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: on the east side of Old M-78 (Saginaw Street), and the west side of Newton Road, north of Lake Lansing Road, and south of Towner Road.

Area: 20.4 acres

Year Acquired: 2011

Purchase Price: $425,000

Description: Heavily wooded and much of the property is wetland.


The Forest Grove Preserve is just over 20 acres of forested wetland. The land was historically not logged, so many of the trees are over 100 years old. This preserve has a unique tulip poplar stand, which glows a golden yellow in the fall time. This preserve has a diverse wetland bordering Newman Road with species such as swamp rose, vervain, and common boneset.

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