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Science Snapshot: Blue-eyed Mary

ACRES nature preserves provide researchers and citizen scientists with opportunities to study the natural world around us. By allowing scientists to work on ACRES properties, we gain knowledge from their findings that makes us better-informed stewards of the land. Each day, these protected places serve as a setting for learning and discovery. In the coming ...

  • 09/07/2021
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Greet spring at an ACRES preserve

The first day of spring is just one week away (March 20, if you’re counting down the days)! In March, we’ll gain almost 2 hours of daylight. That’s more time to enjoy ACRES trails, open daily from dawn to dusk, free of charge. Here are four signs of spring to look and listen for during ...

  • 03/13/2021
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Observe World Wetlands Day at an ACRES preserve

Feb. 2 marks World Wetlands Day, a celebration of the important role wetlands play in the lives of people, plants and animals. Wetlands provide critical wildlife habitat, purify rivers and lakes, and reduce flooding risk. They’re often called “nature’s kidneys” because of their important function in the health of our planet. Together with our members, ...

  • 02/01/2021
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Artist reimagines ACRES logo

ACRES’ new T-shirt design features the work of local artist Ian Ruisard. Learn more about Ian and what inspired his work. About the artist Ian works as a graphic designer in Fort Wayne. Inspired by his parents, he enjoys exploring natural areas and believes protecting local habitats is important in creating a healthy community. “My ...

  • 01/30/2021
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Herbarium provides a glimpse into the past

ACRES protects more than land. We also work to protect the history of our land donors. Their stories and artifacts provide a glimpse into the past, an explanation of who they were and how they cared for and loved the land before ACRES. Join local journalist Kevin Kilbane as he uncovers the story of a ...

  • 12/16/2020
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Virtual tour of ACRES first Michigan property

ACRES newest trail system opened to the public Nov. 21. Enjoy a virtual tour of our first Michigan property. ACRES Land Trust acquired Kauffman Nature Sanctuary for permanent protection in 2019. Located in rolling Hillsdale County, the 78-acre preserve features approximately 1.15 miles of trails that wind through meadow, restored wetlands and forest. Sedges, willows ...

  • 12/09/2020
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ACRES and Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo partner to track wildlife

Our friends at the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo strive to make a difference for animals every day by participating in programs and initiatives to protect animals and their habitats. ACRES is excited to partner with the zoo to create and continue local conservation projects. Notice any weird wire towers while hiking at an ACRES preserve? ...

  • 12/02/2020
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ACRES Research: Endangered Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake

ACRES lets nature take its course on the preserves, with the exception of eradicating invasive species. Normally, an endangered or threatened species found on an ACRES property is recorded but not actively managed. This year ACRES is working to develop a management plan based solely around one specific, scaly species. Buzzing cicadas, croaking frogs and ...

  • 09/24/2020
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Protecting Habitats in Indiana: State Dedicated Preserves

Indiana’s system of dedicated Nature Preserves was created when an ACRES founder, Jim Barrett III, wrote the 1967 Indiana Nature Preserves Act, providing permanent protection for significant natural areas across the state, including ACRES properties. The Act states: As part of the continuing growth of population and the development of the economy of Indiana, it ...

  • 08/31/2020
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Fantastic Fireflies

Fluttering white-fire insects! Wavering small-fire beasts! Wave little stars about my bed! Weave little stars into my sleep! — Ojibway chant Sunlight fades, midsummer stars appear. The air fills with small insects, soft-winged beetles, creatures of grace harming no one, bringing delight and joy to children, to adults. Many of us have childhood memories of ...

  • 06/30/2020
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