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DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20231118T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20231118T120000
DTSTAMP:20260421T140446
CREATED:20230914T152629Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230914T152834Z
UID:19008-1700301600-1700308800@naturenearby.org
SUMMARY:Winter Tree Identification with Friends of Grand Rapids Parks
DESCRIPTION:Join Friends of Grand Rapids Parks and the Land Conservancy of West Michigan on Saturday\, November 18th from 10:00am-12:00pm for a tree identification walk through Oakhill Cemetery!   \n  \nOakhill Cemetery was named West Michigan’s first arboretum in 2021\, with over 25 different tree species. Join certified arborists from Friends of Grand Rapids Parks to learn the basics of tree identification and terminology.   \n  \nJust a few days before the Land Conservancy of West Michigan’s Holiday Hike Challenge kicks off\, this is a great opportunity to brush up on your tree ID knowledge before competing for the Holiday Hike grand prize!   \n  \nSpace is limited – please register for this free event here.  \n 
URL:https://naturenearby.org/events/tree-id-111823/
LOCATION:Oakhill Cemetery\, 603 Hall Street SE\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49507
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20231111T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20231111T120000
DTSTAMP:20260421T140446
CREATED:20230616T181036Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230616T184104Z
UID:18919-1699693200-1699704000@naturenearby.org
SUMMARY:Second Saturday Workday at Saul Lake Bog
DESCRIPTION:Join the Land Conservancy of West Michigan to collect seeds in the prairie at Saul Lake Bog to expand native grassland habitat at our different nature preserves! \n \nRegister on EventBrite \nAbout Second Saturday Events\nThe Land Conservancy’s 19 nature preserves contain an incredible diversity of natural features including prairies\, forests\, and wetlands that are great places to explore. However\, invasive species and altered natural processes threaten to degrade the ecological quality of many of our preserves. Active management is often needed to ensure the long-term sustainability of these wonderful natural areas\, and we need your help. Fortunately\, through our Second Saturdays event series\, there are now plenty of opportunities to get involved. \nFrom 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on the second Saturday of every month\, the Land Conservancy will host a volunteer event that focuses on ecological restoration activities including invasive species removal\, seed collecting\, and native plant installation. Volunteers may also be involved with trail maintenance\, general clean-up\, or other tasks that help visitors better enjoy our magnificent natural areas. \nTools\, water\, and snacks will be provided! Please wear boots and bring your own work gloves.
URL:https://naturenearby.org/events/stewardship-workday-at-saul-lake-bog-111123/
LOCATION:Saul Lake Bog Nature Preserve\, 10471 Six Mile Road\, Rockford\, MI\, United States
CATEGORIES:Second Saturdays
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20231030T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20231030T183000
DTSTAMP:20260421T140446
CREATED:20230818T194633Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230818T194633Z
UID:18976-1698685200-1698690600@naturenearby.org
SUMMARY:Mushroom ID 101
DESCRIPTION:Fall is a wonderful time to look for mushrooms in the forest\, and what better day than the eve of Halloween to be fascinated by some fungi! \nJoin us on an excursion with LCWM Stewardship Manager Lucas Dykstra as he leads us on a hunt for nature’s Halloween decorations. We will find and learn to identify different types of mushrooms and will discuss mushroom anatomy and terminology. \nWe will meet in the parking lot of Meinert Park and hike .25 miles into the preserve together. This outing will involve hiking up some stairs and along sandy and occasionally steep trails. This event will take place rain or shine – please dress appropriately for the weather! Activity appropriate costumes are encouraged. \nLet’s enjoy the haunts of the great outdoors on this Halloween hike! \n \nRegister on EventBrite
URL:https://naturenearby.org/events/anderson-woods-103023/
LOCATION:Flower Creek Dunes Nature Preserve\, 8501 Meinert Park Road\, Montague\, MI\, 49437\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20231021T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20231021T170000
DTSTAMP:20260421T140446
CREATED:20231011T131439Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240724T160442Z
UID:19024-1697896800-1697907600@naturenearby.org
SUMMARY:Celebrating McDuffee Creek Nature Preserve
DESCRIPTION:Through powerful partnerships and community support\, the Land Conservancy of West Michigan has protected 300 acres of natural land along the shores of the Little South Branch of the Pere Marquette River and McDuffee Creek. Let’s celebrate making this beautiful landscape available to public exploration! \nOur celebration will include a short program and opportunities to explore the preserve! Light snacks and refreshments will be provided. This event will take place outdoors – please dress for the weather. \nThere is a small parking lot at the preserve. Overflow parking is available along the sides of N Walnut Avenue. \nPlease RSVP to let us know you will be attending. The last day to register online is Wednesday\, October 18. After this date\, please contact us directly by phone at (616)552-9946 or email lcwm@naturenearby.org. \n  \n \nRegister on EventBrite
URL:https://naturenearby.org/events/celebrating-mcduffee-creek/
LOCATION:McDuffee Creek Nature Preserve\, 11510 N Walnut Ave\, Bitely\, MI\, 49309\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20231014T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20231014T120000
DTSTAMP:20260421T140446
CREATED:20230615T200458Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230615T200458Z
UID:18913-1697274000-1697284800@naturenearby.org
SUMMARY:Second Saturday Workday at Saul Lake Bog
DESCRIPTION:Join the Land Conservancy of West Michigan to collect seeds in the prairie at Saul Lake Bog to expand native grassland habitat at our different nature preserves! \n \nRegister on EventBrite \nAbout Second Saturday Events\nThe Land Conservancy’s 19 nature preserves contain an incredible diversity of natural features including prairies\, forests\, and wetlands that are great places to explore. However\, invasive species and altered natural processes threaten to degrade the ecological quality of many of our preserves. Active management is often needed to ensure the long-term sustainability of these wonderful natural areas\, and we need your help. Fortunately\, through our Second Saturdays event series\, there are now plenty of opportunities to get involved. \nFrom 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on the second Saturday of every month\, the Land Conservancy will host a volunteer event that focuses on ecological restoration activities including invasive species removal\, seed collecting\, and native plant installation. Volunteers may also be involved with trail maintenance\, general clean-up\, or other tasks that help visitors better enjoy our magnificent natural areas. \nTools\, water\, and snacks will be provided! Please wear boots and bring your own work gloves.
