Protecting a Barry County Jewel

With 3,500 feet of frontage on two beautiful lakes – Wall and Mud/Jones Lakes – the George and Doris Leonard Shadeland Conservation Easement perfectly expresses everything that makes Barry County a one-of-a-kind jewel. The gorgeous, rolling property is forested with a diverse mix of tree species, acres of shimmering shallow wetlands, golden farm fields, an island in Mud Lake covered with ancient oak trees – and even a tamarack bog!

Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy has worked with the Leonards since the late 1990s and completion of the conservation easement represents a real dream come true for the couple, who have both passed on. Bud and Doris were deeply connected to the natural character of their land and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and hiking the property – as well as flying their airplane from it.

The Leonards’ land has already supported a lifetime of adventure, and Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy is proud to see this legacy through to fruition so that future generations of owners will enjoy the same opportunities.