Provided photo The Keweenaw Community Foundation launched the Keweenaw Heartland Forest Fund Friday evening.

HANCOCK — The Keweenaw Community Foundation (KCF) officially announced the Keweenaw Heartlands Forest Fund, a community-driven effort to protect and support the Keweenaw Heartlands.

The Keweenaw Heartlands Forest Fund, a special project fund held by the Keweenaw Community Foundation, was established to support local management, sustainable access, and long-term care of approximately 20,000 acres of newly protected public forest land in Keweenaw County. Campaign funds will help launch community-led governance, provide funds for operations and management costs, support engagement efforts, and ensure the Heartlands remain healthy, accessible, and protected for future generations.

“Since early 2022, the Keweenaw Community Foundation has proudly partnered with The Nature Conservancy, the DNR, and our local community to support this incredible project. We’ve helped keep the community informed and engaged throughout the entire process. Now, as we enter a new chapter focused on local governance and management, we’re excited to launch a fundraising campaign that will help ensure these lands remain accessible and protected for generations to come. This is our moment, as a community, to come together and invest in a legacy we can all be proud of. We invite everyone to join this effort by making a gift to support the future of the Keweenaw,” states Robin Meneguzzo, Executive Director of KCF.

Why the Heartlands Matter

The Keweenaw Heartlands is more than just land: it’s part of our way of life. With over 30,000 acres of forestland, 38 miles of rivers and inland lake shoreline, 4,000 acres of wetlands, and 3 miles of Lake Superior shoreline, the Heartlands clean the region’s air and filters the water that flows into the Great Lakes. With over 75 miles of motorized and non-motorized recreation trails, significant opportunities for hiking and fishing, and ample space to explore, this landscape offers numerous opportunities to connect with nature, enjoy the outdoors, and celebrate community.

This campaign builds on a historic opportunity. In 2022, The Nature Conservancy purchased over 30,000 acres of land on the Keweenaw Peninsula, an area renowned for its diverse ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, rivers, and trails, to ensure permanent public access and conservation. A community-led governance model is now being launched to manage a significant portion of this land locally.

How You Can Help

A total goal of $600,000 is needed to launch the community-led governance structure for the first three years. $300,000 has already been committed. Your support will help raise the remaining $300,000 needed to keep the Heartlands on track. Be part of this once-in-a-generation opportunity to shape the future of the Keweenaw.

Ways to give:

Make a one-time or monthly gift online (https://bit.ly/donate-KHFF)

Host a fundraiser or awareness event to rally local support.

Consider a matching gift or planned giving to amplify your impact.

Share this opportunity with friends, family, and community networks

Mail a check to:

Keweenaw Community Foundation, PO Box 265, Hancock, MI 49930

Memo line: Keweenaw Heartlands Forest Fund