URL:https://naturenearby.org/events/stewardship-workday-at-saul-lake-bog-101423/
LOCATION:Saul Lake Bog Nature Preserve\, 10471 Six Mile Road\, Rockford\, MI\, United States
CATEGORIES:Second Saturdays
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230923T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230923T130000
DTSTAMP:20260421T140446
CREATED:20230719T204256Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230719T204256Z
UID:18958-1695466800-1695474000@naturenearby.org
SUMMARY:Walk & Roll through Anderson Woods with Disability Network West Michigan
DESCRIPTION:Join the Land Conservancy of West Michigan and Disability Network West Michigan for a guided tour of Anderson Woods Nature Preserve! \nAnderson Woods is a forested\, natural area near Muskegon\, Whitehall\, and Montague\, Michigan. An accessible trail system of crushed limestone leads visitors through the preserve’s towering oak and white pine forest. Throughout the tour\, LCWM Stewardship Technician Jason will share about the trail\, the history of Anderson Woods\, and the basics of identifying natural features. \nLate September is also fall migration season! Located on the lakeshore\, Anderson Woods provides important nesting and feeding habitat for migratory birds and supports resident birds that require large tracts of unbroken forest. To assist in the identification and tracking of any birds spotted on the trail\, we recommend downloading the Merlin Bird ID app. \nThe Walk & Roll will be 1 mile\, and the max grade of the trail is 2%. The trailhead parking lot is reserved for accessible parking\, additional parking will be available alongside Simonelli Road. \nLunch will be provided. Please list any dietary needs in the provided space with your registration. \nSpace is limited\, so please register to attend! If you have any specific accommodation requests\, please submit them with your registration\, or email kendra@naturenearby.org directly. \n  \n \nRegister on EventBrite
URL:https://naturenearby.org/events/anderson-woods-092323/
LOCATION:Anderson Woods\, 3901 Simonelli Road\, Whitehall\, 49461
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230909T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230909T120000
DTSTAMP:20260421T140446
CREATED:20230616T173354Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230616T173354Z
UID:18917-1694250000-1694260800@naturenearby.org
SUMMARY:Second Saturday Workday at McDuffee Creek Nature Preserve
DESCRIPTION:Join the Land Conservancy of West Michigan to prepare McDuffee Creek Nature Preserve for public exploration!  \n \nRegister on EventBrite \nAbout Second Saturday Events\nThe Land Conservancy’s 19 nature preserves contain an incredible diversity of natural features including prairies\, forests\, and wetlands that are great places to explore. However\, invasive species and altered natural processes threaten to degrade the ecological quality of many of our preserves. Active management is often needed to ensure the long-term sustainability of these wonderful natural areas\, and we need your help. Fortunately\, through our Second Saturdays event series\, there are now plenty of opportunities to get involved. \nFrom 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on the second Saturday of every month\, the Land Conservancy will host a volunteer event that focuses on ecological restoration activities including invasive species removal\, seed collecting\, and native plant installation. Volunteers may also be involved with trail maintenance\, general clean-up\, or other tasks that help visitors better enjoy our magnificent natural areas. \nTools\, water\, and snacks will be provided! Please wear boots and bring your own work gloves.
