WLAC Celebrates 75th Land Protection Project Milestone with New 34-Acre Nature Preserve

The Benser Preserve donation safeguards critical habitat and scenic forest in the Walloon Lake watershed.

Photo Highlights






The Walloon Lake Association & Conservancy (WLAC) proudly announces the permanent protection of a 34-acre nature preserve, marking the organization’s 75th successful land protection project. The property was generously donated through the trust of Mr. Bill Benser and will be forever known as the Benser Preserve.

Located adjacent to the undeveloped area of Camp Michigania off Sumner Road on the west side of Walloon Lake, the Benser Preserve features rolling hills, mature beech-maple forest, and diverse native habitat characteristic of the region. The property strengthens an important corridor of protected land while preserving scenic views and ecological integrity in one of northern Michigan’s most cherished landscapes.

“This acquisition represents a major milestone for WLAC and a meaningful step forward in our ongoing conservation efforts,” said Jon Breithaupt, Executive Director of WLAC. “We are deeply grateful to Mr. Benser for his extraordinary generosity and commitment to preserving the natural character of Walloon Lake for future generations.”

The preserve’s forest canopy is dominated by beech and sugar maple, providing essential habitat for migratory birds, small mammals, and a rich understory of native plants. Its rolling topography enhances both visual beauty and ecological diversity, contributing to watershed health and long-term forest resilience while offering seasonal views of Walloon Lake.

WLAC plans to manage the property as a permanent nature preserve. In the near term, efforts will focus on securing funding to remove several dilapidated outbuildings and install a preserve identification sign. A comprehensive preserve management plan will be developed later in 2026 to guide trail development, public access, invasive species management, and forest health initiatives.

“This gift ensures that the land’s hardwood forest, wildlife habitat, and natural character will remain intact for generations to come,” Breithaupt added.

Land protection success stories like this can be achieved through planned gifts. WLAC’s Legacy Society recognizes supporters who commit to leaving a lasting impact through gifts of land, real estate, or financial assets such as cash or Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs), typically arranged through estate planning, just like Mr. Benser did. More information about WLAC’s Legacy Society can be found on its website:
https://www.walloon.org/get-involved/donate-today/ways-to-give/.

Transaction costs associated with this land acquisition were covered by a generous grant from The Carls Foundation.