Form990
Click to see attachment
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax
Under section 501(c), 527, or 4947(a)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code (except black lung benefit trust or private foundation)

MediumBullet The organization may have to use a copy of this return to satisfy state reporting requirements.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2011
Open to Public Inspection
A For the calendar year, or tax year beginning 01-01-2011 and ending 12-31-2011
BCheck if applicable:
CName of organization
CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER
 
Doing Business As
 
 
Number and street (or P.O. box if mail is not delivered to street address)
400 S BADOUR RD
 
Room/suite
City or town, state or country, and ZIP + 4
MIDLAND, MI48640
D Employer identification number

38-1859315
E Telephone number

G Gross receipts $ 13,532,550
F Name and address of principal officer:
BARBARA ANDERSON
1108 EVAMAR DR
MIDLAND,MI48640
I
Tax-exempt status: (   ) LeftBullet (insert no.) or
J
Website:MediumBullet
WWW.CHIPPEWANATURECENTER.ORG
H(a)
Is this a group return for
affiliates?
H(b)
Are all affiliates included?
If "No," attach a list. (see instructions)
H(c)
Group exemption number MediumBullet  
K Form of organization:
 
L Year of formation: 1966
M State of legal domicile: MI
Part I
Summary
Activities & Governance 1 Briefly describe the organization’s mission or most significant activities: THE CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER IS A NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION WHOSE MISSION IS TO FACILITATE THE ENJOYMENT AND UNDERSTANDING OF OUR NATURAL, HISTORICAL AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCES AS RELEVANT TO THE SAGINAW VALLEY, TO PROMOTE ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS AND TO FOSTER RESPONSIBLE STEWARDSHIP.
2 Check this box MediumBullet
3 Number of voting members of the governing body (Part VI, line 1a)..... 3 15
4 Number of independent voting members of the governing body (Part VI, line 1b) .... 4 15
5 Total number of individuals employed in calendar year 2011 (Part V, line 2a) ... 5 67
6 Total number of volunteers (estimate if necessary) .... 6 669
7a Total unrelated business revenue from Part VIII, column (C), line 12 .. 7a 0
b Net unrelated business taxable income from Form 990-T, line 34 .. 7b  
Revenues; Prior Year Current Year
8 Contributions and grants (Part VIII, line 1h) ......... 503,168 613,314
9 Program service revenue (Part VIII, line 2g) ......... 276,918 340,142
10 Investment income (Part VIII, column (A), lines 3, 4, and 7d ) .... 1,203,300 2,545,114
11 Other revenue (Part VIII, column (A), lines 5, 6d, 8c, 9c, 10c, and 11e) 15,181 19,357
12 Total revenue—add lines 8 through 11 (must equal Part VIII, column (A), line 12)................... 1,998,567 3,517,927
Expenses; 13 Grants and similar amounts paid (Part IX, column (A), lines 1–3 )...   0
14 Benefits paid to or for members (Part IX, column (A), line 4).....   0
15 Salaries, other compensation, employee benefits (Part IX, column (A), lines 5–10) 1,583,740 1,605,283
16a Professional fundraising fees (Part IX, column (A), line 11e).....   0
b Total fundraising expenses (Part IX, column (D), line 25) MediumBullet95,733    
17 Other expenses (Part IX, column (A), lines 11a–11d, 11f–24f).... 1,429,113 1,099,335
18 Total expenses. Add lines 13–17 (must equal Part IX, column (A), line 25) 3,012,853 2,704,618
19 Revenue less expenses. Subtract line 18 from line 12....... -1,014,286 813,309
Net Assets or Fund Balances; Beginning of Current Year End of Year
20 Total assets (Part X, line 16)............. 35,348,970 32,610,880
21 Total liabilities (Part X, line 26)............. 54,699 62,139
22 Net assets or fund balances. Subtract line 21 from line 20..... 35,294,271 32,548,741
Part II
Signature Block
Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have examined this return, including accompanying schedules and statements, and to the best of my knowledge and belief, it is true, correct, and complete. Declaration of preparer (other than officer) is based on all information of which preparer has any knowledge.
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Preparer's signature
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Phone no.
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For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the separate instructions.
Cat. No. 11282Y
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 2
Part III
Statement of Program Service Accomplishments
Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part III .........
1
Briefly describe the organization’s mission: THE CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER IS A NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION WHOSE MISSION IS TO FACILITATE THE ENJOYMENT AND UNDERSTANDING OF OUR NATURAL, HISTORICAL AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCES AS RELEVANT TO THE SAGINAW VALLEY, TO PROMOTE ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS AND TO FOSTER RESPONSIBLE STEWARDSHIP.
2
Did the organization undertake any significant program services during the year which were not listed on
the prior Form 990 or 990-EZ? ....................
If “Yes,” describe these new services on Schedule O.
3
Did the organization cease conducting, or make significant changes in how it conducts, any program services? ..........................
If “Yes,” describe these changes on Schedule O.
4
Describe the organization’s program service accomplishments for each of its three largest program services, as measured by expenses. Section 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations and section 4947(a)(1) trusts are required to report the amount of grants and allocations to others, the total expenses, and revenue, if any, for each program service reported.
4a (Code:   ) (Expenses $ 657,899 including grants of $   ) (Revenue $ 274,087 )
EDUCATION: THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION'S ROLE IN ACCOMPLISHING THE NATURE CENTER MISSION IS TO FACILITATE POSITIVE OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES FOR THE YOUTH IN OUR COMMUNITY. WE OFFER A VARIETY OF PROGRAMS TO ACCOMPLISH THIS. MANY OF OUR PROGRAMS ARE FOR GROUPS OF CHILDREN THAT ARE STRIVING TO ACHIEVE THE GOALS OF AN ESTABLISHED CURRICULUM (I.E., SCHOOLS AND SCOUTS). HOWEVER, WE ALSO OFFER YOUTH PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN WHEN THEY'RE ENJOYING THEIR FREE TIME WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS. IN THE END, OUR GOAL IS TO CONNECT OUR CHILDREN TO NATURE FOR THEIR POSITIVE OVERALL DEVELOPMENT (PHYSICALLY, SOCIALLY, EMOTIONALLY, AND COGNITIVELY). SCHOOL PROGRAMS: A TOTAL OF 12,826 STUDENTS ATTENDED SCHOOL PROGRAMS IN 2011. THESE STUDENTS WERE SERVED THROUGH 490 PROGRAMS HERE AT CNC AND 66 WERE "ON THE ROAD." AT HOME WITH NATURE: AT HOME WITH NATURE IS DESIGNED TO SUPPLEMENT SCIENCE AND HISTORY HOMESCHOOL EDUCATION THROUGH FUN, INTERACTIVE, HANDS-ON ACTIVITIES. EACH SERIES CONSISTS OF THREE 1.5 HOUR PROGRAMS. IN 2011, 83 CHILDREN PARTICIPATED IN THIS PROGRAM. NATURE PRESCHOOL: NATURE PRESCHOOL IS A UNIQUE PROGRAM THAT PROVIDES THREE AND FOUR YEAR OLDS A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO DEVELOP LIFELONG CONNECTIONS WITH NATURE. IN 2011-12 WE HAD 86 STUDENTS ENROLLED, 100% OF CAPACITY. WE OFFERED FIVE DIFFERENT HALF-DAY SESSIONS IN A RANGE FROM TWO TO FOUR DAYS PER WEEK. SCOUTS: SCOUT PROGRAMS AT CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER ARE SPECIALLY DESIGNED TO HELP GROUPS WORK ON THE VARIOUS REQUIREMENTS NEEDED TO COMPLETE BADGES AND OTHER ADVANCEMENTS. IN 2011 WE HAD 488 SCOUTS ATTEND PROGRAMS AT THE NATURE CENTER WITH THEIR DEN OR TROOP. NATURE DAY CAMP: THIS PAST SUMMER 744 CHILDREN ATTENDED NATURE DAY CAMP. PROGRAMS WERE OFFERED FOR 3-17 YEAR OLDS AND WERE ONE TO TWO WEEKS IN LENGTH. A NEW CAMP OFFERING IN 2011 WAS "NATURE GAMES" WHICH WAS A MINI-CAMP. DUE TO THE POPULARITY OF THE PROGRAM IN 2010, WE OFFERED TWO SESSIONS OF "ADVANCED VILLAGE: A FUR TRADE ADVENTURE" THIS SUMMER FOR 9-11 YEAR OLDS. YOUTH DROP-IN PROGRAMS: DROP-IN PROGRAMS INCLUDE WEE STROLL, STORY HOURS, NATURE FOR YOUTH AND SENSATIONAL SUMMER DAYS. WEE STROLL IS FOR OUR YOUNGEST NATURE CENTER VISITORS UP TO TWO YEARS OF AGE WITH AN ADULT, AND HAD 145 PARTICIPANTS. STORY HOURS ARE GEARED FOR THE NEXT OLDER AGE GROUP RANGING FROM 2-5 YEARS OLD WITH 704 PARTICIPANTS IN 2011. WE HAVE TWO DROP-IN PROGRAMS DESIGNED FOR OUR OLDER YOUTH VISITORS - THE ONE DURING THE SCHOOL YEAR IS NATURE FOR YOUTH, AND THE OTHER DURING THE SUMMER IS SENSATIONAL SUMMER DAYS. SENSATIONAL SUMMER DAYS ARE FREE ACTIVITIES THAT ARE AVAILABLE FOR VISITORS TO EXPLORE DURING OUR NORMAL VISITOR CENTER HOURS EVERY DAY OF THE WEEK BUT MONDAY. NATURE FOR YOUTH IS A FREE, 1.5 HOUR PROGRAM OFFERED ON THE FIRST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH DURING THE SCHOOL YEAR. IN 2011 WE HAD 249 CHILDREN ATTEND THIS PROGRAM. WE ALSO OFFERED A PRE-REGISTERED PROGRAM FOR THE TEEN AUDIENCE CALLED "TEEN TREX," AND HAD 10 PARTICIPANTS. SEASONAL EXPLORATION DAYS: WHAT FAMILY DOESN'T LOOK FOR SOMETHING FUN TO DO WITH THEIR KIDS OVER HOLIDAY BREAKS? THESE "EXPLORATION DAYS" PROVIDE AN INDOOR SELF-GUIDED PROGRAM FOR FAMILIES TO EXPLORE AS THEIR TIME ALLOWS DURING WINTER AND THANKSGIVING BREAKS. SIMILAR IN FORMAT TO SUMMER SENSATIONAL DAYS, THESE DROP-IN PROGRAMS INCLUDE A VARIETY OF SELF-GUIDED, HANDS-ON EXPLORATION STATIONS. SET UP IN TWO OF OUR CLASSROOMS, THIS IS ESSENTIALLY A HANDS-ON, INTERACTIVE TEMPORARY EXHIBIT FOR THE BREAK. NATURE AT NIGHT & NATURE'S EGGS EXTRAVAGANZA: AFTER A COUPLE OF YEARS OFF DURING THE CONSTRUCTION PROJECT, THESE YOUTH EVENTS WERE BACK BETTER THAN EVER THIS YEAR IN APRIL WE HELD NATURE'S EGGS EXTRAVAGANZA FOR 111 CHILDREN. THE EVENT INCLUDED AN EGG HUNT, ACTIVITIES IN THE CLASSROOMS ABOUT EGG-LAYING MICHIGAN ANIMALS, AND PRIZES. IN OCTOBER WAS NATURE AT NIGHT, A SATURDAY EVENING EVENT FOCUSED ON THE WONDERS OF MICHIGAN'S NIGHTTIME NATURAL WORLD. ACTIVITIES IN THE CLASSROOMS, NATURE SONGS, STORYTELLING IN THE WIGWAM, A BIRD MIGRATION OBSTACLE COURSE, AND A JACK-O-LANTERN TRAIL KEPT THE 480 VISITORS WELL ENTERTAINED. ANOTHER WAY WE FACILITATE POSITIVE OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES FOR THE YOUTH IN OUR COMMUNITY IS TO PROVIDE EDUCATORS WITH TOOLS AND TRAINING TO INTEGRATE NATURE INTO THEIR CLASSES. IN 2011 WE CREATED THE NATURE PRESCHOOL INSTITUTE TO TEACH EARLY CHILDHOOD PROFESSIONALS ABOUT OUR UNIQUE APPROACH TO PRESCHOOL EDUCATION. WE HAD 24 PARTICIPANTS IN OUR ON-SITE, 4 DAY TRAINING. INTEREST IN AND DEMAND FOR THE PROGRAM WAS SO GREAT THAT WE TOOK THE TRAININGS ON THE ROAD FOR OUR "NATURE PRESCHOOL TRAVELLING INSTITUTE" WHERE WE TRAINED 57 PRESCHOOL TEACHERS.
4b (Code:   ) (Expenses $ 425,419 including grants of $   ) (Revenue $ 59,400 )
