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Our MissionTo raise awareness and appreciation for environmental issues and the natural environment. We strive to enhance our community by engaging in thoughtful, educational experiences based around our environment, its flora and fauna and how we can improve our quality of life. |
Who We Are |
Green Elk Rapids is a local volunteer organization committed to raising awareness of environmental issues. We pursue our mission through collaboration with local organizations such as schools, village government, businesses, and community organizations. Programs have included films, educational forums, nature hikes, student projects, guest speakers, and special community service activities.
Committee Chair: Royce Ragland Vice Chair/Treasurer: Christine Petersen Secretary: Gary Stauffer Web Manager: Kaitlyn Szczypka Standing Committees: Recycling Film Series Education Special Events |
Our History |
We began in 2009 with a small group of individuals who came together with the purpose to educate our community on environmental issues. Our programs have included topics ranging from water management, climate issues, and bird habitat, to recycling, conservation, and alternative energies.
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One Community at a Time: Green Elk Rapids Raises Awareness About Environmental Issues
Article by Royce Ragland published in Traverse Magazine
From nearly every vantage in Elk Rapids, you can see water. Elk River, Elk Lake, Birch Lake, Bass Lake, and east Grand Traverse Bay border this village 20 miles north of Traverse City. In addition, you can see sandy beaches, parks, natural areas, and conservation areas to the north and the south.
A love of this special geography sparked the creation of a community group dedicated to protecting these places. In 2009, after a handful of citizens were briefed on the progressive environmental practices of their Department of Public Works, they persuaded the village council to showcase that little-known information at their next meeting. Inspired by the enthusiastic response, the group formed the Green Elk Rapids Committee (GreenER), received official recognition by the village council, and has expanded its activities every year since.
Read more....
A love of this special geography sparked the creation of a community group dedicated to protecting these places. In 2009, after a handful of citizens were briefed on the progressive environmental practices of their Department of Public Works, they persuaded the village council to showcase that little-known information at their next meeting. Inspired by the enthusiastic response, the group formed the Green Elk Rapids Committee (GreenER), received official recognition by the village council, and has expanded its activities every year since.
Read more....