State Game Area Highlight: Gratiot-Saginaw SGA

lschultz • November 14, 2019

Written by Makhayla LaButte, MUCC Habitat Volunteer Coordinator

Comprised of nearly 17,000 acres, the Gratiot-Saginaw State Game Area (SGA) is one of the largest managed wildlife areas in the Lower Peninsula. During its acquisition by the State of Michigan in 1939, much of the land that now makes up the Gratiot-Saginaw SGA was agricultural fields and cut-over areas. As time passed, plant succession eventually led tomuch of the area becoming forested. Select portions within the SGA were modified to create wetlands to promote habitat for waterfowl and furbearing species, and these areas continue to be managed to ensure habitat quality and hunter access.

This SGA features game species like wild turkey, ruffed grouse, white-tailed deer, cottontail rabbit and an abundance of waterfowl and furbearing species. Due to the expanse of the SGA, there are a variety of habitat types to provide foraging material and cover for these species. The DNR continues to restore and enhance different portions of the land to better sustain the wildlife populations found there.

In partnership with Michigan DNR Wildlife Division biologists and technicians, the Gratiot-Saginaw SGA has benefited from wildlife habitat work by MUCC On the Ground (OTG) volunteers since the start of the program in 2013. In fact, the first OTG project was held at the Gratiot-Saginaw SGA in March of 2013 and involved volunteers building brush piles for rabbit habitat (rabbitat). Every year since the start of the program, volunteers have improved habitat for wildlife in this state game area. Such improvements involve the creation of brush piles for rabbitat, clearing of user-access trails, dike clearing and maintenance and grassland restoration efforts.

Despite its proximity to major cities like Saginaw, Lansing and Flint, the Gratiot-Saginaw SGA is located in a rural setting across Gratiot and Saginaw counties. There have been quality hunting opportunities reported for a variety of game species in this unique management area, and the OTG program looks forward to returning to the area in 2020 to continue the tradition of giving back to Michigan’s natural resources.

Information about this state game area was adapted from the DNR Master Plan for the Gratiot-Saginaw SGA.

Please contact MUCC Habitat Volunteer Coordinator Makhayla LaButte at mlabutte@mucc.org with questions or comments regarding the OTG program or visit mucc.org/on-the-ground for more information.

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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.