INTERPRETATION: SINCE 1966, CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER'S PROGRAM STAFF HAVE OFFERED EXCITING AND RELEVANT INTERPRETIVE PROGRAMS THAT ENABLE PEOPLE OF ALL AGES TO CONNECT TO THE NATURAL WORLD. IN 2011 A TOTAL OF 8,210 PEOPLE ATTENDED INTERPRETIVE PROGRAMS, UP OVER 3,000 PEOPLE FROM 2010 THE PROGRAM OFFERINGS ONCE AGAIN INCLUDED HIKES, OFF-SITE FIELD TRIPS, PADDLING TRIPS, HANDS-ON WORKSHOPS, AND LECTURES, AS WELL AS MAJOR EVENTS LIKE MAPLE SYRUP DAY. THE TOTAL NUMBER OF PROGRAM OFFERINGS FOR 2011 WAS UP FROM 2010 DUE TO OUR FULL RETURN TO THE VISITOR CENTER AFTER THE RENOVATION OF THE FACILITIES. ANNUAL DROP-IN ATTENDANCE HAS GONE UP SHARPLY SINCE THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE CHIPPEWA TRAIL IN 2005. IN 2011, IN ADDITION TO THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE ATTENDING NATURALIST-LED PROGRAMS, THERE WERE AN ADDITIONAL 15,618 PEOPLE WHO CAME TO THE VISITOR CENTER ON THEIR OWN. VENTURING OUT: IN 2011, CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER TOOK 258 PEOPLE ON A TOTAL OF 27 FIELD TRIPS DESIGNED TO CONNECT TO NATURE AND EXPLORE THE OUTDOORS. ACTIVITIES AND DESTINATIONS INCLUDED SNOWSHOEING THE AU SABLE RIVER, KAYAKING THE DEADSTREAM SWAMP, PADDLING MOOSE COUNTRY, BIRDING OHIO, AN EXPLORATION OF ISLE ROYALE, AS WELL AS SEVERAL KAYAK TRIPS ON OUR LOCAL RIVERS. FIELD TRIPS CREATE THE OPPORTUNITY TO IMMERSE ONESELF IN THE OUTDOORS AND LEARN THE PLANTS, ANIMALS AND CHARACTER OF A REGION WITH OUR KNOWLEDGEABLE TRIP LEADERS. CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER OFFERED A WIDE RANGE OF HANDS-ON WORKSHOPS IN 2011, INCLUDING SOAPMAKING, NATURAL WREATH MAKING, FLY-TYING, SNOWSHOE LACING, AND FUNGI IDENTIFICATION. WORKSHOPS CONTINUE TO BE POPULAR WITH THE PUBLIC BECAUSE THEY ARE AN OPPORTUNITY TO DIG DEEPER INTO SPECIALIZED SKILLS RELATED TO OUR CULTURAL HERITAGE, NATURAL WORLD AND THE GREAT OUTDOORS. FESTIVAL TIME: MAJOR EVENTS ALWAYS PULL IN LARGE CROWDS EAGER FOR FUN AND EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES. MAPLE SYRUP DAY LED THE WAY IN 2011 WITH JUST OVER 1,400 ATTENDEES READY TO USHER IN SPRING BY PARTICIPATING IN A VARIETY OF CRAFTS AND ACTIVITIES RELATED TO THIS SWEET TIME OF YEAR. THE BANFF MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL HAD ALL TIME HIGH ATTENDANCE OF 467 PEOPLE. FALL HARVEST FESTIVAL DREW NEARLY 1,300 PEOPLE OVER TWO DAYS NATURE ART SHOW AND SALE WAS BACK AFTER A THREE YEAR HIATUS AND OVER 800 PEOPLE ATTENDED THE WEEKEND EVENT. DROP-IN AND GET CONNECTED: DROP-IN, FREE PROGRAMS CONTINUE TO BE THE FOUNDATION OF OUR INTERPRETIVE PROGRAM OFFERINGS. THE PROGRAMS COVERED A RANGE OF TOPICS INCLUDING: BIRD WALKS, WILDFLOWER HIKES, FUNGI FORAYS, MAPLE SYRUP PROGRAMS, LIFE ON AN 1870S FARM, BIRD BANDING, NATIVE AMERICAN LIFE, FULL MOON WALKS, ARCHAEOLOGY, ANIMALS TRACKS, FISHING, SNOWSHOEING, AND MUCH, MUCH MORE IN TOTAL, NEARLY 3,300 PEOPLE ATTENDED THESE INTERPRETIVE PROGRAMS THEY ARE THE CORE OF THE CENTER'S ADULT AND FAMILY OFFERINGS, GIVING PEOPLE OF ALL AGES THE CHANCE TO GET OUTSIDE WITH A TALENTED STAFF AND BUILD CONNECTIONS TO THE NATURAL WORLD WITH PEOPLE OF SIMILAR INTERESTS. THE GUIDING FORCE FOR THE CENTER'S PROGRAM OFFERINGS IS THE MISSION. THE MISSION DIRECTS CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER TO FACILITATE THE ENJOYMENT AND UNDERSTANDING OF THE CULTURAL AND NATURAL RESOURCES OF THE SAGINAW VALLEY, TO PROMOTE ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS AND FOSTER RESPONSIBLE STEWARDSHIP. THE ULTIMATE GOAL OF PROGRAMMING IS TO INSPIRE PEOPLE TO PROTECT THE NATURAL WORLD AND WE ARE FORTUNATE TO HAVE A DEDICATED STAFF, COMMITTED BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND A WONDERFUL SITE AND FACILITY AT CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER FROM WHICH TO RUN THESE PROGRAMS AND WORK WITH OUR MEMBERSHIP AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC. WE LOOK FORWARD TO ANOTHER GREAT YEAR OF PROGRAMMING AT CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER AND HOPE YOU CAN ATTEND ONE OF THE MANY PROGRAMS WE OFFER ANNUALLY.
4c (Code:   ) (Expenses $ 1,057,830 including grants of $   ) (Revenue $   )
LAND & FACILITIES: FACILITIES ENERGY USE - A SYSTEM FOR MONITORING THE ENERGY USE OF EACH OF THE CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER'S BUILDINGS WAS DEVELOPED AND PRESENTED TO THE CNC BOARD. LAND TRAILS - WITH SOME HEAVY SNOWS, HEAVY WIND STORMS AND TWO MAJOR FLOODS IN THE SPRING, MUCH EFFORT WAS SPENT MAINTAINING AND GROOMING THE TRAILS FOR SKIING, SNOWSHOEING, HIKING AND BIKING. AS A RESULT, WE HAVE CONTINUED TO RECEIVE POSITIVE FEEDBACK FROM MANY GUESTS, ESPECIALLY CROSS COUNTRY SKIERS AND CHIPPEWA TRAIL USERS SUMMER PLANT CREW ACCOMPLISHMENTS - TWO SUMMER CREW POSITIONS (KARA MOSER, SEAN CANNEDY (SPLIT POSITION) AND CASEY BREGE (SPLIT POSITION)) WERE FILLED TO HELP CONTROL LARGE PORTIONS OF THE PRIORITY AREAS OUTLINED IN THE INVASIVE EXOTIC PLANT MANAGEMENT PLAN. SPECIES SUCH AS GARLIC MUSTARD, DAME'S ROCKET, AUTUMN OLIVE, BUCKTHORN, PHRAGMITES, MULTIFLORA ROSE, HONEY SUCKLE, PURPLE LOOSESTRIFE, NORWAY SPRUCE, SCOTCH PINE AND BARBERRY WERE ALL CONTROLLED. SUMMER MAINTENANCE STAFF - ERNIE PERRY AND RYAN KRENZKE WERE HIRED FOR THE SUMMER TO HELP WITH PROJECTS INCLUDING MOWING, TRIMMING, TRAIL WORK, FACILITIES MAINTENANCE AND EQUIPMENT UPKEEP. PHRAGMITES CONTROL - PHRAGMITES AROUND DRAGONFLY, MUSKRAT AND HERON MARSH WERE MOWED IN AUGUST AND THEN SPRAYED AS THEY BEGAN RESPROUTING IN OCTOBER AND NOVEMBER. MOST OF THE SPRAYING WAS APPLIED AFTER OTHER SPECIES DIED OFF AFTER THE FIRST FROSTS. THIS WILL HOPEFULLY PROVIDE A GOOD START TOWARDS CONTROLLING THIS VERY AGGRESSIVE INVASIVE AT THE WETLANDS AREA. UNIVERSAL ACCESS SITES - AFTER MANY YEARS OF PLANNING AND WORKING WITH THE ACCESS TO RECREATION COMMITTEE, THREE UNIVERSAL ACCESS SITES HAVE BEEN CONSTRUCTED: SANFORD LAKE PARK, THE CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER SITE ON WEST CHIPPEWA RIVER ROAD AND THE CITY OF MIDLAND SITE AT THE TRIDGE. EACH SITE HAS PARKING, TRAILS, AND A DOCK THAT ARE SUITABLE FOR THOSE WITH DISABILITIES. THE SITE WILL BE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC STARTING MAY 1, 2012 AND WILL BE OPEN ANNUALLY MAY 1 THROUGH OCTOBER 15. DEER HARVEST - A TOTAL OF 41 DEER WHERE HARVESTED WITH ARCHERY EQUIPMENT DURING THE 2011 SEASON. THIS IS UP FROM THE LAST 3 YEARS, WHICH WERE LOW AS A RESULT OF THE NO BAITING BAN OCCURRING OVER THOSE YEARS. OF THE 41 DEER HARVESTED 36 WERE ANTLERLESS. SPECIES OF SPECIAL CONCERN - A MAP OF PLANT SPECIES THAT ARE OF SPECIAL CONCERN AT THE CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER HAVE BEEN MAPPED USING GIS. THIS WILL HELP STAFF TRACK THESE SPECIES STATUS ANNUALLY, WHILE ALSO PROVIDING A NOTIFICATION OF THEIR LOCATION TO STAFF MAINTAINING THE LAND AND FOR PROGRAMMING PURPOSES. POWER LINE RIGHT-OF-WAY GRANT - NATIVE GRASSLAND SEED WAS PURCHASED WITH A 1500 GRANT RECEIVED FROM ITC (A SUBCONTRACTOR OF CONSUMERS). THE GOAL IS TO ESTABLISH NATIVE GRASSES UNDERNEATH SOME OF THE HIGH TENSION POWER LINES THAT RUN THROUGH CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER'S PROPERTY. DURING THE SUMMER, ITC SPRAYED THE EXISTING VEGETATION SO THAT THE NATIVE PLANTS CAN BE PLANTED IN THE SPRING OF 2012. PLANTING AND MAINTAINING HERBACEOUS PLANTS UNDER PORTIONS OF THE LINES WILL PROVIDE ADDITIONAL NATIVE DIVERSITY WITHIN THESE AREAS, PROVIDE AN OPPORTUNITY FOR INTERPRETATION AND HELP MINIMIZE THE NEGATIVE APPEARANCE WHENEVER ITC HAS TO COME IN TO SPRAY AND CUT THESE CORRIDORS. PROGRAMMING - A NUMBER OF PROGRAMS RELATING TO UNDERSTANDING AND IMPROVING THE LAND WERE PROVIDED DURING THE YEAR, INCLUDING A RIVER CLEAN-UP, INVASIVE EXOTIC PLANT PULLS, LAND MANAGEMENT POWER POINT PROGRAM, LAND MANAGEMENT TOUR, AND AN INVASIVE EXOTIC TOUR. USGS BLUE BIRD RESEARCH - TOM CUSTER FROM THE USGS DID A FOLLOW-UP TO MSU'S BLUEBIRD NESTING BOX RESEARCH DURING THE SUMMER. THIS IS PART OF A STUDY IN THE GREAT LAKES REGION THAT IS LOOKING AT CONTAMINATION OF ORGANOCHLORINE INSECTICIDES, POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYLS (PCBS), DIOXINS, MERCURY, AND POLYCYCLIC AROMATIC HYDROCARBONS AMONG OTHERS. DATA WILL QUANTIFY CURRENT EXPOSURE TO THESE CONTAMINANTS IN GREAT LAKES FOOD CHAINS USING A SENTINEL INDICATOR SPECIES, THE TREE SWALLOW. DURING THE SUMMER OF 2011 THE BLUEBIRD BOXES MONITORED BY THE USDS AT CNC HAD AN OCCUPANCY RATE BY TREE SWALLOWS OF 86 PERCENT. PRELIMINARY RESULTS CAN BE FOUND AT HTTP://WWW.UMESC.USGE.GOV/WILDLIFE_TOXICOLOGY_TEAM.HTML. BIRD BANDING SUMMARY - THE 8TH YEAR OF BIRD BANDING AT THE CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER'S WETLAND AREA WAS COMPLETED THIS SUMMER. THE PROJECT'S GOAL IS LONG-TERM MONITORING OF THE BREEDING SUCCESS OF BIRDS USING THE SITE WHILE ALSO EDUCATING PEOPLE ABOUT THE SCIENCE OF BIRD BANDING AS WELL AS BIRD IDENTIFICATION, ECOLOGY AND APPRECIATION. DEER BROWSE SURVEY - TWELVE TRANSECTS EACH 1/2 MILE IN LENGTH WERE HIKED TO HELP QUANTIFY THE DEER DENSITY AND AMOUNT OF DEER BROWSE AT CNC. THE NUMBER OF DEER PELLETS AND BROWSE WERE RECORDED IN A 8 FOOT DIAMETER CIRCLE EVERY 100 FEET OF THE TRANSECTS. THIS WILL HELP AS A BASELINE COMPARISON TO FUTURE COUNTS. OBSERVATIONS FROM THE COUNT INCLUDED THE FACT THAT BUCKTHORN IS QUICKLY TAKING OVER CNC. ALSO, IN AREAS WHERE BUCKTHORN HAS TAKEN OVER, THERE IS LITTLE TO NO REGENERATION OF OTHER PLANTS. IT WAS ALSO CLEAR THAT DEER HAVE BEEN BROWSING THE SMALL BUCKTHORN. THERE WAS ALSO A CONSIDERABLE AMOUNT OF DEER BROWSE ON NATIVE WOODY SPECIES. SAFETY AND SECURITY - IN OUR CONTINUED EFFORTS TO PROTECT THE SAFETY AND SECURITY OF OUR VISITORS, A FULL SCHEDULE OF MIOSHA REQUIRED TRAININGS WERE ADMINISTERED TO STAFF. A PROCESS TO TRAIN ALL NEW STAFF WAS ALSO DEVELOPED AND IMPLEMENTED. SAFETY INSPECTIONS BY THE GREAT LAKES SAFETY TRAINING CENTER (ONLY AN INITIAL WALK THROUGH), CINCINNATI INSURANCE COMPANY AND THE SAFETY AND SECURITY COMMITTEE WERE COMPLETED. THE EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN WAS ALSO COMPLETED AND MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEETS WERE MAINTAINED. MAPLE SYRUP SEASON - WITH THE YEAR'S SAP COLLECTION STARTING ON MARCH 12, THIS YEAR'S "RENT-A-SAP BUCKET" PROGRAM WENT VERY WELL, WITH SEVERAL FOLKS COMING ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS TO HELP COLLECT. WE HAD SEVERAL GOOD RUNS OF SAP, MAKING THIS A GREAT YEAR FOR MAPLE SYRUP ONE WEEK, WE HAD OVER 400 GALLONS OF SAP, AND COULD HARDLY BOIL FAST ENOUGH TO MAKE ROOM FOR THE SAP THAT KEPT FLOWING REMARKABLY, THE SAP ABRUPTLY STOPPED FLOWING JUST DAYS BEFORE OUR LAST PROGRAM, LEAVING US JUST ENOUGH SAP TO BOIL THROUGH THE VERY LAST SUGARBUSH PROGRAM A FANTASTIC SUGARING SEASON, LEAVING US WITH OVER 42 GALLONS OF SYRUP VOLUNTEERS - NICHOLAS EIDSMOE, AN EAGLE SCOUT, HELPED CONTROL BUCKTHORN, AN INVASIVE EXOTIC SPECIES, ALONG THE CHIPPEWA TRAIL BETWEEN THE RIVER TRAIL AND PINE RIVER ROAD WITH A TEAM OF VOLUNTEERS THAT HE COORDINATED. HE WAS ALSO ABLE TO PROVIDE SOME HERBICIDE THROUGH A DONATION THAT CAN BE USED TO CONTROL RESPROUTS NEXT SPRING.
(Code:   ) (Expenses $ 65,815 including grants of $   ) (Revenue $ 6,655 )
VOLUNTEERS & OUTREACH: OUTREACH: IT WAS ANOTHER BUSY YEAR FOR THIS DEPARTMENT AS CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER CONTINUED ITS PARTICIPATION IN COMMUNITY EVENTS BOTH IN MIDLAND COUNTY AND THROUGHOUT THE GREAT LAKES BAY REGION. IN 2011, CNC PROVIDED INFORMATION AND/OR ACTIVITIES AT 44 DIFFERENT AND DIVERSE COMMUNITY EVENTS FROM FAMILY EVENTS TO HEALTH FAIRS TO SENIOR EXPOS. WHILE THE MAJORITY OF THE EVENTS WERE LOCAL, CNC COULD ALSO BE SPOTTED AT EVENTS IN BAY CITY, FREELAND, GLADWIN, SAGINAW AND SANFORD. VOLUNTEERS: VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CONTINUES TO REMAIN STRONG AT CNC. IN 2011, WE SAW A SIGNIFICANT INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF VOLUNTEERS AND HOURS OF SERVICE TO THE NATURE CENTER NOW THAT WE HAVE RETURN TO OUR PRE-RENOVATION PROGRAMMING LEVELS. VOLUNTEERS CONTINUE TO PLAY AN IMPORTANT PART IN THE PROGRAMMING AT CNC. ALONG WITH ASSISTING WITH ALL SPECIAL EVENTS AT CNC AND VARIOUS EVENTS IN THE COMMUNITY, VOLUNTEERS HAVE PROVIDED SUPPORT TO ALL DEPARTMENTS AT THE CENTER. FROM LAND MANAGEMENT TO CLERICAL, FROM NATURE DAY CAMP TO OUR HOMESTEAD PROGRAMS, VOLUNTEERS OF ALL AGES ASSIST CNC STAFF WITH A WIDE RANGE OF PROJECTS AND ACTIVITIES. CNC ALWAYS WELCOMES NEW VOLUNTEERS FOR OUR SPECIAL EVENTS, LAND STEWARDSHIP WORK DAYS AND OTHER PROJECTS, TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THESE OPPORTUNITIES, PLEASE CONTACT ME AT CDEVENDORF@CHIPPEWANATURECENTER.ORG OR 989.631.0830. CNC WOULD LIKE TO ACKNOWLEDGE THE COMPLETION OF TWO SCOUT AWARDS THROUGH THE NATURE CENTER IN 2011: NICHOLAS EIDSMOE FROM TROOP 767 COMPLETED HIS EAGLE SCOUT PROJECT AT CNC IN JUNE. NICHOLAS COORDINATED THE REMOVAL OF BUCKTHORN FROM AN AREA BORDERING THE CHIPPEWA AND RIVER TRAILS. FOR A COMPLETE ARTICLE ON HIS PROJECT, SEE THE JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012 NEWSLETTER. JUNIOR GIRL SCOUTS FROM TROOP 311 COMPLETED THEIR BRONZE AWARD AT THE NATURE CENTER DURING THE SPRING OF 2011 BY DOING TWO PROJECTS - PLANNING AND CARRYING OUT A GARLIC MUSTARD PULL AND DESIGNING AND CREATING A LARGE PRINT BIRDFEEDER FIELD GUIDE FOR SEVERAL SENIOR CARE FACILITIES IN THE AREA.
4d Other program services (Describe in Schedule O.)
(Expenses $ 65,815 including grants of $   ) (Revenue $ 6,655 )
4e Total program service expensesMediumBullet$ 2,206,963
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 3
Part IV
Checklist of Required Schedules
Yes
No
1
Is the organization described in section 501(c)(3) or 4947(a)(1) (other than a private foundation)? If “Yes,” complete Schedule AClick to see attachment.....................
1
Yes
 
