Michigan Audubon Society
Mission & History
Mission Statement
History
Formed and incorporated in 1904, Michigan Audubon is the state's oldest conservation organization. The early history of the organization was dedicated to securing protective legislation for birds at a time when the millinery industry was harming songbird populations. Through the devotion of its early conservation-minded founders, Michigan Audubon was recognized nationally for advocacy and education efforts. Today, Michigan Audubon's commitment to birds continues in the form of organized bird-related data collection by a community of "citizen scientists." Likewise, the organization educates thousands of bird watchers each year through a series of educational programs, events, and an annual conference. Michigan Audubon's bird sanctuary network is growing and includes thousands of acres of protected bird habitat from Jackson County to the Keweenaw Peninsula.
Currently, Michigan Audubon maintains a membership of 2000 individuals and businesses, and there are 41 local chapters of Michigan Audubon active statewide. The Whitefish Point Bird Observatory is an affiliate organization under Michigan Audubon's 501(c)3 status. The organization nurtures partnerships with the National and Detroit Audubon Societies, the Kalamazoo Nature Center, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment, and the US Fish and Wildlife Service.
