Celebrate National Volunteer Week with On the Ground

lschultz • April 15, 2021

National Volunteer Week runs from April 18 through April 24 this year. It is a week designated to acknowledge all of the work accomplished by volunteers and to thank them for their hard work and dedication.

Michigan United Conservation Clubs’ (MUCC) On the Ground (OTG) wildlife habitat improvement program would like to thank the more than 3,100 volunteers that have joined us across Michigan since 2013. Thanks to these passionate wildlife volunteers, the OTG program has improved more than 3,000 acres of public land through 157 habitat projects. Together, OTG volunteers have contributed 14,784 hours to wildlife habitat improvement and restoration in Michigan. This impressive impact would not have been achieved without the dedication of volunteers in every region of the state, and it is our hope that these numbers will continue to grow over the coming years.

Volunteerism is one of the most selfless acts one can partake in, and the OTG program seems to consistently bring out the best individuals. As the OTG program coordinator, I have yet to meet an individual at one of these events who hasn’t rolled up their sleeves and jumped into the task at hand. Whether we are planting native trees and shrubs, building wildlife brush piles, clearing access trails or removing invasive flora, OTG volunteers have never failed to impress me with the time and effort they give to the wildlife and public lands they love.

What’s even more rewarding than the habitat work that gets completed at OTG events is the sense of community that is felt among volunteers. Outdoor enthusiasts of all ages, backgrounds and interests are often seen helping each other, sharing their knowledge of diverse outdoor and ecological topics and growing in their understanding of habitat management techniques. Even when there is uncertainty or strife in the conservation community, a habitat day with fellow outdoorsmen and outdoorswomen is a strong reminder that our natural resources are in very good hands.

You can celebrate National Volunteer Week with the OTG program. Join OTG and the Robert J. Lytle Chapter of the Ruffed Grouse Society on Saturday, April 24 as we plant and tube 200 oak trees within the Minden City State Game Area. These hard mast-producing trees will benefit a variety of wildlife such as ruffed grouse, wild turkey and white-tailed deer.  Learn more and register for this event HERE . 

 

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MUCC Marks 250th Habitat Project with Clinton River Clean-Up—Volunteers Needed! Rochester Hills, MI — April 15, 2025 — Michigan United Conservation Clubs (MUCC) is proud to announce its 250th On the Ground (OTG) habitat improvement project: a community clean-up of the Clinton River at Yates Park in Rochester Hills. The event will take place on Saturday, April 19, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM . In partnership with Metro-West Steelheaders and the Clinton River Watershed Council, this initiative aims to enhance fish and wildlife habitats by removing trash from the river and surrounding riparian zones. The project not only benefits local ecosystems but also fosters a cleaner, healthier community and environment. Event Details: Location: Yates Park, 1990 E Avon Rd, Rochester Hills, MI 48307 Time: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM What to Bring: Work gloves (if available), appropriate outdoor attire, and a reusable water bottle. MUCC will provide waders, trash grabbers, trash bags, lunch, and a volunteer appreciation gift. This milestone event underscores MUCC's commitment to conservation and community engagement. "Reaching our 250th project is a testament to the dedication of our volunteers and partners," said Olivia Triltsch, MUCC's Habitat Program and Partnerships Coordinator. "We invite everyone to join us in making a tangible impact on our natural resources." Registration:  Interested volunteers should register by Friday, April 18, at 2:00 PM. To expedite check-in, please complete the digital volunteer waiver individually for each participant. Individuals under 18 must have a parent or guardian sign the waiver. For late registrations or cancellations, contact Olivia Triltsch at otriltsch@mucc.org. MUCC is always excited to work alongside the Clinton River Watershed Council. Their continued efforts to protect, enhance, and promote the Clinton River and its watershed are deeply valued. Together, we make a greater impact on ensuring clean, healthy waterways and thriving wildlife habitats for generations to come.
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