2
Is the organization required to complete Schedule B, Schedule of Contributors? Click to see attachment........
2
Yes
 
3
Did the organization engage in direct or indirect political campaign activities on behalf of or in opposition to candidates for public office? If “Yes,” complete Schedule C, Part I..........
3
 
No
4
Section 501(c)(3) organizations. Did the organization engage in lobbying activities? If “Yes,” complete Schedule C,
Part II.........................
4
 
No
5
Is the organization a section 501(c)(4), 501(c)(5), or 501(c)(6) organization that receives membership dues, assessments, or similar amounts as defined in Revenue Procedure 98-19? If “Yes,” complete Schedule C, Part III........................
5
 
No
6
Did the organization maintain any donor advised funds or any similar funds or accounts for which donors have the right to provide advice on the distribution or investment of amounts in such funds or accounts? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part IClick to see attachment....................
6
 
No
7
Did the organization receive or hold a conservation easement, including easements to preserve open space,
the environment, historic land areas or historic structures? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part IIClick to see attachment...
7
 
No
8
Did the organization maintain collections of works of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part III Click to see attachment....................
8
Yes
 
9
Did the organization report an amount in Part X, line 21; serve as a custodian for amounts not listed in Part X; or provide credit counseling, debt management, credit repair, or debt negotiation services? If “Yes,”
complete Schedule D, Part IVClick to see attachment...................
9
 
No
10
Did the organization, directly or through a related organization, hold assets in temporarily restricted endowments, permanent endowments, or quasi-endowments? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part VClick to see attachment
10
Yes
 
11
If the organization’s answer to any of the following questions is ‘Yes,’ then complete Schedule D, Parts VI, VII, VIII, IX, or X as applicable:
a
Did the organization report an amount for land, buildings, and equipment in Part X, line10? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part VI.Click to see attachment
11a
Yes
 
b
Did the organization report an amount for investments—other securities in Part X, line 12 that is 5% or more of its total assets reported in Part X, line 16? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part VII.Click to see attachment
11b
 
No
c
Did the organization report an amount for investments—program related in Part X, line 13 that is 5% or more of its total assets reported in Part X, line 16? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part VIII.Click to see attachment
11c
 
No
d
Did the organization report an amount for other assets in Part X, line 15 that is 5% or more of its total assets reported in Part X, line 16? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part IX.Click to see attachment
11d
 
No
e
Did the organization report an amount for other liabilities in Part X, line 25? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part X.Click to see attachment
11e
 
No
f
Did the organization’s separate or consolidated financial statements for the tax year include a footnote that addresses the organization’s liability for uncertain tax positions under FIN 48 (ASC 740)? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part X.Click to see attachment
11f
 
No
12a
Did the organization obtain separate, independent audited financial statements for the tax year?
If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Parts XI, XII, and XIII Click to see attachment
12a
Yes
 
b
Was the organization included in consolidated, independent audited financial statements for the tax year? If “Yes,” and if the organization answered ‘No’ to line 12a, then completing Schedule D, Parts XI, XII, and XIII is optional Click to see attachment
12b
 
No
13
Is the organization a school described in section 170(b)(1)(A)(ii)? If “Yes,” complete Schedule E
13
 
No
14a
Did the organization maintain an office, employees, or agents outside of the United States?....
14a
 
No
b
Did the organization have aggregate revenues or expenses of more than $10,000 from grantmaking, fundraising, business, investment, and program service activities outside the United States or aggregate foreign investments valued at $100,000 or more? If “Yes,” complete Schedule F, Part I.........
14b
 
No
15
Did the organization report on Part IX, column (A), line 3, more than $5,000 of grants or assistance to any organization or entity located outside the U.S.? If “Yes,” complete Schedule F, Part II..
15
 
No
16
Did the organization report on Part IX, column (A), line 3, more than $5,000 of aggregate grants or assistance to individuals located outside the U.S.? If “Yes,” complete Schedule F, Part III..
16
 
No
17
Did the organization report a total of more than $15,000, of expenses for professional fundraising services on Part IX, column (A), lines 6 and 11e? If “Yes,” complete Schedule G, Part I
17
 
No
18
Did the organization report more than $15,000 total of fundraising event gross income and contributions on Part VIII, lines 1c and 8a? If “Yes,” complete Schedule G, Part II..........
18
 
No
19
Did the organization report more than $15,000 of gross income from gaming activities on Part VIII, line 9a? If “Yes,” complete Schedule G, Part III...................
19
 
No
20a
Did the organization operate one or more hospitals? If “Yes,” complete Schedule H.....
20a
 
No
b
If “Yes” to line 20a, did the organization attach a copy of its audited financial statement to this return? Note. All Form 990 filers that operated one or more hospitals must attach audited financial statements.
20b
 
 
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 4
Part IV
Checklist of Required Schedules (continued)
21
Did the organization report more than $5,000 of grants and other assistance to any government or organization in the United States on Part IX, column (A), line 1? If “Yes,” complete Schedule I, Parts I and II..
21
 
No
22
Did the organization report more than $5,000 of grants and other assistance to individuals in the United States on Part IX, column (A), line 2? If “Yes,” complete Schedule I, Parts I and III.....
22
 
No
23
Did the organization answer “Yes” to Part VII, Section A, questions 3, 4, or 5, about compensation of the organization’s current and former officers, directors, trustees, key employees, and highest compensated employees? If “Yes,” complete Schedule J................
23
 
No
24a
Did the organization have a tax-exempt bond issue with an outstanding principal amount of more than $100,000 as of the last day of the year, that was issued after December 31, 2002? If “Yes,” answer questions 24b–24d and complete Schedule K. If “No,” go to line 25................
24a
 
No
b
Did the organization invest any proceeds of tax-exempt bonds beyond a temporary period exception?...
24b
 
 
c
Did the organization maintain an escrow account other than a refunding escrow at any time during the year
to defease any tax-exempt bonds?......................
24c
 
 
d
Did the organization act as an “on behalf of” issuer for bonds outstanding at any time during the year?...
24d
 
 
25a
Section 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations. Did the organization engage in an excess benefit transaction with a disqualified person during the year? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L, Part I......
25a
 
No
b
Is the organization aware that it engaged in an excess benefit transaction with a disqualified person in a prior year, and that the transaction has not been reported on any of the organization’s prior Forms 990 or 990-EZ? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L, Part I................
25b
 
No
26
Was a loan to or by a current or former officer, director, trustee, key employee, highly compensated employee, or disqualified person outstanding as of the end of the organization’s tax year? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L,
Part II.........................
26
 
No
27
Did the organization provide a grant or other assistance to an officer, director, trustee, key employee, substantial contributor or employee thereof, a grant selection committee member, or to a 35% controlled entity or family member of any of these persons? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L, Part III.........
27
 
No
28
Was the organization a party to a business transaction with one of the following parties? (see Schedule L, Part IV instructions for applicable filing thresholds, conditions, and exceptions):
a
A current or former officer, director, trustee, or key employee? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L, Part IV .........................
28a
 
No
b
A family member of a current or former officer, director, trustee, or key employee? If “Yes,”
complete Schedule L, Part IV...................
28b
 
No
c
An entity of which a current or former officer, director, trustee, or key employee (or a family member thereof) was an officer, director, trustee, or owner? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L, Part IV..
28c
 
No
29
Did the organization receive more than $25,000 in non-cash contributions? If “Yes,” complete Schedule M
29
 
No
30
Did the organization receive contributions of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets, or qualified conservation contributions? If “Yes,” complete Schedule M............
30
 
No
31
Did the organization liquidate, terminate, or dissolve and cease operations? If “Yes,” complete Schedule N,
Part I...........................
31
 
No
32
Did the organization sell, exchange, dispose of, or transfer more than 25% of its net assets? If “Yes,” complete Schedule N, Part II.......................
32
 
No
33
Did the organization own 100% of an entity disregarded as separate from the organization under Regulations sections 301.7701-2 and 301.7701-3? If “Yes,” complete Schedule R, Part I........
33
 
No
34
Was the organization related to any tax-exempt or taxable entity? If “Yes,” complete Schedule R, Parts II, III, IV, and V, line 1.....................
34
 
No
35a
Did the organization have a controlled entity within the meaning of section 512(b)(13)?
35a
 
No
b
If ‘Yes’ to line 35a, did the organization receive any payment from or engage in any transaction with a controlled entity within the meaning of section 512(b)(13)? If “Yes,” complete Schedule R, Part V, line 2...
35b
 
No
36
Section 501(c)(3) organizations. Did the organization make any transfers to an exempt non-charitable related organization? If “Yes,” complete Schedule R, Part V, line 2...........
36
 
No
37
Did the organization conduct more than 5% of its activities through an entity that is not a related organization and that is treated as a partnership for federal income tax purposes? If “Yes,” complete Schedule R, Part VI
37
 
No
38
Did the organization complete Schedule O and provide explanations in Schedule O for Part VI, lines 11 and 19? Note. All Form 990 filers are required to complete Schedule O. ............
38
Yes
 
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 5
Part V
Statements Regarding Other IRS Filings and Tax Compliance
Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part V .........
Yes
No
1a
Enter the number reported in Box 3 of Form 1096. Enter -0- if not applicable. .......
1a
4
b
Enter the number of Forms W-2G included in line 1a. Enter -0- if not applicable.
1b
0
c
Did the organization comply with backup withholding rules for reportable payments to vendors and reportable gaming (gambling) winnings to prize winners? ..................
1c
Yes
 
2a
Enter the number of employees reported on Form W-3, Transmittal of Wage and Tax Statements filed for the calendar year ending with or within the year covered by this return .....................
2a
67
b
If at least one is reported on line 2a, did the organization file all required federal employment tax returns?

Note. If the sum of lines 1a and 2a is greater than 250, you may be required to e-file. (see instructions)
2b
Yes
 
3a
Did the organization have unrelated business gross income of $1,000 or more during the year?.............................
3a
 
No
b
If “Yes,” has it filed a Form 990-T for this year? If “No,” provide an explanation in Schedule O.....
3b
 
 
4a
At any time during the calendar year, did the organization have an interest in, or a signature or other authority over, a financial account in a foreign country (such as a bank account or securities account)?.......................
4a
 
No
b
If "Yes," enter the name of the foreign country: MediumBullet
See instructions for filing requirements for Form TD F 90-22.1, Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts.
5a
Was the organization a party to a prohibited tax shelter transaction at any time during the tax year?..
5a
 
No
b
Did any taxable party notify the organization that it was or is a party to a prohibited tax shelter transaction?
5b
 
No
c
If “Yes” to line 5a or 5b, did the organization file Form 8886-T? ........
5c
 
 
6a
Does the organization have annual gross receipts that are normally greater than $100,000, and did the organization solicit any contributions that were not tax deductible?..........
6a
 
No
b
If “Yes,” did the organization include with every solicitation an express statement that such contributions or gifts were not tax deductible?........................
6b
 
 
7
Organizations that may receive deductible contributions under section 170(c).
a
Did the organization receive a payment in excess of $75 made partly as a contribution and partly for goods and services provided to the payor?....................
7a
 
No
b
If “Yes,” did the organization notify the donor of the value of the goods or services provided?.....
7b
 
 
c
Did the organization sell, exchange, or otherwise dispose of tangible personal property for which it was required to file Form 8282?...........................
7c
 
No
d
If “Yes,” indicate the number of Forms 8282 filed during the year ....
7d
 
e
Did the organization receive any funds, directly or indirectly, to pay premiums on a personal benefit contract?..........................
7e
 
No
f
Did the organization, during the year, pay premiums, directly or indirectly, on a personal benefit contract?..
7f
 
No
g
If the organization received a contribution of qualified intellectual property, did the organization file Form 8899 as required?...................
7g
 
 
h
If the organization received a contribution of cars, boats, airplanes, or other vehicles, did the organization file a Form 1098-C?...............
7h
 
 
8
Sponsoring organizations maintaining donor advised funds and section 509(a)(3) supporting organizations. Did the supporting organization, or a donor advised fund maintained by a sponsoring organization, have excess business holdings at any time during the year?................
8
 
 
9
Sponsoring organizations maintaining donor advised funds.
a
Did the organization make any taxable distributions under section 4966?.........
9a
 
 
b
Did the organization make a distribution to a donor, donor advisor, or related person?......
9b
 
 
10
Section 501(c)(7) organizations. Enter:
a
Initiation fees and capital contributions included on Part VIII, line 12 ...
10a
 
b
Gross receipts, included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 12, for public use of club facilities
10b
 
11
Section 501(c)(12) organizations. Enter:
a
Gross income from members or shareholders .........
11a
 
b
Gross income from other sources (Do not net amounts due or paid to other sources against amounts due or received from them) ........
11b
 
