Russell Bengel created the Michigan Wildlife Conservancy in 1982 to restore the wildlife legacy of our state for future generations. He recruited others to help the fledgling organization and donated over one million dollars to sustain its work. The Bengel Wildlife Center is the most recent stop in fulfilling Russ Bengel’s vision of a Michigan rich in wildlife.

Russ Bengel was a successful businessman, a dedicated outdoorsman and active public servant. He worked his way up in the General Products Corporation in Jackson to become sole owner. He also served as mayor and city commissioner in Jackson and on the State Conservation Commission.