On the Ground to partner with Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Michigan DNR for fall tree planting project in elk country

Kristina Kennedy • August 10, 2023

MUCC’s On the Ground (OTG) program is excited to be partnering-up with Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF) for their annual rendezvous work weekend in Elk Country!

Join us on  Saturday, September 23 from 10am-2pm  as we plant approximately 100 oak and apple trees in the Pigeon River Country State Forest outside of Vanderbilt, MI in Otsego County.

OTG volunteers place fencing around a newly-planted fruit tree in Kalkaska County.

This project is in collaboration with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) with sponsorship from National Wildlife Federation, and is an effort to establish hard and soft mast that will benefit various species of wildlife including elk and white-tailed deer.

Volunteers are required to wear closed-toe shoes and are encouraged to wear long pants and long sleeves. Attendees are also encouraged to bring reusable water bottles, although bottled water and snacks will be provided throughout the day. This project will take place rain or shine, unless there is severe weather so please dress accordingly.

All ages are welcome to attend. Registered participants will receive free lunch and a volunteer appreciation gift. We ask that volunteers please register through RMEF. If you wish to sign-up after online registration closes, please send an email to kkennedy@mucc.org.

Please note:  Campsites are still available for Friday and Saturday night at  Elkwood Campground in Wolverine. Please feel free to join us for a social gathering after the project at the campground.

See you when the elk bugle!

Recent Posts

By Olivia Triltsch July 3, 2025
The United States is not shy about using big, beautiful fireworks in celebration of many occasions. July 4th is a day of celebration for many within the country, celebrating the country’s independence from Great Britain in 1776. Fireworks and barbecues are the most common modes of celebration on this day in recognition of the historic significance of the day. While these grand displays are something many look forward to each year, it is important to consider the impacts these explosions have on the surrounding area, including pets and wildlife.
By Justin Tomei June 30, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MUCC Submits Public Comment in Support of Line 5 Tunnel Project Lansing, MI — Michigan United Conservation Clubs (MUCC), the nation’s largest statewide conservation organization, has submitted formal public comments urging the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to approve the Enbridge Line 5 Tunnel Project. In a letter submitted today, MUCC emphasized the need to move this critical infrastructure forward to protect the Great Lakes while maintaining safe, reliable energy transportation. “MUCC supports the tunnel project as the best available alternative to reduce the risk of an environmental disaster in the Straits of Mackinac while continuing to deliver essential energy products to Michigan families and industries,” said Amy Trotter, CEO of MUCC. “We believe the tunnel project strikes a balance between protecting the environment and maintaining energy security.” MUCC’s position is backed by a formal resolution passed by its membership, which includes thousands of hunters, anglers, trappers, and outdoor enthusiasts across Michigan. The resolution supports the tunnel as a long-term solution that replaces the aging and exposed pipeline segment currently crossing the Straits, offering greater environmental safeguards through secondary containment. The organization cited the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), which acknowledges the tunnel’s benefits, including reduced spill risk and a controlled, buried environment for transporting light crude oil and natural gas liquids. MUCC also rejected the "no action alternative," which would allow the existing line to remain in operation without any new protective infrastructure. “Other alternatives, like transporting fuel by truck or rail, are inefficient and carry greater environmental and safety risks,” Trotter added. “Allowing the current line to operate exposed on the lakebed indefinitely is simply not acceptable.” MUCC’s comment stresses that the organization is not weighing in on the type of energy transported, but rather on the environmental risks and safety benefits of the tunnel itself. Originally approved by the Michigan legislature and governor in 2018, the Great Lakes Tunnel Project represents a once-in-a-generation investment in infrastructure and environmental protection. MUCC urges the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to issue the necessary permits and move forward with construction without further delay. For Media Contact: Justin Tomei jtomei@mucc.org 517-346-6488 #####
By Olivia Triltsch June 26, 2025
Since its inception, MUCC has made great strides in the conservation of natural resources through advocacy, habitat, youth education, and communications.
More Posts