URL:https://naturenearby.org/events/stewardship-workday-at-mcduffee-creek-090923/
LOCATION:McDuffee Creek Nature Preserve\, 11510 N Walnut Ave\, Bitely\, MI\, 49309\, United States
CATEGORIES:Second Saturdays
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230819T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230819T120000
DTSTAMP:20260421T140446
CREATED:20230711T193202Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230720T184312Z
UID:18942-1692439200-1692446400@naturenearby.org
SUMMARY:Ottawa Sands Guided Hike
DESCRIPTION:Join the Land Conservancy of West Michigan and botanist Bill Martinus for a guided hike through Ottawa Sands! Throughout the hike\, Bill will share about the history and acquisition of the Ottawa Sands property by Ottawa County Parks\, as well as basic property information\, geology\, and a natural features inventory. \nThe hike will be around 1.6 miles round trip. The trail is mostly gravel\, with some hilly sections of loose sand. \nSpace is limited\, so please register to attend! The event will happen rain or shine\, come dressed for the weather. We will meet at the Ottawa Sands trailhead. Due to construction\, parking will be available at Coast Guard Park (a tenth of a mile from the trailhead). LCWM staff will be available to direct you to the trailhead. \nBill Martinus is an expert botanist\, naturalist\, and environmental educator. He holds a B.A. in Art\, Education\, and Natural Sciences from Calvin College\, and spent 30 years teaching in public and private schools. Bill has served on the Board of Directors for the Michigan Botanical Society\, and today conducts Natural Features Inventories of an extensive array of natural areas in West Michigan and beyond. Bill supports the Land Conservancy as a volunteer Preserve Steward at Palomita Reserve. \n \nRegister on EventBrite
URL:https://naturenearby.org/events/ottawa-sands-guided-hike-081923/
LOCATION:Ottawa Sands\, 18153 North Shore Drive\, Ferrysburg\, MI\, 49456\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230812T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230812T120000
DTSTAMP:20260421T140446
CREATED:20230607T140340Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230607T140340Z
UID:18908-1691830800-1691841600@naturenearby.org
SUMMARY:Second Saturday Workday at Wege Foundation Natural Area
DESCRIPTION:Join the Land Conservancy of West Michigan to remove invasive shrubs at Wege Foundation Natural Area and help restore healthier conditions to an important habitat type. \n \nRegister on EventBrite \nAbout Second Saturday Events\nThe Land Conservancy’s 19 nature preserves contain an incredible diversity of natural features including prairies\, forests\, and wetlands that are great places to explore. However\, invasive species and altered natural processes threaten to degrade the ecological quality of many of our preserves. Active management is often needed to ensure the long-term sustainability of these wonderful natural areas\, and we need your help. Fortunately\, through our Second Saturdays event series\, there are now plenty of opportunities to get involved. \nFrom 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on the second Saturday of every month\, the Land Conservancy will host a volunteer event that focuses on ecological restoration activities including invasive species removal\, seed collecting\, and native plant installation. Volunteers may also be involved with trail maintenance\, general clean-up\, or other tasks that help visitors better enjoy our magnificent natural areas. \nTools\, water\, and snacks will be provided.
URL:https://naturenearby.org/events/stewardship-workday-at-wege-0823/
LOCATION:Wege Foundation Natural Area\, 11715 Vergennes Road\, Lowell\, 49331\, United States
CATEGORIES:Second Saturdays
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230807T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230807T210000
DTSTAMP:20260421T140446
CREATED:20230717T155622Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230717T155622Z
UID:18956-1691434800-1691442000@naturenearby.org
SUMMARY:Old Growth Forest Network Recognition Ceremony for Flower Creek Dunes Nature Preserve
DESCRIPTION:Join us in welcoming Flower Creek Dunes Nature Preserve to the Old-Growth Forest Network! \nLand Conservancy of West Michigan Staff and local botanist\, historian\, and OGFN volunteer County Coordinator\, Bill Martinus\, will help lead the hike. From nearby Meinert Park\, we will walk along the beach to reach the preserve and explore it’s rich backdune forests. \nFlower Creek Dunes Nature Preserve is located on the shoreline of Lake Michigan in the northwest part of Muskegon County\, owned and cared for by the Land Conservancy of West Michigan. Established in 2012\, the preserve protects outstanding views of Lake Michigan\, sand and gravel beach\, open dunes\, interdunal wetlands and 64-acres of mesic northern forest. The forest showcases high-quality\, second-growth with abundant large dead trees and fallen logs\, teeming with fungi\, woodpeckers\, and other forest birds. Notable older hemlocks are present on site\, and with careful stewardship from LCWM and the community\, it will continue to develop important old-growth characteristics. Tree species present include eastern hemlock\, American beech\, red oak\, white pine\, sugar maple\, and other hardwoods. \nThe public is invited to gather at Meinert Park\, a Muskegon County Park located at 8592 Meinert Park Rd\, Montague\, MI 49437 for a short hike along the beach to explore the preserve. Please note that a parking fee may be collected at the entrance of Meinert Park for a cost of $5 (cash).
