What is the Pilgrim River Watershed Project?
A recent change in ownership of a 1382 acre commercial forest property in the Pilgrim River watershed has created the opportunity for a project supporting sustainable forestry, watershed protection, public recreation and education. The property includes over 3 miles of the Pilgrim River, including a good portion of the River's headwaters. The land is currently enrolled in the Michigan Commercial Forest program and is enjoyed by the public for hunting and fishing. The new owners support these goals for forestry, conservation and expanded public recreation and encourage the community to develop approaches to accomplish a project that permanently achieves these land uses.
A Letter from John Ollila - April 20, 2012
I haven’t owned a bicycle since I was a child and will likely only hike the Pilgrim trails to show off the valley to visitors. Yet, I believe it is crucial that those of us who support the concept of the Pilgrim River Watershed Project regularly contribute to all fund raising challenges. Our local trails groups construct stunning trails, but if we do not raise the funds to purchase perpetual easements, the existing trails could be closed and all access denied. Frankly, I don’t think many people grasp this fact.
The owner currently permits public use to promote the greater effort -- the establishment of an extensive, forested, quiet recreation area so close to town. Sweat equity may build trails, and verbal support is heartwarming. However, only successfully raising the required funds will preclude development and secure public access to the 1,382 acre tract in perpetuity. This conservation/recreation project is a financial proposition folks, and we who support the idea are obliged to contribute and help keep the fund ever incrementally growing. If just forty of us send $25 a month, the fund gains $1,000 a month. One hundred of us at the same $25 a month rate will advance the fund by $2,500 monthly!
Therefore, here's $100 toward the Keweenaw Trails Alliance Challenge. I urge all supporters of the conservation project to also donate as they are able, especially members of the partner groups CCCTU, KTA, and Audubon. Regular $25, $50, and $100 contributions do add up. Again, I wish to reiterate that verbal support means nothing if we don’t raise the funds.
Finally, with that thought in mind, I hereby pledge to contribute $50 a month for the rest of the year. I ask my friends and others to join me in committing to regular, sustained monthly support. We advocates must dutifully and consistently help advance the effort – if we don’t how can we ask others to help? I am confident that through lots of small, regular contributions we will achieve our shared vision.
John Ollila