Conservation Districts Conference with Rep. Markkanen Press Release. May 21, 2025
Submitted by V. Talsma
ROCKLAND TWP: The Ontonagon Co. Conservation District (OCCD) hosted Rep. Greg Markkanen and the Conservation Districts elected board members and staff in the Michigan 110th district for a sit-down conversation on Friday, May 16, 2025 at the Rockland Twp Hall. Topics of conversation included state appropriations for conservation districts, which lag significantly behind other Great Lake states, the need for Forest Assistance Program (community foresters), and the need for hybrid in-person and virtual meetings. Other topics of discussion ranged over U.P. energy generation, mining, wolves, climate change, and tourism. All participants (See related photo) expressed their gratitude for Markkanen’s time and active listening. Talsma, chair of the OCCD directors, also extends thanks to Markkanen’s office staff who were very responsive and helpful in setting up the time to talk. The idea for an in-district conference was generated after the OCCD board received an invitation to participate in a “Legislation Day” in Lansing,in March. Getting board directors, who are elected to a volunteer position, to commit to three-four days to travel to Lansing, is a difficult proposition. Talsma floated the idea of hosting an event locally to the OCCD. They approved and the conference on Friday was the result. Conservation districts are a governmental subdivision of the State of Michigan, and a public body - corporate and political, created by referendum of the people within the district boundaries under provisions of the Soil Conservation District Law, Public Act 297 of 1937. In 1937, as a result of the dust bowl, President F.D. Roosevelt sent a Standard State Soil Conservation Districts Law to each of the states’ governors, encouraging them to approve legislation to establish soil and water conservation districts. The purpose of these conservation districts was to work with programs provided by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), to help landowners better manage their soil and prevent erosion. Later, conservation districts were tasked to work with people in their local communities on all aspects of natural resource conservation. Today conservation districts are overseen by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development with each being administered by a publicly elected board of five directors as defined by the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act Public Act 451 of 1994, as amended. Conservation districts are local providers of natural resource management services that help citizens implement conservation on their land and protect the environment for a cleaner, healthier, and economically stronger Michigan. The primary goal of a conservation district is to address the most critical local resource concerns. Currently, Michigan has 75 conservation districts, which are generally organized along county boundaries. The 110th district includes Gogebic, Ontonagon, Iron-Baraga, Houghton-Keweenaw and parts of DIckinson Co. Conservation Districts. See https://www.michigan.gov/mdard/environment/conservation Photo Caption: The Ontonagon Co. Conservation District (OCCD) hosted Rep. Greg Markkanen and area Conservation Districts elected board members and staff in the Michigan 110th district on Friday, May 16, 2025. Left to right: Charle Burger, Valerie Talsma, Doug McKenzie, Anne Kretchmann, Jen Ricker-Feak, Dana Nelson, Sara Baciak, Mike Jarvi, Greg Marrkkanen, Art Vasold, Mike McCabe.
Submitted by V. Talsma
ROCKLAND TWP: The Ontonagon Co. Conservation District (OCCD) hosted Rep. Greg Markkanen and the Conservation Districts elected board members and staff in the Michigan 110th district for a sit-down conversation on Friday, May 16, 2025 at the Rockland Twp Hall. Topics of conversation included state appropriations for conservation districts, which lag significantly behind other Great Lake states, the need for Forest Assistance Program (community foresters), and the need for hybrid in-person and virtual meetings. Other topics of discussion ranged over U.P. energy generation, mining, wolves, climate change, and tourism. All participants (See related photo) expressed their gratitude for Markkanen’s time and active listening. Talsma, chair of the OCCD directors, also extends thanks to Markkanen’s office staff who were very responsive and helpful in setting up the time to talk. The idea for an in-district conference was generated after the OCCD board received an invitation to participate in a “Legislation Day” in Lansing,in March. Getting board directors, who are elected to a volunteer position, to commit to three-four days to travel to Lansing, is a difficult proposition. Talsma floated the idea of hosting an event locally to the OCCD. They approved and the conference on Friday was the result. Conservation districts are a governmental subdivision of the State of Michigan, and a public body - corporate and political, created by referendum of the people within the district boundaries under provisions of the Soil Conservation District Law, Public