Grand Rapids, Michigan (Jul. 26, 2016) – The Land Conservancy of West Michigan is excited to introduce Joe Engel as its new Executive Director.

An attorney by training and vocation, Joe has been involved in numerous environmental and conservation organizations throughout his life. He has been a supporter of the Land Conservancy for the past decade, and more recently served on its board and executive committee.

A native of Muskegon, Joe spent much of his youth exploring the dunes and shoreline just over the hill from his childhood home. His love of nature–and a like-minded family–led to fishing, camping, and hiking throughout both peninsulas and ultimately fostered a lifelong love of the outdoors that has taken him to all 50 states.

“The Land Conservancy is blessed to have talented, passionate staff–and donors and volunteers–who are second to none. I am excited to build on their past efforts and look forward to moving ahead with incredible new opportunities for engaging folks in conserving the many, natural gifts in our eight county piece of heaven,” says Joe.

Joe is passionate about protecting our forests and watersheds, and is committed to working with staff, volunteers, and donors in making sure our children will always have access to “nature nearby” in West Michigan.

About The Land Conservancy of West Michigan: The mission of the Land Conservancy of West Michigan is to help people protect, enjoy, and care for natural land in West Michigan. A non-profit organization, the Land Conservancy is an accredited land trust dedicated to the permanent conservation of natural areas in West Michigan (including all or parts of eight counties: Allegan, Kent, Ottawa, Newaygo, Muskegon, Oceana, Mason, and Lake). With 40 years of experience keeping nature nearby, the Land Conservancy has protected more than 9,600 acres with nature preserves, conservation easements, and project assistance to local communities. www.naturenearby.org