Our History
The Friends of For-Mar Foundation was established in 1974 by Martha Merkley after donating the Merkley farm to the Genesee County Parks.
The original For-Mar Foundation Board ensured that the park system developed the Nature Preserve and Arboretum in accordance with Mrs. Merkley’s wishes. A trust fund, administered by Huntington Bank, was set up to provide financial support. Officers from Huntington Bank, resources from Michigan State University, and the Friends of For-Mar review the operations of For-Mar every other year to ensure compliance with the goals for the Nature Preserve.
Today’s Board continues the vision of For-Mar as a place for quiet reflection and outdoor education. The current Foundation Board includes environmen- talists, educators, master gardeners, naturalists, and other community members who care about For-Mar and its future.
Members of the Friends provide support and input to preserve For-Mar’s beauty and educational programs. For example, in 2022 and 2023 we were able to fund several projects, including a BioBlitz for over 600 local students, the completion of the display cabinets and murals in the Visitor’s Center, and providing ASL interpreters for programs.
Our People
FRIENDS OF FOR-MAR FOUNDATION – BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The Board of Directors of the Friends of For-Mar Foundation, Inc. meets most months during the year on the fourth Wednesday, at 3:00 PM in the Visitor’s Center of the Nature Preserve. Attendance by all members is welcome.
The 2023 Annual Meeting was held on Wednesday, May 24, 2023, beginning at 3 PM, in the Visitors’ Center, 2142 N. Genesee Road, Burton, Michigan. All Members of the Foundation are welcome and encouraged to attend the Annual Meeting, held on the last Wednesday each May. Watch this page for the meeting notice of May 2024.
Friends of For-Mar Foundation, Inc. 