The MDOT team on patrol!
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Thank you to the MDOT crew for their time and work cleaning up the highway on Saturday, May 25th.
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From Landfill to Local Value: What It Takes to Transform a System
What would it take to fundamentally change how a region manages something as ordinary and overlooked as organic waste? What if the scraps we throw away every day were instead seen as assets that fuel local economies, restore soil health, and reduce climate impact? And what does it actually look like when dozens of partners from different sectors and roles commit to solving a problem together, not in isolation but as part of a shared system? These are the questions at the heart of a new addition to our Stories of Change series. Read the Blog: From Landfill to Soil
School gardens lead to more positive attitudes about the environment, study finds.
This article by Shelley Mitchell from Oklahoma State University was originally published by The Conversation.
Click here to read the whole article.
April 22nd is EARTH DAY!
Earth Day 2026
The first Earth Day was celebrated in 1970, to promote ecological awareness. It was founded by U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin after witnessing the catastrophic 1969 oil spill in Santa Barbara, California. The date is now celebrated annually by community-driven events to encourage citizen care and respect for the environment. The Green Elk Rapids Committee reached out to several local advocates about their thoughts on Earth Day 2026.
Every Day - submitted by Erin Anderson Whiting, Senior Charitable Giving Specialist, Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy.
Every day I have the privilege of helping generous people put their deepest values into action. Throughout the Chain of Lakes, and in the Elk Rapids area alone, thousands of individuals, families, and businesses have chosen to prioritize the conservation and stewardship of our globally unique lands and waters.
Whether they are donating their time as one of our tireless volunteers or making a financial contribution, they are standing up for our spectacular corner of the planet and recognizing the incredibly important role these places play. Our winding rivers, rolling farmlands, lush forests and stunning shorelines are the backdrops of our everyday moments and our most precious memories. And, once they are gone, they are gone forever.
Happily, the other side of the conservation coin is that, once protected, they are also protected forever. Places like Antrim Creek, Maple Bay, Battle Creek, and Maplehurst natural areas; Skegemog Lake Wildlife Area; Kewadin Wetlands Nature Sanctuary; Torch River Ridge, Wilcox-Palmer-Shah, and Torch Lake nature preserves offer more than 5,000 acres for the public to explore and enjoy. They provide high-quality wildlife habitat, protection for rare and unique plant species, and they safeguard the health of our soil, air, and water.
While everyone’s resources–financial and time–are different, the extraordinary giving spirit demonstrated by our friends and neighbors humbles and heartens me every single day. Not only are they making a very real difference today, but they are modeling values of service and stewardship to the next generation, the young people who will inherit everything we do to this planet.
Recently, we received a letter from a 12-year-old girl who was feeling overwhelmed by the negative environmental news. She was already doing everything she knew to help the planet, but wanted to do more and didn’t know where to begin, or what would matter. “A lot of people don’t listen to people trying to help, but I can’t do this alone. Will you help me? Please.” Last week, this amazing young woman visited our Conservation Center. She, and a few friends, will be joining us this summer for an immersive internship. Care and concern for nature is taught by example. Thanks to so many people in our community who truly do care, there is a lot of inspiration and hope in our next generation.
Earth Day at 56 - Submitted by Dave Dempsey, Senior Advisor at FLOW Water Advocates; Author.
In difficult times for environmental health, it helps to remember the condition of America's water, air and land on the first Earth Day. The condition was critical, symbolized by rivers catching fire, but the day was born of optimism that things could change. And things did change. Pressured by citizens, Congress passed clean air and water laws, and Michigan's Legislature passed nearly 20 significant environmental statutes in the 10 years that followed the first Earth Day, ending with the Wetland Protection Act.
Levels of toxic lead in air have fallen more than 90%, the galloping pace of wetland destruction in Michigan has slowed to barely a trickle, and thousands of contaminated sites have been cleaned up. These problems haven't been solved, but the progress made in controlling them is often overlooked.
Two things to keep in mind about environmental policy:
Caring for Our Waters, Building Our Future - Submitted by Elizabeth Petrella, President, Adams Chapter of Trout Unlimited.
