WHENSeptember 9, 2016

11:30 AM to 1:30 PM

WHEREThe Edsel Ford Barn

Highland State Recreation Area5200 Highland RoadWhite Lake, MI 48383

COST$20 (Lunch is provided)

QUESTIONS? CONTAC TJulie Skene, Event Planner

(248) 858-5437 skenej@oakgov.com

Identifying and protecting what comes naturally to a state, a region or county did not come naturally — it took individuals with passion and perseverance. These visionaries understood the importance of retaining and preserving natural areas for parklands and making them available to the public. Throughout the state and in Oakland County, the work of these individuals (both single-handedly and in cooperation with others) has resulted in an enduring environmental legacy. With 102 state parks and recreation areas, the Michigan State Park system offers you abundant opportunities today to get back to the nature they saved. Learn about these significant contributors, including:

• Genevieve Gillette, "First Lady of State Parks"• The Edsel & Eleanor Ford Family and their Haven Hill estate• The Dodge Brothers• Jens Jensen, Prairie-style landscape architect• P.J. Hoffmaster, first superintendent of Michigan State Parks

And, you will hear what stewardship is needed to preserve these natural landscapes for now and future generations.

Registration Deadline: September 6, 2016

TOURSWear comfortable shoes and join us for a short walking tour of this historic natural area.

Post EventOn your own, explore the Gate House, Lodge, Haven Hill and new Cedar Creek Trail.

“Parklands are something we should insist on while we’re building, not after cement covers the ground. After all, aren’t we the only people who can leave those following us any heritage of natural beauty.”Genevieve Gillette, “First Lady of State Parks”

SPEAKERSLarry Falardeau, Friends of Highland Recreation AreaDick Russell, Friends of Highland Recreation AreaMatt Lincoln, Michigan Department of Natural ResourcesMiguel Rodriguez, Michigan Department of Natural Resources

AGENDA11:30 AM NetworkingNoon Lunch12:30 PM Presentation1:30 PM Close / Tour (optional)

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T H E N AT U R E O F P R E S E R VAT I O N

State Recreation Pass required for entry — purchase at gate for $11.

Haven Hill and the Highland State Recreation Area are public treasures today because of champions who had the vision and perseverance to save them so long ago.

SAVE THE DATEPlanners Gathering | December 2, 2016

T H I S P R E S E N TAT I O N W I L L I N C LU D E : Origins of Haven Hill National Natural Landmark Edsel and Eleanor Ford Estate at Haven Hill Importance of the State Designated Natural Areas Program Friends of Highland Recreation Area Activities, Events and Restoration Projects Role of Genevieve Gillette as the First Lady of Michigan State Parks and Natural Areas

In 1972, Haven Hill and additional property around it became the Highland State Recreation Area that Gillette had envisioned so long ago. In 1976, it was designated a National Natural Landmark by the National Park Service. It is one of only 12 such sites in Michigan.

You will learn about the work of FOHRA and see the results with a visit to the Gate House or the Lodge or by simply enjoying the natural beauty of this remarkable property.

Seeking peace and quiet, Edsel and Eleanor Ford found respite in the hilly countryside of north Oakland County where they started buying property in 1923. In total, they assembled 2,400 acres for the rural residence they named Haven Hill. By 1931 they had completed a 6,900 square-foot lodge and surrounded it with all the amenities of estate living — a swimming pool, tennis courts, riding stable, carriage house and a natural landscape designed by Jens Jensen. They enjoyed the serenity of their retreat until Edsel's death in 1943. Three years later, Eleanor sold the property to the state in a deal fostered by Jensen’s protégé Genevieve Gillette, who imagined the property as part of a bigger park.

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R E G I S T E R T O D A Y

Registration Deadline: September 6, 2016