At least sixteen different plant species found at ACNA are worthy of protection.

Most notable are the Pitcher's Thistle and Lake Huron Tansy which are provided legal protection pursuant to the Federal Endangered Species Act of 1973 and the Endangered Species Act of Michigan. The Michigan Act also identifies plants of special concern which, while not currently on the list, represent declining or rare populations in the state. An example is the Pale Sedge. Other plants exist on the property that the MDNR recognizes may have a precarious future.

The DNR advises that visitors not disturb the following plants : Starflower, Indian Pipe, Yellow Trout Lily, Wood Lily, Columbine, Twin Flower, and Jack-In-The Pulpit.

Lady's Slipper

Photographs taken at ACNA by Ellsworth High School VIP