Growing up in a family that appreciated all waters, it was only natural for me to develop a deep desire to care for them. Whether it’s picking up trash along a riverbank, sharing opportunities for others to get involved, or stepping into leadership roles within conservation-focused nonprofits, I believe every action contributes to something bigger.
Volunteers are the backbone of this work. They bring a wealth of knowledge, experience, and perspective that helps move our shared mission forward—to conserve, protect, and restore northwest Michigan’s cold-water fisheries and their watersheds.
Through the Adams Chapter of Trout Unlimited, we are focused on creating meaningful, lasting change. Our efforts center around building a strong foundation of tools and resources: fundraising for grants, expanding educational programs, increasing youth and women’s participation, and creating volunteer opportunities for all ages. Just as important, we are working to amplify our message through social media and community outreach to ensure more people understand the importance of this work.
One of the greatest challenges we face is engaging the next generation in leadership roles. For conservation nonprofits to thrive, we must cultivate a sustained passion for protecting our cold-water ecosystems. That’s where long-term impact truly begins. Personally, I make it a point to talk about this mission with as many people as possible. When younger individuals step into leadership roles—even briefly—they gain a powerful understanding of the difference they can make.
We are also seeing encouraging collaboration among organizations dedicated to protecting our watersheds. By working together, these groups are strengthening their collective impact and advancing conservation efforts in meaningful ways. They serve as watchtowers for our natural resources, helping maintain a balance that benefits both people and the environment.
As you read this, I encourage you to explore the work being done by these organizations. Visit their websites, learn about ongoing and upcoming projects, and consider how you might get involved. The future of our waters is promising—but it depends on continued engagement and support.
Even small actions matter. Whether you volunteer, participate in an event, take on a leadership role, or simply express your appreciation, you are contributing to a legacy of conservation that will benefit generations to come.
Together, we can ensure that these waters remain healthy, vibrant, and accessible for all. (396)
A Great Water Awakening? Seize the Moment - Submitted by J. Carl Ganter, Circle of Blue. Circle of Blue
At this year's World Economic Forum, water didn't merely trickle onto the agenda as in past years. It flooded it. Behind the geopolitical noise, delegates gave it a name: #BlueDavos. Finance leaders, heads of state, and infrastructure investors spoke of water with the urgency once reserved for collapsing economies. Money is starting to move toward the infrastructure and policy that freshwater systems desperately need. But money follows narrative — and the stories must stay urgent. Especially here in the United States and Great Lakes. Here's why and some of the stories we're covering at Circle of Blue:
1. The Data Center Invasion The eight Great Lakes states have become one of the country's epicenters for data center campuses — among the largest industrial sources of energy use and freshwater demand in the region. What does this mean for water supplies and power grid stability?
2. Unraveling Federal Protections Circle of Blue's special series Great Lakes: Unprotected reveals how novel rule-making, staff cuts, and dramatic shifts in funding priorities are systematically dismantling a 60-year-old program of safeguards for the region's rivers, lakes, wetlands, and drinking water — with cascading consequences for local and state programs.
3. PFAS & Drinking Water Contamination A Michigan Supreme Court battle over PFAS restrictions could set national precedent. The stakes are high as small towns scramble for funding to filter supplies and reckon with the reach of these persistent, pervasive chemicals.
4. Great Lakes Restoration Funding Under Threat The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative — which since 2010 has invested more than $5 billion and supported nearly 9,000 restoration projects — expires in September without Congressional action. Advocates are pushing for $500 million annually through 2031. The clock is running.
5. Trump & the Canada Water Compact Great Lakes water agreements with Canada are on the president's radar — including proposals once dismissed as campaign rhetoric. The compact that has long protected the basin from large-scale diversion is no longer untouchable.
6. Climate Migration Rural Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin are growing faster than rural America as a whole. The Lakes are increasingly seen as a climate haven — bringing opportunity, pressure, and hard questions about who benefits and who gets left out.
7. The Colorado River as Mirror The headlines are arriving. Record drought, "dead pool" warnings, and the prospect of power and water failing at Glen Canyon Dam — the Colorado River crisis is a national moment. And it's a timely lens for spotlighting what the Great Lakes represent: the other side of America's water ledger that's at risk.
