 The natural and scenic richness of the area has made it a host to a variety of conservation, education, and recreation programs, including Crystalaire, the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy, and others.As of the 2000 census, there were 15,998 people, 6,500 households, and 4,595 families residing in the county.The population density was 50 people per square mile (19/km²).