Pyatt Lake: The Bill Carls Nature Preserve

Protected in 1992, Pyatt Lake represents not only an undisturbed landscape with unique habitat and geologic features but also the Conservancy’s first land preservation effort. Many diverse groups, from local artists to school children, came together to shield this land from the threat of impending development. Prior to Pyatt’s protection, the beauty and value of this property were recognized by both developers and conservationists. Luckily, the property had been identified as one of the most botanically diverse privately owned properties in Grand Traverse County and was one of three remaining examples of a “Wooded Dune and Swale Complex” habitat in northern Michigan. As a result, a compelling argument for Pyatt’s regional significance and preservation was successfully made. Over the years Pyatt Lake Preserve has been expanded eight times, bringing it to 159 acres.

Approximately 107 acres of forested natural communities are protected within the preserve include Rich Conifer Swamp, Northern Hardwood Swamp, Hardwood-Conifer Swamp, Dry Mesic Northern Forest, and Mesic Northern Forest. Tree species present include northern white cedar, red and white pine, hemlock, paper birch, sugar maple, red maple, American beech, yellow and paper birch, tamarack and red and white oak.