URL:https://naturenearby.org/events/old-growth-forest-network-recognition-ceremony-for-flower-creek-dunes-nature-preserve/
LOCATION:Flower Creek Dunes Nature Preserve\, 8501 Meinert Park Road\, Montague\, MI\, 49437\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230712T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230712T200000
DTSTAMP:20260421T140446
CREATED:20230516T131203Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230712T183051Z
UID:18890-1689184800-1689192000@naturenearby.org
SUMMARY:CANCELLED - Sedge Identification at Wege Foundation Nature Preserve
DESCRIPTION:Plants in the sedge family are notoriously difficult to identify. We’re here to help! Join botanist and LCWM Conservation Director Justin Heslinga for an informative evening at Wege Foundation Natural Area in Lowell. We will discuss the basics of sedge identification and highlight a variety of sedges that can be found in the preserve. \nThis event will take place outdoors. Please dress for the weather! We will meet in the parking lot of the Wittenbach Wege Center. \n \nRegister on EventBrite
URL:https://naturenearby.org/events/sedge-identification-at-wege-foundation-nature-preserve-0523/
LOCATION:Wege Foundation Natural Area\, 11715 Vergennes Road\, Lowell\, 49331\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230708T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230708T120000
DTSTAMP:20260421T140446
CREATED:20230607T135352Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230607T135948Z
UID:18905-1688806800-1688817600@naturenearby.org
SUMMARY:Second Saturday Workday at Wege Foundation Natural Area
DESCRIPTION:Join the Land Conservancy of West Michigan to remove invasive shrubs at Wege Foundation Natural Area and help restore healthier conditions to an important habitat type. \n \nRegister on EventBrite \nAbout Second Saturday Events\nThe Land Conservancy’s 19 nature preserves contain an incredible diversity of natural features including prairies\, forests\, and wetlands that are great places to explore. However\, invasive species and altered natural processes threaten to degrade the ecological quality of many of our preserves. Active management is often needed to ensure the long-term sustainability of these wonderful natural areas\, and we need your help. Fortunately\, through our Second Saturdays event series\, there are now plenty of opportunities to get involved. \nFrom 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on the second Saturday of every month\, the Land Conservancy will host a volunteer event that focuses on ecological restoration activities including invasive species removal\, seed collecting\, and native plant installation. Volunteers may also be involved with trail maintenance\, general clean-up\, or other tasks that help visitors better enjoy our magnificent natural areas. \nTools\, water\, and snacks will be provided.
URL:https://naturenearby.org/events/stewardship-workday-at-wege-0723/
LOCATION:Wege Foundation Natural Area\, 11715 Vergennes Road\, Lowell\, 49331\, United States
CATEGORIES:Second Saturdays
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230622T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230622T200000
DTSTAMP:20260421T140446
CREATED:20230313T183452Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230502T165837Z
UID:18853-1687456800-1687464000@naturenearby.org
SUMMARY:Insect Identification 101 at Maas Family Nature Preserve
DESCRIPTION:Join the Land Conservancy of West Michigan and insect ecologist James Dunn for an interactive introduction to insect identification! James will share the basics of insect identification\, and attendees will explore the nature preserve and capture specimens to practice identifying. \nSome sweep nets and field guides will be provided. Those who own nets and/or field guides are encouraged to bring them. If you would like to purchase a guide\, the Peterson Field Guide for Insects or the National Wildlife Federation’s Field Guide to Insects and Spiders are recommended.  \nSpace is limited\, so please register to attend! We will meet at Maas Family Nature Preserve. There is no parking lot at the preserve\, please park along the sides of Summit Avenue.  \nJames Dunn is a retired professor of entomology of 30 years\, teaching for the majority of his career at Grand Valley State University. Today\, he is an active volunteer for several conservation organizations. James supports the Land Conservancy as a volunteer Preserve Steward and lends his expertise to support insect monitoring on our nature preserves. \n \nRegister on EventBrite
URL:https://naturenearby.org/events/insect-identification-101-at-maas-family-nature-preserve-0623/
LOCATION:Maas Family Nature Preserve\, 10450 Summit Ave\, Rockford\, MI\, 49341\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230610T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230610T120000
DTSTAMP:20260421T140446
CREATED:20230301T152154Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230315T125448Z
UID:18835-1686387600-1686398400@naturenearby.org
SUMMARY:Second Saturday Workday at Brower Lake Nature Preserve
DESCRIPTION:Join the Land Conservancy of West Michigan to remove invasive garlic mustard at Brower Lake Nature Preserve. \n \nRegister on EventBrite \nAbout Second Saturday Events\nThe Land Conservancy’s 19 nature preserves contain an incredible diversity of natural features including prairies\, forests\, and wetlands that are great places to explore. However\, invasive species and altered natural processes threaten to degrade the ecological quality of many of our preserves. Active management is often needed to ensure the long-term sustainability of these wonderful natural areas\, and we need your help. Fortunately\, through our Second Saturdays event series\, there are now plenty of opportunities to get involved. \nFrom 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on the second Saturday of every month\, the Land Conservancy will host a volunteer event that focuses on ecological restoration activities including invasive species removal\, seed collecting\, and native plant installation. Volunteers may also be involved with trail maintenance\, general clean-up\, or other tasks that help visitors better enjoy our magnificent natural areas. \nTools\, water\, and snacks will be provided.
URL:https://naturenearby.org/events/stewardship-workday-at-brlk-0623/
LOCATION:Brower Lake Nature Preserve\, 8748 Je-Ne-Be-Dr\, Rockford\, MI\, 49341\, United States
CATEGORIES:Second Saturdays
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230513T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230513T120000
DTSTAMP:20260421T140446
CREATED:20230301T152150Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230301T152150Z
UID:18824-1683968400-1683979200@naturenearby.org
SUMMARY:Second Saturday Workday at Castle Park Nature Reserve
DESCRIPTION:Join the Land Conservancy of West Michigan to remove a persistent invasive species impacting the habitat at Castle Park Nature Reserve. We will meet at the entrance to Dune Pines Nature Preserve. \n \nRegister on EventBrite \nAbout Second Saturday Events\nThe Land Conservancy’s 19 nature preserves contain an incredible diversity of natural features including prairies\, forests\, and wetlands that are great places to explore. However\, invasive species and altered natural processes threaten to degrade the ecological quality of many of our preserves. Active management is often needed to ensure the long-term sustainability of these wonderful natural areas\, and we need your help. Fortunately\, through our Second Saturdays event series\, there are now plenty of opportunities to get involved. \nFrom 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on the second Saturday of every month\, the Land Conservancy will host a volunteer event that focuses on ecological restoration activities including invasive species removal\, seed collecting\, and native plant installation. Volunteers may also be involved with trail maintenance\, general clean-up\, or other tasks that help visitors better enjoy our magnificent natural areas. \nTools\, water\, and snacks will be provided.
