Oak Savannas are more than OAK-ay: Volunteer with On the Ground in Kent County to Help Restore One of our State’s Rarest Habitat Types

Americorps • September 6, 2023

Join MUCC’s On the Ground (OTG) program in partnership with Kent Conservation District for an oak savanna habitat restoration day at Cannonsburg State Game Area.

Wildlife such as wild turkeys, white-tailed deer and monarch butterflies benefit from oak savannas.

Oak savannas can be defined as groups of scattered oak trees, acting as a transition system between prairies and woodland habitats. The scattered trees allow plenty of sunlight on the ground allowing grasses and forbs (flowering plants) to become plentiful in the savanna. This unique habitat provides benefits to both woodland and prairie wildlife. Oak savannas are an exceedingly rare habitat not only in Michigan but all across the Midwest. Habitat fragmentation from infrastructure development, suppression of prairie fires, and the encroachment of invasive species are affecting our oak savannas. Help On the Ground and Kent County Conservation District restore one of the most unique habitats in our state.

We will be spreading native grass and forb seeds as well as removing invasive vegetation in an effort to increase biodiversity and prevent the establishment of non-native invasive vegetation.

DNR Biologist Bob Sanders plants a native wildflower in an oak savanna restoration zone in the Manistee National Forest.

All ages are welcome to attend. Registered participants will receive a free lunch and a volunteer appreciation gift. Attendees are encouraged to bring reusable water bottles, although bottled water and snacks will be provided throughout the day. Please wear good hiking shoes and tear-resistant clothes. This project will take place rain or shine unless there is severe weather so please dress accordingly!

For more details and volunteer registration, click HERE .

Please contact Habitat Program and Partnerships Coordinator Kristina Kennedy at kkennedy@mucc.org with any questions regarding this event or the OTG program.

The post Oak Savannas are more than OAK-ay: Volunteer with On the Ground in Kent County to Help Restore One of our State’s Rarest Habitat Types appeared first on Michigan United Conservation Clubs.

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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.