Conserving land and water resources in the Saginaw Bay Watershed

Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy News and Projects
The latest news and information on programs and projects at the Conservancy.

CONSERVANCY MAKES RAIN BARRELS AVAILABLE TO RESIDENTS

On July 24 the Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy coordinated a rain barrel sale with EnviroWorld, a manufacturer of rain barrels.  Three hundred and forty residents purchased more than 500 rain barrels during the 6-hour sale.  Special thanks to EMCOR for providing the location for the sale and to The Dow Chemical Company for volunteers who helped that day. 

Barrels are no longer available for purchase, but the Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy is offering them as an incentive to join the organization.  With a membership of $100 or more, the member is entitled to a free rain barrel, thanks to the generosity of The Dow Chemical Company.

SAGINAW BASIN LAND CONSERVANCY WELCOMES TWO NEW VOLUNTEERS: JUSTIN SELDEN AND LAUREN SEQUIN

Justin Selden is the Conservancy’s newest Huron Pines AmeriCorps member. Justin is serving 900 volunteer hours as the Outreach and Stewardship Coordinator over the next six months. He will assist with volunteer recruitment, education and outreach regarding stewardship, bringing public awareness to SBLC and its mission, as well as the annual photo contest. He is looking forward to working with, and getting to know, the landowners, volunteers, staff, and contributors that are the backbone of the Conservancy.

Justin is a graduate student at the University of Toledo, where he will finish a Master’s of Biological Sciences, with a focus on Ecology, in the fall.  He completed his undergraduate work at Michigan State University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Fisheries and Wildlife, and a Bachelor’s of Science in Zoology.  He grew up in Reese, MI and graduated from Reese High School.  Justin enjoys outdoor recreation activities such as fishing, hunting, camping, hiking, wildlife photography and spending time with his son.

Lauren Sequin will be completing a six week internship the Education Coordinator. She will assist with education programming to help promote public learning on wetlands and the wildlife at the preserves, as well as creating biological inventories of the preserves.  

Lauren is a senior at Central Michigan University where she is completing Bachelor’s of Science in Biology with a concentration on Natural Resources, as well as a Bachelor’s of Science in Environmental Studies. Lauren grew up in Bay City, MI and graduated from John Glenn High School. At CMU, she is involved in Alpha Gamma Delta and the Student Environmental Alliance. She also enjoys kayaking, hiking, and volunteering at the animal shelter.

WONDERS OF THE WATERSHED DISPLAYED AT SAGINAW BASIN LAND CONSERVANCY ANNUAL EVENT

Ninety-five people attended the Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy's Third Annual Photo Contest event on Monday, October 26 at the Alice & Jack Wirt Public Library in Bay City.  Entitled “Wonders of the Watershed," the event was designed to showcase the natural resources found within our region. 

The goal of the Conservancy’s photo contest is to encourage people to capture the images of nature in the Saginaw Bay Watershed.  Categories include Landscapes; Plants & Flowers; Wildlife; People & Nature; and Students.

“The Saginaw Bay Watershed is an extremely valuable resource,” said Valerie Roof, executive director of the Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy. “Through the contest we wanted to encourage people to get out and explore its natural beauty then share with others through their photos.” 

The Watershed is the largest contiguous freshwater coastal wetlands system in the United States.  It features more than 175 inland lakes and about 7,000 miles of rivers and streams.  It is home to large populations of waterfowl, birds, snakes, turtles, amphibians and more than 138 endangered or threatened species.

Roof said 180 photos were entered into the contest.  There were a record number of entries from students, as well as family groups who entered the contest.  A photo of two Sand Hill Cranes taken by Jeanne Moeller of Essexville won third place in the Wildlife category, while her daughter Brooke, age five, received an honorable mention for a summer sunset.  Brothers Evan, 12, and Ben Prevost, 8, of Bay City were both recognized for photos they took of area wildlife. The youngest participant this year was four years old.