These converging pressures are, paradoxically, generating renewed urgency — and new interest — in solving water crises at home and around the world. It's a rare moment to be seized. But the window to match awareness with informed action is closing. The stories we write and decisions made now will echo for generations.
Article submitted by Green Elk Rapids Committee
The first Earth Day was celebrated in 1970, to promote ecological awareness. It was founded by U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin after witnessing the catastrophic 1969 oil spill in Santa Barbara, California. The date is now celebrated annually by community-driven events to encourage citizen care and respect for the environment. The Green Elk Rapids Committee reached out to several local advocates about their thoughts on Earth Day 2026.
Every Day - submitted by Erin Anderson Whiting, Senior Charitable Giving Specialist, Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy.
Every day I have the privilege of helping generous people put their deepest values into action. Throughout the Chain of Lakes, and in the Elk Rapids area alone, thousands of individuals, families, and businesses have chosen to prioritize the conservation and stewardship of our globally unique lands and waters.
Whether they are donating their time as one of our tireless volunteers or making a financial contribution, they are standing up for our spectacular corner of the planet and recognizing the incredibly important role these places play. Our winding rivers, rolling farmlands, lush forests and stunning shorelines are the backdrops of our everyday moments and our most precious memories. And, once they are gone, they are gone forever.
Happily, the other side of the conservation coin is that, once protected, they are also protected forever. Places like Antrim Creek, Maple Bay, Battle Creek, and Maplehurst natural areas; Skegemog Lake Wildlife Area; Kewadin Wetlands Nature Sanctuary; Torch River Ridge, Wilcox-Palmer-Shah, and Torch Lake nature preserves offer more than 5,000 acres for the public to explore and enjoy. They provide high-quality wildlife habitat, protection for rare and unique plant species, and they safeguard the health of our soil, air, and water.
While everyone’s resources–financial and time–are different, the extraordinary giving spirit demonstrated by our friends and neighbors humbles and heartens me every single day. Not only are they making a very real difference today, but they are modeling values of service and stewardship to the next generation, the young people who will inherit everything we do to this planet.
Recently, we received a letter from a 12-year-old girl who was feeling overwhelmed by the negative environmental news. She was already doing everything she knew to help the planet, but wanted to do more and didn’t know where to begin, or what would matter. “A lot of people don’t listen to people trying to help, but I can’t do this alone. Will you help me? Please.” Last week, this amazing young woman visited our Conservation Center. She, and a few friends, will be joining us this summer for an immersive internship. Care and concern for nature is taught by example. Thanks to so many people in our community who truly do care, there is a lot of inspiration and hope in our next generation.
Earth Day at 56 - Submitted by Dave Dempsey, Senior Advisor at FLOW Water Advocates; Author.
In difficult times for environmental health, it helps to remember the condition of America's water, air and land on the first Earth Day. The condition was critical, symbolized by rivers catching fire, but the day was born of optimism that things could change. And things did change. Pressured by citizens, Congress passed clean air and water laws, and Michigan's Legislature passed nearly 20 significant environmental statutes in the 10 years that followed the first Earth Day, ending with the Wetland Protection Act.
Levels of toxic lead in air have fallen more than 90%, the galloping pace of wetland destruction in Michigan has slowed to barely a trickle, and thousands of contaminated sites have been cleaned up. These problems haven't been solved, but the progress made in controlling them is often overlooked.
Two things to keep in mind about environmental policy:
- Don't wait for leaders, be one. Rarely does an elected official take a risk on an environmental issue. As a French politician allegedly said during the 1848 revolution, "There go my people. I must find out where they are going, so I can lead them.”
- Start local. The most accessible level of government is the city, township or county you inhabit. Convince local officials to enact an environmental protection and work with citizens across the state to do the same. Often you create a patchwork of laws that drive the passage of a statewide law as polluting or land-devouring parties clamor for one set of rules.
Caring for Our Waters, Building Our Future - Submitted by Elizabeth Petrella, President, Adams Chapter of Trout Unlimited.
Growing up in a family that appreciated all waters, it was only natural for me to develop a deep desire to care for them. Whether it’s picking up trash along a riverbank, sharing opportunities for others to get involved, or stepping into leadership roles within conservation-focused nonprofits, I believe every action contributes to something bigger.
