the Mississippi Headwaters Audubon Society
We were founded through the efforts of concerned Bemidji citizens who saw the need for a strong environmental voice in the early 1970's. Area activists chose to organize as a local chapter of the National Audubon Society in 1977 for its reputation in environmental advocacy and history of natural resource protection. Today the chapter represents over 250 members living throughout north central Minnesota. The majority of our activities are environmental education and outreach.
the Neilson Spearhead Center
Excerpted from an article by Blane Klemek, published in The Source newsletter, 2003
The rich history of the Neilson Spearhead Center property is worth noting. George Neilson originally purchased several lots along Spearhead Lake in 1922 from John Spicer. Nearly all of the remaining property that makes up the present-day holdings was purchased by 1939. And the last forty acres was given to Katharine Cram by her father in 1958. Katherine spent nearly all of her summers at Spearhead Lake until 1942. She lived there from 1958 to 1969.
In 1978 Katharine Neilson Cram deeded the entire property to The Nature Conservancy. Thanks to her generosity, such a place exists for those seeking enjoyment in nature. Presently, the Mississippi Headwaters Audubon Society (MHAS), a local chapter of the National Audubon Society, owns and operates the Neilson Spearhead Center as both a wildlife sanctuary and environmental learning center.
During those years several buildings existed where the Center's headquarters now stands. Homes, a barn, sheds and garages, a boathouse, and an outhouse were constructed. Some vestiges of the past can be viewed yet today, but gone are the original homes and barn.
Through her vision of preserving and conserving the extraordinary natural landscape of the Center for future generations, a living legacy of Katharine Neilson Cram exists for Audubon members and the general public to enjoy. For the Mississippi Headwaters Audubon Society--its directors, committees, and members--a huge responsibility and commitment to the land, and its wildlife and floral diversity, is paramount.
Well over 200 plants have been observed and recorded at Neilson Spearhead Center. Some of which are rare, endangered, or species of special concern. The lake and woodlands are alive with the songs and calls of birds. And furry mammals of many kinds, as well as terrestrial and aquatic insect life, frogs and toads of several species, painted and snapping turtles, fishes like walleye, northern pike, and bluegill sunfish, and countless other species of wildlife inhabit the riches the Center provides.
And just as importantly, it is also a place of discovery. Every summer, children of all ages attend naturalist led programs that teach them about the outdoor world. The education committee of MHAS' Neilson Spearhead Center board organizes and administers this successful and engaging program. It’s also place where outdoor enthusiasts can cross-country ski, snowshoe, or ice fish on winter days. And to help visitors become acquainted with the Center, caretakers live on-site and are always there to help.
The Neilson Spearhead Center is a diamond in the rough. There's something for everyone; something to discover; and something to appreciate, cherish, and preserve. Getting out to enjoy the great outdoors has never been made easier.
The rich history of the Neilson Spearhead Center property is worth noting. George Neilson originally purchased several lots along Spearhead Lake in 1922 from John Spicer. Nearly all of the remaining property that makes up the present-day holdings was purchased by 1939. And the last forty acres was given to Katharine Cram by her father in 1958. Katherine spent nearly all of her summers at Spearhead Lake until 1942. She lived there from 1958 to 1969.
In 1978 Katharine Neilson Cram deeded the entire property to The Nature Conservancy. Thanks to her generosity, such a place exists for those seeking enjoyment in nature. Presently, the Mississippi Headwaters Audubon Society (MHAS), a local chapter of the National Audubon Society, owns and operates the Neilson Spearhead Center as both a wildlife sanctuary and environmental learning center.
During those years several buildings existed where the Center's headquarters now stands. Homes, a barn, sheds and garages, a boathouse, and an outhouse were constructed. Some vestiges of the past can be viewed yet today, but gone are the original homes and barn.
Through her vision of preserving and conserving the extraordinary natural landscape of the Center for future generations, a living legacy of Katharine Neilson Cram exists for Audubon members and the general public to enjoy. For the Mississippi Headwaters Audubon Society--its directors, committees, and members--a huge responsibility and commitment to the land, and its wildlife and floral diversity, is paramount.
Well over 200 plants have been observed and recorded at Neilson Spearhead Center. Some of which are rare, endangered, or species of special concern. The lake and woodlands are alive with the songs and calls of birds. And furry mammals of many kinds, as well as terrestrial and aquatic insect life, frogs and toads of several species, painted and snapping turtles, fishes like walleye, northern pike, and bluegill sunfish, and countless other species of wildlife inhabit the riches the Center provides.
And just as importantly, it is also a place of discovery. Every summer, children of all ages attend naturalist led programs that teach them about the outdoor world. The education committee of MHAS' Neilson Spearhead Center board organizes and administers this successful and engaging program. It’s also place where outdoor enthusiasts can cross-country ski, snowshoe, or ice fish on winter days. And to help visitors become acquainted with the Center, caretakers live on-site and are always there to help.
The Neilson Spearhead Center is a diamond in the rough. There's something for everyone; something to discover; and something to appreciate, cherish, and preserve. Getting out to enjoy the great outdoors has never been made easier.