On the Ground: Garlic Mustard Pull at Saugatuck Dunes State Park

Americorps • April 25, 2024

On Saturday, April 20, 2024, On the Ground partnered with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Parks and Recreation Division to host a garlic mustard removal day at Saugatuck Dunes State Park. Although it was a windy day, 24 volunteers came out to help eradicate this plant and improve habitat for Michigan's wildlife.

Garlic Mustard 101

Garlic mustard is an invasive plant, which means that it is not naturally found here in Michigan and has invaded the ecosystem. It spreads rapidly and can grow in dense patches, shading native plants and preventing them from growing. This plant is also allelopathic, meaning it sends out chemicals through its root system that kill any surrounding plants, native or not. It can become a big problem if it is not removed and eradicated properly. Garlic mustard is found throughout the state of Michigan, however consistent management can help keep this species in check.

Volunteers Remove This Invasive

Volunteers concentrated on a woodland area in Saugatuck Dunes State Park where known pockets of garlic mustard are present. Each volunteer carefully combed the forest floor looking for this invasive plant and properly disposed of it in a trash bag. As with any plant, garlic mustard needs to be pulled at the roots to ensure the entire plant comes out of the ground. Volunteers also enjoyed a brief presentation by Emily Leslie from the Michigan DNR on hemlock woolly adelgid, which is currently present and being treated at Saugatuck Dunes State Park. In total, volunteers directly improved 15 acres of wildlife habitat through this project.

The post On the Ground: Garlic Mustard Pull at Saugatuck Dunes State Park 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.