The top three winners in each category received cash prices (1st place was $50, 2nd place was $25; and 3rd place was $10).  In the student category, all who received an honorable mention received a $10 prize. An anonymous donor sponsored this year’s contest. 

Taken in the Saginaw Bay Watershed, the photos were judged on use of color, creativity, subject matter, originality, relevance to the watershed and overall "wow" factor.  The judges were Anne Trahan from Anne E. Trahan Photography; Mike Randolph, chief photographer for The Bay City Times; and Kimberly Norris, vice president of administration for Glastender.  See the list of winners.

Photo by Tony Soave II

SAND POINT NATURE PRESERVE DEDICATION CEREMONY 

ATTRACTS CROWD

Dark skies and increasing winds weren’t enough to keep people from attending the October 6^th dedication ceremony for the Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy’s Sand Point Nature Preserve.  Despite rain storms on the horizon, 54 people came to celebrate the acquisition and permanent protection of the 139-acre preserve, located at the base of Sand Point near Caseville, MI.

The ceremony drew a crowd, first and foremost, because the Sand Point Nature Preserve is a remarkable piece of coastal property.  Approximately half of the preserve is wetlands, attracting wildlife that includes Bald Eagles and rare Marsh Wrens.  The State of Michigan has recognized the importance of the preserve by officially designating it an "Environmental Area," a title placed on only about 8.5% of the Great Lakes shoreline. 

Perhaps a more important recognition of importance has been given by the residents of the Sand Point area; who have shown their support time and again by helping with preserve clean-ups, volunteering to monitor the preserve, visiting on a regular basis, and by contributing to the dedication ceremony.  “We visit the preserve nearly every day,” states Peggy Mangan, who along with her husband John, regularly monitors the property for the conservancy.  “It is a beautiful place, and we are glad to help protect it.”

The acquisition and permanent protection of the property was a cooperative effort of the Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program, Michigan Department of Natural Resources, The Dow Chemical Company, Lone Tree Council, former owners Clarence & Donna Osentoski, The Nature Conservancy, and Ducks Unlimited.  Further support for preserve improvements was provided by the Huron County Community Foundation and many local businesses have donated in-kind services to help with special projects.

Conservancy board president Larry Frisch opened the ceremony by expressing his appreciation to all contributors and invited the community to use and enjoy the property.  “This is your preserve,” he expressed to the crowd, “we hope you will enjoy it and help us care for it.”  Valerie Roof, Conservancy executive director, expressed her personal thanks before opening up the floor to several guest speakers.

Huron County Commissioner Clark Eftman and Caseville Township Supervisor Larry Degg, who both volunteered at this year’s spring clean up; spoke about the benefits the preserve provides to the community.  Doug Reeves of Michigan Department of Natural Resources wildlife division spoke about the persistence and cooperation that was required to establish the preserve.  Karen Osentoski, daughter of Clarence & Donna Osentoski, closed by explaining what the property meant to her family, “It was my parents, and especially my father’s dream to see this land protected.  As he was battling cancer, he told all his doctors, ‘I have to stay alive long enough to see my land protected.’”  Fortunately Clarence lived to see his dream come to fruition when the SBLC acquired the property in the fall of 2008.

GEOCACHING EVENT A SUCCESS AT SAND POINT NATURE PRESERVE

Thanks to the Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy there are some new caches and new Geocachers in the Saginaw Bay area.  On Saturday, September 12^th the Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy (SBLC) hosted a “learn to Geocache” day at its Sand Point Nature Preserve to celebrate the introduction of Geocaching at the property.

The event was organized by Saginaw resident Darlene “windrose” Elias, a long time area geocacher, who volunteered to place and monitor caches at the SBLC’s Sand Point and Pinconning Nature Preserves.  Darlene and other experienced geocachers explained the sport to the newcomers.  “Geocaching is a type of scavenger hunt in which people use GPS coordinates to find a hidden prize,” Darlene started her speech.  Twenty-five people were in attendance, seven of which were first time geocachers.

