MUCC names Kirk Riley deputy director

lschultz • September 30, 2019

Riley takes over as operations, fiscal manager for nation’s largest state-specific conservation organization.

Michigan United Conservation Clubs (MUCC) named Kirk Riley its new deputy director Sept. 23 following a nine-month, countrywide search.

Riley’s role will include operations management, budget and donor development, fundraising, staff oversight, executive board recruitment and succession planning for MUCC.

Prior to joining MUCC, Riley served as executive director of the Lansing-based Information Technology Empowerment Center which focused on providing science, technology, math and engineering (STEM) educational opportunities to at-risk youth from 2007 to 2018. From 1994 to 2006, he managed an environmental engineering outreach program at Michigan State University that provided assistance to communities with serious pollution problems .

MUCC Executive Director Amy Trotter said Riley’s experience in the non-profit world, coupled with his understanding of fiscal development, made him the perfect candidate for the position.

“Kirk separated himself from the field during the interview process with innovative, feasible ideas on membership and financial growth for MUCC,” Trotter said. “Staff concurred, and we are excited to welcome Kirk to the MUCC team and begin implementing long-term growth strategies.”

Riley is excited to join the MUCC team and bring his expertise in management to the conservation field, he said.

“Conservation is something that I have a deep passion for and enjoy,” Riley said. “I look forward to the opportunity to bring my unique skills to MUCC and help to grow our professional staff and organization in the coming years.”

Riley lives in Haslett with his wife Katie and is the father of two sons. Their family includes an Australian shepherd rescue named Ruby, and they enjoy camping, hiking and kayaking. Riley and his family proudly cheer on Michigan and Michigan State in their house — divided.

Michigan United Conservation Clubs is the largest state-specific conservation organization in the nation. Since 1937, MUCC has been uniting citizens to conserve, protect and enhance Michigan’s natural resources and outdoor heritage.

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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.