Act 297 of 1937. In 1937, as a result of the dust bowl, President F.D. Roosevelt sent a Standard State Soil Conservation Districts Law to each of the states’ governors, encouraging them to approve legislation to establish soil and water conservation districts. The purpose of these conservation districts was to work with programs provided by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), to help landowners better manage their soil and prevent erosion. Later, conservation districts were tasked to work with people in their local communities on all aspects of natural resource conservation. Today conservation districts are overseen by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development with each being administered by a publicly elected board of five directors as defined by the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act Public Act 451 of 1994, as amended. Conservation districts are local providers of natural resource management services that help citizens implement conservation on their land and protect the environment for a cleaner, healthier, and economically stronger Michigan. The primary goal of a conservation district is to address the most critical local resource concerns. Currently, Michigan has 75 conservation districts, which are generally organized along county boundaries. The 110th district includes Gogebic, Ontonagon, Iron-Baraga, Houghton-Keweenaw and parts of DIckinson Co. Conservation Districts. See https://www.michigan.gov/mdard/environment/conservation Photo Caption: The Ontonagon Co. Conservation District (OCCD) hosted Rep. Greg Markkanen and area Conservation Districts elected board members and staff in the Michigan 110th district on Friday, May 16, 2025. Left to right: Charle Burger, Valerie Talsma, Doug McKenzie, Anne Kretchmann, Jen Ricker-Feak, Dana Nelson, Sara Baciak, Mike Jarvi, Greg Marrkkanen, Art Vasold, Mike McCabe.
Press Release. May 1, 2025
Job Posting: Ontonagon County Conservation District: Forester. Ontonagon County Conservation District is recruiting a Forestry Assistance Program (FAP) forester for Gogebic and Ontonagon Counties through the Gogebic Conservation District. Applications due by May 16, 2025. The wage ($23.16 to $24.11/hour) will be commensurate with the candidate's experience and education. Full job description and application information at https://www.gogebiccd.org/employment.html
Job Posting: Ontonagon County Conservation District: Forester. Ontonagon County Conservation District is recruiting a Forestry Assistance Program (FAP) forester for Gogebic and Ontonagon Counties through the Gogebic Conservation District. Applications due by May 16, 2025. The wage ($23.16 to $24.11/hour) will be commensurate with the candidate's experience and education. Full job description and application information at https://www.gogebiccd.org/employment.html
OCCD May Summary Press Release. May 15, 2025
Submitted by V. Talsma
ROCKLAND TWP: The Ontonagon Co. Conservation District (OCCD) held its monthly meeting Thursday, May 8, at the Rockland Township Hall, The District wrapped up the annual tree and plant sale with distribution on Saturday, April 26th at Ewen Centennial Hall. Volunteers Mike Jarvi, Mike & Sally McCabe, and Chuck joined district manager Anne Kretchmann on the Friday before to sort the trees and other plants and bundle up the 70 orders. County residents who picked up their orders on the 26th also had the opportunity to participate in some Arbor Day activities led by board member V. Talsma. Kretchmann also organized a Deer Habitat Improvement Partnership with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) and the Natural Resources Conservation Services (NRCS) for land owners of 20 contiguous acres or more, to improve deer wintering habitat with plantings of woody plants. Nineteen shares were distributed on May 9. The other main activity of the district was to organize a Conversation with Rep. Greg Markkenen and conservation district directors and staff from the five conservation districts that line win the Michigan 110th district. This conversation was scheduled for Friday, May 16th at the Rockland Twp Hall. Topics for discussion include: State funding for Conservation Districts, staffing for districts in the 110th, including the Forestry Assistance program, provisions for Hybrid Inperson-remote meetings in our area. And other topics that may include Energy Generation, Mineral extractions/mining, Wolf conservation, & tourism. District directors look forward to strengthening state relations in Lansing, when so many of our Federal partners are reeling from the intentional chaos in Washington, DC. Board directors are also committed to staffing information kiosks at local county events this summer. If your organization is hosting an event and would like the OCCD to set up an information booth, email the district at [email protected]. Our mission: Promote stewardship of natural resources through education, outreach, community partnerships, and management. Up coming meetings are the 2nd Thursday, (June 12) at 5:00 edt at Rockland Twp Hall. Members of the public are always welcome.
