On the Ground Volunteer Highlight: Zachary Dalton

Kristina Kennedy • October 26, 2023

Dozens of brush piles were created during the April 22 stewardship workday in partnership with Mark Kenyon’s Working for Wildlife Tour.

Meet Zachary Dalton, local hunter, angler, outdoor enthusiast, and avid On the Ground (OTG) volunteer!

Zachary is from Saginaw, but he has participated in six OTG volunteer events throughout Michigan during the past year. He attended his first OTG project back in October of 2022, where he worked alongside other volunteers to plant and fence one hundred mast-producing trees for wildlife on public land in Kalkaska County.

“I wanted to get involved with MUCC because I thought it would be a great way to get more involved in conservation,” he said. “I see volunteering with OTG as an opportunity to give back to nature, wildlife, and public lands.”

Zachary earned a degree in Wildlife Biology from Central Michigan University in 2021 and has been working seasonal wildlife gigs since then. He recently started a new position with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Division at the Shiawassee River State Game Area.

Using a dibble bar, Zachary preps holes for a wildflower plug planting proejct at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute in Barry County.

One of his favorite On the Ground projects was the Kalkaska County stewardship workday in partnership with Mark Kenyon’s Working for Wildlife Tour that took place this past spring. During the habitat project, volunteers created brush piles throughout five wildlife openings to enhance horizontal ground cover for small game habitat. “One of the highlights for me was seeing the large impact that we made in just one day of work,” he said.

Not only do these volunteer events help folks explore public land throughout the state, but Zachary agrees that volunteering has also allowed him to connect with people who share a similar love for the outdoors.

“My favorite part about volunteering is getting my hands dirty with a project and feeling like I made a difference at the end of the day, Zachary continued. “I encourage anyone who enjoys the outdoors whether that be bird watching, hiking, hunting, or fishing to get out and give back to the public lands that we collectively enjoy.”

Thank you, Zachary, for your volunteer stewardship with the OTG program! We greatly appreciate your dedication to improving wildlife habitat in Michigan.

Would you like to be our next volunteer steward? Visit  mucc.org/on-the-ground/  to register for upcoming projects!

Recent Posts

March 2025 NRC Recap

By Justin Tomei • March 13, 2025
March 2025 NRC Recap

Leaping into World Frog Day: Blanchard's Cricket Frog

By Olivia Triltsch • March 13, 2025
Blanchard’s cricket frog plays both roles of predator and prey within the ecosystem, influencing other species populations from both sides.

MUCC Celebrates Conservation Leaders at 2025 Annual Awards Banquet

By Tyler Mehigh • March 11, 2025
Michigan United Conservation Clubs (MUCC) proudly honored outstanding individuals and organizations for their dedication to preserving Michigan’s natural resources at the 2025 Conservation Awards Banquet. The annual event recognizes those who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, advocacy, and service to conservation. Ron Olson – 50 Years of Service to Conservation Award With a remarkable career spanning five decades, Ron Olson has made a lasting impact on Michigan’s parks and outdoor recreation. As Chief of the Parks and Recreation Division for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Olson expanded the state park system, enhanced trail programs, and secured significant funding for infrastructure improvements. His leadership has shaped the future of Michigan’s outdoor spaces for generations to come. Ron Burris – President’s Award A dedicated leader within MUCC, Ron Burris played a pivotal role in restructuring the organization’s governance, ensuring a more effective policy and executive board structure. His efforts in promoting conservation education, community engagement, and safety initiatives—such as increasing AED availability in clubs—have strengthened MUCC’s impact across Michigan. Senator Sam Singh & Representative Graham Filler – Conservation Legislators of the Year Recognized for their bipartisan leadership in securing $1.9 million in funding for the Elsie Dam removal, Senator Singh and Representative Filler have demonstrated a commitment to conservation and ecological restoration. Their advocacy ensures the protection of Michigan’s waterways, fish habitats, and public safety. Grand Valley Cap N Ballers – Affiliate of the Year With a long-standing tradition of promoting historical shooting sports and conservation, Grand Valley Cap N Ballers (GVCNB) has been a key supporter of MUCC’s mission. Hosting major regional events and fundraisers, GVCNB has played a crucial role in supporting MUCC’s conservation efforts while preserving Michigan’s outdoor heritage. Mike Avery – Conservation Communicator of the Year A leading voice in outdoor media, Mike Avery has dedicated his career to educating and inspiring Michigan’s outdoor enthusiasts through his popular radio show and podcast, Mike Avery’s Outdoor Magazine. By spotlighting conservation leaders and critical environmental issues, Avery has significantly contributed to public awareness and advocacy for Michigan’s natural resources. MUCC extends its heartfelt congratulations to all award recipients for their outstanding contributions to conservation. Their dedication ensures that Michigan’s natural heritage remains protected for future generations. For more information on MUCC’s conservation efforts, visit mucc.org .
More Posts
Share by: