2023 “Conservation Conversations” Events: Meet Scientists & Stewards!
The Michigan Conservation Stewards Program (CSP) is hosting a series of in-person events held in various locations on current research and management approaches, unique natural communities, and diverse partnerships involved in supporting Michigan ecosystems.

Participants will have the opportunity to enjoy refreshments, ask questions and engage in discussion with the featured speaker, and mingle with Conservation Stewards and invited local organizations who will share information about the work they do and how to get involved in local conservation efforts. MSU Extension staff will also provide information about the 2023 Fall Michigan Conservation Stewards Programs and other MSU Extension programs being offered in 2023. Each “Conservation Conversation” event will take place from 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm. Light refreshments will be served. Registration fee is $10/person. Individuals who have previously taken the Conservation Stewards Program attend for free. Pre-registration is required.

Dr. Jo Latimore is the featured speaker for the March 21 Conservation Conversations event hosted by the Grand Traverse Conservation District at the Boardman River Nature Center. Dr. Latimore will present, “Telling your story: Communicating to inspire conservation action.”

Short Description:
How can conservation advocates effectively communicate about environmental issues to inspire action that protects our natural world? The art of storytelling and the science of communication offer tools that can help us reach our conservation goals. We will discuss how to weave stories into your communications and how to develop a strategy for reaching your desired audiences that moves them to become better environmental stewards.

Bio:
Dr. Jo Latimore is an aquatic ecologist in Michigan State University’s Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, based in Traverse City. She specializes in the protection and management of lakes, rivers, and the landscapes that support them. As an outreach specialist, she works collaboratively with communities, natural resource managers, and scientists to develop innovative solutions to the complex challenges facing aquatic systems. Her current work includes guiding Michigan’s statewide volunteer lake and stream monitoring program and developing creative approaches to prevent the introduction and spread of aquatic invasive species. Dr. Latimore has taught MSU courses on aquatic ecosystem management, science communication, and aquatic entomology, and teaches Extension programs on aquatic plants, lake ecology, water quality monitoring, invasive species, and natural resources leadership. Dr. Latimore enjoys spending time on the water in her free time as well, kayaking, snorkeling, and fishing Michigan’s waterways.

Learn more about this and other scheduled Conservation Conversations and how to get registered at https://www.canr.msu.edu/conservation_stewards_program/

Who should attend Conservation Conversations events?
• Anyone interested in nature who wants to learn more about natural communities and conservation efforts in Michigan
• Individuals who have previously completed the Michigan Conservation Stewards Program interested in continuing their learning and networking/connecting with other alumni. Registration for Conservation Stewards participants is free.
• Natural resource professionals who want to build their knowledge on ecosystem-based management principles
• Individuals who want to learn more about the Michigan Conservation Steward Program as well as other MSU/MSU Extension programs and events being offered in 2023
• Those who want to learn about area conservation organizations and their local conservation efforts, including upcoming programs and events

Contact Bindu Bhakta (bhaktabi@msu.edu or 248-396-9777) with questions about this event.