Events Archive: 2014 | 2016 | 2018 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | Upcoming Events
April 2023
Going Native in Frankenlust Township
Chippewa Nature Center, 400 S. Badour Rd, Midland, MI, 48640 Map
Public Welcome Free Event Chapter Meeting Program/Speaker Presentation Wheelchair Accessible Public Restroom Free Public Parking Drinking Fountains
Frankenlust Township in Bay County has a nature park of 23 acres complete with walking trails, ponds for fishing, and nature for viewing. However, invasive shrubs were taking over many areas of the park, and bank erosion was diminishing water quality in the main pond. Learn about our efforts to remove invasives, plant natives, stabilize eroding banks, and increase the recreational potential and accessibility of the park. Martin Arford, professor of Geography at SVSU, along with his students, local volunteers, and the township board forged a partnership to improve this park. He shows the steps involved in the on-going transformation. CNC’s Land and Facilities staff assisted in invasive species removal and reseeding some fields. This program will be held at CNC’s Visitor Center.
May 2023
Tomlinson Barn Education Center tour, Midland County
Tomlinson Barn Education Center
Public Welcome Family Friendly Free Event Chapter Meeting Program/Speaker Presentation Group Tour Free Public Parking
Meet at the Tomlinson Barn Education Center located at 814 E. Olson Rd. Midland, MI., for a tour with Midland Conservation District administrator Karen Thurlow. Learn about the MCD’s history and programs. She will show a powerpoint presentation on where they've been and share the vision and future goals for the center. We’ll also enjoy a walk through the interpretive trails and new pollinator gardens. Midland Conservation District works with local and state partners to help landowners with education and implementation of best management practices to protect our natural resources.
June 2023
Thomas Township Nature Center tour, Saginaw
Thomas Township Nature Center & Preserve, 6660 Gratiot Rd, Saginaw, MI, 48609 Map
Public Welcome Family Friendly Free Event Chapter Meeting Program/Speaker Presentation Group Tour Nature Walk/Hike Public Restroom Free Public Parking Lots of Physical Activity Drinking Fountains
Meet at the Thomas Township Nature Center at 6660 Gratiot Road, Saginaw, MI. Once a former golf course, the new nature center sits over a canal connecting to an island in the Tittabawassee River. Coordinator Lynda Thayer will share the space that they created, a brief history of the property and the development of the Nature Center and Preserve. Then she leads us on a tour outside to view the on-going restoration of the 67 acre preserve.
July 2023
Ziibiwiing Center native plant tour, Mt. Pleasant
Ziibiwing Center of Anishinabe Culture and Lifeways, 6655 E Broadway Rd, Mt Pleasant, MI, 48858 Map
Public Welcome Paid Event Chapter Meeting Program/Speaker Presentation Group Tour Public Restroom Free Public Parking
Meet in the Chippewa Nature Center parking lot at 5:30 pm to carpool to Mt.Pleasant, or meet us at the Ziibiwing Center at 6:30pm, 6655 E. Broadway. Staff of the Ziibiwing Center of Anishinabe Culture and Lifeways will lead us on an outdoor tour of their native plants. Learn the importance of these species to the Saginaw Chippewa tribe, why they were chosen for this garden, and how they are used by indigenous people. RSVP to 989-225-0059 by July 6. In case of inclement weather we will contact you about alternate plans or cancelling.
August 2023
Eagle Ridge Nature Area walk
Eagle Ridge Nature Area, 3922 E Ashman St, Midland, MI, 48642 Map
Public Welcome Family Friendly Free Event Chapter Meeting Group Tour Nature Walk/Hike Public Restroom Free Public Parking Lots of Physical Activity
Meet at the Stratford Woods parking lot, 3922 E. Ashman St., Midland to start our walk of the new Eagle Ridge Nature Area. Lisa Williams of the US Fish & Wildlife Service leads us on a guided tour of the trails, woods, and wetlands on this new preserve, which opened in June 2022. Meet by the Eagle Ridge interpretive sign. Restoration of the native plants was coordinated with Dow Chemical, DNR, EGLE, the Saginaw Chippewa Tribe, Attorney General, and Chippewa Nature Center.
Events
Mid-Mitten 2022 Calendar
Second Monday of the month 6:30-8:00 PM at Chippewa Nature Center, 400 S. Badour Road, Midland – unless noted
Jan. 10 Nature Journaling
A journal is a wonderful way to interact with your world. Journaling allows you to capture the essence of your days and to revisit them in the future. But you don’t have to love to write to journal. We will explore ways to capture your experiences in nature in unique and fun ways. Laura J. Volsejpka, scientist/artist and director of Creative 360 in Midland will provide the books and the tools – you provide the experience and imagination!
Feb. 14 City Versus Invasives
Stephanie Richardson, City of Midland Horticulturist, will describe what the city has been doing regarding invasive species management on city lands and the reestablishment of natives in various areas, along with future plans. Since 2007 Stephanie has enjoyed helping people connect with nature in an urban environment, and enhancing the quality of life for Midland residents and visitors.
Mar. 14 Saving Seeds and the Michigan Seed Library Network
Learn how you can find a variety of heirloom and modern seeds for planting this spring at local seed libraries. Bevin Cohen of Small House Farm explains how he facilitated the establishment of seed libraries throughout Michigan, and shares some stories about the seeds and the people who grow them. He will also have books for sale.
Apr. 11 How to Prune Trees and Shrubs the Right Way
Learn from Chuck Martin, grounds manager and senior horticulturist at Whiting Forest of Dow gardens, how to properly prune branches without negatively impacting the health of trees and shrubs. This meeting will take place on Chuck’s property and feature pruning demonstrations. Register by emailing [email protected] to receive the address.
May 9 Native American Uses of Native Plants
Native Americans living in this region prior to European settlement depended on a variety of plants to meet their needs for food, medicine and shelter. Join CNC’s Historical Interpreter Corrine Bloomfield for a casual trail walk to learn more about these valuable resources. This program will be held inside the Visitor Center if inclement weather.