Preserving the Kellogg Bird Sanctuary for future generations
Article Highlights
- Since the 1930’s the Wendy and Doug Robins’ family have been visitors and supporters of the Kellogg Biological Station and the Kellogg Bird Sanctuary.
- The Kellogg Bird Sanctuary is a wildlife center located in Southwest Michigan offering conservation-focused public programs, interpretive tours and accessible trails that allow close views of captive and wild birds.
- Now full-time residents of the neighboring Gull Lake, Wendy and Doug Robbins have made a generous donation to the Bird Sanctuary renovation project to help preserve wildlife experiences for generations to come.
“Visiting the Bird Sanctuary has always been a part of my life, ever since I was a little girl,” Wendy said. “We spent summers at our family cottage on Gull Lake, and some of my favorite memories are of feeding the waterfowl and exploring the trails with my younger brothers. We’ve been enjoying this area for five generations.”
That personal history is what drives Wendy and Doug’s dedication to support the Sanctuary today. Now living full time at the nearby Gull Lake after moving to her family property in 2023, the couple frequently visit the Bird Sanctuary with their granddaughter, Eli.
“She’s only six, but she loves every minute we spend there. Seeing it all through her eyes has been such a gift and has given us a new perspective on a place we’ve been coming to for decades,” Wendy said. “The Overlook Building and the pollinator garden are some of her favorite places, and she’s always excited to spot the birds we’ve talked about.”
Wendy also served as a junior camp counselor at Sanctuary in her youth and spent two summers as a research assistant at the bird sanctuary and Kellogg Biological Station.
The Robbins’ deep connection to the Sanctuary, paired with a desire to pass it onto the next generation, is at the heart of their philanthropy.
“We want Eli, and all the kids who visit, to have the same kinds of experiences with nature that we did,” Wendy said. “There’s something so special about this place that fosters a love of the outdoors and wildlife, and it’s crucial that future generations have access to it.”
A sanctuary with history and a mission
Founded in 1927 by cereal magnate W.K. Kellogg, the Bird Sanctuary was established to create a refuge for Canada geese and other migratory birds. Today, it remains a critical stopover for migrating species and a haven for a variety of waterfowl, including trumpeter swans, which were reintroduced to Michigan through the Sanctuary’s efforts.
The Sanctuary encompasses 180 acres of diverse habitats, from the 40-acre Wintergreen Lake to forested areas and open meadows. It’s part of the broader W.K. Kellogg Biological Station (KBS), Michigan State University’s largest off-campus education complex. KBS is internationally renowned for its research into ecology, sustainable agriculture and conservation. The Bird Sanctuary plays a vital role in that mission by connecting the public to the natural world, and providing a natural laboratory for biological research.
The Sanctuary has long been a place of learning and discovery. In the 1980s, it was instrumental in restoring the trumpeter swan population in the Midwest, a conservation success story that continues today. In addition to its wildlife conservation efforts, the Sanctuary offers citizen science programs, internships and educational opportunities for families and schools. Its accessible trails and interpretive exhibits allow visitors of all ages to engage with nature and learn about the importance of protecting our environment.
“Doug and I have both been amazed at how much the Bird Sanctuary offers, not just to the community, but also to the broader scientific community,” Wendy said. “There’s a lot of important research happening here, and it’s wonderful to see that connection between education, conservation, and public outreach.”
Doug, who became involved with KBS through campus outreach programs and educational events, echoes this sentiment.
“The Bird Sanctuary complements the mission of KBS so well. It’s a place for public recreation, education and research. That’s why we’ve chosen to support it,” he said. “It’s about preserving and maintaining a beautiful place while also continuing the work that goes on here.”
Inspiring the next generation
For Wendy and Doug, the decision to support the Bird Sanctuary’s renovation is rooted in their belief in the power of giving back. Their philanthropy focuses on causes close to their heart, with a big impact. They view supporting the Bird Sanctuary as a way to ensure future generations can enjoy the same experiences Wendy had growing up on Gull Lake.
“Paying it forward is important to me,” Wendy explains. “I’ve always felt that it’s our responsibility to help preserve what we’ve been lucky enough to enjoy, and now it’s our turn to contribute to the Sanctuary’s future.”
The Robbins’ granddaughter, Eli, has already started to develop her own connection to the Sanctuary.
“Eli loves learning about birds, and she’s always asking questions,” Wendy said. She’s especially interested in insects and chose to participate in the insect count during the 2024 Bioblitz citizen research day at the Sanctuary.
“It’s incredible to see how engaged she is with the natural world, and I think that’s exactly what the Sanctuary is meant to do — foster that sense of curiosity and respect for the environment,” Wendy said.
The couple’s support of the renovation is just one part of their long-term commitment to the Bird Sanctuary. Wendy is also regularly involved in support projects like helping with the monthly cleaning at the Overlook Building, and serving as a community member on the Sanctuary’s strategic planning committee.
“We’re proud to be able to contribute to a project that will make the Sanctuary more accessible and enjoyable for everyone,” Doug said. “It’s about ensuring that this special place continues to thrive for many years to come.”
Preserving the sanctuary for the future
As the Sanctuary embarks on a major renovation project, there is still work to be done. The project aims to improve visitor facilities, enhance accessibility, and update educational exhibits. While Wendy and Doug’s generous gift has helped move the project forward, the Sanctuary is still $1.4 million short of its $4.2 million fundraising goal.
“This renovation is so important for the future of the Bird Sanctuary,” Wendy said. “It’s going to create an even better experience for visitors and ensure that more people, especially kids, can learn about and appreciate nature.”
The Robbinses hope their contribution will inspire others to get involved and help support the Sanctuary’s revitalization.
“It’s an investment in the future,” Wendy said. “The more people who come together to support this project, the more we can ensure that the Bird Sanctuary remains a place where families can come and make memories for generations to come.”
Learn more about supporting the Bird Sanctuary renovation, by contacting Sr. Associate Director of Development, Karen Wenk at wenk@msu.edu or 517-353-5962. Each contribution helps ensure that the Sanctuary continues to serve as a haven for wildlife and a source of inspiration and learning for all who visit.