Submitted by V. Talsma
ROCKLAND TWP: The Ontonagon Co. Conservation District (OCCD) held its monthly meeting Thursday, May 8, at the Rockland Township Hall, The District wrapped up the annual tree and plant sale with distribution on Saturday, April 26th at Ewen Centennial Hall. Volunteers Mike Jarvi, Mike & Sally McCabe, and Chuck joined district manager Anne Kretchmann on the Friday before to sort the trees and other plants and bundle up the 70 orders. County residents who picked up their orders on the 26th also had the opportunity to participate in some Arbor Day activities led by board member V. Talsma. Kretchmann also organized a Deer Habitat Improvement Partnership with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) and the Natural Resources Conservation Services (NRCS) for land owners of 20 contiguous acres or more, to improve deer wintering habitat with plantings of woody plants. Nineteen shares were distributed on May 9. The other main activity of the district was to organize a Conversation with Rep. Greg Markkenen and conservation district directors and staff from the five conservation districts that line win the Michigan 110th district. This conversation was scheduled for Friday, May 16th at the Rockland Twp Hall. Topics for discussion include: State funding for Conservation Districts, staffing for districts in the 110th, including the Forestry Assistance program, provisions for Hybrid Inperson-remote meetings in our area. And other topics that may include Energy Generation, Mineral extractions/mining, Wolf conservation, & tourism. District directors look forward to strengthening state relations in Lansing, when so many of our Federal partners are reeling from the intentional chaos in Washington, DC. Board directors are also committed to staffing information kiosks at local county events this summer. If your organization is hosting an event and would like the OCCD to set up an information booth, email the district at [email protected]. Our mission: Promote stewardship of natural resources through education, outreach, community partnerships, and management. Up coming meetings are the 2nd Thursday, (June 12) at 5:00 edt at Rockland Twp Hall. Members of the public are always welcome.
Press Release. May 1, 2025 Landowner Habitat Shares Available
The Ontonagon Conservation District is excited to announce that it has been selected by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Division for funding under the '2025 Upper Peninsula Deer Habitat Improvement Partnership Initiative Grant”. This project aims to enhance deer wintering habitat across private lands, school forests, and public use lands in Ontonagon County. The grant will provide seedlings and trees to landowners at a significantly reduced cost, enabling them to implement habitat improvements immediately.
The Ontonagon Conservation District collaborates with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to assist landowners in improving wildlife habitats within our area. A primary focus for many landowners is deer habitat. The rise of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) has heightened concerns among landowners, prompting them to seek safer ways to provide sustenance and habitat for deer. Interest in deer habitat improvement in Ontonagon County is strong and remains a significant priority for land resource objectives. Landowners may apply for more than one share and the district encourages applicants to indicate their preferred option.
**Minimum Requirements for Private Landowners**
Landowners must have a minimum of 20 acres of property, preferably within Deer Wintering Complex (DWC) areas or adjacent to public lands. Eligible landowners will be selected based on their commitment to follow planting and maintenance protocols, the total number of contiguous acres in their parcel, and the regional deer management priorities defined by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Preference will be given to landowners with property located within the DWC areas in Ontonagon County.
Option #1 Oak Version: Landowners will plant 5 oak trees, 50 assorted spruce and pine plugs, and a mixture of 50 wildlife shrubs. The landowners will contribute $25.00 per share and will provide the physical labor to implement this practice.
Option #2 Hemlock Version: Landowners will plant 10 hemlocks, 50 assorted spruce, tamarack, and pine plugs, and a 50-count mixture of wildlife shrubs. Landowners contribute $25.00 per share and provide the physical labor needed to implement the practice.
Option #3 Small Scale Deer Orchard: Landowners will plant 5 Malus trees and a mixture of 50 wildlife shrubs. They will contribute $100.00 per share and provide the physical labor needed to implement this practice.
Landowners may request multiple options, but the availability of these options cannot be guaranteed, as it depends on demand. Participating landowners must sign a required liability waiver and a DNR-approved participation agreement with Ontonagon Conservation District before receiving materials. Additionally, landowners interested in participating in the tree planting effort will need to provide property location details, contact information, and photographs of the completed planting. If you would like to apply for this habitat opportunity, please get in touch with Anne Kretschman at the Ontonagon Conservation District, by phone at 906-231-0382 or via email at [email protected].
