The Stewardship Network (TSN) and Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) are proud to present this series of online and in-person workshops designed to equip a variety of environmental stewards and stakeholders with the specific knowledge and practical tools they’ll need to protect vital wetlands in our area. Find the session(s) below that suit your needs and we’ll see you there!
8/25/22 | Rare Wetland Communities of Michigan
with Michael Kost
online session | 9am – 12pm ET
Come learn about Michigan’s Rare Wetland Communities at this training webinar for wetland professionals, land managers, land stewards, and others. This training will help you learn to identify, describe, and protect the diverse range of wetlands in Michigan. Topics covered will include natural community conservation ranks, landscape setting, soils, vegetation, natural processes, conservation strategies, and resources for additional information. It is free and open to the public. Learn more at the TSN Events Calendar HERE.
NOTE: Additional support for this workshop provided by the Michigan Wetlands Association
9/12/22 | Focus on Local Wetlands, Lakes and Streams Protection Options – Part 1
with EGLE: Water Resources Division & TSN
online session | 10am – 3:00pm ET (with a lunch break)
In follow-up to our webinar “Introduction to Wetlands Protection,” this webinar will take a deeper dive into the options and tools for local protection of wetlands, lakes and streams. These options range from simple site use planning techniques which rely primarily on local processes that may already be in place, such as site plan review, lot split or division regulations, stormwater management, and others, to more comprehensive options such as establishment of local wetland or natural features setback ordinances. Protection of vernal pools and climate adaptation strategies for local governments will also be discussed.
This will be a free virtual webinar that is the first in a two-part workshop targeted towards local agencies, conservation and watershed groups, or others. The second part will be an in-person workshop to engage in active discussion and scenario exercises around these options. It is free and open to the public. Learn more at the TSN Events Calendar HERE.
9/15/22 | Wetlands for Landowners: Recognizing, Understanding, and Caring for Wetlands on Your Land
with Jacqueline Courteau
online session | 12pm – 1:30pm ET
Wetlands provide valuable services for people and vital habitat for wildlife. Wetlands buffer flooding, slow erosion, and filter water, contributing to higher water quality. Wetlands serve as essential breeding grounds for frogs and salamanders, and harbor many beautiful and unique wildflowers, including many species that are rare due to habitat loss and specialized environmental requirements.
This online workshop will introduce you to a range of wetland types found in Michigan, to help you recognize which wetlands might occur on your land. We’ll explore why wetlands are important, and how you can protect and manage your wetlands. This workshop is free and open to the public. Learn more at the TSN Events Calendar HERE.
9/17/22 | Wetlands for Landowners: Exploring Michigan’s Wetlands
with Jacqueline Courteau
in-person session | 10am – 1pm ET
We’ll head out to the field to examine a range of wetland types up close, to help you recognize wetlands that might occur on your land. We’ll look at some distinctive wetland plants, and consider wetland characteristics that make for good herp habitat. Be sure to wear long pants and close-toed shoes—be prepared for mud and poison ivy!—and bring a hand lens or loupe if you have one.
This event is free and open to the public, but space is limited. Learn more at the TSN Events Calendar HERE.
photo by Jacqueline Courteau
COMPLETED WORKSHOPS:
6/30/22 | Introduction to Wetlands Protection
with Anne Garwood
online session | 1pm – 3pm ET
The agenda for this webinar includes an overview of the importance of wetlands, a summary of the existing state and federal regulatory framework, and how local protection efforts can complement the state and federal framework. This workshop is targeted towards local agencies (e.g. health departments, building departments, planning departments), land managers, land use officials, and other local decision-makers. It is free and open to the public.