Michigan Conservation Stewards Program by Bindu Bhakta

 

Michigan State University Extension is offering the Michigan Conservation Stewards Program in Oakland County starting in February.  This intensive 10-week program consists of nine Monday evening classes (6-9 pm) and three Saturday field sessions (9-4 pm) from February 26 through April 25, 2011.  Monday evening sessions are held at the Oakland County Executive Office Building Conference Center, 2100 Pontiac Lake Rd, Waterford.  Saturday sessions will be held at the MSU Tollgate Education Center, Indian Springs Metropark, and Independence Oaks County Park, February 26 - April 25, 2011.

Are you looking for a great opportunity to learn about conservation and natural science and assume leadership roles through volunteering your time, knowledge, and skills in conservation management in your community?  Individuals who take part in the Michigan Conservation Stewards Program (CSP) can learn how to effectively take part in informed, scientifically based conservation and resource management and work to sustain healthy ecosystems across Michigan.

Michigan State University Extension and its partners are offering this volunteer training and leadership program designed for individuals who are interested in natural resource conservation and ecosystem management, natural history, outdoor recreation, natural areas, the region’s environmental issues and challenges, and strategies to help restore and conserve ecosystems in Oakland County.
  
Topics will include Conservation Heritage, Ecological Foundations, Making Choices to Manage Natural Resources, and Managing Forestlands, Grasslands, Wetlands, and Lake and Stream Ecosystems.  There will also be a volunteer expo highlighting conservation opportunities available in southeastern Michigan.  The series of classes, led by experts in various fields of conservation and natural resources, will include lectures, interactive learning and field experiences.  The registration fee is $275 per participant.

You can obtain a brochure and an application packet online at http://www.oakgov.com/msu/ or call (248) 858-0887 to request an application by mail. The deadline to submit applications is February 4, 2011.  Email bhaktabi@anr.msu.edu for more information.

Comments

[Highland Conservancy Michigan]

This is an excellent class. I took it several years back and still rely on what I learned to identify prairie grasses, trees and wildflowers. I highland recommend it!