12a
Section 4947(a)(1) non-exempt charitable trusts. Is the organization filing Form 990 in lieu of Form 1041?
12a
 
 
b
If “Yes,” enter the amount of tax-exempt interest received or accrued during the year.
12b
 
13
Section 501(c)(29) qualified nonprofit health insurance issuers.
a
Is the organization licensed to issue qualified health plans in more than one state?
Note. All 501(c)(29) organizations must list in Schedule O each state in which they are licensed to issue qualified health plans, the amount of reserves required by each state, and the amount of reserves the organization allocated to each state.
13a
 
 
b
Enter the aggregate amount of reserves the organization is required to maintain by the states in which the organization is licensed to issue qualified health plans.
13b
 
c
Enter the aggregate amount of reserves on hand.
13c
 
14a
Did the organization receive any payments for indoor tanning services during the tax year?.....
14a
 
 
b
If "Yes," has it filed a Form 720 to report these payments? If “No,” provide an explanation in Schedule O..
14b
 
 
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 6
Part VI
Governance, Management, and Disclosure For each “Yes” response to lines 2 through 7b below, and for a “No” response to lines 8a, 8b, or 10b below, describe the circumstances, processes, or changes in Schedule O. See instructions.
Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part VI .........
Section A. Governing Body and Management
Yes
No
1a
Enter the number of voting members of the governing body at the end of the tax year
If the governing body delegated broad authority to an executive committee or similar committee, explain in Schedule O.
1a
15
b
Enter the number of voting members included in line 1a, above, who are independent .................
1b
15
2
Did any officer, director, trustee, or key employee have a family relationship or a business relationship with any other officer, director, trustee, or key employee? .................
2
 
No
3
Did the organization delegate control over management duties customarily performed by or under the direct supervision of officers, directors or trustees, or key employees to a management company or other person? .
3
 
No
4
Did the organization make any significant changes to its governing documents since the prior Form 990 was filed?
4
 
No
5
Did the organization become aware during the year of a significant diversion of the organization’s assets? .
5
 
No
6
Did the organization have members or stockholders? ................
6
Yes
 
7a
Did the organization have members, stockholders, or other persons who had the power to elect or appoint one or more members of the governing body? .................
7a
Yes
 
b
Are any governance decisions of the organization reserved to (or subject to approval by) members, stockholders, or persons other than the governing body? ............
7b
 
No
8
Did the organization contemporaneously document the meetings held or written actions undertaken during the year by the following:
a
The governing body? .........................
8a
Yes
 
b
Each committee with authority to act on behalf of the governing body? ..........
8b
Yes
 
9
Is there any officer, director, trustee, or key employee listed in Part VII, Section A, who cannot be reached at the organization’s mailing address? If “Yes,” provide the names and addresses in Schedule O .....
9
 
No
Section B. Policies (This Section B requests information about policies not required by the Internal
Revenue Code.)
Yes
No
10a
Did the organization have local chapters, branches, or affiliates? ............
10a
 
No
b
If “Yes,” did the organization have written policies and procedures governing the activities of such chapters, affiliates, and branches to ensure their operations are consistent with the organization's exempt purposes? ....
10b
 
 
11a
Has the organization provided a complete copy of this Form 990 to all members of its governing body before filing the form?
11a
 
No
b
Describe in Schedule O the process, if any, used by the organization to review the Form 990. .....
12a
Did the organization have a written conflict of interest policy? If “No,” go to line 13.......
12a
Yes
 
b
Were officers, directors or trustees, and key employees required to disclose annually interests that could give rise to conflicts? ........................
12b
Yes
 
c
Did the organization regularly and consistently monitor and enforce compliance with the policy? If “Yes,” describe in Schedule O how this was done ....................
12c
Yes
 
13
Did the organization have a written whistleblower policy? ...............
13
 
No
14
Did the organization have a written document retention and destruction policy? .........
14
Yes
 
15
Did the process for determining compensation of the following persons include a review and approval by independent persons, comparability data, and contemporaneous substantiation of the deliberation and decision?
a
The organization’s CEO, Executive Director, or top management official ...........
15a
Yes
 
b
Other officers or key employees of the organization ................
15b
 
No
If "Yes," to line 15a or 15b, describe the process in Schedule O (see instructions).
16a
Did the organization invest in, contribute assets to, or participate in a joint venture or similar arrangement with a taxable entity during the year? ......................
16a
 
No
b
If “Yes,” did the organization follow a written policy or procedure requiring the organization to evaluate its participation in joint venture arrangements under applicable federal tax law, and take steps to safeguard the organization’s exempt status with respect to such arrangements? ............
16b
 
 
Section C. Disclosure
17
List the States with which a copy of this Form 990 is required to be filedMediumBullet
MI
18
Section 6104 requires an organization to make its Form 1023 (or 1024 if applicable), 990, and 990-T (501(c)(3)s only) available for public inspection. Indicate how you made these available. Check all that apply.
19
Describe in Schedule O whether (and if so, how), the organization made its governing documents, conflict of interest policy, and financial statements available to the public during the tax year.
20
State the name, physical address, and telephone number of the person who possesses the books and records of the organization: MediumBullet
CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER INC
400 S BADOUR ROAD
MIDLAND,MI48640
(989) 631-0830
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 7
Part VII
Compensation of Officers, Directors,Trustees, Key Employees, Highest Compensated Employees, and Independent Contractors
Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part VII .........
Section A. Officers, Directors, Trustees, Key Employees, and Highest Compensated Employees
1a Complete this table for all persons required to be listed. Report compensation for the calendar year ending with or within the organization’s tax year.
RoundBullet List all of the organization’s current officers, directors, trustees (whether individuals or organizations), regardless of amount
of compensation, and current key employees. Enter -0- in columns (D), (E), and (F) if no compensation was paid.

RoundBullet List all of the organization’s current key employees, if any. See instructions for definition of "key employee."
RoundBullet List the organization’s five current highest compensated employees (other than an officer, director, trustee or key employee)
who received reportable compensation (Box 5 of Form W-2 and/or Box 7 of Form 1099-MISC) of more than $100,000 from the
organization and any related organizations.

RoundBullet List all of the organization’s former officers, key employees, or highest compensated employees who received more than $100,000
of reportable compensation from the organization and any related organizations.

RoundBullet List all of the organization’s former directors or trustees that received, in the capacity as a former director or trustee of the
organization, more than $10,000 of reportable compensation from the organization and any related organizations.

List persons in the following order: individual trustees or directors; institutional trustees; officers; key employees; highest
compensated employees; and former such persons.
Check this box if neither the organization nor any related organizations compensated any current or former officer, director, or trustee.
(A)
Name and Title 		(B)
Average hours per week (describe hours for related organizations in Schedule O) 		(C)
Position (do not check more than one box, unless person is both an officer and a director/trustee) 		(D)
Reportable compensation from the organization (W- 2/1099-MISC) 		(E)
Reportable compensation from related organizations (W- 2/1099-MISC) 		(F)
Estimated amount of other compensation from the organization and related organizations
Individual Trustee or Director; Institutional Trustee; Officer; Key Employee; Highest compensated employee; Former;
(1) MARK ROBERTSON
DIRECTOR
 1.00 X           0 0 0
(2) BARBARA ANDERSON
PRESIDENT
 2.00 X   X       0 0 0
(3) ANNE HAINES
DIRECTOR
 1.00 X           0 0 0
(4) BILL LAUDERBACH
DIRECTOR
 1.00 X           0 0 0
(5) ADAM BRUSKI
SECRETARY
 2.00 X   X       0 0 0
(6) MARK SNYDER
1ST VICE-PRE
 2.00 X   X       0 0 0
(7) MICHELLE WILKINS
DIRECTOR
 1.00 X           0 0 0
(8) DR TRACY GALAROWICZ
DIRECTOR
 1.00 X           0 0 0
(9) CHRIS GAUMER
DIRECTOR
 1.00 X           0 0 0
(10) MARIANNE MCKELVY
DIRECTOR
 1.00 X           0 0 0
(11) DALE LAUGHNER
DIRECTOR
 1.00 X           0 0 0
(12) JANET MARTINEAU
DIRECTOR
 1.00 X           0 0 0
(13) LOIS ANN REED
DIRECTOR
 1.00 X           0 0 0
(14) KIRK FISHER
TREASURER
 2.00 X   X       0 0 0
(15) JOHN DAVIS
DIRECTOR
 1.00 X           0 0 0
(16) DICK TOUVELL
EXECUTIVE DI
 40.00     X       120,396 0 5,416


Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 8
Part VII
Section A. Officers, Directors, Trustees, Key Employees, and Highest Compensated Employees (continued)
(A)
Name and Title 		(B)
Average hours per week (describe hours for related organizations in Schedule O) 		(C)
Position (do not check more than one box, unless person is both an officer and a director/trustee) 		(D)
Reportable compensation from the organization (W- 2/1099-MISC) 		(E)
Reportable compensation from related organizations (W- 2/1099-MISC) 		(F)
Estimated amount of other compensation from the organization and related organizations
Individual Trustee or Director; Institutional Trustee; Officer; Key Employee; Highest compensated employee; Former;


























1b Sub-Total................MediumBullet
c Total from continuation sheets to Part VII, Section A....MediumBullet
d Total (add lines 1b and 1c)............MediumBullet 120,396   5,416
2
Total number of individuals (including but not limited to those listed above) who received more than $100,000 of reportable compensation from the organizationMediumBullet1
Yes
No
3
Did the organization list any former officer, director or trustee, key employee, or highest compensated employee on line 1a? If “Yes,” complete Schedule J for such individual .............
3
 
No
4
For any individual listed on line 1a, is the sum of reportable compensation and other compensation from the organization and related organizations greater than $150,000? If “Yes,” complete Schedule J for such individual...........................
4
 
No
5
Did any person listed on line 1a receive or accrue compensation from any unrelated organization or individual for services rendered to the organization? If “Yes,” complete Schedule J for such person .....
5
 
No
Section B. Independent Contractors
1
Complete this table for your five highest compensated independent contractors that received more than $100,000 of compensation from the organization. Report compensation for the calendar year ending with or within the organization’s tax year.
(A)
Name and business address 		(B)
Description of services 		(C)
Compensation
2
Total number of independent contractors (including but not limited to those listed above) who received more than $100,000 of compensation from the organization MediumBullet  
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 9
Part VIII
Statement of Revenue
(A)
Total revenue 		(B)
Related or
exempt
function
revenue 		(C)
Unrelated
business
revenue 		(D)
Revenue
excluded from
tax under sections
512, 513, or 514
Contributions, Gifts, Grants and Other Similar Amounts 1a Federated campaigns..1a 20,926
b Membership dues....1b 53,342
c Fundraising events....1c  
d Related organizations...1d  
e Government grants (contributions)1e  
f All other contributions, gifts, grants, and
similar amounts not included above1f 		539,046
g Noncash contributions included in lines 1a-1f:$ 9,952
h Total. Add lines 1a-1f.......MediumBullet 613,314
Program Service Revenue Business Code
2a YOUTH EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS 611,600 274,087 274,087    
b ADULT INTERPRETIVE PROGRAMS 812,900 66,055 66,055    
c
d
e
f All other program service revenue .        
g Total. Add lines 2a–2f........MediumBullet 340,142
Other Revenue 3 Investment income (including dividends, interest
and other similar amounts).....MediumBullet 594,229     594,229
4 Income from investment of tax-exempt bond proceeds..MediumBullet        
5 Royalties............MediumBullet        
(i) Real (ii) Personal
6a Gross rents 16,565  
b Less: rental expenses    
c Rental income or (loss) 16,565  
d Net rental income or (loss).......MediumBullet 16,565     16,565
(i) Securities (ii) Other
7a Gross amount from sales of assets other than inventory 11,939,333  
b Less: cost or other basis and sales expenses 9,988,448  
c Gain or (loss) 1,950,885  
d Net gain or (loss)..........MediumBullet 1,950,885     1,950,885
8a Gross income from fundraising events (not including
$  
of contributions reported on line 1c). See Part IV, line 18 ...
a  
b Less: direct expenses ...b  
c Net income or (loss) from fundraising events..MediumBullet      
9a Gross income from gaming activities.
See Part IV, line 19 ...
a  
b Less: direct expenses ...b  
c Net income or (loss) from gaming activities...MediumBullet        
10a Gross sales of inventory, less
returns and allowances .
a 28,817
b Less: cost of goods sold ..b 26,175
c Net income or (loss) from sales of inventory..MediumBullet 2,642     2,642
Miscellaneous Revenue Business Code
11a MISCELLANEOUS INCOME 900,099 150     150
b            
c            
d All other revenue ....        
e Total. Add lines 11a–11d ......MediumBullet 150
12 Total revenue. See Instructions....MediumBullet 3,517,927 340,142   2,564,471
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 10
Part IX
Statement of Functional Expenses
Section 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations must complete all columns. All other organizations must complete column (A) but are not required to complete columns (B), (C), and (D).
Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part IX. .........
Do not include amounts reported on lines 6b,
7b, 8b, 9b, and 10b of Part VIII. 		(A)
Total expenses 		(B)
Program service expenses 		(C)
Management and general expenses 		(D)
Fundraising expenses
1 Grants and other assistance to governments and organizations in the United States. See Part IV, line 21    
2 Grants and other assistance to individuals in the United States. See Part IV, line 22    
3 Grants and other assistance to governments, organizations, and individuals outside the United States. See Part IV, lines 15 and 16    
4 Benefits paid to or for members    
5 Compensation of current officers, directors, trustees, and key employees .... 111,396 11,140 66,837 33,419
6 Compensation not included above, to disqualified persons (as defined under section 4958(f)(1)) and persons described in section 4958(c)(3)(B) ....        
7 Other salaries and wages 1,163,056 939,677 196,245 27,134
8 Pension plan accruals and contributions (include section 401(k) and 403(b) employer contributions) .... 88,654 62,058 21,277 5,319
9 Other employee benefits ....... 127,090 88,963 30,502 7,625
10 Payroll taxes ........... 115,087 80,561 27,621 6,905
11 Fees for services (non-employees):        
a Management ......        
b Legal .........        
c Accounting ........... 10,897   10,897  
d Lobbying ...........        
e Professional fundraising. See Part IV, line 17..    
f Investment management fees ......        
g Other ..........        
12 Advertising and promotion .... 50,369 34,333 1,929 14,107
13 Office expenses ....... 37,025 28,550 8,413 62
14 Information technology ...... 23,245 17,434 4,649 1,162
15 Royalties ..        
16 Occupancy ........... 99,214 90,790 8,424  
17 Travel ............ 13,466 12,793 673  
18 Payments of travel or entertainment expenses for any federal, state, or local public officials ......        
19 Conferences, conventions, and meetings .... 8,900 7,565 1,335  
20 Interest ...........        
21 Payments to affiliates .......        
22 Depreciation, depletion, and amortization ..... 625,346 612,839 12,507  
23 Insurance .............. 5,519 4,967 552  
24 Other expenses. Itemize expenses not covered above (List miscellaneous expenses in line 24f. If line 24f amount exceeds 10% of line 25, column (A) amount, list line 24f expenses on Schedule O.)
a YOUTH EDUCATIONAL 75,537 75,537    
b ADULT INTERPRETIVE 68,603 68,603    
c LAND & FACILITIES 43,030 43,030    
d OFFICE AND OPERATIONS 19,736 9,675 10,061  
e
f All other expenses 18,448 18,448    
25 Total functional expenses. Add lines 1 through 24f 2,704,618 2,206,963 401,922 95,733
26 Joint costs. Complete this line only if the organization reported in column (B) joint costs from a combined educational campaign and fundraising solicitation. Check here MediumBullet if following SOP 98-2 (ASC 958-720).        
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 11
Part X Balance Sheet
(A)
Beginning of year 		(B)
End of year
Assets 1 Cash—non-interest-bearing .......... 6,848 1 53,366
2 Savings and temporary cash investments ....... 2,952,046 2 1,547,654
3 Pledges and grants receivable, net ......... 135,214 3 286,819
4 Accounts receivable, net ......... 54,593 4 83,800
5 Receivables from current and former officers, directors, trustees, key employees, and highest compensated employees. Complete Part II of
Schedule L ..........   5  
6 Receivables from other disqualified persons (as defined under section 4958(f)(1)) and persons described in section 4958(c)(3)(B). Complete Part II of
Schedule L ..........   6  
7 Notes and loans receivable, net .............   7  
8 Inventories for sale or use .............. 23,984 8 15,958
9 Prepaid expenses and deferred charges ............ 12,627 9 13,391
10a Land, buildings, and equipment: cost or other basis. Complete Part VI of Schedule D 10a 11,789,768
b Less: accumulated depreciation. ..... 10b 3,353,513 9,032,710 10c 8,436,255
11 Investments—publicly traded securities .......... 23,130,948 11 22,173,637
12 Investments—other securities. See Part IV, line 11 ......   12  
13 Investments—program-related. See Part IV, line 11 ..   13  
14 Intangible assets .........   14  
15 Other assets. See Part IV, line 11 ...........   15  
16 Total assets. Add lines 1 through 15 (must equal line 34)... 35,348,970 16 32,610,880
Liabilities 17 Accounts payable and accrued expenses . 30,951 17 42,819
18 Grants payable ..........   18  
19 Deferred revenue .......... 23,748 19 19,320
20 Tax-exempt bond liabilities ..........   20  
21 Escrow or custodial account liability. Complete Part IV of Schedule D..   21  
22 Payables to current and former officers, directors, trustees, key
employees, highest compensated employees, and disqualified
persons. Complete Part II of Schedule L..........   22  
23 Secured mortgages and notes payable to unrelated third parties ..   23  
24 Unsecured notes and loans payable to unrelated third parties ....   24  
25 Other liabilities (including federal income tax, payables to related third parties, and other liabilities not included on lines 17-24). Complete Part X of Schedule D.....   25  
26 Total liabilities. Add lines 17 through 25..... 54,699 26 62,139
Net Assets or Fund Balance Organizations that follow SFAS 117, check here MediumBullet and complete lines 27 through 29, and lines 33 and 34.
27 Unrestricted net assets ..... 9,148,028 27 8,506,262
28 Temporarily restricted net assets ..... 22,470,487 28 20,335,888
29 Permanently restricted net assets ..... 3,675,756 29 3,706,591
Organizations that do not follow SFAS 117, check here MediumBullet and complete lines 30 through 34.
30 Capital stock or trust principal, or current funds .....   30  
31 Paid-in or capital surplus, or land, building or equipment fund .....   31  
32 Retained earnings, endowment, accumulated income, or other funds   32  
33 Total net assets or fund balances ..... 35,294,271 33 32,548,741
34 Total liabilities and net assets/fund balances ..... 35,348,970 34 32,610,880
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 12
Part XI
Reconcilliation of Net Assets
Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part XI .........
1
Total revenue (must equal Part VIII, column (A), line 12) ...
1
3,517,927
2
Total expenses (must equal Part IX, column (A), line 25) ....
2
2,704,618
3
Revenue less expenses. Subtract line 2 from line 1 ...
3
813,309
4
Net assets or fund balances at beginning of year (must equal Part X, line 33, column (A)) ..
4
35,294,271
5
Other changes in net assets or fund balances (explain in Schedule O) ...
5
-3,558,839
6
Net assets or fund balances at end of year. Combine lines 3, 4, and 5 (must equal Part X, line 33, column (B)) ....
6
32,548,741
Part XII
Financial Statements and Reporting
Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part XII .........
Yes
No
1
Accounting method used to prepare the Form 990:  
If the organization changed its method of accounting from a prior year or checked "Other," explain in
Schedule O.
2a
Were the organization’s financial statements compiled or reviewed by an independent accountant?....
2a
 
