Meridian Township’s Land Preservation Program was established in 2000 to acquire, preserve, and protect natural areas throughout the Township that have unique or special natural features. Now the gift of permanence and the knowledge of those features will always be available for current and future generations to visit, appreciate, and enjoy.

The Land Preservation Program is supported by a township millage, passed by township residents in November, 2000. 956 acres of the township’s most beautiful, scenic and natural lands have been acquired through twenty five (25) total properties comprised of forty four (44) acquisitions. The original goal of the program set in 2000 was to acquire 600 acres, or 10% of available land.

Stewardship and land management programs for each individual parcel are currently being developed. The management plans outline the stewardship activities necessary to protect or restore the site.

Properties come into the program through fee simple purchase, donation, or a combination of the two. The Land Preservation Advisory Board continues to seek ecologically valuable woodlands, wetlands, and other green and open spaces that will provide a lasting benefit to our community. If you own property or would like to recommend property to the Advisory Board, please contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 517.853.4600.

Land Preserve Map for 2023

Where to Find: West side of Carleton Street north of Haslett Road and south of railroad crossing

Area: 5.5 acres (2 parcels)

Year Acquired: 2010

Purchase Price: $25,000 + $2,507 (winter tax bill) = $27,507

Description: Old field

The Lake Lansing South Preserve 5.2 acres comprised of two natural communities of forest and wet meadow. This small tract of land acts as a valuable buffer for the Lake Lansing watershed and mitigates runoff in conjunction with the Kuzma Preserve and Spengler Marsh nearby. The land was historically an important holding site for agricultural products being loaded onto the nearby train for railroad transport. Northern Pike have been witnessed spawning at this preserve.

Return to full list >>