Volunteers are the backbone of this work. They bring a wealth of knowledge, experience, and perspective that helps move our shared mission forward—to conserve, protect, and restore northwest Michigan’s cold-water fisheries and their watersheds.
Through the Adams Chapter of Trout Unlimited, we are focused on creating meaningful, lasting change. Our efforts center around building a strong foundation of tools and resources: fundraising for grants, expanding educational programs, increasing youth and women’s participation, and creating volunteer opportunities for all ages. Just as important, we are working to amplify our message through social media and community outreach to ensure more people understand the importance of this work.
One of the greatest challenges we face is engaging the next generation in leadership roles. For conservation nonprofits to thrive, we must cultivate a sustained passion for protecting our cold-water ecosystems. That’s where long-term impact truly begins. Personally, I make it a point to talk about this mission with as many people as possible. When younger individuals step into leadership roles—even briefly—they gain a powerful understanding of the difference they can make.
We are also seeing encouraging collaboration among organizations dedicated to protecting our watersheds. By working together, these groups are strengthening their collective impact and advancing conservation efforts in meaningful ways. They serve as watchtowers for our natural resources, helping maintain a balance that benefits both people and the environment.
As you read this, I encourage you to explore the work being done by these organizations. Visit their websites, learn about ongoing and upcoming projects, and consider how you might get involved. The future of our waters is promising—but it depends on continued engagement and support.
Even small actions matter. Whether you volunteer, participate in an event, take on a leadership role, or simply express your appreciation, you are contributing to a legacy of conservation that will benefit generations to come.
Together, we can ensure that these waters remain healthy, vibrant, and accessible for all. (396)
A Great Water Awakening? Seize the Moment - Submitted by J. Carl Ganter, Circle of Blue. Circle of Blue
At this year's World Economic Forum, water didn't merely trickle onto the agenda as in past years. It flooded it. Behind the geopolitical noise, delegates gave it a name: #BlueDavos. Finance leaders, heads of state, and infrastructure investors spoke of water with the urgency once reserved for collapsing economies. Money is starting to move toward the infrastructure and policy that freshwater systems desperately need. But money follows narrative — and the stories must stay urgent. Especially here in the United States and Great Lakes. Here's why and some of the stories we're covering at Circle of Blue:
1. The Data Center Invasion The eight Great Lakes states have become one of the country's epicenters for data center campuses — among the largest industrial sources of energy use and freshwater demand in the region. What does this mean for water supplies and power grid stability?
2. Unraveling Federal Protections Circle of Blue's special series Great Lakes: Unprotected reveals how novel rule-making, staff cuts, and dramatic shifts in funding priorities are systematically dismantling a 60-year-old program of safeguards for the region's rivers, lakes, wetlands, and drinking water — with cascading consequences for local and state programs.
3. PFAS & Drinking Water Contamination A Michigan Supreme Court battle over PFAS restrictions could set national precedent. The stakes are high as small towns scramble for funding to filter supplies and reckon with the reach of these persistent, pervasive chemicals.
4. Great Lakes Restoration Funding Under Threat The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative — which since 2010 has invested more than $5 billion and supported nearly 9,000 restoration projects — expires in September without Congressional action. Advocates are pushing for $500 million annually through 2031. The clock is running.
5. Trump & the Canada Water Compact Great Lakes water agreements with Canada are on the president's radar — including proposals once dismissed as campaign rhetoric. The compact that has long protected the basin from large-scale diversion is no longer untouchable.
6. Climate Migration Rural Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin are growing faster than rural America as a whole. The Lakes are increasingly seen as a climate haven — bringing opportunity, pressure, and hard questions about who benefits and who gets left out.
7. The Colorado River as Mirror The headlines are arriving. Record drought, "dead pool" warnings, and the prospect of power and water failing at Glen Canyon Dam — the Colorado River crisis is a national moment. And it's a timely lens for spotlighting what the Great Lakes represent: the other side of America's water ledger that's at risk.
