OTG at Gladwin State Game Area

lschultz • July 25, 2019

On Saturday, July 20, eight volunteers came out to the Gladwin State Game Area in Harrison to improve habitat for rabbit and small game. This portion of the state game area was recently acquired by the DNR and is beginning to be managed for a variety of wildlife species. Saturday’s project gave volunteers the opportunity to have a direct and immediate impact on wildlife habitat in the area. The goal for the day was to limb the trees downed by the DNR and then assemble three large brush piles.

Teaming up with three DNR Wildlife Division staff and being led by DNR Wildlife Biologist Bruce Barlow, the volunteers quickly spread out across the five-acrelandscape and began to cut and assemble the brush piles. Despite the thunderstorms rolling across the region that morning, our volunteers lucked out and remained dry the entire length of the project.  The overcast conditions provided relief from the heat as well, and one returning volunteer called it “a perfect July day to be out making a difference”.

Volunteers from a variety of different clubs, organizations, and companies were present. These included Chelsea Rod and Gun Club, Quality Deer Management Association, the Ruffed Grouse Society, MUCC, Consumers Energy, and others. These members came together to improve their natural resources, and their efforts will have a lasting impact in this region. In fact, many volunteers mentioned their interest in returning to the project site in the future for the improved hunting opportunities.

Although three large brush piles were the goal for this project, our volunteers built five in just three hours. As you can see, these brush piles are significantly larger than normal and will serve as excellent habitat for rabbit and other small game species. It’s impressive what a like-minded, motivated group of conservationists can accomplish in just a few hours on a Saturday morning.

We have many events lined up between August 3 and September 6. We will be at Rose Lake State Game Area on August 3 and 27,  in the Pigeon River Country State Forest on August 17, and at Gratiot-Saginaw State Game Area on September 6. For more information and to register, please visit mucc.org/on-the-ground or contact MUCC Habitat Volunteer Coordinator Makhayla LaButte at mlabutte@mucc.org or 517-346-6456. Come out and volunteer for wildlife!

Recent Posts

Mayflies, Stoneflies, and Caddisflies, Oh My!

By Olivia Triltsch • April 17, 2025
In addition to their impact on water quality, these three orders of insects are an important part of the diet of game fish, making anglers, especially fly fishermen, interested in the conservation of these small animals.

Mast-Producing Trees 101

By Katelyn Helsel • April 16, 2025
You might’ve heard the term “mast-producing” in the conservation world, but what exactly does it mean? Mast-producing is mostly used to describe a type of tree or shrub. Generally, mast-producing trees and shrubs are more desirable to plant when attempting to restore wildlife habitat on a larger scale, or even when trying to attract wildlife like songbirds into urban areas. 

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.
More Posts