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Priority Landscapes

Great Lakes

A rainbow over Lake Huron as waves flow onto the sandy beach.
Greater Yellowlegs Fall in the Great Lakes means migratory birds, like this greater yellowlegs, are once again flying through the region. © Karin Aigner

Make a Difference in the Great Lakes

For more than 65 years, people like you have helped The Nature Conservancy protect the serene waters of the Great Lakes. We’re building on that legacy by bringing folks together from across the region to help solve tough conservation challenges, from climate change to keeping our water clean.

Lake Whitefish (Coregonus clupeaformis) swimming underwater.

Returning Whitefish to the River

On the banks of the Jordan River, scientists and conservationists work to revive river-spawning lake whitefish, aiming to restore the Great Lakes ecosystem and support local communities.

Why This Is Crucial

Explore the Great Lakes

A person in yellow fire PPE using a drip torch to start a controlled burn in a forest.

Controlled Burns, Wild Benefits: Restoring Midwest Ecosystems with Fire

Discover how prescribed fire is restoring balance to Midwest landscapes, reviving habitats, supporting biodiversity and sparking ecological renewal.

Camera looking up a tree trunk, showing multiple trees with different shades of fall colors such yellow, green and orange.

Great Lakes Northwoods

The Great Lakes Northwoods are a critically important landscape that filters and provides high-quality freshwater, maintains species biodiversity and naturally stores carbon.

A male Blackburnian warbler perched on a branch against a green background.

Midwest Migratory Birds

Millions of migratory birds are using TNC sites to rest and refuel as they migrate through the Midwest.

Comic-book style panels featuring various animals with words that hint at their superpower.

Top 10 Superpowered Animals of the Midwest

From polyester bees to wood frogs, Superman has nothing on these extraordinary animals in the Midwest. Meet these 10 superpowered animals and learn why conserving their natural habitats is vital.

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Sunset over Lake Superior in Michigan.
Sunrise over the Peninsula Copper Harbor Peninsula on Lake Superior, Michigan. © Drew Chylek/TNC Photo Contest 2022

Visit a Great Lakes Chapter

The Great Lakes region consists of a variety of critical ecological systems. Each chapter works both individually and in tandem to protect and sustain these habitats for future generations.

View from behind of a person kayaking on a flat body of water through a channel that cuts through wetland plants.
Peaceful Paddling Kayaking is a wonderful way to experience an autumnal sunset over Lake Superior. © Kate Stephany/TNC Photo Contest 2021

See the Places We Protect in the Great Lakes

The Nature Conservancy has helped protect more than 100 sites throughout the Great Lakes, including prairies, savannas, forests, wetlands and rivers.

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