These converging pressures are, paradoxically, generating renewed urgency — and new interest — in solving water crises at home and around the world. It's a rare moment to be seized. But the window to match awareness with informed action is closing. The stories we write and decisions made now will echo for generations.
Article submitted by Green Elk Rapids Committee
Here we have 50 Easy Ways to Help the Planet Today and Every Day! Try one or try all 50......
https://www.earthday.org/earth-day-tips/
https://www.earthday.org/earth-day-tips/
Front page of the Elk Rapids News
Support Native Habitats by Purchasing Native Seedlings!
Visit www.natureiscalling.org
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Learn More about Composting and Recycling
Green burials, ash jewelry are a thing now in Michigan. Can state law adjust?
Part of the appeal of green burial is the lack of chemical embalming, which can cause health risks to mortuary workers. More...
Smart waterfront plants to enhance your shoreline
Plants that grow in, along, and just outside water play an important role in protecting water quality and providing habitat for many water loving critters. More...
Beautiful shoreline natural landscaping
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Green ER highlights examples of native, natural style landscaping in Michigan such as this one featured in this MSU article
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Michigan Investment Tracker
The Infrastructure Investment Tracker* (image below) keeps you up to date on the state's overall progress. The tool displays information on funded projects by utilizing Michigan's data on BIL funding, promoting transparency in the state's deployment of infrastructure funds to projects across various neighborhoods. Additionally, it showcases the state's overall progress.
* Includes many green initiatives
Data Analytics in Forestry - Tree Equity Score Model
The interactive visualization tool below visualizes the density of the local tree canopy correlated with social factors. Unfortunately there is no data for Antrim County at this time but it's still very interesting - You can search for any city. Link to the visualization tool, just click on the map (or search for any city).
EGLE on You Tube
https://www.michigan.gov/egle/newsroom/mi-environment/2023/01/25/by-the-numbers-egles-videos-on-youtube-reach-milestones-in-2022
EGLE’s most popular 2022 content on YouTube was:
EGLE’s most popular 2022 content on YouTube was:
Antrim Conservation District Update
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Tree Sale Questions?? Contact Melissa Z. directly at [email protected] or (231)533-8363 ext 1.
Michigan DNR New Forest Health Report
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Image via Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
Bad bugs and pesky plants: Forest health report covers threats to trees
Munching through the canopy, choking out seedlings or wilting backyard trees – invasive insects and plants and tree diseases threaten the health of Michigan’s forests.
Forest health experts at the Michigan Department of Natural Resources work every day to protect our trees and forests. They survey Michigan’s woodlands and teach foresters and land managers to look out for signs of harm. Monitoring outbreaks, managing infestations and preparing for future challenges ensure we will continue to have places for recreation, homes for wildlife, healthier waters and renewable forest products.
The 2022 Forest Health Highlights report covers the status of key forest health issues including the first detections of beech leaf disease and spotted lanternfly in Michigan. The news isn’t all bad though – the report also showcases the latest university research revealing progress on some of our toughest battles, collaborative work between agencies to protect forests and techniques to guide landowners in caring for their trees.
Read the report ►
“Michigan’s 20 million acres of forests are an unmatched resource,” said DNR Forest Health Program Manager Sue Tangora. “Thanks to the collaboration of partners across the state, we are learning new techniques to protect trees and keeping watch for invasive plants and forest pests and diseases.”
Contact the forest health team at DNR-FRD-Forest-Health@
Thanks to Antrim County, the 2022 Christmas Bird Count took place on Friday, December 16th, 2022. Sixteen participants divided into seven groups spent an aggregate of 52 party-hours in the field and traveled over 303 miles in pursuit of our local birds.
A total of 50 species (3934 individuals) were observed on the count, as shown in the list below. The most unusual species for the count were the Wood Ducks, the American Coots, and the Double-crested Cormorant. The Double-crested Cormorant was found on the rocks in Elk Rapids Harbor, behind the power plant.
A total of 50 species (3934 individuals) were observed on the count, as shown in the list below. The most unusual species for the count were the Wood Ducks, the American Coots, and the Double-crested Cormorant. The Double-crested Cormorant was found on the rocks in Elk Rapids Harbor, behind the power plant.
2022 Christmas Bird Count Results
