(Activities updated 03/22/2009)

Karst:

  Karst is a term that was first applied to a plateau region of the Dinaric Alps in Yugoslavia. It is now used to describe similar regions throughout the world that have features formed largely by underground drainage. Karst terrains are characterized by caves, steep valleys, sinkholes, and a general lack of surface streams because drainage is underground. A consequence of this is not only a very interesting landscape (caves have fascinated people for millennia) with unusual habitats for plants and animals, but special problems in water supply, waste disposal, construction, and other land uses.

  What does this have to do with Michigan, a land literally scoured by glaciers, a land covered with glacial clay, sand and gravel? Surprisingly, Michigan contains some areas of true karst. They are limited in extent, but this rarity increases their interest and importance. There is also considerable variety in Michigan karst areas: gypsum karst is found in Kent and Iosco counties; a significant amount of surface drainage goes underground in Monroe County, and reappears at "blue holes" in Lake Erie; spectacular sinkholes and earth cracks are found in Alpena and Presque Isle counties; and the broad band of outcrops of the Niagara Escarpment in the Upper Peninsula hosts a number of karst sinks, springs and caves.

  Each of these areas is in some ways unique to the geology of Michigan. Some sites could be considered of national significance. Yet, today, most of these areas are subject to the possibility of incompatible or damaging use. They are also mostly on private land and most may not be visited by the public. Protection and awareness of these features, and their potential for educational and scientific uses, is what the Michigan Karst Conservancy (MKC) is all about.

Our Purpose:

  The Michigan Karst Conservancy is dedicated to the preservation of examples of Michigan's karst areas. It was formed in 1983 by people with an appreciation for Michigan karst features, when it became apparent that no other groups were interested and able to actively protect such areas for their inherent geological interest.

  The purposes of the Conservancy are the acquisition, management and protection of the finest examples in Michigan of karst areas and features, as well as scientific study, and conservation education regarding karst.

  There is only a finite time within which to establish protection for the most significant areas. Indiscriminate use of sinkholes in Alpena county as dumps and landfills is still occurring, which results in groundwater pollution and degrades and obscures these fascinating features. Many sinkholes have also been filled in for farming. In the Upper Peninsula, one large and several small caves have been quarried away (in a State with very few caves, and in a situation where the caves could have been preserved with negligible cost or trouble). In other areas, erosion damage is occurring due to uncontrolled foot and vehicle traffic.

  Risks of further loss of the relatively few remaining significant features by activities that would not preserve them are very great. It is, in fact, the small sizes of the remaining significant karst areas that make them an opportunity for preservation. Because the areas are small, it is possible to acquire the land and hold it in trust for informed public use.

  The MKC now owns two preserves. The 480 acre Fiborn Karst Preserve in Michigan's upper peninsula, purchased in 1987, includes an extensive and nearly complete karst drainage system with features such as sinkholes, caves and disappearing streams. The 31 acre Stevens Twin Sinks Preserve west of Alpena, purchased in 1990 and enlarged in 1996 by the donation of the 2.5 acre Bruski Sink, contains examples of sinkhole habitats unique to that area. Scientific research and educational programs are conducted at both preserves. Additional information about these preserves, and about visiting them may be obtained by contacting the MKC at the address below.

How can I help?

  The MKC is the only land trust group in Michigan dedicated solely to preservation of examples of Michigan's unique geology and associated ecosystems. Like other similar groups involved in plant, animal, and habitat protection, the MKC receives no government support, but relies solely on YOU, the public, for its funding. One way to support the MKC is by becoming a member. Dues finance the operating costs of the MKC, and many members volunteer their time in the work of the Conservancy. Members receive a regular newsletter and notices of meetings and programs. All except Student and Institutional Members may hold office and chair committees. All except Student Members may vote to elect the Board of Trustees, the governing body of the MKC.

  However, the preservation work of the MKC is based upon donations for buying lands and managing their features for appreciation, protection and study. The MKC accepts donations in many forms: you may wish to donate cash, possibly a gift of land suitable for preservation, or land or securities that may be sold to finance the MKC's preservation activities.

  We need your help to preserve Michigan's karst lands. The future of the natural history of Michigan will be enriched by your generosity. Thank you for your support.

 WEB: http://www.caves.org/conservancy/mkc       E-Mail  mkc@caves.org

MICS 12259 TIN 38-2485501

Michigan Karst Conservancy is an all volunteer 501c3 not for

profit corporation which works throughout the state of Michigan

dedicated to preserving the karst land forms of Michigan.