Lands" menu above or the Interactive Map to find a preserve near you to explore, and let us know with an email or a post on social media that you're out enjoying the land. Socially sharing your outdoor experiences can help those who are unable to get out onto the trails right now feel some of that peace and calm that you're finding in the woods. 

We deeply believe in the power of this community and our ability to pull together to take on challenges. Thank you, all, for doing so much for one another and our communities in these uncertain days. We are looking forward to enjoying warmer weather and calmer waters with you soon.