By Mary Hansen
mehansen4@gmail.com
Great Lakes Echo
July 27, 2009

Michigan ranks among the most resource-rich states, yet comes in 47th in per capita conservation spending and dead last in the conservation spending gap, according to a March 2008 report by Michigan State University’s Land Policy Institute.

Grosse Ile Township just south of Detroit, the largest island on the Detroit River, is a bright spot contrary to that trend.

It takes a unique approach to conservation of natural spaces with a township Open Spaces Committee and millage and the private non-profit Grosse Ile Nature and Land Conservancy. The strong sense of community and commitment is a national example of smart growth decision-making.