An incredible natural formation and important piece of U.P. culture is in danger, but you can help to preserve it for future generations.

The largest piece of glacial float copper ever recorded by the Smithsonian Institution is currently on display at Presque Isle Park in Marquette. The 28.2-ton piece of copper was discovered by two Hancock men who were convinced by the late historian Fred Rydholm to keep it at Presque Isle until they sold it. Rydholm and the owners agreed to a $255,000 selling price with the Marquette County Community Foundation.

“The Marquette (County) Community Foundation is hosting a community campaign to raise the funds needed to actually keep the copper here and keep it protected,” Superior Watershed Partnership program manager Natasha Koss said.

Friends of Rydholm have already donated $25,000 to the cause, and the MCCF is requesting that all pledges be honored once they reach 75% of the goal. The glacial float is used by NMU for geology classes, and schoolchildren learn about U.P. history while visiting it on field trips.

The copper will most likely be smelted down for industrial use if the goal isn’t met. This is the last year the MCCF has to purchase the copper and they are asking for any and all donations from businesses and residents alike.

Donations can be given at marquettecountycommunityfoundation.org.