No
b
Were the organization’s financial statements audited by an independent accountant?........
2b
Yes
 
c
If “Yes,” to 2a or 2b, does the organization have a committee that assumes responsibility for oversight of the audit, review, or compilation of its financial statements and selection of an independent accountant? If the organization changed either its oversight process or selection process during the tax year, explain in Schedule O. ...........................
2c
Yes
 
d
If “Yes” to line 2a or 2b, check a box below to indicate whether the financial statements for the year were issued on a separate basis, consolidated basis, or both:
3a
As a result of a federal award, was the organization required to undergo an audit or audits as set forth in the Single Audit Act and OMB Circular A-133? ................
3a
 
No
b
If “Yes,” did the organization undergo the required audit or audits? If the organization did not undergo the required audit or audits, explain why in Schedule O and describe any steps taken to undergo such audits. ..
3b
 
 
Form 990 (2011)
Additional Data


Software ID:  
Software Version:  
Form 990, Special Condition Description:
Special Condition Description
SCHEDULE A
(Form 990 or 990EZ)

Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Public Charity Status and Public Support

Complete if the organization is a section 501(c)(3) organization or a section
4947(a)(1) nonexempt charitable trust.
right arrow Attach to Form 990 or Form 990-EZ. right arrow See separate instructions.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2011
Open to Public
Inspection
Name of the organization
CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER
 
Employer identification number

38-1859315
Part I
Reason for Public Charity Status (All organizations must complete this part.) See instructions
The organization is not a private foundation because it is: (For lines 1 through 11, check only one box.)
1
2
3
4
5
section 170(b)(1)(A)(iv). (Complete Part II.)
6
7
8
9
receipts from activities related to its exempt functions—subject to certain exceptions, and (2) no more than 331/3% of
its support from gross investment income and unrelated business taxable income (less section 511 tax) from businesses
acquired by the organization after June 30, 1975. See section 509(a)(2). (Complete Part III.)
10
11
e
f
g
(i) a person who directly or indirectly controls, either alone or together with persons described in (ii)
Yes
No
and (iii) below, the governing body of the the supported organization? ................
11g(i)
 
 
(ii) a family member of a person described in (i) above? ......................
11g(ii)
 
 
(iii) a 35% controlled entity of a person described in (i) or (ii) above? ................
11g(iii)
 
 
h
(i)
Name of supported organization 		(ii)
EIN 		(iii)
Type of organization (described on lines 1- 9 above or IRC section (see instructions)) 		(iv)
Is the organization in col. (i) listed in your governing document? 		(v)
Did you notify the organization in col. (i) of your support? 		(vi)
Is the organization in col. (i) organized in the U.S.? 		(vii)
Amount of support?
Yes No Yes No Yes No
Total                  

For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990.
Cat. No. 11285F
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Page 2
Part II
Support Schedule for Organizations Described in IRC 170(b)(1)(A)(iv) and 170(b)(1)(A)(vi)
(Complete only if you checked the box on line 5, 7, or 8 of Part I or if the organization failed to qualify under Part III. If the organization fails to qualify under the tests listed below, please complete Part III.)
Section A. Public Support
Calendar year(or fiscal year beginning in) (a) 2007 (b) 2008 (c) 2009 (d) 2010 (e) 2011 (f) Total
1 Gifts, grants, contributions, and membership fees received. (Do not include any "unusual grants.") .... 1,180,573 4,013,830 328,923 393,168 592,029 6,508,523
2 Tax revenues levied for the organization's benefit and either paid to or expended on its behalf.......            
3 The value of services or facilities furnished by a governmental unit to the organization without charge..            
4 Total. Add lines 1 through 3.. 1,180,573 4,013,830 328,923 393,168 592,029 6,508,523
5 The portion of total contributions by each person (other than a governmental unit or publicly supported organization) included on line 1 that exceeds 2% of the amount shown on line 11, column (f)..           3,227,952
6 Public Support. Subtract line 5 from line 4.           3,280,571
Section B. Total Support
Calendar year(or fiscal year beginning in) (a) 2007 (b) 2008 (c) 2009 (d) 2010 (e) 2011 (f) Total
7 Amounts from line 4.. 1,180,573 4,013,830 328,923 393,168 592,029 6,508,523
8 Gross income from interest, dividends, payments received on securities loans, rents, royalties and income from similar sources.. 1,195,347 1,150,156 622,612 609,069 610,794 4,187,978
9 Net income from unrelated business activities, whether or not the business is regularly carried on..            
10 Other income. (Explain in Part IV.) Do not include gain or loss from the sale of capital assets..   4,511 2,137 9,817 150 16,615
11 Total support (Add lines 7 through 10).           10,713,116
12
12
1,067,722
13
Section C. Computation of Public Support Percentage
14
14
30.620 %
15
15
27.010 %
16a
b
17a
b
18
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Page 3
Part III
Support Schedule for Organizations Described in IRC 509(a)(2)
(Complete only if you checked the box on line 9 of Part I or if the organization failed to qualify under Part II. If the organization fails to qualify under the tests listed below, please complete Part II.)
Section A. Public Support
Calendar year(or fiscal year beginning in) (a) 2007 (b) 2008 (c) 2009 (d) 2010 (e) 2011 (f) Total
1 Gifts, grants, contributions, and membership fees received. (Do not include any "unusual grants.") .            
2 Gross receipts from admissions, merchandise sold or services performed, or facilities furnished in any activity that is related to the organization's tax-exempt purpose......            
3 Gross receipts from activities that are not an unrelated trade or business under section 513..            
4 Tax revenues levied for the organization's benefit and either paid to or expended on its behalf...            
5 The value of services or facilities furnished by a governmental unit to the organization without charge..            
6 Total. Add lines 1 through 5.            
7a Amounts included on lines 1, 2, and 3 received from disqualified persons...            
b Amounts included on lines 2 and 3 received from other than disqualified persons that exceed the greater of $5,000 or 1% of the amount on line 13 for the year.            
c Add lines 7a and 7b..            
8 Public Support (Subtract line 7c from line 6.)            
Section B. Total Support
Calendar year (or fiscal year beginning in) (a) 2007 (b) 2008 (c) 2009 (d) 2010 (e) 2011 (f) Total
9 Amounts from line 6...            
10a Gross income from interest, dividends, payments received on securities loans, rents, royalties and income from similar sources..            
b Unrelated business taxable income (less section 511 taxes) from businesses acquired after June 30, 1975.            
c Add lines 10a and 10b.            
11 Net income from unrelated business activities not included in line 10b, whether or not the business is regularly carried on.            
12 Other income. Do not include gain or loss from the sale of capital assets (Explain in Part IV.)            
13 Total support (Add lines 9, 10c, 11 and 12.).            
14
Section C. Computation of Public Support Percentage
15
15
 
16
16
 
Section D. Computation of Investment Income Percentage
17
17
 
18
18
 
19a
b
20
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Page 4
Part IV
Supplemental Information. Supplemental Information. Complete this part to provide the explanation required by Part II, line 10; Part II, line 17a or 17b; or Part III, line 12. Also complete this part for any additional information. (See instructions).
Facts And Circumstances Test
CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER HAS GROWN TO BE AN IMPORTANT ASSET TO THE MIDLAND COMMUNITY SINCE ITS INCEPTION IN 1966, WHEN IT WAS FIRST DESIGNATED AS A 501(C)(3) ORGANIZATION. A PRIME REASON FOR ITS SUCCESS HAS BEEN ITS ACCEPTANCE AS A PUBLICLY SUPPORTED NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION. CNC DOES FEEL THAT MEMBERSHIP IS VALUABLE BECAUSE MEMBERS DEMONSTRATE THEIR SUPPORT THROUGH MODEST ANNUAL DUES, THEIR STRONG RESPONSE TO FUNDRAISING, AND THEIR PARTICIPATION IN PROGRAMS. WITH MEMBERSHIP AVERAGING 1,700 INDIVIDUAL AND FAMILY UNITS AND A BASE OF MORE THAN 700 VOLUNTEERS, CNC IS CLEARLY VALUED AS A COMMUNITY RESOURCE, AND CONTRIBUTIONS TO CNC HAVE BECOME AN ANNUAL GIFT FROM MANY AREA CITIZENS, BUSINESSES, AND ORGANIZATIONS. CNC USES AN ANNUAL REVIEW OF ITS LONG-TERM STRATEGIC PLAN TO MAINTAIN CURRENT, RELEVANT PROGRAMS AND SERVICES FOR THE COMMUNITY AND REGION. IT IS THE ONLY NONPROFIT EDUCATIONAL ORGANIZATION IN THE MID-MICHIGAN REGION THAT PROVIDES NATURE PROGRAMMING AND OUTDOOR RECREATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR EVERYONE FROM PRESCHOOLERS TO SENIORS, SERVING AN AVERAGE OF NEARLY 70,000 EACH YEAR. THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS PLAYS A KEY ROLE IN CNC'S ADMINISTRATION AND FISCAL PLANNING. THE BOARD REGULARLY OVERSEES ADMINISTRATION OF CNC, INCLUDING WORKING CLOSELY WITH THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR. BOARD MEMBERS, WHO ARE ELECTED TO A MAXIMUM OF THREE CONSECUTIVE TWO-YEAR TERMS, ARE SELECTED FOR THESE ROLES BECAUSE OF THEIR INTERESTS IN NATURAL HISTORY, EXPERIENCE IN MANAGEMENT AND INTERPERSONAL SKILLS, AND BY BRINGING A BROAD CROSS-SECTION OF SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND CULTURAL INTERESTS REPRESENTATIVE OF THE GROWING AREA THAT CNC SERVES. THE ORGANIZATION'S BY-LAWS MAINTAIN THAT CNC EXISTS AS A MEMBERSHIP ORGANIZATION; HOWEVER, ITS 15 MILES OF TRAILS ARE OPEN TO MEMBERS AND NONMEMBERS FROM DAWN TO DUSK EVERY DAY AND THE VISITOR CENTER BUILDING IS ALSO OPEN TO ALL USERS DURING BUSINESS HOURS EVERY DAY. CNC IS ONE OF ONLY A FEW ORGANIZATIONS OF ITS KIND TO OFFER FREE PUBLIC ADMISSION DAILY TO BOTH MEMBERS AND NONMEMBERS, AND A GREAT MAJORITY OF ITS STAFF-LED PROGRAMS ARE ALSO FREE OF CHARGE. SCHOOL AND SCOUT GROUPS, NATURE DAY CAMP, AND NATURE PRESCHOOL ARE PROGRAMS DESIGNED TO PROMOTE ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION FOR OUR AREA YOUTH. OVER 6,300 ADULTS HAVE SIGNED UP FOR MORE FORMAL ADULT COURSES AND FIELD TRIPS IN A WIDE VARIETY OF NATURAL HISTORY COURSES. OUR HIKING TRAILS, RIVER ACCESS, ARBORETUM, AND PAVED ACCESS TRAIL IN CONNECTION WITH THE CITY "RAIL TRAIL" ATTRACT AN AVERAGE OF OVER 50 PEOPLE A DAY TO EXPLORE THINGS ON THEIR OWN. THE ULTIMATE GOAL OF PROGRAMMING IS TO INSPIRE PEOPLE TO PROTECT THE NATURAL WORLD AND WE ARE FORTUNATE TO HAVE A DEDICATED STAFF, COMMITTED BOARD OF DIRECTORS, AND A WONDERFUL SITE AND FACILITY AT CNC FROM WHICH TO RUN THESE PROGRAMS AND WORK WITH OUR MEMBERSHIP AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC.
Explanation
 
 
 
 
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011

Additional Data


Software ID:  
Software Version:  
Schedule B
(Form 990, 990-EZ,
or 990-PF)
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Schedule of Contributors
Arrow Bullet Attach to Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2011
Name of organization
CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER
 
Employer identification number

38-1859315
Organization type (check one):
Filers of:
Section:
Form 990 or 990-EZ





Form 990-PF




Check if your organization is covered by the General Rule or a Special Rule.  
Note. Only a section 501(c)(7), (8), or (10) organization can check boxes for both the General Rule and a Special Rule. See instructions.
General Rule
Special Rules
......................... Arrow Bullet   $    
Caution. An Organization that is not covered by the General Rule and/or the Special Rules does not file Schedule B (Form 990,
990-EZ, or 990-PF), but it must answer “No” on Part IV, line 2, of its Form 990; or check the box on line H of its
Form 990-EZ or on Part I, line 2, of its Form 990-PF, to certify that it does not meet the filing requirements of Schedule B (Form 990,
990-EZ, or 990-PF).
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions
for Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF.
Cat. No. 30613XSchedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2011)

Page 2
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2011)
Name of organization
CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER
  		Employer identification number

38-1859315
Part I
Contributors (see Instructions). Use duplicate copies of Part I if additional space is needed.
     