The Ontonagon Conservation District is excited to announce that it has been selected by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Division for funding under the '2025 Upper Peninsula Deer Habitat Improvement Partnership Initiative Grant”. This project aims to enhance deer wintering habitat across private lands, school forests, and public use lands in Ontonagon County. The grant will provide seedlings and trees to landowners at a significantly reduced cost, enabling them to implement habitat improvements immediately.
The Ontonagon Conservation District collaborates with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to assist landowners in improving wildlife habitats within our area. A primary focus for many landowners is deer habitat. The rise of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) has heightened concerns among landowners, prompting them to seek safer ways to provide sustenance and habitat for deer. Interest in deer habitat improvement in Ontonagon County is strong and remains a significant priority for land resource objectives. Landowners may apply for more than one share and the district encourages applicants to indicate their preferred option.
**Minimum Requirements for Private Landowners**
Landowners must have a minimum of 20 acres of property, preferably within Deer Wintering Complex (DWC) areas or adjacent to public lands. Eligible landowners will be selected based on their commitment to follow planting and maintenance protocols, the total number of contiguous acres in their parcel, and the regional deer management priorities defined by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Preference will be given to landowners with property located within the DWC areas in Ontonagon County.
Option #1 Oak Version: Landowners will plant 5 oak trees, 50 assorted spruce and pine plugs, and a mixture of 50 wildlife shrubs. The landowners will contribute $25.00 per share and will provide the physical labor to implement this practice.
Option #2 Hemlock Version: Landowners will plant 10 hemlocks, 50 assorted spruce, tamarack, and pine plugs, and a 50-count mixture of wildlife shrubs. Landowners contribute $25.00 per share and provide the physical labor needed to implement the practice.
Option #3 Small Scale Deer Orchard: Landowners will plant 5 Malus trees and a mixture of 50 wildlife shrubs. They will contribute $100.00 per share and provide the physical labor needed to implement this practice.
Landowners may request multiple options, but the availability of these options cannot be guaranteed, as it depends on demand. Participating landowners must sign a required liability waiver and a DNR-approved participation agreement with Ontonagon Conservation District before receiving materials. Additionally, landowners interested in participating in the tree planting effort will need to provide property location details, contact information, and photographs of the completed planting. If you would like to apply for this habitat opportunity, please get in touch with Anne Kretschman at the Ontonagon Conservation District, by phone at 906-231-0382 or via email at [email protected].
Press Release. April 13, 2025
Submitted by V. Talsma
April Meeting Summary
ROCKLAND TWP: The Ontonagon Co. Conservation District (OCD) held its monthly meeting Thursday, April 10, at the Rockland Township Hall, In attendance were board members Mike Jarvi, Sara Baciak, Mike McCabe, and Valerie Talsma, Charle Burger by video conference. Also in attendance were district manager Anne Kretschmann, Evan Platske, USFS liaison, Ottawa District Ranger Amber Tembreull, and two county residents. District Ranger Tembreull was present to convey questions and concerns about recent Forest Service “emergency declaration” up the chain of command. On April 3, 2025, USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins issued a memo (1078-006) that created an "Emergency Situation Determination" involving 112.6 million acres, or about 59% of all National Forest System lands. The Ottawa National Forest had not received any further detail about the situation. The map* that accompanied the memo showed most of the lands in the Ottawa being affected, but the origin of the map and the data it represents is unknown. Talsma expressed concern that Washington is using “Emergency Declarations” to skirt procedures and regulations to monetize public assets. Tembruell assured the Conservation Directors that, for now, the Ottawa will continue to use its long-range, multi-use plan, with the procedures for public input and environmental impact assessments. She also noted that the Ottawa is one of the most productive in the National Forests for timber production. The directors then had a discussion of how the district can maintain its mission to “Promote stewardship of natural resources through education, outreach, community partnerships, and management. “ while maintaining a non-partisan presence. This topic will be revisited at the May Meeting. The Annual Tree and Plant Sale was reviewed. Kretschmann reported that orders were down from last year. Talsma observed that the order deadline on Facebook had been extended to April 1. The tree pickup will be Saturday, April 26, from 10:00 am to noon at the Ewen Centennial Hall. Volunteers and board members will work on Friday to sort the orders. Talsma will have Arbor Day Tree IQ activities at the tree pickup, so families are invited to