OTW Field Season in Review

lschultz • October 27, 2020

On the Water(OTW) is MUCC’s volunteer watershed habitat improvement program. It was launched in the spring of 2019 and is fully funded by the Consumers Energy Foundation. OTW is designed to have a positive impact on freshwater and habitats throughout the state and to connect and engage Michigan residents to their natural resources by highlighting and educating the importance of freshwater.

OTW’s 2020 field season is looking a bit different this year.  From COVID-19 to the BLM movement we live in very strange and unprecedented times. OTW is continuing to learn to make the future better. But OTW has adapted to these changes and are still striving to make a positive difference.

As of the end of the beginning of October, over 450 OTW volunteers have removed 6000 pounds of trash and 105 pounds of invasive species! We have also impacted 1750 acres of Michigan land. OTW had an amazing 2020 season and wants to thank the Consumers Energy Foundation for its dedication to conservation and willingness to reach broad user groups through freshwater cleanups.

As the field season concludes, we shift into report writing mode. This is where we need your help. We are looking for feedback andtestimonials from you, our dedicated volunteers. If you could contribute your feedback or a testimonial about the OTW program, we would greatly appreciate it and it would help us with future funding endeavors.

OTW will be concluding this December. The OTW program will be leaving behind a positive and everlasting impact on the watersheds and communities throughout the state of Michigan. The environment and natural resources of Michigan will still have long-term ecological benefits from the completion of this project and the overall program. OTW hopes to receive funding and continue on this amazing legacy for MUCC and for the State of Michigan.

If you have questions or comments about the event, please contact Emma Nehan at enehan@mucc.org.

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