Become a Michigan Conservation Steward!

The Michigan Conservation Stewards Program (CSP) explores the foundations of conservation in Michigan and its diverse ecosystems. It helps participants gain the skills needed to contribute to land and water stewardship and educational efforts in their local communities. CSP also empowers participants to build their own networks with other like-minded individuals and local conservation organizations.

In-person classroom and online sessions are combined with local field experiences that guide students through forestland, grassland, wetland, lake, and stream environments. Participants also work on capstone projects with other students to help them apply what they learn to real-world conservation needs in their own communities. Professional-level instruction is provided by Michigan State University Extension, Michigan Natural Features Inventory, and experts from local conservation organizations.

For more information about CSP, including how to sign up to receive program updates, visit: www.canr.msu.edu/csp

2023 "Conservation Conversations" Events: Meet Scientists & Stewards

The Michigan Conservation Stewards Program 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 ask questions and engage in discussion with the speaker. Local partners will be available to share information about the work they do and how to get involved in local conservation efforts. MSU Extension staff will provide information about the 2023 Fall Michigan Conservation Stewards Programs and other MSU Extension programs being offered in 2023.

Each event will take place from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm. Pre-registration is required for each event. A registration link will be posted below for each event when available.

Wednesday, March 8: MSU Kellogg Biological Station, Hickory Corners, MI

"Fire-adapted natural communities in the Huron-Manistee National Forest"- Jesse Lincoln, Michigan Natural Features Inventory (MNFI). Register here.

Tuesday, March 14: University of Michigan Matthaei Botanical Gardens, Ann Arbor, MI

"Remote Great Lakes islands surveys: notable discoveries & prioritization framework for biodiversity stewardship"- Josh Cohen, Michigan Natural Features Inventory. Register here.

Tuesday, March 21: Boardman River Nature Center, Traverse City, MI

"Telling your story: communicating to inspire conservation action" Dr. Jo Latimore, Michigan State University. Register here.

Thursday, April 6: Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge, Trenton, MI

"Native and invasive mussels in the Detroit and St. Clair Rivers"- Shay Keretz, Central Michigan University
Register here.

Tuesday, April 11: Cranbrook Institute of Science, Bloomfield Hills, MI

"Illuminating the shoreline: the influence of light pollution on freshwater environments"- Elizabeth Parkinson, Oakland University & Cranbrook Institute of Science; this talk is presented in partnership with Cranbrook Institute of Science Women in Science Speaker Series.

Tuesday, April 18: Michigan Nature Association, Okemos, MI

Talk title TBD. Dr. Barb Avers, Michigan Department of Natural Resources