URL:https://naturenearby.org/events/stewardship-workday-at-capa-0523/
LOCATION:Dune Pines Nature Preserve\, 4580 Audubon Road\, Holland\, MI\, 49423\, United States
CATEGORIES:Second Saturdays
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230429T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230429T150000
DTSTAMP:20260421T140446
CREATED:20230301T152144Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230314T140422Z
UID:18831-1682773200-1682780400@naturenearby.org
SUMMARY:Diving into Vernal Pools at McDuffee Creek Nature Preserve
DESCRIPTION:Join the Land Conservancy of West Michigan\, Michigan Natural Features Inventory\, and the Michigan Vernal Pools Partnership at the new McDuffee Creek Nature Preserve as we explore a fascinating habitat: vernal pools! \nVernal pools are unique wetlands because they are seasonally flooded and not inhabited by fish. They fill up with rain and snowmelt in spring and disappear in summer. Despite their ephemeral nature\, these wetlands are hubs for biodiversity and feature a remarkable cast of invertebrates and amphibians. Fairy shrimp\, fingernail clams\, spotted salamanders\, and wood frogs all prefer the conditions offered by a vernal pool. \nVernal pools are not well-protected wetlands under federal or state laws. Because they are small\, isolated\, and seasonal\, they have also not been well documented in Michigan. That’s where the Vernal Pool Patrol comes in! The Vernal Pool Patrol program works with community scientists\, adults and youth\, and local program coordinators to identify\, map\, monitor\, and provide data on vernal pools across the state. Information collected by Vernal Pool Patrol community scientists is submitted or entered into the statewide Michigan Vernal Pool Database and will be used to help inform and guide management and conservation of vernal pools and associated plants and animals in Michigan. \nThis event is a chance to learn more about vernal pools\, the unique critters that depend on them\, and the Vernal Pool Patrol Project while visiting a new nature preserve. \nPlease wear tall\, waterproof boots. Supplies are limited\, registration is required to attend. \nMake a gift to support the protection of McDuffee Creek Nature Preserve \n \nRegister on EventBrite
URL:https://naturenearby.org/events/vernal-pools-at-mcnp-0423/
LOCATION:McDuffee Creek Nature Preserve\, 11510 N Walnut Ave\, Bitely\, MI\, 49309\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230412T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230412T130000
DTSTAMP:20260421T140446
CREATED:20230301T152117Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230411T161351Z
UID:18828-1681293600-1681304400@naturenearby.org
SUMMARY:Volunteer Workday at McDuffee Creek Nature Preserve
DESCRIPTION:Join the Land Conservancy and Trout Unlimited to restore stream habitat for trout and other aquatic wildlife! \n\n\n\n\nVolunteers will work alongside LCWM and TU staff to install woody debris along McDuffee Creek to restore instream habitat features for trout and other aquatic wildlife which is lacking due to loss of riparian trees. This woody debris installation will complement riparian restoration efforts from 2021-2022 in which volunteers planted over 5\,000 tree seedlings and live stakes. \nWaders or muck boots are recommended! We will meet and park along 14 Mile Road\, the approximate address is 2203 E 14 Mile Rd\, Bitely\, MI\, 49309. \nMake a gift to support the protection of McDuffee Creek Nature Preserve \n\n\n\n\n \nRegister on EventBrite
URL:https://naturenearby.org/events/volunteer-workday-at-mcnp-0423/
LOCATION:McDuffee Creek – 14 Mile Access\, 2203 E 14 Mile Rd\, Bitely\, 49309
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230408T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230408T120000
DTSTAMP:20260421T140446
CREATED:20230301T152109Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230314T140358Z
UID:18834-1680944400-1680955200@naturenearby.org
SUMMARY:Second Saturday Workday at McDuffee Creek Nature Preserve
DESCRIPTION:Join us to prepare a new nature preserve for public exploration! \nMake a gift to support the protection of McDuffee Creek Nature Preserve \n \nRegister on EventBrite \nAbout Second Saturday Events\nThe Land Conservancy’s 19 nature preserves contain an incredible diversity of natural features including prairies\, forests\, and wetlands that are great places to explore. However\, invasive species and altered natural processes threaten to degrade the ecological quality of many of our preserves. Active management is often needed to ensure the long-term sustainability of these wonderful natural areas\, and we need your help. Fortunately\, through our Second Saturdays event series\, there are now plenty of opportunities to get involved. \nFrom 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on the second Saturday of every month\, the Land Conservancy will host a volunteer event that focuses on ecological restoration activities including invasive species removal\, seed collecting\, and native plant installation. Volunteers may also be involved with trail maintenance\, general clean-up\, or other tasks that help visitors better enjoy our magnificent natural areas. \nTools\, water\, and snacks will be provided.