participate. Kretschmann is also pursuing some Deer Habitat Enhancement grants with the MDNR involving tree plantings. The district received the welcomed news that monies expended on the USFS Black Ash remediation grant have been reimbursed. Most of the expenditures have been completed and two years of reporting remain. The other federal grants previously awarded for Aquatic Invasive Species - Clean Boats and the two Ottawa RAC grants remain in limbo. The Michigan operating grant is coming in quarterly and deliverables are being reported. Also in the “good news” column, the Forestry Assistance Program (Community Forester) has been renewed and we can seek a qualified person for this position. Talsma attended the District 2 UP Trappers reorganization meeting and spoke to the possibilities of collaboration on conservation issues. Baciak has been investigating the possibility of adding compost products to the annual tree and plant sale. Talsma has contacted MI 110th Rep Greg Markkanen to set up a meeting with his office and all the conservation district board members and staff members to discuss concerns. His office reply came after the meeting. Several Fridays in May and June have been offered as possibilities. The next meeting of the OCD will be Thursday May 8, 2025, 5:00 pm et. at the Rockland Twp, Hall. All future meetings are scheduled for the second Thursday at 5:00 pm at the same venue. More information about district activities can be found on our Website: https://www.ontonagonconservationdistrict.com/ or on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/OntonagonCD.
Submitted by V. Talsma
April Meeting Summary
ROCKLAND TWP: The Ontonagon Co. Conservation District (OCD) held its monthly meeting Thursday, April 10, at the Rockland Township Hall, In attendance were board members Mike Jarvi, Sara Baciak, Mike McCabe, and Valerie Talsma, Charle Burger by video conference. Also in attendance were district manager Anne Kretschmann, Evan Platske, USFS liaison, Ottawa District Ranger Amber Tembreull, and two county residents. District Ranger Tembreull was present to convey questions and concerns about recent Forest Service “emergency declaration” up the chain of command. On April 3, 2025, USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins issued a memo (1078-006) that created an "Emergency Situation Determination" involving 112.6 million acres, or about 59% of all National Forest System lands. The Ottawa National Forest had not received any further detail about the situation. The map* that accompanied the memo showed most of the lands in the Ottawa being affected, but the origin of the map and the data it represents is unknown. Talsma expressed concern that Washington is using “Emergency Declarations” to skirt procedures and regulations to monetize public assets. Tembruell assured the Conservation Directors that, for now, the Ottawa will continue to use its long-range, multi-use plan, with the procedures for public input and environmental impact assessments. She also noted that the Ottawa is one of the most productive in the National Forests for timber production. The directors then had a discussion of how the district can maintain its mission to “Promote stewardship of natural resources through education, outreach, community partnerships, and management. “ while maintaining a non-partisan presence. This topic will be revisited at the May Meeting. The Annual Tree and Plant Sale was reviewed. Kretschmann reported that orders were down from last year. Talsma observed that the order deadline on Facebook had been extended to April 1. The tree pickup will be Saturday, April 26, from 10:00 am to noon at the Ewen Centennial Hall. Volunteers and board members will work on Friday to sort the orders. Talsma will have Arbor Day Tree IQ activities at the tree pickup, so families are invited to participate. Kretschmann is also pursuing some Deer Habitat Enhancement grants with the MDNR involving tree plantings. The district received the welcomed news that monies expended on the USFS Black Ash remediation grant have been reimbursed. Most of the expenditures have been completed and two years of reporting remain. The other federal grants previously awarded for Aquatic Invasive Species - Clean Boats and the two Ottawa RAC grants remain in limbo. The Michigan operating grant is coming in quarterly and deliverables are being reported. Also in the “good news” column, the Forestry Assistance Program (Community Forester) has been renewed and we can seek a qualified person for this position. Talsma attended the District 2 UP Trappers reorganization meeting and spoke to the possibilities of collaboration on conservation issues. Baciak has been investigating the possibility of adding compost products to the annual tree and plant sale. Talsma has contacted MI 110th Rep Greg Markkanen to set up a meeting with his office and all the conservation district board members and staff members to discuss concerns. His office reply came after the meeting. Several Fridays in May and June have been offered as possibilities. The next meeting of the OCD will be Thursday May 8, 2025, 5:00 pm et. at the Rockland Twp, Hall. All future meetings are scheduled for the second Thursday at 5:00 pm at the same venue. More information about district activities can be found on our Website: https://www.ontonagonconservationdistrict.com/ or on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/OntonagonCD.
