Our History
In 1973, Jim and Shirley McLean purchased 80 acres of undeveloped land in Northern Bay county and from that grew the McLean Nature Preserve!
More About Us
Today the McLean Nature Preserve is roughly 160 acres of land in western Bay County situated along the North Branch of the Kawkawlin River, it is home to various species of flora and fauna.
We offer educational and recreational opportunities related to the dozens of natural features that can be found across the landscape. Alongside the thick groves of native Michigan trees there are wildflowers planted throughout the property as well with species of foxglove, lupine, and blazing star to name a few. These native wildflowers provide space for pollinator species to thrive, which helps support the surrounding agricultural land.
The property also has abundant wildlife supported by the nearby river, vernal pools, and a variety of forested, meadow, and wetland habitats present on the property. Animals viewed on the property include deer, foxes, bobcats, beavers, bats, various turtles, frogs, and birds as well as different species of mushrooms.
Series of land acquisitions:
In 1973 Jim and Shirley McLean purchased 80 acres of undeveloped land in Northern Bay County for hunting, mushroom and berry picking, and to enjoy nature. This property was mostly forest with the North branch of the Kawkawlin river crossing the Western portion.
In 1997 they purchased an adjoining 40 acres with a house and 2 barns. This property had been previously farmed and was more open, providing a contrast in habitat.
In 2007 conservation easements were established with the Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy of Bay City to protect the land from any future development, maintaining its natural state.
In 2012 McLean Nature Preserve was incorporated as a 501(c)(3) private foundation.
In 2013 the McLeans began to furnish the original farm house as a visitors’ center for the preserve which has extensive displays of wildlife art, taxidermy, and Native American artifacts.
In 2017 an additional 40 acres were purchased across the river giving the preserve 160 acres total and about ½ mile protecting both sides of the North branch of the Kawkawlin river.
Jim & Shirley McLean
Jim and Shirley McLean are the founders of the McLean Nature Preserve They look at the McLean Nature Preserve as being their legacy for the future.
Jim was born in Bay City where he was raised on a small 3 acre farm which specialized in fruit and produce sold at a roadside stand. After earning degrees in chemistry from the University of Michigan, he moved to Midland and worked for Dow Chemical Company. Shirley was born in Milwaukee, WI where she grew up in the city. She also earned a degree in chemistry and moved to Midland and worked for Dow as well, where she met Jim.
They enjoyed many walks together at Chippewa Nature Center, especially after work. This led to them beginning their search for some wildland in the area in the early 1970’s with little initial success. Eventually, Shirley saw an ad for a property that sounded too good to be true. Upon a visit this land became their first purchase and eventually the foundation of MNP.
