Happy Thanksgiving from the OTG Program

lschultz • November 21, 2019

Written by Makhayla LaButte, MUCC Habitat Volunteer Coordinator

It’s that wonderful time of year when family and friends gather to celebrate and give thanks, and I am looking forward to going home to the Upper Peninsula to do exactly that in the coming week. However, before I depart from the office, I want to take a moment to thank the people I have met through the On the Ground (OTG) program. The OTG program has grown significantly in recent years through the engagement of Michiganders from each corner of the state. Each individual I have met since I became the coordinator of this program in May 2019 has shared their wisdom, kindness and dedication to our state’s natural resources. These interactions are one of my favorite parts of this career.

The truth is that every wildlife volunteer I have met enjoys the outdoors in a different way and is inspired to give back for a different reason. Some of them pursue the thrill of a flushed game bird, others enjoy viewing the majesty of elk in the Pigeon River Country and many others prefer the peaceful isolation of their deer blind on opening day. However, the one thing all OTG participants can agree on is that the best way to give thanks for what nature has given you is to give back.

Thank you to the 3,000 volunteers that have given back to their natural resources by impacting more than 2,000 acres of public land through more than 14,000 volunteer hours. Conservation is a team sport, and we couldn’t do it without you.

If you have the time this holiday season, share your passion for the outdoors with a friend or family member and explore some of your public lands. No matter how you celebrate and give thanks for your outdoor heritage and the year’s harvests, I hope you have a peaceful and rejuvenating Thanksgiving.

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MUCC Marks 250th Habitat Project with Clinton River Clean-Up—Volunteers Needed!

By Olivia Triltsch • April 15, 2025

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.