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
RESTRICTED
RESTRICTED
 

     
RESTRICTED
RESTRICTED  
RESTRICTED, RESTRICTED   RESTRICTED

$RESTRICTED




(Complete Part II if there is a noncash contribution.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 

     
 
   

$  




(Complete Part II if there is a noncash contribution.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 

     
 
   

$  




(Complete Part II if there is a noncash contribution.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 

     
 
   

$  




(Complete Part II if there is a noncash contribution.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 

     
 
   

$  




(Complete Part II if there is a noncash contribution.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 

     
 
   

$  




(Complete Part II if there is a noncash contribution.)
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2011)

Page 3
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2011)
Name of organization
CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER
  		Employer identification number

38-1859315
Part II
Noncash Property (see Instructions). Use duplicate copies of Part II if additional space is needed.
     
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(see instructions). 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(see instructions). 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(see instructions). 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(see instructions). 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(see instructions). 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(see instructions). 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2011)

Page 4
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2011)
Name of organization
CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER
  		Employer identification number

38-1859315
Part III
Exclusively religious, charitable, etc., individual contributions to section 501(c)(7), (8), or (10) organizations
that total more than $1,000 for the year. Complete columns (a) through (e) and the following line entry.
For organizations completing Part III, enter the total of exclusively religious, charitable, etc.,
contributions of $1,000 or less for the year. (Enter this information once. See instructions.) Arrow Bullet $  
Use duplicate copies of Part III if additional space is needed
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Purpose of gift		 (c)
Use of gift		 (d)
Description of how gift is held
 
(e)
Transfer of gift
Transferee's name, address, and ZIP 4 Relationship of transferor to transferee
 
 
       
 
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Purpose of gift		 (c)
Use of gift		 (d)
Description of how gift is held
 
(e)
Transfer of gift
Transferee's name, address, and ZIP 4 Relationship of transferor to transferee
 
 
       
 
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Purpose of gift		 (c)
Use of gift		 (d)
Description of how gift is held
 
(e)
Transfer of gift
Transferee's name, address, and ZIP 4 Relationship of transferor to transferee
 
 
       
 
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Purpose of gift		 (c)
Use of gift		 (d)
Description of how gift is held
 
(e)
Transfer of gift
Transferee's name, address, and ZIP 4 Relationship of transferor to transferee
 
 
       
 
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2011)

Additional Data


Software ID:  
Software Version:  
SCHEDULE D
(Form 990)
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Supplemental Financial Statements
SchDMd Bullet Complete if the organization answered "Yes," to Form 990,
Part IV, line 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11a, 11b, 11c, 11d, 11e, 11f, 12a, or 12b
SchDMd Bullet Attach to Form 990. SchDMd Bullet See separate instructions.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2011
Open to Public Inspection
Name of the organization
CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER
 
Employer identification number

38-1859315
Part I
Organizations Maintaining Donor Advised Funds or Other Similar Funds or Accounts. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990, Part IV, line 6.
(a) Donor advised funds (b) Funds and other accounts
1 Total number at end of year .......    
2 Aggregate contributions to (during year) ...    
3 Aggregate grants from (during year) ...    
4 Aggregate value at end of year .......    
5
Did the organization inform all donors and donor advisors in writing that the assets held in donor advised
funds are the organization's property, subject to the organization's exclusive legal control? ............
6
Did the organization inform all grantees, donors, and donor advisors in writing that grant funds can be
used only for charitable purposes and not for the benefit of the donor or donor advisor, or for any other purpose conferring impermissible private benefit? ...................................
Part II
Conservation Easements. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990, Part IV, line 7.
1
Purpose(s) of conservation easements held by the organization (check all that apply).
2
Complete lines 2a through 2d if the organization held a qualified conservation contribution in the form of a conservation easement on the last day of the tax year.
Held at the End of the Year
a Total number of conservation easements ....................... 2a  
b Total acreage restricted by conservation easements .................. 2b  
c Number of conservation easements on a certified historic structure included in (a) ..... 2c  
d Number of conservation easements included in (c) acquired after 8/17/06, and not on a historic structure listed in the National Register .................... 2d  
3
Number of conservation easements modified, transferred, released, extinguished, or terminated by the organization during
the tax year SchDMd Bullet  
4
Number of states where property subject to conservation easement is located SchDMd Bullet  
5
Does the organization have a written policy regarding the periodic monitoring, inspection, handling of violations, and
enforcement of the conservation easements it holds? .............................
6
Staff and volunteer hours devoted to monitoring, inspecting and enforcing conservation easements during the year SchDMd Bullet  
7
Amount of expenses incurred in monitoring, inspecting, and enforcing conservation easements during the year
SchDMd Bullet $  
8
Does each conservation easement reported on line 2(d) above satisfy the requirements of section
170(h)(4)(B)(i) and 170(h)(4)(B)(ii)? ....................................
9
In Part XIV, describe how the organization reports conservation easements in its revenue and expense statement, and
balance sheet, and include, if applicable, the text of the footnote to the organization’s financial statements that describes
the organization’s accounting for conservation easements.
Part III
Organizations Maintaining Collections of Art, Historical Treasures, or Other Similar Assets.
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990, Part IV, line 8.
1a
If the organization elected, as permitted under SFAS 116 (ASC 958), not to report in its revenue statement and balance sheet works of
art, historical treasures, or other similar assets held for public exhibition, education or research in furtherance of public service,
provide, in Part XIV, the text of the footnote to its financial statements that describes these items.
b
If the organization elected, as permitted under SFAS 116 (ASC 958), to report in its revenue statement and balance sheet works of art,
historical treasures, or other similar assets held for public exhibition, education, or research in furtherance of public service,
provide the following amounts relating to these items:
(i)
Revenues included in Form 990, Part VIII, line 1 ........................SchDMd Bullet $  
(ii)
Assets included in Form 990, Part X ..............................SchDMd Bullet $ 58,467
2
If the organization received or held works of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets for financial gain, provide the
following amounts required to be reported under SFAS 116 (ASC 958), relating to these items:
a
Revenues included in Form 990, Part VIII, line 1 ..........................SchDMd Bullet $  
b
Assets included in Form 990, Part X ...............................SchDMd Bullet $  
For Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Intructions for Form 990
Cat. No. 52283D
Schedule D (Form 990) 2011

Schedule D (Form 990) 2011
Page 2
Part III
Organizations Maintaining Collections of Art, Historical Treasures, or Other Similar Assets (continued)
3
Using the organization’s accession and other records, check any of the following that are a significant use of its collection
items (check all that apply):
a
d
b
e
 
c
4
Provide a description of the organization’s collections and explain how they further the organization’s exempt purpose in
Part XIV.
5
During the year, did the organization solicit or receive donations of art, historical treasures or other similar
assets to be sold to raise funds rather than to be maintained as part of the organization’s collection?........
Part IV
Escrow and Custodial Arrangements. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990,
Part IV, line 9, or reported an amount on Form 990, Part X, line 21.
1a
Is the organization an agent, trustee, custodian or other intermediary for contributions or other assets not
included on Form 990, Part X? ....................................
b
If "Yes," explain the arrangement in Part XIV and complete the following table:
Amount
c Beginning balance ................................. 1c  
d Additions during the year .............................. 1d  
e Distributions during the year ............................. 1e  
f Ending balance ................................... 1f  
2a
Did the organization include an amount on Form 990, Part X, line 21? .....................
b
If “Yes,” explain the arrangement in Part XIV.
Part V
Endowment Funds. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990, Part IV, line 10.
(a)Current Year (b)Prior Year (c)Two Years Back (d)Three Years Back (e)Four Years Back
1a Beginning of year balance .... 25,886,499 24,573,409 23,478,052  
b Contributions ........ 30,835 114,050 6,750  
c Net investment earnings, gains, and losses ... -986,093 2,676,524 4,378,135  
d Grants or scholarships .....        
e Other expenditures for facilities
and programs ........ 		1,427,867 1,449,918 3,263,489  
f Administrative expenses .... 27,904 27,566 26,039  
g End of year balance ...... 23,475,470 25,886,499 24,573,409  
2
Provide the estimated percentage of the year end balance (line 1g) held as:
a
Board designated or quasi-endowment SchDMd Bullet85.000 %
b
Permanent endowment SchDMd Bullet15.000 %
c
Temporarily restricted endowment SchDMd Bullet  
The percentages in lines 2a, 2b, and 2c should equal 100%.
3a
Are there endowment funds not in the possession of the organization that are held and administered for the
organization by:

Yes
No
(i) unrelated organizations ........................
3a(i)
 
No
(ii) related organizations ........................
3a(ii)
 
No
b
If "Yes" to 3a(ii), are the related organizations listed as required on Schedule R? .........
3b
 
No
4
Describe in Part XIV the intended uses of the organization's endowment funds.
Part VI
Land, Buildings, and Equipment. See Form 990, Part X, line 10.
Description of property (a) Cost or other basis (investment) (b)Cost or other basis (other) (c) Accumulated depreciation (d) Book value
1a Land .................   1,574,672 1,574,672
b Buildings ................   7,397,410 1,925,096 5,472,314
c Leasehold improvements ............        
d Equipment ................   596,450 490,746 105,704
e Other .................   2,221,236 937,671 1,283,565
Total. Add lines 1a through 1e. (Column (d) must equal Form 990, Part X, column (B), line 10(c).).......SchDMdBullet 8,436,255
Schedule D (Form 990) 2011

Schedule D (Form 990) 2011
Page 3
Part VII
Investments—Other Securities. See Form 990, Part X, line 12.
(a) Description of security or category
(including name of security)		 (b)Book value (c) Method of valuation:
Cost or end-of-year market value
(1)Financial derivatives    
(2)Closely-held equity interests    
Other








Total. (Column (b) must equal Form 990, Part X, col. (B) line 12.)Small Bullet  
Part VIII
Investments—Program Related. See Form 990, Part X, line 13.
(a) Description of investment type (b) Book value (c) Method of valuation:
Cost or end-of-year market value








Total. (Column (b) must equal Form 990, Part X, col.(B) line 13.)Small Bullet  
Part IX
Other Assets. See Form 990, Part X, line 15.
(a) Description (b) Book value








Total. (Column (b) must equal Form 990, Part X, col.(B) line 15.)...........Small Bullet  
Part X
Other Liabilities. See Form 990, Part X, line 25.
1.(a) Description of Liability (b) Book value
Federal Income Taxes  








Total. (Column (b) must equal Form 990, Part X, col.(B) line 25.)Small Bullet  
2. Fin 48 (ASC 740) Footnote. In Part XIV, provide the text of the footnote to the organization's financial statements that reports the organization's liability for uncertain tax positions under FIN 48 (ASC740).
Schedule D (Form 990) 2011

Schedule D (Form 990) 2011
Page 4
Part XI Reconciliation of Change in Net Assets from Form 990 to Financial Statements
1 Total revenue (Form 990, Part VIII, column (A), line 12) .................... 1 3,517,927
2 Total expenses (Form 990, Part IX, column (A), line 25) ..................... 2 2,704,618
3 Excess or (deficit) for the year. Subtract line 2 from line 1 ............. 3 813,309
4 Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments .......................... 4 -3,558,839
5 Donated services and use of facilities ............................. 5  
6 Investment expenses ................................... 6  
7 Prior period adjustments .................................. 7  
8 Other (Describe in Part XIV.) ................................. 8  
9 Total adjustments (net). Add lines 4 through 8 ......................... 9 -3,558,839
10 Excess or (deficit) for the year per financial statements. Combine lines 3 and 9 ......... 10 -2,745,530
Part XII Reconciliation of Revenue per Audited Financial Statements With Revenue per Return
1 Total revenue, gains, and other support per audited financial statements ....... 1 -40,912
2 Amounts included on line 1 but not on Form 990, Part VIII, line 12:
a Net unrealized gains on investments .......... 2a -3,558,839
b Donated services and use of facilities ......... 2b  
c Recoveries of prior year grants ........... 2c  
d Other (Describe in Part XIV.) ............ 2d  
e Add lines 2a through 2d ..................... 2e -3,558,839
3 Subtract line 2e from line 1..................... 3 3,517,927
4 Amounts included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 12, but not on line 1:
a Investment expenses not included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 7b . 4a  
b Other (Describe in Part XIV.) ........... 4b  
c Add lines 4a and 4b....................... 4c  
5 Total Revenue. Add lines 3 and 4c. (This must equal Form 990, Part I, line 12.) ...... 5 3,517,927
Part XIII Reconciliation of Expenses per Audited Financial Statements With Expenses per Return
1 Total expenses and losses per audited financial statements ............. 1 2,704,618
2 Amounts included on line 1 but not on Form 990, Part IX, line 25:
a Donated services and use of facilities .......... 2a  
b Prior year adjustments .............. 2b  
c Other losses ................ 2c  
d Other (Describe in Part XIV.) ............ 2d  
e Add lines 2a through 2d...................... 2e  
3 Subtract line 2e from line 1..................... 3 2,704,618
4 Amounts included on Form 990, Part IX, line 25, but not on line 1:
a Investment expenses not included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 7b .. 4a  
b Other (Describe in Part XIV.) ............ 4b  
c Add lines 4a and 4b....................... 4c  
5 Total expenses. Add lines 3 and 4c. (This must equal Form 990, Part I, line 18.) ...... 5 2,704,618
Part XIV
Supplemental Information
Complete this part to provide the descriptions required for Part II, lines 3, 5, and 9; Part III, lines 1a and 4; Part lV, lines 1b and 2b;
Part V, line 4; Part X; Part XI, line 8; Part XII, lines 2d and 4b; and Part XIII, lines 2d and 4b. Also complete this part to provide any additional information.
Identifier Return Reference Explanation
COLLECTIONS AND RELATION TO EXEMPT PURPOSE SCHEDULE D, PAGE 2, PART III, LINE 4 THE CENTER'S HISTORY COLLECTION COMPRISES OBJECTS RELATED TO CULTURAL HISTORY IN THE MICHIGAN AREA, INCLUDING VARIOUS INSECT COLLECTIONS, ANIMAL MOUNTS, TOOLS AND UTENSILS, AND CLOTHING. THE COLLECTION IS HELD FOR EXHIBITION AND EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES.
INTENDED USES FOR ENDOWMENT FUNDS SCHEDULE D, PAGE 2, PART V, LINE 4 THE ORGANIZATION'S ENDOWMENT FUNDS ARE INTENDED TO BE USED TO SUPPORT PROGRAMS AND VARIOUS CAPITAL EXPENDITURES.
Schedule D (Form 990) 2011