Press Release. March 27, 2025
ONTONAGON CONSERVATION DISTRICT ORDER DEADLINE EXTENDED FOR SPRING 2025 TREE AND PLANT SALE!
The Ontonagon Conservation District is extending the deadline to April 1st for orders for the spring 2025 Tree and Plant Sale fundraiser. The District is offering garden and wildlife plants. The District has a variety of wildlife trees and shrubs still available including pines, balsam, spruce, maples, oaks, birches, witch-hazel, winterberry, black willow, and hazelnuts! There are also a variety of fruit plants including strawberry, blueberry, raspberry, and apples. Other garden plant offerings include roses, peony, lilacs, potatoes, horseradish, rhubarb, and asparagus varieties! All items are on a first-come basis. Orders must be placed by April 1st. Pick-up is scheduled for April 26th in Ewen. For a complete description of items for sale, to request or download the order form go to www.ontonagonconservationdistrict.com or via email [email protected] or call 906-231-0382.
ONTONAGON CONSERVATION DISTRICT ORDER DEADLINE EXTENDED FOR SPRING 2025 TREE AND PLANT SALE!
The Ontonagon Conservation District is extending the deadline to April 1st for orders for the spring 2025 Tree and Plant Sale fundraiser. The District is offering garden and wildlife plants. The District has a variety of wildlife trees and shrubs still available including pines, balsam, spruce, maples, oaks, birches, witch-hazel, winterberry, black willow, and hazelnuts! There are also a variety of fruit plants including strawberry, blueberry, raspberry, and apples. Other garden plant offerings include roses, peony, lilacs, potatoes, horseradish, rhubarb, and asparagus varieties! All items are on a first-come basis. Orders must be placed by April 1st. Pick-up is scheduled for April 26th in Ewen. For a complete description of items for sale, to request or download the order form go to www.ontonagonconservationdistrict.com or via email [email protected] or call 906-231-0382.
Press Release.
Ontonagon Conservation District Accepting Orders for Spring 2025 Tree and Plant Sale!
Ontonagon: The Ontonagon Conservation District is currently accepting orders for their spring 2025 Tree and Plant Sale fundraiser. The District is offering garden and wildlife plants including apple, crabapple, pear, plum, cherry, and mulberry trees. In 2025, the District is expanding the variety of wildlife trees and shrubs offered. New this year are aronia, maples, basswood, birches, witch- hazel, mountain ash, slippery elm, black willow, and hazelnuts! There are also a variety of fruit
plants including blueberry, grape, raspberry, strawberry, elderberry, serviceberry, and highbush cranberry. Other garden plant offerings include roses, peony, lilacs, potatoes, horseradish, rhubarb, and asparagus varieties! Orders must be placed by March 27th . Pick-up is scheduled for April 26th in Ewen. For a complete description of items for sale, to request or download the order form go to www.ontonagonconservationdistrict.com or via email [email protected] or call 906-231-0382.
Ontonagon Conservation District Accepting Orders for Spring 2025 Tree and Plant Sale!
Ontonagon: The Ontonagon Conservation District is currently accepting orders for their spring 2025 Tree and Plant Sale fundraiser. The District is offering garden and wildlife plants including apple, crabapple, pear, plum, cherry, and mulberry trees. In 2025, the District is expanding the variety of wildlife trees and shrubs offered. New this year are aronia, maples, basswood, birches, witch- hazel, mountain ash, slippery elm, black willow, and hazelnuts! There are also a variety of fruit
plants including blueberry, grape, raspberry, strawberry, elderberry, serviceberry, and highbush cranberry. Other garden plant offerings include roses, peony, lilacs, potatoes, horseradish, rhubarb, and asparagus varieties! Orders must be placed by March 27th . Pick-up is scheduled for April 26th in Ewen. For a complete description of items for sale, to request or download the order form go to www.ontonagonconservationdistrict.com or via email [email protected] or call 906-231-0382.