After the lesson the crowd set out into the 139-acre preserve with their GPS units in hand in search of the caches.  Experienced players helped guide the rookies and offered practical advice on mastering the art of finding small hidden containers in the middle of the woods.  As the players explored the property, “I never even knew this preserve was here” was a frequently repeated phrase, “this place is incredible.”

Once everyone had learned the game, Darlene handed out the GPS coordinates for the permanent Sand Point Nature Preserve cache and the race was on to be the first person to make the find.  The honor went to Adam Romzek who stated that he enjoyed geocaching because, “It's fun.  It’s exciting to use modern technology to help explore the great outdoors.  Geocaching has taken me to a lot of great places that I wouldn’t have visited otherwise.”

The Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy introduced geocaching at two of its preserves, Sand Point and Pinconning, to inspire more recreational use and to increase awareness of SBLC’s conservation efforts.  The idea was proposed to the Conservancy by Huron Pines AmeriCorps member Neil Sauter who has spent the summer helping SBLC with its education and outreach campaign.  In geocaching, players hide small containers filled with simple prizes in areas that are open to the public and list the GPS coordinates on the internet for other players to find.  “Geocaching is about the fun of the search,” states Neil Sauter.  “It’s a great way for people to explore their community and often introduces people to beautiful natural area they might not have visited otherwise.”

Established in 2007, Huron Pines AmeriCorps was developed to strengthen conservation organizations in Northeast Michigan.  Huron Pines AmeriCorps members provide assistance with developing new community services, volunteer coordination, on-the-ground restoration and habitat improvement projects, and public outreach and stewardship.  Huron Pines AmeriCorps is supported in part by the Corporation for National and Community Service, W.K. Kellogg Foundation, DTE Energy Foundation, Huron Pines and contributions from host sites.  For more information, visit www.huronpinesamericorps.org.

To learn more about GeoCaching or to find the coordinates of the SBLC preserve caches visit www.geocaching.com. 

PRESSPRICH NATURE PRESERVE DEDICATED

Au Gres, MI -The Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy officially dedicated the Pressprich Nature Preserve on Saturday, August 8, honoring Saginaw resident Charlotte Eickholt Pressprich for her land donation and inviting the public to enjoy the recently established preserve trails. 

In 2006 Charlotte Eickholt Pressprich donated the 48.2-acre parcel in honor of her late husband Robert Pressprich.  The property is of high ecological value because it serves as a ground water recharge area and because more than half of the preserve is classified as wetlands.  Wetlands provide habitat for a variety of species and improve water quality by filtering out pollutants. 

At the ceremony SBLC unveiled a new sign describing the important features of the preserve and recognizing Charlotte Pressprich for her donation.  Mrs. Pressprich and members of her family took the opportunity to pay tribute to Robert Pressprich.  “[My father] was constantly looking for ways to serve in his community” stated William O. Pressprich, Charlotte and Robert’s eldest son.  “He loved the Au Gres area, its natural beauty and the people that live and vacation here.   He would have loved to see the land preserved and the beauty of it shared with future generations.”

Charlotte Pressprich and Valerie Roof unveil the new sign.

In addition to honoring Charlotte Pressprich the dedication provided an opportunity for the Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy staff and board members to express their commitment to protecting the preserve.   Mike Stoner, vice president of the SBLC board stated, “The Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy is dedicated to the preservation of natural areas.  Natural areas, such as the Pressprich Nature Preserve, provide numerous ecological benefits and improve quality of life for the people who visit.  We promise to protect and preserve this property, forever.”  

The Conservancy will enlist the help of volunteers and other environmental based organizations in caring for the preserve; some of whom were on hand to explain their role.  Volunteer preserve coordinator Cathy Washabuagh will provide regular monitoring, Conservation Officer Nick Atkin will investigate any reported illegal uses, and members of the U.S. coast guard will patrol the nearby shoreline to prevent illegal dumping.  Neighbors of the preserve have also provided support to the Conservancy.  The new trails were mowed by Au Gres resident Charles Appold and St. Paul Lutheran Church was gracious enough to host the ceremonial event.