Additional Data


Software ID:  
Software Version:  




SCHEDULE O
(Form 990 or 990-EZ)

Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Supplemental Information to Form 990 or 990-EZ

Complete to provide information for responses to specific questions on
Form 990 or to provide any additional information.
MediumBullet Attach to Form 990 or 990-EZ.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2011
Open to Public
Inspection
Name of the organization
CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER
 
Employer identification number

38-1859315
Identifier Return Reference Explanation
ORGANIZATION'S MISSION FORM 990 - ORGANIZATION'S MISSION THE CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER IS A NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION WHOSE MISSION IS TO FACILITATE THE ENJOYMENT AND UNDERSTANDING OF OUR NATURAL, HISTORICAL AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCES AS RELEVANT TO THE SAGINAW VALLEY, TO PROMOTE ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS AND TO FOSTER RESPONSIBLE STEWARDSHIP.
FIRST ACCOMPLISHMENT DESCRIPTION FORM 990, PAGE 2, PART III, LINE 4A WERE "ON THE ROAD." AT HOME WITH NATURE: AT HOME WITH NATURE IS DESIGNED TO SUPPLEMENT SCIENCE AND HISTORY HOMESCHOOL EDUCATION THROUGH FUN, INTERACTIVE, HANDS-ON ACTIVITIES. EACH SERIES CONSISTS OF THREE 1.5 HOUR PROGRAMS. IN 2011, 83 CHILDREN PARTICIPATED IN THIS PROGRAM. NATURE PRESCHOOL: NATURE PRESCHOOL IS A UNIQUE PROGRAM THAT PROVIDES THREE AND FOUR YEAR OLDS A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO DEVELOP LIFELONG CONNECTIONS WITH NATURE. IN 2011-12 WE HAD 86 STUDENTS ENROLLED, 100% OF CAPACITY. WE OFFERED FIVE DIFFERENT HALF-DAY SESSIONS IN A RANGE FROM TWO TO FOUR DAYS PER WEEK. SCOUTS: SCOUT PROGRAMS AT CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER ARE SPECIALLY DESIGNED TO HELP GROUPS WORK ON THE VARIOUS REQUIREMENTS NEEDED TO COMPLETE BADGES AND OTHER ADVANCEMENTS. IN 2011 WE HAD 488 SCOUTS ATTEND PROGRAMS AT THE NATURE CENTER WITH THEIR DEN OR TROOP. NATURE DAY CAMP: THIS PAST SUMMER 744 CHILDREN ATTENDED NATURE DAY CAMP. PROGRAMS WERE OFFERED FOR 3-17 YEAR OLDS AND WERE ONE TO TWO WEEKS IN LENGTH. A NEW CAMP OFFERING IN 2011 WAS "NATURE GAMES" WHICH WAS A MINI-CAMP. DUE TO THE POPULARITY OF THE PROGRAM IN 2010, WE OFFERED TWO SESSIONS OF "ADVANCED VILLAGE: A FUR TRADE ADVENTURE" THIS SUMMER FOR 9-11 YEAR OLDS. YOUTH DROP-IN PROGRAMS: DROP-IN PROGRAMS INCLUDE WEE STROLL, STORY HOURS, NATURE FOR YOUTH AND SENSATIONAL SUMMER DAYS. WEE STROLL IS FOR OUR YOUNGEST NATURE CENTER VISITORS UP TO TWO YEARS OF AGE WITH AN ADULT, AND HAD 145 PARTICIPANTS. STORY HOURS ARE GEARED FOR THE NEXT OLDER AGE GROUP RANGING FROM 2-5 YEARS OLD WITH 704 PARTICIPANTS IN 2011. WE HAVE TWO DROP-IN PROGRAMS DESIGNED FOR OUR OLDER YOUTH VISITORS - THE ONE DURING THE SCHOOL YEAR IS NATURE FOR YOUTH, AND THE OTHER DURING THE SUMMER IS SENSATIONAL SUMMER DAYS. SENSATIONAL SUMMER DAYS ARE FREE ACTIVITIES THAT ARE AVAILABLE FOR VISITORS TO EXPLORE DURING OUR NORMAL VISITOR CENTER HOURS EVERY DAY OF THE WEEK BUT MONDAY. NATURE FOR YOUTH IS A FREE, 1.5 HOUR PROGRAM OFFERED ON THE FIRST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH DURING THE SCHOOL YEAR. IN 2011 WE HAD 249 CHILDREN ATTEND THIS PROGRAM. WE ALSO OFFERED A PRE-REGISTERED PROGRAM FOR THE TEEN AUDIENCE CALLED "TEEN TREX," AND HAD 10 PARTICIPANTS. SEASONAL EXPLORATION DAYS: WHAT FAMILY DOESN'T LOOK FOR SOMETHING FUN TO DO WITH THEIR KIDS OVER HOLIDAY BREAKS? THESE "EXPLORATION DAYS" PROVIDE AN INDOOR SELF-GUIDED PROGRAM FOR FAMILIES TO EXPLORE AS THEIR TIME ALLOWS DURING WINTER AND THANKSGIVING BREAKS. SIMILAR IN FORMAT TO SUMMER SENSATIONAL DAYS, THESE DROP-IN PROGRAMS INCLUDE A VARIETY OF SELF-GUIDED, HANDS-ON EXPLORATION STATIONS. SET UP IN TWO OF OUR CLASSROOMS, THIS IS ESSENTIALLY A HANDS-ON, INTERACTIVE TEMPORARY EXHIBIT FOR THE BREAK. NATURE AT NIGHT & NATURE'S EGGS EXTRAVAGANZA: AFTER A COUPLE OF YEARS OFF DURING THE CONSTRUCTION PROJECT, THESE YOUTH EVENTS WERE BACK BETTER THAN EVER THIS YEAR IN APRIL WE HELD NATURE'S EGGS EXTRAVAGANZA FOR 111 CHILDREN. THE EVENT INCLUDED AN EGG HUNT, ACTIVITIES IN THE CLASSROOMS ABOUT EGG-LAYING MICHIGAN ANIMALS, AND PRIZES. IN OCTOBER WAS NATURE AT NIGHT, A SATURDAY EVENING EVENT FOCUSED ON THE WONDERS OF MICHIGAN'S NIGHTTIME NATURAL WORLD. ACTIVITIES IN THE CLASSROOMS, NATURE SONGS, STORYTELLING IN THE WIGWAM, A BIRD MIGRATION OBSTACLE COURSE, AND A JACK-O-LANTERN TRAIL KEPT THE 480 VISITORS WELL ENTERTAINED. ANOTHER WAY WE FACILITATE POSITIVE OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES FOR THE YOUTH IN OUR COMMUNITY IS TO PROVIDE EDUCATORS WITH TOOLS AND TRAINING TO INTEGRATE NATURE INTO THEIR CLASSES. IN 2011 WE CREATED THE NATURE PRESCHOOL INSTITUTE TO TEACH EARLY CHILDHOOD PROFESSIONALS ABOUT OUR UNIQUE APPROACH TO PRESCHOOL EDUCATION. WE HAD 24 PARTICIPANTS IN OUR ON-SITE, 4 DAY TRAINING. INTEREST IN AND DEMAND FOR THE PROGRAM WAS SO GREAT THAT WE TOOK THE TRAININGS ON THE ROAD FOR OUR "NATURE PRESCHOOL TRAVELLING INSTITUTE" WHERE WE TRAINED 57 PRESCHOOL TEACHERS.
SECOND ACCOMPLISHMENT DESCRIPTION FORM 990, PAGE 2, PART III, LINE 4B ADDITIONAL 15,618 PEOPLE WHO CAME TO THE VISITOR CENTER ON THEIR OWN. VENTURING OUT: IN 2011, CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER TOOK 258 PEOPLE ON A TOTAL OF 27 FIELD TRIPS DESIGNED TO CONNECT TO NATURE AND EXPLORE THE OUTDOORS. ACTIVITIES AND DESTINATIONS INCLUDED SNOWSHOEING THE AU SABLE RIVER, KAYAKING THE DEADSTREAM SWAMP, PADDLING MOOSE COUNTRY, BIRDING OHIO, AN EXPLORATION OF ISLE ROYALE, AS WELL AS SEVERAL KAYAK TRIPS ON OUR LOCAL RIVERS. FIELD TRIPS CREATE THE OPPORTUNITY TO IMMERSE ONESELF IN THE OUTDOORS AND LEARN THE PLANTS, ANIMALS AND CHARACTER OF A REGION WITH OUR KNOWLEDGEABLE TRIP LEADERS. CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER OFFERED A WIDE RANGE OF HANDS-ON WORKSHOPS IN 2011, INCLUDING SOAPMAKING, NATURAL WREATH MAKING, FLY-TYING, SNOWSHOE LACING, AND FUNGI IDENTIFICATION. WORKSHOPS CONTINUE TO BE POPULAR WITH THE PUBLIC BECAUSE THEY ARE AN OPPORTUNITY TO DIG DEEPER INTO SPECIALIZED SKILLS RELATED TO OUR CULTURAL HERITAGE, NATURAL WORLD AND THE GREAT OUTDOORS. FESTIVAL TIME: MAJOR EVENTS ALWAYS PULL IN LARGE CROWDS EAGER FOR FUN AND EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES. MAPLE SYRUP DAY LED THE WAY IN 2011 WITH JUST OVER 1,400 ATTENDEES READY TO USHER IN SPRING BY PARTICIPATING IN A VARIETY OF CRAFTS AND ACTIVITIES RELATED TO THIS SWEET TIME OF YEAR. THE BANFF MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL HAD ALL TIME HIGH ATTENDANCE OF 467 PEOPLE. FALL HARVEST FESTIVAL DREW NEARLY 1,300 PEOPLE OVER TWO DAYS NATURE ART SHOW AND SALE WAS BACK AFTER A THREE YEAR HIATUS AND OVER 800 PEOPLE ATTENDED THE WEEKEND EVENT. DROP-IN AND GET CONNECTED: DROP-IN, FREE PROGRAMS CONTINUE TO BE THE FOUNDATION OF OUR INTERPRETIVE PROGRAM OFFERINGS. THE PROGRAMS COVERED A RANGE OF TOPICS INCLUDING: BIRD WALKS, WILDFLOWER HIKES, FUNGI FORAYS, MAPLE SYRUP PROGRAMS, LIFE ON AN 1870S FARM, BIRD BANDING, NATIVE AMERICAN LIFE, FULL MOON WALKS, ARCHAEOLOGY, ANIMALS TRACKS, FISHING, SNOWSHOEING, AND MUCH, MUCH MORE IN TOTAL, NEARLY 3,300 PEOPLE ATTENDED THESE INTERPRETIVE PROGRAMS THEY ARE THE CORE OF THE CENTER'S ADULT AND FAMILY OFFERINGS, GIVING PEOPLE OF ALL AGES THE CHANCE TO GET OUTSIDE WITH A TALENTED STAFF AND BUILD CONNECTIONS TO THE NATURAL WORLD WITH PEOPLE OF SIMILAR INTERESTS. THE GUIDING FORCE FOR THE CENTER'S PROGRAM OFFERINGS IS THE MISSION. THE MISSION DIRECTS CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER TO FACILITATE THE ENJOYMENT AND UNDERSTANDING OF THE CULTURAL AND NATURAL RESOURCES OF THE SAGINAW VALLEY, TO PROMOTE ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS AND FOSTER RESPONSIBLE STEWARDSHIP. THE ULTIMATE GOAL OF PROGRAMMING IS TO INSPIRE PEOPLE TO PROTECT THE NATURAL WORLD AND WE ARE FORTUNATE TO HAVE A DEDICATED STAFF, COMMITTED BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND A WONDERFUL SITE AND FACILITY AT CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER FROM WHICH TO RUN THESE PROGRAMS AND WORK WITH OUR MEMBERSHIP AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC. WE LOOK FORWARD TO ANOTHER GREAT YEAR OF PROGRAMMING AT CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER AND HOPE YOU CAN ATTEND ONE OF THE MANY PROGRAMS WE OFFER ANNUALLY.
THIRD ACCOMPLISHMENT DESCRIPTION FORM 990, PAGE 2, PART III, LINE 4C SUMMER PLANT CREW ACCOMPLISHMENTS - TWO SUMMER CREW POSITIONS (KARA MOSER, SEAN CANNEDY (SPLIT POSITION) AND CASEY BREGE (SPLIT POSITION)) WERE FILLED TO HELP CONTROL LARGE PORTIONS OF THE PRIORITY AREAS OUTLINED IN THE INVASIVE EXOTIC PLANT MANAGEMENT PLAN. SPECIES SUCH AS GARLIC MUSTARD, DAME'S ROCKET, AUTUMN OLIVE, BUCKTHORN, PHRAGMITES, MULTIFLORA ROSE, HONEY SUCKLE, PURPLE LOOSESTRIFE, NORWAY SPRUCE, SCOTCH PINE AND BARBERRY WERE ALL CONTROLLED. SUMMER MAINTENANCE STAFF - ERNIE PERRY AND RYAN KRENZKE WERE HIRED FOR THE SUMMER TO HELP WITH PROJECTS INCLUDING MOWING, TRIMMING, TRAIL WORK, FACILITIES MAINTENANCE AND EQUIPMENT UPKEEP. PHRAGMITES CONTROL - PHRAGMITES AROUND DRAGONFLY, MUSKRAT AND HERON MARSH WERE MOWED IN AUGUST AND THEN SPRAYED AS THEY BEGAN RESPROUTING IN OCTOBER AND NOVEMBER. MOST OF THE SPRAYING WAS APPLIED AFTER OTHER SPECIES DIED OFF AFTER THE FIRST FROSTS. THIS WILL HOPEFULLY PROVIDE A GOOD START TOWARDS CONTROLLING THIS VERY AGGRESSIVE INVASIVE AT THE WETLANDS AREA. UNIVERSAL ACCESS SITES - AFTER MANY YEARS OF PLANNING AND WORKING WITH THE ACCESS TO RECREATION COMMITTEE, THREE UNIVERSAL ACCESS SITES HAVE BEEN CONSTRUCTED: SANFORD LAKE PARK, THE CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER SITE ON WEST CHIPPEWA RIVER ROAD AND THE CITY OF MIDLAND SITE AT THE TRIDGE. EACH SITE HAS PARKING, TRAILS, AND A DOCK THAT ARE SUITABLE FOR THOSE WITH DISABILITIES. THE SITE WILL BE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC STARTING MAY 1, 2012 AND WILL BE