URL:https://naturenearby.org/events/stewardship-workday-at-mcnp-0423/
LOCATION:McDuffee Creek Nature Preserve\, 11510 N Walnut Ave\, Bitely\, MI\, 49309\, United States
CATEGORIES:Second Saturdays
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230311T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230311T120000
DTSTAMP:20260421T140446
CREATED:20230103T202656Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230103T202656Z
UID:18750-1678525200-1678536000@naturenearby.org
SUMMARY:Second Saturday Workday at Kuker-Van Til Nature Preserve
DESCRIPTION:Join the Land Conservancy of West Michigan to help build and maintain the trails at Kuker-Van Til Nature Preserve. \n \nRegister on EventBrite \nAbout Second Saturday Events\nThe Land Conservancy’s 18 nature preserves contain an incredible diversity of natural features including prairies\, forests\, and wetlands that are great places to explore. However\, invasive species and altered natural processes threaten to degrade the ecological quality of many of our preserves. Active management is often needed to ensure the long-term sustainability of these wonderful natural areas\, and we need your help. Fortunately\, through our Second Saturdays event series\, there are now plenty of opportunities to get involved. \nFrom 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on the second Saturday of every month\, the Land Conservancy will host a volunteer event that focuses on ecological restoration activities including invasive species removal\, seed collecting\, and native plant installation. Volunteers may also be involved with trail maintenance\, general clean-up\, or other tasks that help visitors better enjoy our magnificent natural areas. \nTools\, water\, and snacks will be provided.
URL:https://naturenearby.org/events/stewardship-workday-at-kvt-0323/
LOCATION:Kuker-Van Til Nature Preserve\, 2003 Perry Street\, Holland\, MI\, United States
CATEGORIES:Second Saturdays
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230301T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230301T170000
DTSTAMP:20260421T140446
CREATED:20230104T175206Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230104T175206Z
UID:18752-1677673800-1677690000@naturenearby.org
SUMMARY:LCWM Prescribed Burn Crew Training
DESCRIPTION:Ever wanted to take part in a prescribed burn? Now’s your chance to complete the required training to join the Land Conservancy of West Michigan’s Burn Crew! \nFire is an important part of maintaining many West Michigan ecosystems. Prescribed burning encourages native vegetation\, reduces invasive species and improves wildlife habitat—restoring health to our forests\, wetlands and grasslands. \nThe Land Conservancy of West Michigan conducts prescribed burns on its nature preserves each spring\, summer and fall. Volunteer burn crew members play an important role in all stages of prescribed burning\, assisting with burn site preparation\, ignition\, fire control and monitoring. \nAttending this training is required to join the burn crew. Past burn crew members are encouraged to attend the training as a refresher\, as well. Space is limited\, and pre-registration is required to attend. \nSign up for the training to become a part of the Land Conservancy’s burn crew and play a role in a critically important ecological restoration activity! \nPLEASE NOTE: This training does not provide attendees any official certification for conducting prescribed burns. It allows attendees to participate in prescribed burns conducted by the Land Conservancy of West Michigan. \nRegister to Attend\n \nRegister on Eventbrite
URL:https://naturenearby.org/events/burn-crew-training-2023/
LOCATION:Blandford Nature Center Auditorium\, 1715 Hillburn Avenue Northwest\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49504\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230211T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230211T120000
DTSTAMP:20260421T140446
CREATED:20221115T193655Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221115T193714Z
UID:18511-1676106000-1676116800@naturenearby.org
SUMMARY:Second Saturday Workday at Lamberton Lake Fen
DESCRIPTION:Join the Land Conservancy of West Michigan to remove invasive glossy buckthorn and other invasive shrubs as part of the ongoing restoration of this rare ecosystem type. \n \nRegister on EventBrite \nAbout Second Saturday Events\nThe Land Conservancy’s 18 nature preserves contain an incredible diversity of natural features including prairies\, forests\, and wetlands that are great places to explore. However\, invasive species and altered natural processes threaten to degrade the ecological quality of many of our preserves. Active management is often needed to ensure the long-term sustainability of these wonderful natural areas\, and we need your help. Fortunately\, through our Second Saturdays event series\, there are now plenty of opportunities to get involved. \nFrom 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on the second Saturday of every month\, the Land Conservancy will host a volunteer event that focuses on ecological restoration activities including invasive species removal\, seed collecting\, and native plant installation. Volunteers may also be involved with trail maintenance\, general clean-up\, or other tasks that help visitors better enjoy our magnificent natural areas. \nTools\, water\, and snacks will be provided.