At the conclusion of the dedication, attendees participated in a wildflower walk on the newly developed trails.  The walk was led by another valuable volunteer, local wildflower expert Pat Bilbrey.  The preserve is open to the public from dawn to dusk for anyone who wishes to explore the new trails for themselves.

SAGANING NATURE PRESERVE RECEIVES OFFICIAL DEDICATION

“The purpose of our dedication ceremony is to celebrate this preserve and to let the community know it is here for their enjoyment,” stated Valerie Roof, executive director of the Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy (SBLC), during Monday’s dedication ceremony at the Saganing Nature Preserve.  And enjoy the preserve the community did.  Neighbors, local officials, community leaders, thirty-five people in all, were in attendance to celebrate the occasion, walk along the shore of the Saganing River, and take in the beauty of the 38.4 acre landscape; all while being blessed with warm weather and a cool breeze.

The ceremony began with Larry Frisch, president of the SBLC board, explaining the benefits of natural areas – improving water quality, reducing the risk of flooding, providing wildlife habitat and recreational opportunities – and SBLC’s role in natural land preservation – protecting more than 4,500 acres of natural lands through seven nature preserves and conservation agreement with 57 land owners in the Saginaw Bay region.

Ms. Roof followed by thanking the many individuals and organizations who helped fund the acquisition and improvements to the preserve, before opening up the floor to the conservancy’s closest neighbor, the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe.  Craig Graveratte, the tribe environmental response specialists, spoke next about the value of preserved land.  “Without Mother Earth’s blood we would not have the beauty of the trees, the lands, the rivers, the abundant wildlife, and most important of all Life…so, it is an honor that we are here today to help with the dedication of this nature preserve for all to enjoy.”  He spread Selma (tobacco) at the preserve entrance as a traditional gesture of thanks and respect to mother earth.  His dedication was followed by a round of applause from the audience.

The Tribe is not the only neighbor glad to have the conservancy next door.  Floyd Bender, SBLC member and owner of nearby Whites Beach Resort reported that, “Visitors are always asking me what there is to do in the community.  I always recommend they come here.”  But the preserve is not just for the tourist.  Chamber of Commerce vice president Ruth Caldwell said, “The preserve is beautiful it is a great place for tourists and local residents alike to come and take pictures, take hikes, access the river, and enjoy nature.  Chamber president Andy Radatz, shared that he used to fish on what is now preserve property as a kid, as did several other attendees.  Now that the preserve is owned and maintained by the conservancy it will remain open to public use for generations to come.

The ceremony closed with SBLC board members and key community officials cutting a ceremonial ribbon and inviting guests to tour the property.  Many guests took the opportunity to explore the property and walked back to the Saganing River which borders the preserve for 2,000 feet before emptying into the Saginaw Bay. 

SUMMER CLASS STUDIES NATURAL RESOURCES AT  SAGINAW BASIN LAND CONSERVANCY’S PINCONNING NATURE PRESERVE

          It’s not unusual to see students heading to the waters during summer; we just expect them to be playing, not collecting scientific data.  On Monday, June 22^nd, 16 students from the Bay-Arenac Summer Academy traveled to the Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy’s Pinconning Nature Preserve for a day of hands-on learning.  The students, who are part of the Natural Resources and the Environment class, took a wildlife hike through the preserve, learned about the value of wetlands, and collected data on the water quality of the Pinconning River.

            “The purpose [of the class] is to increase high school students' knowledge in the areas of natural resources and present environmental issues, including natural science, wildlife, energy and renewable sources, forestry, and agriculture,” said Cathy LaLonde, class teacher.  “The students will discuss and compare many pressing environmental issues affecting our community, state and country.”

