OTG: Looking Back and Moving Forward

lschultz • September 25, 2019

Now that the summer field season for OTG has concluded, it is time to look back and reflect on the completed 2019 season and begin developing goals and projects for the upcoming 2020 season. However, as I was entering the data into the program, it became clear that our OTG program had a much bigger story to tell than just the past field season alone. Since 2013, this program has impacted more than 2,000 acres of public land across the Upper Peninsula and Lower Peninsula of Michigan through the dedicated work of nearly 3,000 Michiganders. Together, these volunteers have served more than 13,500 hours for wildlife and its habitat across the state.

The success of our program is the result of a partnership between individual volunteers, conservation organizations and wildlife professionals all across the state of Michigan. We partner with groups like Metro-West Steelheaders, National Wild Turkey Federation, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Ruffed Grouse Society, National Wildlife Federation, Steelhead Manifesto, Consumers Energy, college clubs, school groups and many others. There truly is power in partnership when it comes to conservation, and the OTG program looks forward to continuing to unite Michiganders through their shared passion for conserving their natural resources.

Although it is easy to get distracted by the hard numbers when determining the success of a program like OTG, it is also important to remember that it is the intangible aspect of each event that truly determines its overall success. It is the camaraderie that results when bird hunters and bird watchers unite to regenerate an aspen stand, it is the memories made between parents and their children when planting trees in a local state forest and it is the sense of stewardship that is instilled or renewed in each individual who gives a portion of their time to a conservation project or initiative that matters to them.

The goal of the OTG program is far greater than just acreage and species impact–it is designed to give Michigan conservationists an outlet for their passion and the opportunity to share their outdoor heritage with family, friends and like-minded individuals. As we move into the program’s eighth year, I hope you join us for a project in your region and discover how large an impact you can have over the course of a few hours on a Saturday.

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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.