Aubrey Golden of the Michigan Karst Conservancy admires this crack created by a karst.

MNA must raise $123,000 to cover the acquisition and endowment costs

A Unique Geological Feature
On July 19, 2008, MNA became a joint owner of a unique geological feature when the Board of Trustees approved an offer from the Michigan Karst Conservancy (MKC) to partner with them.  Under the terms of the agreement, MNA and MKC will work collaboratively to preserve and manage a 76-acre feature commonly referred to as Mystery Valley.

The term “karst” is used to describe regions throughout the world that have features formed largely by underground drainage.  Karst terrains are characterized by caves, steep valleys, swallow holes (a place where water disappears or sinks underground), and a general lack of surface streams because drainage is underground.  The resulting landscape is very interesting and provides unusual habitats for plants and animals.

Mystery Valley is located Posen Township, Presque Isle County, and is MNA’s first sanctuary in the county.  Mystery Valley is regarded as the finest known example of a karst valley with a swallow hole in Michigan, and MNA is now engaged in preserving this unique land feature. 

Now, MNA must raise $123,000 to cover the acquisition and endowment costs. 

How You Can Help
How many opportunities do you get to leave your mark on such a special place? Consider this:

• Mystery Valley is an incredible asset to the local residents, as well as the people who come from many miles away to visit. Michigan’s natural areas are disappearing and without direct involvement from private citizens and organizations, our unique natural areas will be lost forever. MNA focuses on preserving only the highest quality natural areas and in this way, we help preserve Michigan’s natural diversity, which results in healthier ecosystems throughout the state, even in areas not protected by MNA.

• Your contribution will have a lasting impact.  MNA holds our own deeds and conservation easements, thereby guaranteeing that this special place will be there for people to enjoy now and forever. 

Click here to contribute today.  Thank you for your support!