During the field trip the students collected data on water temperature, turbidity (clarity), pH levels (acidity), and dissolved oxygen (oxygen availability for aquatic species).  The data indicated that the waters of the Pinconning River running through the nature preserve are of good quality.  The Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy reported the student’s findings to the International Water Association, which collects water quality data from samples around the world. 

“The Pinconning Nature Preserve is an ideal place for this type of classroom activity,” stated Neil Sauter, a Huron Pines AmeriCorps member who led the field trip as education and outreach coordinator for the Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy.  “Wetlands are essential for protecting water quality and I’m excited I had the opportunity to help students learn about their importance here on site.”

The students also took turns wading into the river to collect aquatic species using kick nets.  Different aquatic species have varying levels of tolerance to pollution.  Finding aquatic species that can not tolerate pollution indicates that the water is healthy.  Students stood upstream of their nets and stirred up sediment with their feet, hoping to capture aquatic species living near the river bed.  Students left on shore then identified the captured aquatic species using bug identification cards and looked up their level of tolerance to pollution. 

Cathy LaLonde, Bay-Arenac ISD Career Center teacher, was pleased with the visit.  “Students could see for themselves the importance and beauty of the wetland area.  They were able to complete important measuring data for a deeper understanding of the factors that contribute to water quality and help to monitor our precious water resource.”

The field trip is one part of larger hands on classroom approach that will also include studying fish of the Great Lakes and correct fishing procedures, examining bird and other wildlife habitats including building bird houses, evaluating pollution,  soil testing, conducting experiments such as decomposition of common landfill materials, recycling, identifying Michigan plants, correct planting procedures and propagation of native plants and understanding renewable energy sources.

VOLUNTEER TEAM ENHANCES SAND POINT NATURE PRESERVE

Take four generations of a family and combine with 30 more volunteers from Pigeon, Caseville, Kinde, Bay City, Saginaw, Linwood, and then mix with generous donations.  Next, add a passion for celebrating Earth Day in a practical way, and the result was major enhancements at the Sand Point Nature Preserve.  On Sunday, May 3, Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy staff, board members, and volunteers gathered to install signage, benches, gates and clear the preserve of trash and debris, amounting to about two dump truck loads.

 “The response to our request for volunteers was extremely heartwarming,” indicated Valerie S. Roof, executive director of the Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy.  “We appreciate all of the support that has from Caseville Township, Huron County, and the residents here.”

The story began two years ago when Clarence and Donna Osentoski agreed to sell 139 acres in Caseville Township along Wildfowl Bay to the Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy to ensure that it would be protected forever.  After applying for and receiving funding from U.S. Fish & Wildlife, Ducks Unlimited, The Nature Conservancy, and PIRGIM, and receiving a generous donation from the Osentoskis, the property was transferred to the Conservancy in 2008. 

The Huron County Community Foundation took a leadership role in funding the enhancements, especially the hand carved sign that serves as the hallmark of conservancy preserves.  Funds for lumber and hardware were also provided.  The Caseville Subway and Caseville IGA Food Pride assisted by providing sandwiches for the volunteer workers. Timber and hardware were donated by Central Michigan Railroad and Carter Lumber, and Richfield Equities donated the disposal of the debris.

Comprised of mostly wetlands (over 50%), the land is the last large undeveloped parcel on Sand Point.  It provides important habitat for migrating birds, serves as an estuary and nursery for Saginaw Bay fish, and contains rare species of concern, such as the bald eagle and marsh wren. 

The Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy invites the public to visit the preserve, hike the trails, and explore the sights and sounds of birds, animals, insects, plant life and fish that make their home on the Sand Point Nature Preserve and its waters.  Those who have experienced the quiet, enjoyable peaceful setting of the preserve will agree; it’s a wonderful way to give back to a community and its people, and something that can be enjoyed for many generations to come.

P.O. Box 222 311 Fifth Street Bay City, MI 48707-0222 989.891.9986