Michigan Conservation Stewards Program

The Michigan Conservation Stewards Program is being offered in Oakland County this winter/spring from February 23 to April 29. There are 9 evening classes and 3 Saturday classes. The series, led by experts in various fields of conservation and natural resources, will include lectures, interactive learning and field experiences. the cost is $275, and participants must register by February 15, 2013.

This program is designed for anyone interested in current conservation issues, outdoor recreation, nature study, natural area management, and a variety of other topics such as lake/stream monitoring and habitat restoration. Through participation in this program you will learn essential strategies to help restore and conserve ecosystems in Oakland County and throughout Michigan.

Weekday sessions are held on Monday evenings from 6-9 pm (except 4/29 session which runs 6-10 pm) at:
Oakland County Executive Office Building Conference Center, Bldg. 41W,
2100 Pontiac Lake Rd.,
Waterford, MI

Saturday field sessions will be held from 9 am- 4 pm at the E.L. Johnson Nature Center (Bloomfield Hills), Indian Springs Metropark (White Lake) and Independence Oaks County Park (Clarkston).

"Conservation Stewards gives people the chance to learn from local and statewide experts about local natural resources and efforts to protect them," says Shari Dann, Michigan State University (MSU) Extension conservation specialist. "Participants don't need to have a background in conservation, just an interest in our great Michigan natural resources and in having fun learning more about the environment with others who share that interest."

Instructors include MSU faculty and Extension staff members, representatives from the Michigan Natural Features Inventory, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality and Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Additional presenters include conservation-minded people from various organizations in Michigan.

As MSU Extension volunteers, Conservation Stewards go through an application process which includes a brief interview, and a background check. In addition, references are required. During this process, you will learn more about Extension programs and Extension will learn more about your goals and expectations. This helps to ensure a rewarding experience for you, our clientele and other volunteers.

A brochure and application packet for the Oakland County class can be downloaded below:

• Brochure
• Application Packet

For additional information, please contact Suzan Campbell, Michigan Natural Features Inventory, 313-378-0433.

For assistance with this site, email mnfi@msu.edu

MSU Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status or family status.