Spanning roughly 175 acres, the Davock Road Forest is one of the largest remaining privately owned, undeveloped properties in the Torch Lake watershed. Perched on a prominent ridge along the lake’s eastern shore, it features thriving hardwood forests and clean, coldwater streams that flow directly into Torch Lake.
By placing a permanent conservation easement on this property, we can ensure the forest continues to support wildlife habitat, safeguard water quality and offer scenic views of the ridgeline from Torch Lake. The easement also allows current and future owners to continue sustainable forestry and agriculture activities that support the local economy.
The majority of the property consists of high-quality northern mesic forest, an ecologically rich habitat that supports diverse native species, including state-threatened plant species documented nearby. It is part of an undeveloped, forested ridge that includes the Torch Lake Nature Preserve and other protected private land, and is near Camp Hayo-Went-Ha, creating a nearly continuous stretch of undisturbed habitat that supports wildlife movement, water quality and ecological resilience.
The property also encompasses an approximately three-acre wet meadow fed by two converging streams, which flow westerly into Torch Lake. In total, roughly 2,000 feet of stream frontage flow through the property, making it crucial for filtering runoff and sustaining water quality.
Other portions of the land contain an active fruit orchard, a row-cropped field and an antique apple orchard that will be maintained as a wildlife enhancement area, providing habitat while sustaining the watershed’s rural character.
The landowners have generously agreed to a 25% bargain sale, making this a rare opportunity to permanently protect this remarkable landscape.