URL:https://naturenearby.org/events/stewardship-workday-at-llfp-0223/
LOCATION:Lamberton Lake Nature Preserve\, 3118 Plaza Dr NE\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49525\, United States
CATEGORIES:Second Saturdays
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20230114T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20230114T120000
DTSTAMP:20260421T140446
CREATED:20221115T193247Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221115T193247Z
UID:18509-1673686800-1673697600@naturenearby.org
SUMMARY:Second Saturday Workday at Lamberton Lake Fen
DESCRIPTION:Join the Land Conservancy of West Michigan to remove invasive glossy buckthorn and other invasive shrubs as part of the ongoing restoration of this rare ecosystem type. \n \nRegister on EventBrite \nAbout Second Saturday Events\nThe Land Conservancy’s 16 nature preserves contain an incredible diversity of natural features including prairies\, forests\, and wetlands that are great places to explore. However\, invasive species and altered natural processes threaten to degrade the ecological quality of many of our preserves. Active management is often needed to ensure the long-term sustainability of these wonderful natural areas\, and we need your help. Fortunately\, through our Second Saturdays event series\, there are now plenty of opportunities to get involved. \nFrom 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on the second Saturday of every month\, the Land Conservancy will host a volunteer event that focuses on ecological restoration activities including invasive species removal\, seed collecting\, and native plant installation. Volunteers may also be involved with trail maintenance\, general clean-up\, or other tasks that help visitors better enjoy our magnificent natural areas. \nTools\, water\, and snacks will be provided.
URL:https://naturenearby.org/events/stewardship-workday-at-llfp-0123/
LOCATION:Lamberton Lake Nature Preserve\, 3118 Plaza Dr NE\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49525\, United States
CATEGORIES:Second Saturdays
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20221210T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20221210T120000
DTSTAMP:20260421T140446
CREATED:20220726T171930Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221026T125610Z
UID:18361-1670662800-1670673600@naturenearby.org
SUMMARY:Second Saturday Workday at The Highlands
DESCRIPTION:Join the Land Conservancy of West Michigan and Blandford Nature Center at The Highlands to plant native plants as part of the property’s restoration. Tools\, water\, and snacks will be provided. Please register to attend! \n    \n \nRegister on EventBrite \nAbout Second Saturday Events\nThe Land Conservancy’s 18 nature preserves contain an incredible diversity of natural features including prairies\, forests\, and wetlands that are great places to explore. However\, invasive species and altered natural processes threaten to degrade the ecological quality of many of our preserves. Active management is often needed to ensure the long-term sustainability of these wonderful natural areas\, and we need your help. Fortunately\, through our Second Saturdays event series\, there are now plenty of opportunities to get involved. \nFrom 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on the second Saturday of every month\, the Land Conservancy will host a volunteer event that focuses on ecological restoration activities including invasive species removal\, seed collecting\, and native plant installation. Volunteers may also be involved with trail maintenance\, general clean-up\, or other tasks that help visitors better enjoy our magnificent natural areas. \nTools\, water\, and snacks will be provided.
URL:https://naturenearby.org/events/stewardship-workday-at-highlands-1222/
LOCATION:The Highlands\, 2715 Leonard Street Northwest\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49504
CATEGORIES:Second Saturdays
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20221125T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20221125T120000
DTSTAMP:20260421T140446
CREATED:20220726T173156Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220726T173156Z
UID:18366-1669370400-1669377600@naturenearby.org
SUMMARY:Black Friday Prairie Planting at Saul Lake Bog
DESCRIPTION:The prairie at Saul Lake Bog owes its existence to the hard work of volunteers over many years. The prairie restoration project is one of the largest and longest running in the state and throughout the fall\, volunteers and staff will be picking seeds to expand the prairie. \nOn Black Friday\, we offer the chance to get outside and be a part of a project that will last for generations by helping to spread seed. \nTools\, water\, and snacks will be provided. \nRSVP\n \nRegister on Eventbrite
URL:https://naturenearby.org/events/black-friday-prairie-planting-1122/
LOCATION:Saul Lake Bog Nature Preserve\, 10471 Six Mile Road\, Rockford\, MI\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20221112T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20221112T120000
DTSTAMP:20260421T140446
CREATED:20220726T170427Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220726T170427Z
UID:18357-1668243600-1668254400@naturenearby.org
SUMMARY:Second Saturday Workday at Saul Lake Bog Nature Preserve
DESCRIPTION:Join the Land Conservancy of West Michigan to collect seeds in the prairie at Saul Lake Bog Nature Preserve. Tools\, water\, and snacks will be provided! Please wear boots and bring your own work gloves. \n \nRegister on EventBrite \nAbout Second Saturday Events\nThe Land Conservancy’s 18 nature preserves contain an incredible diversity of natural features including prairies\, forests\, and wetlands that are great places to explore. However\, invasive species and altered natural processes threaten to degrade the ecological quality of many of our preserves. Active management is often needed to ensure the long-term sustainability of these wonderful natural areas\, and we need your help. Fortunately\, through our Second Saturdays event series\, there are now plenty of opportunities to get involved. \nFrom 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on the second Saturday of every month\, the Land Conservancy will host a volunteer event that focuses on ecological restoration activities including invasive species removal\, seed collecting\, and native plant installation. Volunteers may also be involved with trail maintenance\, general clean-up\, or other tasks that help visitors better enjoy our magnificent natural areas. \nTools\, water\, and snacks will be provided.