OPEN ANNUALLY MAY 1 THROUGH OCTOBER 15. DEER HARVEST - A TOTAL OF 41 DEER WHERE HARVESTED WITH ARCHERY EQUIPMENT DURING THE 2011 SEASON. THIS IS UP FROM THE LAST 3 YEARS, WHICH WERE LOW AS A RESULT OF THE NO BAITING BAN OCCURRING OVER THOSE YEARS. OF THE 41 DEER HARVESTED 36 WERE ANTLERLESS. SPECIES OF SPECIAL CONCERN - A MAP OF PLANT SPECIES THAT ARE OF SPECIAL CONCERN AT THE CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER HAVE BEEN MAPPED USING GIS. THIS WILL HELP STAFF TRACK THESE SPECIES STATUS ANNUALLY, WHILE ALSO PROVIDING A NOTIFICATION OF THEIR LOCATION TO STAFF MAINTAINING THE LAND AND FOR PROGRAMMING PURPOSES. POWER LINE RIGHT-OF-WAY GRANT - NATIVE GRASSLAND SEED WAS PURCHASED WITH A 1500 GRANT RECEIVED FROM ITC (A SUBCONTRACTOR OF CONSUMERS). THE GOAL IS TO ESTABLISH NATIVE GRASSES UNDERNEATH SOME OF THE HIGH TENSION POWER LINES THAT RUN THROUGH CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER'S PROPERTY. DURING THE SUMMER, ITC SPRAYED THE EXISTING VEGETATION SO THAT THE NATIVE PLANTS CAN BE PLANTED IN THE SPRING OF 2012. PLANTING AND MAINTAINING HERBACEOUS PLANTS UNDER PORTIONS OF THE LINES WILL PROVIDE ADDITIONAL NATIVE DIVERSITY WITHIN THESE AREAS, PROVIDE AN OPPORTUNITY FOR INTERPRETATION AND HELP MINIMIZE THE NEGATIVE APPEARANCE WHENEVER ITC HAS TO COME IN TO SPRAY AND CUT THESE CORRIDORS. PROGRAMMING - A NUMBER OF PROGRAMS RELATING TO UNDERSTANDING AND IMPROVING THE LAND WERE PROVIDED DURING THE YEAR, INCLUDING A RIVER CLEAN-UP, INVASIVE EXOTIC PLANT PULLS, LAND MANAGEMENT POWER POINT PROGRAM, LAND MANAGEMENT TOUR, AND AN INVASIVE EXOTIC TOUR. USGS BLUE BIRD RESEARCH - TOM CUSTER FROM THE USGS DID A FOLLOW-UP TO MSU'S BLUEBIRD NESTING BOX RESEARCH DURING THE SUMMER. THIS IS PART OF A STUDY IN THE GREAT LAKES REGION THAT IS LOOKING AT CONTAMINATION OF ORGANOCHLORINE INSECTICIDES, POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYLS (PCBS), DIOXINS, MERCURY, AND POLYCYCLIC AROMATIC HYDROCARBONS AMONG OTHERS. DATA WILL QUANTIFY CURRENT EXPOSURE TO THESE CONTAMINANTS IN GREAT LAKES FOOD CHAINS USING A SENTINEL INDICATOR SPECIES, THE TREE SWALLOW. DURING THE SUMMER OF 2011 THE BLUEBIRD BOXES MONITORED BY THE USDS AT CNC HAD AN OCCUPANCY RATE BY TREE SWALLOWS OF 86 PERCENT. PRELIMINARY RESULTS CAN BE FOUND AT HTTP://WWW.UMESC.USGE.GOV/WILDLIFE_TOXICOLOGY_TEAM.HTML. BIRD BANDING SUMMARY - THE 8TH YEAR OF BIRD BANDING AT THE CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER'S WETLAND AREA WAS COMPLETED THIS SUMMER. THE PROJECT'S GOAL IS LONG-TERM MONITORING OF THE BREEDING SUCCESS OF BIRDS USING THE SITE WHILE ALSO EDUCATING PEOPLE ABOUT THE SCIENCE OF BIRD BANDING AS WELL AS BIRD IDENTIFICATION, ECOLOGY AND APPRECIATION. DEER BROWSE SURVEY - TWELVE TRANSECTS EACH 1/2 MILE IN LENGTH WERE HIKED TO HELP QUANTIFY THE DEER DENSITY AND AMOUNT OF DEER BROWSE AT CNC. THE NUMBER OF DEER PELLETS AND BROWSE WERE RECORDED IN A 8 FOOT DIAMETER CIRCLE EVERY 100 FEET OF THE TRANSECTS. THIS WILL HELP AS A BASELINE COMPARISON TO FUTURE COUNTS. OBSERVATIONS FROM THE COUNT INCLUDED THE FACT THAT BUCKTHORN IS QUICKLY TAKING OVER CNC. ALSO, IN AREAS WHERE BUCKTHORN HAS TAKEN OVER, THERE IS LITTLE TO NO REGENERATION OF OTHER PLANTS. IT WAS ALSO CLEAR THAT DEER HAVE BEEN BROWSING THE SMALL BUCKTHORN. THERE WAS ALSO A CONSIDERABLE AMOUNT OF DEER BROWSE ON NATIVE WOODY SPECIES. SAFETY AND SECURITY - IN OUR CONTINUED EFFORTS TO PROTECT THE SAFETY AND SECURITY OF OUR VISITORS, A FULL SCHEDULE OF MIOSHA REQUIRED TRAININGS WERE ADMINISTERED TO STAFF. A PROCESS TO TRAIN ALL NEW STAFF WAS ALSO DEVELOPED AND IMPLEMENTED. SAFETY INSPECTIONS BY THE GREAT LAKES SAFETY TRAINING CENTER (ONLY AN INITIAL WALK THROUGH), CINCINNATI INSURANCE COMPANY AND THE SAFETY AND SECURITY COMMITTEE WERE COMPLETED. THE EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN WAS ALSO COMPLETED AND MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEETS WERE MAINTAINED. MAPLE SYRUP SEASON - WITH THE YEAR'S SAP COLLECTION STARTING ON MARCH 12, THIS YEAR'S "RENT-A-SAP BUCKET" PROGRAM WENT VERY WELL, WITH SEVERAL FOLKS COMING ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS TO HELP COLLECT. WE HAD SEVERAL GOOD RUNS OF SAP, MAKING THIS A GREAT YEAR FOR MAPLE SYRUP ONE WEEK, WE HAD OVER 400 GALLONS OF SAP, AND COULD HARDLY BOIL FAST ENOUGH TO MAKE ROOM FOR THE SAP THAT KEPT FLOWING REMARKABLY, THE SAP ABRUPTLY STOPPED FLOWING JUST DAYS BEFORE OUR LAST PROGRAM, LEAVING US JUST ENOUGH SAP TO BOIL THROUGH THE VERY LAST SUGARBUSH PROGRAM A FANTASTIC SUGARING SEASON, LEAVING US WITH OVER 42 GALLONS OF SYRUP VOLUNTEERS - NICHOLAS EIDSMOE, AN EAGLE SCOUT, HELPED CONTROL BUCKTHORN, AN INVASIVE EXOTIC SPECIES, ALONG THE CHIPPEWA TRAIL BETWEEN THE RIVER TRAIL AND PINE RIVER ROAD WITH A TEAM OF VOLUNTEERS THAT HE COORDINATED. HE WAS ALSO ABLE TO PROVIDE SOME HERBICIDE THROUGH A DONATION THAT CAN BE USED TO CONTROL RESPROUTS NEXT SPRING.
ALL OTHER ACCOMPLISHMENT DESCRIPTION FORM 990, PAGE 2, PART III, LINE 4D VOLUNTEERS & OUTREACH: OUTREACH: IT WAS ANOTHER BUSY YEAR FOR THIS DEPARTMENT AS CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER CONTINUED ITS PARTICIPATION IN COMMUNITY EVENTS BOTH IN MIDLAND COUNTY AND THROUGHOUT THE GREAT LAKES BAY REGION. IN 2011, CNC PROVIDED INFORMATION AND/OR ACTIVITIES AT 44 DIFFERENT AND DIVERSE COMMUNITY EVENTS FROM FAMILY EVENTS TO HEALTH FAIRS TO SENIOR EXPOS. WHILE THE MAJORITY OF THE EVENTS WERE LOCAL, CNC COULD ALSO BE SPOTTED AT EVENTS IN BAY CITY, FREELAND, GLADWIN, SAGINAW AND SANFORD. VOLUNTEERS: VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CONTINUES TO REMAIN STRONG AT CNC. IN 2011, WE SAW A SIGNIFICANT INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF VOLUNTEERS AND HOURS OF SERVICE TO THE NATURE CENTER NOW THAT WE HAVE RETURN TO OUR PRE-RENOVATION PROGRAMMING LEVELS. VOLUNTEERS CONTINUE TO PLAY AN IMPORTANT PART IN THE PROGRAMMING AT CNC. ALONG WITH ASSISTING WITH ALL SPECIAL EVENTS AT CNC AND VARIOUS EVENTS IN THE COMMUNITY, VOLUNTEERS HAVE PROVIDED SUPPORT TO ALL DEPARTMENTS AT THE CENTER. FROM LAND MANAGEMENT TO CLERICAL, FROM NATURE DAY CAMP TO OUR HOMESTEAD PROGRAMS, VOLUNTEERS OF ALL AGES ASSIST CNC STAFF WITH A WIDE RANGE OF PROJECTS AND ACTIVITIES. CNC ALWAYS WELCOMES NEW VOLUNTEERS FOR OUR SPECIAL EVENTS, LAND STEWARDSHIP WORK DAYS AND OTHER PROJECTS, TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THESE OPPORTUNITIES, PLEASE CONTACT ME AT CDEVENDORF@CHIPPEWANATURECENTER.ORG OR 989.631.0830. CNC WOULD LIKE TO ACKNOWLEDGE THE COMPLETION OF TWO SCOUT AWARDS THROUGH THE NATURE CENTER IN 2011: NICHOLAS EIDSMOE FROM TROOP 767 COMPLETED HIS EAGLE SCOUT PROJECT AT CNC IN JUNE. NICHOLAS COORDINATED THE REMOVAL OF BUCKTHORN FROM AN AREA BORDERING THE CHIPPEWA AND RIVER TRAILS. FOR A COMPLETE ARTICLE ON HIS PROJECT, SEE THE JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012 NEWSLETTER. JUNIOR GIRL SCOUTS FROM TROOP 311 COMPLETED THEIR BRONZE AWARD AT THE NATURE CENTER DURING THE SPRING OF 2011 BY DOING TWO PROJECTS - PLANNING AND CARRYING OUT A GARLIC MUSTARD PULL AND DESIGNING AND CREATING A LARGE PRINT BIRDFEEDER FIELD GUIDE FOR SEVERAL SENIOR CARE FACILITIES IN THE AREA.
CLASSES OF MEMBERS OR STOCKHOLDERS FORM 990, PAGE 6, PART VI, LINE 6 ORGANIZATION HAS MEMBERS OF VARIOUS LEVELS (DEPENDING ON CONTRIBUTION) ALL WITH RIGHTS TO VOTE ON BOARD MEMBERS.
ELECTION OF MEMBERS AND THEIR RIGHTS FORM 990, PAGE 6, PART VI, LINE 7A BOARD MEMBERS ARE ELECTED AT THE ANNUAL MEETING BY VOTES FROM CNC MEMBERS. NOMINATIONS ARE NAMED BY NOVEMBER OF THE PRECEDING YEAR BY THE BOARD NOMINATING COMMITTEE. THE ELECTION IS HELD AT THE ANNUAL MEETING. IF NO NOMINATIONS ARE MADE OTHER THAN THE SLATE ANNOUNCED BY THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE, THEN THOSE NOMINATED ARE ELECTED WITH ONE BALLOT FROM THE BOARD SECRETARY - ALSO AT THE ANNUAL MEETING.
ORGANIZATION'S PROCESS USED TO REVIEW FORM 990 FORM 990, PAGE 6, PART VI, LINE 11B THE FORM 990 WAS REVIEWED BY SENIOR MANAGEMENT OF CNC PRIOR TO ITS APPROVAL FOR FILING.
ENFORCEMENT OF CONFLICTS POLICY FORM 990, PAGE 6, PART VI, LINE 12C CONFLICT OF INTEREST POLICY COVERS MEMBERS OF THE CHIPPEWA NATURE CENTER (CNC) BOARD OF DIRECTORS, ANY OF ITS COMMITTEES, AND STAFF MEMBERS. COVERED PERSONS SHALL READILY DISCLOSE TO CNC ANY PERSONAL INTEREST WHICH HE OR SHE MAY HAVE IN ANY MATTER PENDING BEFORE CNC AND SHALL REFRAIN FROM PARTICIPATION IN ANY DECISION ON SUCH MATTER. ANY MEMBER OF THE CNC BOARD OR STAFF, WHO IS AN OFFICER, BOARD MEMBER, OR EMPLOYEE OF AN AGENCY OR OTHER ENTITY DOING BUSINESS WITH CNC, SHALL IDENTIFY HIS OR HER AFFILIATION WITH SUCH AGENCY OR ENTITY. COVERED PERSONS IN CONNECTION WITH ANY POLICY COMMITTEE OR BOARD ACTION SPECIFICALLY DIRECTED TO THAT AGENCY OR ENTITY, SHALL NOT PARTICIPATE IN THE DECISION AFFECTING THAT AGENCY OR ENTITY, AND THE DECISION MUST BE MADE AND/OR RATIFIED BY THE FULL BOARD WITHOUT THE VOTE OF THE AFFECTED MEMBER.
COMPENSATION PROCESS FOR TOP OFFICIAL FORM 990, PAGE 6, PART VI, LINE 15A THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE DEVELOPS A BUDGET CONTAINING THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S SALARY WHICH IS APPROVED BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS. COMPETITIVE SALARY LEVELS ARE COMPARED AT LOCAL, STATE, AND NATIONAL LEVELS FOR COMPARABLE COMPENSATION FOR SIMILARLY QUALIFIED PERSONS IN FUNCTIONALLY COMPARABLE POSITIONS AT SIMILARLY SITUATED ORGANIZATIONS. THE APPROVAL IS DOCUMENTED IN THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES.
GOVERNING DOCUMENTS DISCLOSURE EXPLANATION FORM 990, PAGE 6, PART VI, LINE 19 ANY REQUESTS FOR THIS INFORMATION ARE DIRECTED TO THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, WHO PROVIDES THE DOCUMENTS AS REQUESTED IF LEGALLY MANDATED OR CONSTRUCTIVELY APPROPRIATE.
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990 or 990-EZ.
Cat. No. 51056K
Schedule O (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011

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