In Marquette County, we are very lucky to have organizations run by passionate individuals working to protect our forests and watersheds. Local nonprofit organizations like the Upper Peninsula Land Conservancy, Superior Watershed Partnership, and Marquette County Conservation District play a vital role in the wellness of our community and environment. We asked these organizations to share more insight into the projects they are focusing on this year, and how folks can support their mission.
Superior Watershed Partnership
“Superior Watershed Partnership (SWP) offers a variety of programs to assist communities and tribes focused on climate adaptation, coastal resiliency, clean energy, pollution prevention, sustainable tourism, environmental outreach, and education. Our programs benefit Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, and Lake Huron as well as the communities and people who call the Upper Peninsula home.” - Tyler Penrod, GLCC Program Manager and Marquette County Climate Adaptation Task Force Program Coordinator
What key projects is your organization working on this year?
This year SWP is focused on building our emergency response program, striding toward our 100,000 tree planting initiative, implementing coastal green infrastructure projects, installing some of the U.P.’s first rapid electrical vehicle chargers, growing our land conservancy, and providing free wildfire risk reduction services to landowners. We’ve also continued combatting the effects of increased visitation at our favorite beaches, trails, and waterfalls with hands-on projects. Great Lakes Climate Corps (GLCC) crews facilitate at least two volunteer events each month during the summer for the community to help keep our dunes healthy by replacing trampled beachgrass, maintaining trails before erosion leads to environmental harm, and helping pollinators by restoring native plant species and pulling invasives.
How can someone best support your mission?
You can help make a local difference in sustainable recreation, climate change, and water quality by attending SWP’s upcoming volunteer events on August 9th and August 23rd. No need to sign up- just show up! SWP’s events kick off at 10:00 a.m. and all supplies are provided. More details available on our website.
Upper Peninsula Land Conservancy (UPLC)
“Since 1999, UPLC has partnered with communities to conserve the beautiful and ecologically valuable lands across Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Our mission, to protect Land Today, for Life Tomorrow embodies our commitment to promote healthy natural ecosystems, including clean water, wildlife habitats, and recreational opportunities for future generations. As a nationally accredited land trust, we are committed to the highest standards of land preservation.” - Hannah Boyd, Administrative and Communications Manager
What key projects is your organization working on this year?
Our work at the Dead River Community Forest (DRCF) continues. In 2023, we improved the road leading to Vielmetti-Peters Reserve (VPR) and created a new parking lot. We're now designing a trail network expansion to connect VPR with DRCF, featuring a new bridge over Midway Creek.
At Tory's Woods Preserve, we're improving trails with help from UPEC and local partners. We're rerouting sections and adding a boardwalk to protect the fragile wetland ecosystem of the Preserve. Additionally, we're working with the Laughing Whitefish Bird Alliance to improve and continue bird monitoring efforts to help us understand the avian species that utilize this nearshore forest and wetland.
How can someone best support your mission?
You can support us by volunteering, participating in events, and making a donation. Participating in our events is an easy way to spread awareness and join a community dedicated to preserving the UP's natural beauty. Similarly, volunteering is a great way to share your passion and knowledge with a network of others who are working to preserve natural areas. Donations directly fund our conservation efforts, ensuring we can continue to protect and manage valuable natural areas.
This year, we have an incredible opportunity! Every donation up to $130,000 will be matched by a challenge grant from the Carls Foundation. We need to meet our fundraising goal to unlock the match. Every dollar counts, and every donor will be recognized in our Annual Report and on our website!
Marquette County Conservation District
“The mission of the Marquette County Conservation District is to improve local ecosystems by providing free natural resource programs, environmental education, and conservation assistance to the community of Marquette County. We accomplish this through boots-on-the-ground conservation grant projects like invasive species management and pollinator plantings! We also aim to provide outreach and education via free site visits, school lessons, informational workshops, volunteer events, and more! Reach out to schedule your own site visit, and find us on social media to keep up on workshops and volunteer events!” - Maddie O’Donnell, District Manager
What key projects is your organization working on this year?
This year we've been fortunate to partner with lots of great local partners! In particular, you may have seen the L2L CISMA program treating invasive butterbur on the NTN North Trails, or our field crew out planting native gardens at the NTN South Trails!
How can someone best support your mission?
You can support MCCD by shopping at one of our native plant sales, stopping by our office to buy a birdhouse or field guide, following along on social media, or attending one of our events!
