A little bit of history.

Friends of the Saline River was established as a charitable 501(c)(3) organization in 2016, allowing Friends to receive donations and issue letters of acknowledgement to contributors.

In July 2015, the property that was to become The Leslee Niethammer Saline River Preserve was declared a preserve/sanctuary by the York Township Board of Trustees. Each member of the township board expressed a belief that this was too improtant a piece of property to be lost to residential or commercial development. Additionally, this property is integral to implementing a network of interlocking parks with circuitous walking trails. For friends of Charlie Burg, the previous owner of the property, being able to continue his legacy of nature preservation is a great win.

Through the endeavors of these friends, relationships were established between Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission, York Township, City of Saline, and City of Milan. Friends of the Saline River was established as the protector of the preserve. Money was raised. Trails were created. A caretaker strategy was established. Volunteers have put in hours of work.

June 2017 saw the preserve officially open. The ribbon was cut and photos were taken. Walkers, hikers, bird watchers, nature lovers, and peace seekers have found the preserve to be a great destination.

Friends and volunteers have worked to clear trails, keep brush and weeds at bay, plant native wildflowers for pollinators, and keep it beautiful. Loved ones have reached out to place memorial benches at points of interest. Middle schoolers have sponsored informative signs throughout the preserve.

Meet our board!