URL:https://naturenearby.org/events/stewardship-workday-at-slbp-1122/
LOCATION:Saul Lake Bog Nature Preserve\, 10471 Six Mile Road\, Rockford\, MI\, United States
CATEGORIES:Second Saturdays
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20221029T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20221029T130000
DTSTAMP:20260421T140446
CREATED:20221003T194844Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221003T194844Z
UID:18445-1667037600-1667048400@naturenearby.org
SUMMARY:Stream Daylighting Celebration & Tree Planting
DESCRIPTION:Throughout the summer\, construction crews have been hard at work bringing a buried stream back to the surface at The Highlands\, a natural area protected in partnership between Blandford Nature Center and the Land Conservancy of West Michigan. The work is nearly complete! The new stream will provide valuable habitat\, manage the flow of stormwater\, and improve water quality in the Grand River watershed. The project was made possible with support from the City of Grand Rapids\, the Michigan Department of Environment\, Great Lakes\, and Energy\, the Kent County Drain Commissioner\, Natural Resources Conservation Service\, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service\, and the Lower Grand River Organization of Watersheds. \nJoin us to celebrate the completion of the project and plant trees along the new stream at The Highlands! \nWe will hike to the project site (<0.5 miles from the parking lot at The Highlands) where we will enjoy fall refreshments and a short program with speakers from Blandford Nature Center\, the Land Conservancy of West Michigan\, and the City of Grand Rapids. Attendees will then be invited to plant trees along the stream. \nPlease register to attend. This event will take place outside\, rain or shine. Please wear appropriate shoes and dress for the weather! \n    \n \nRegister on EventBrite
URL:https://naturenearby.org/events/stream-daylighting-celebration-tree-planting/
LOCATION:The Highlands\, 2715 Leonard Street Northwest\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49504
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20221024T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20221024T110000
DTSTAMP:20260421T140446
CREATED:20220913T174053Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221021T231106Z
UID:18416-1666602000-1666609200@naturenearby.org
SUMMARY:Tree Planting Workday at The Highlands
DESCRIPTION:Join the Land Conservancy of West Michigan\, Blandford Nature Center\, and the Trout Unlimited Tree Army at The Highlands to plant trees along the new stream! Tools\, water\, and snacks will be provided. Please wear boots and bring your own work gloves. Please register to attend. \n    \n \nRegister on EventBrite
URL:https://naturenearby.org/events/stewardship-workday-at-highlands-102422/
LOCATION:The Highlands\, 2715 Leonard Street Northwest\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49504
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20221018T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20221018T160000
DTSTAMP:20260421T140446
CREATED:20220913T173904Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221003T155332Z
UID:18414-1666101600-1666108800@naturenearby.org
SUMMARY:Tree Planting Workday at The Highlands
DESCRIPTION:Join the Land Conservancy of West Michigan\, Blandford Nature Center\, and the Trout Unlimited Tree Army at The Highlands to plant trees along the new stream! Tools\, water\, and snacks will be provided. Please wear boots and bring your own work gloves. Please register to attend. \n    \n \nRegister on EventBrite
URL:https://naturenearby.org/events/stewardship-workday-at-highlands-101822/
LOCATION:The Highlands\, 2715 Leonard Street Northwest\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49504
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20221013T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20221013T183000
DTSTAMP:20260421T140446
CREATED:20220901T195554Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220901T195928Z
UID:18401-1665680400-1665685800@naturenearby.org
SUMMARY:Mushroom ID 101
DESCRIPTION:Fall is a wonderful time to look for fungi in the forest. Join us on an excursion to find and learn about mushrooms at Flower Creek Dunes Nature Preserve! \nLCWM Stewardship Manager Lucas Dykstra will lead us as we look for mushrooms\, learn how to identify different types\, and discuss mushroom anatomy and terminology. \nWe will meet in the parking lot of Meinert Park (8390 Meinert Park Rd\, Montague\, MI) and hike .25 miles into the preserve. This outing will involve hiking up some stairs and along sandy and occasionally steep trails. The event will take place rain or shine—please dress appropriately for the weather! \n \nRegister on EventBrite
URL:https://naturenearby.org/events/mushroom-id-101/
LOCATION:Meinert Park\, 8390 Meinert Park Rd\, Montague\, MI\, 49437\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20221008T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20221008T170000
DTSTAMP:20260421T140446
CREATED:20220908T134547Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220908T134547Z
UID:18410-1665237600-1665248400@naturenearby.org
SUMMARY:Upriver Nature Preserve Dedication
DESCRIPTION:This spring\, an anonymous family generously donated 155 acres of natural land along the shores of the Little South Branch of the Pere Marquette River. Throughout the summer\, the Land Conservancy of West Michigan has been readying the landscape for its debut as a publicly accessible nature preserve. Join us to celebrate the public opening and dedication of Upriver Nature Preserve! \nThere will be a short program and guided hikes and light refreshments will be provided. This event will take place outdoors—please dress appropriately for the weather. \nPlease RSVP to let us know you will be attending! The last day to register is Friday\, September 30. After this date\, please contact us directly by phone at (616) 451-9476 or email at lcwm@naturenearby.org to let us know you are attending. \n \nRegister on EventBrite
URL:https://naturenearby.org/events/upriver-nature-preserve-dedication/
LOCATION:Upriver Nature Preserve\, 13113 N Walnut Ave\, Bitely\, 49309
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR