MUCC’s AmeriCorps Training: Building Young Professionals

Americorps • June 14, 2023

Last week from June 6 ^th to June 8 ^th MUCC hosted a three-day elective training at Michigan Out-Of-Doors-Youth Camp. Attendees included AmeriCorps members, Out-of-Doors camp staff and MSU Glassen Scholars from National Wild Turkey Federation and the National Wildlife Federation. The three-day training aimed to teach what being a conservation professional is all about, from different career pathways in natural resources to how crucial conservation-related policies are to our field. This training was supported by a grant from the Abrams Foundation, which helped fund housing and food for the attendees of the training. The Abrams Foundation has supported MUCC for the last decade and we greatly appreciate their support in our goals to protect Michigan’s outdoor heritage.

On the 1 ^st day of the training, we were focused on careers in natural resources with current professionals speaking about their experiences in the natural resource field. Guest speakers were from MSU Extension, National Wild Turkey Federation, Ducks Unlimited and DNR Marketing and Outreach. Personally, this was extremely helpful to me to see how the speakers navigated their way into the conservation field. They provided helpful tips that my cohorts and I will use for our professional future.

The 2 ^nd day focused on conservation policy and started with a presentation by MUCC’s policy team on the history of MUCC and its grassroots policy process. After the presentation, we visited the capitol where we met with MUCC’s multi-client lobbyist Bill Jackson, Senator John Cherry and legislative director Katie Olkowski. We finished the day with a tour of the capitol and were lucky enough to see the House of Representatives in session. Learning more about the policy side of conservation was a confusing, but also eye-opening experience.

The 3 ^rd and final day focused on skill-building including archery and riflery and assisting MUCC camp staff in completing much-needed tasks on the property to help prepare for camp to start on the 19 ^th . Overall, I thought the experience was great and was much needed for us trying to build our conservation foundations.

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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.