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Pat's Preserve

Pat’s Preserve, nestled at the south end of Lime Lake, protects 26 acres of peaceful land and over 1,000 feet of unspoiled shoreline. A gently winding stream—the lake’s largest source of surface water—flows through the preserve, feeding a vibrant wetland. This sensitive area acts like a natural sponge, softening the force of erosion, filtering out pollutants, and slowly releasing clear, clean water back into the lake.
Pat's Preserve Lime Lake Leelanau County
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Land Safeguarded

The first 5.9-acre parcel of the new preserve—one of the most threatened by development—was swiftly purchased in May 2020, thanks to our incredible supporters. The former owner had planned to build a vehicle bridge over the stream and run utility lines beneath it, posing a serious risk to the fragile streambank habitat. Another proposal involved trucking in nearly 500 cubic yards of fill to build a road through the wetland. Thanks to strong community support, this ecologically sensitive land is now permanently protected.

Sanctuary

Towering white pines, rich conifer swamp, and diverse wetland habitat provide sanctuary for a wide range of species. Songbirds, red-shouldered hawks, and eagles nest in the forest canopy. In the spring-fed stream, brook trout spawn and thrive. Snakes and toads, ducks and otters are also frequently seen, making this a vibrant and vital ecosystem year-round.

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Pat's Preserve Bridge Lime Lake Leelanau County

Gratitude

The Lime Lake Association has long recognized the importance of protecting these vital wetlands. An outpouring of support from lake residents and the greater Leelanau community made it possible to preserve this unique and fragile ecosystem. Funding for the Leelanau Conservancy’s purchase of part of Pat’s Preserve came from many generous supporters, with special thanks to Ron Lovasz and his late wife, Pat—for whom the preserve is named.
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The Lime Lake Association

P.O. Box 50

Maple City, MI 49664
Email: info@limelake.org

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The Lime Lake Association is a non-profit tax-exempt charitable organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code. © 2023 Lime Lake Association. All rights reserved.

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