Meridian Township Earns ‘Bird City Michigan’ Designation
By demonstrating its commitment to creating healthy bird habitats and advancing local conservation efforts, Meridian Township has officially been designated a Bird City Michigan community, joining 11 other communities across the state recognized for their bird-friendly practices.
Launched by Michigan Audubon in 2025, with founding partner Ford Motor Company, Bird City Michigan is a science-based program that recognizes communities for taking meaningful action to protect birds and their habitats. The program is part of the international Bird City Network and encourages municipalities, conservation organizations, and residents to work together to create healthier environments for both birds and people.
“We are beyond proud to earn this designation through our current stewardship efforts, which take place all year round with dedicated staff and volunteers. Reducing bird-window collisions at Township buildings and continuing to restore native plant populations is our main goal to help local birds thrive,” said Land Stewardship Coordinator Emma Campbell.
Meridian Township earned the designation through its ongoing efforts to preserve natural areas, enhance wildlife habitat, promote environmental stewardship, and engage the community in conservation initiatives. The Township's application highlighted local programs and partnerships that support habitat protection, environmental education, and sustainable land management.
“Michigan Audubon is especially proud to welcome the Township as a Bird City Michigan community. While our reach is statewide, our headquarters are located right here in Meridian Township. The collaboration among the Township's staff and volunteers exemplifies a community creating spaces where both wildlife and people can thrive,” said Linda Smith, Director of Partnerships for Michigan Audubon.
Michigan Audubon connects birds and people for the benefit of both through conservation, education, and research across Michigan. Incorporated in 1905, the organization stewards more than 4,000 acres of habitat at 20 bird sanctuaries throughout the state. For more information, contact Michigan Audubon at birdcity@michiganaudubon.org.
The Bird City Michigan-Meridian Township team included Township staff, the Meridian Green Team, the Meridian Township Environmental Commission, the Harris Nature Center, the Meridian Conservation Corps (MCC), and the Capital Area Audubon Society. Together, the team completed the application process and identified opportunities to further support bird conservation efforts within the community.
To view more information about the Township’s Bird City Michigan designation, visit https://birdcity.org/michigan/meridian-township.