Press Release. March 16, 2025
Submitted by V. Talsma
Ontonagon Co. Conservation District 2025 Summary
Rockland Twp: The 2025 calendar year has seen a lot of change and uncertainty for the county Conservation District. In January, Parker Wohlstein, Forestry Assistance Program Community Forester resigned to move closer to family. In February, Mark Menigoz, US Forest Service (USFS) liaison, accepted the early administration buy out. We will miss his input. USFS employee Evan Platzke will serve as the new liaison. We recognize that a significant part of our budget, up to 45%, derives from federal grants and contracts. With the overwhelming chaos emanating from Washington DC, we are uncertain if the funds we have already spent will be reimbursed, much less the new grants we were awarded will actually be disbursed. We hope to still launch a scholarship program for graduating seniors. We are very grateful that the State of Michigan provides a basic operating grant through MDARD (Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development). Our annual tree and plant sale, our largest fundraiser project, is presently accepting orders through March 27, 2025. County residents are encouraged to examine their landscaping and consider swapping out noxious invasive species like Japanese Barberry (Berberis thunbergi) which is known to harbor the ticks that carry Lyme disease, to Michigan native species like Red-osier dogwood (Cornus sericea), Winterberry aka Michigan holly (Ilex verticillata) or Serviceberry aka Juneberry (Amelanchier canadensis). Native species help to feed and provide habitat for Michigan birds and wildlife. Tree and plant pickup will be Saturday, April 26, 2025 10:00 am - noon at Ewen Centennial Hall. We will also include some Arbor Day activities, so bring the whole family. The Ontonagon Conservation District Board of Directors would like to thank the residents and landowners of Ontonagon County for your continued support of our natural resources. Volunteers are also needed to help set up the hall and sort orders April 24-25 as we mourn the loss of stalwart conservationist and former board member, Al Warren. For good news, it was confirmed at the March 13th meeting that two cougar cubs (Felis concolor) were found in Ontonagon county only a few miles away. The sighting, verified by MDNR biologists, the first such cubs found in over 100 years. The last known wild cougar legally taken in the state occurred in 1906 near Newberry. In recent years, numerous cougar sighting reports have been received from various locations in Michigan. There have been many confirmed cougar sightings since 2008, including two illegal harvests in the Upper Peninsula. Incidentally, only adult MALE cougars have been confirmed by the state since the dawn of the 21st century. Upcoming meetings of the Ontonagon Conservation District for 2025 will all be held the second Thursday of the month, 5:00EST at Rockland Township Hall, next meeting April 10. Associate members and potential board members are sought, especially from Bergland and Carp Lake Townships.
Submitted by V. Talsma
Ontonagon Co. Conservation District 2025 Summary
Rockland Twp: The 2025 calendar year has seen a lot of change and uncertainty for the county Conservation District. In January, Parker Wohlstein, Forestry Assistance Program Community Forester resigned to move closer to family. In February, Mark Menigoz, US Forest Service (USFS) liaison, accepted the early administration buy out. We will miss his input. USFS employee Evan Platzke will serve as the new liaison. We recognize that a significant part of our budget, up to 45%, derives from federal grants and contracts. With the overwhelming chaos emanating from Washington DC, we are uncertain if the funds we have already spent will be reimbursed, much less the new grants we were awarded will actually be disbursed. We hope to still launch a scholarship program for graduating seniors. We are very grateful that the State of Michigan provides a basic operating grant through MDARD (Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development). Our annual tree and plant sale, our largest fundraiser project, is presently accepting orders through March 27, 2025. County residents are encouraged to examine their landscaping and consider swapping out noxious invasive species like Japanese Barberry (Berberis thunbergi) which is known to harbor the ticks that carry Lyme disease, to Michigan native species like Red-osier dogwood (Cornus sericea), Winterberry aka Michigan holly (Ilex verticillata) or Serviceberry aka Juneberry (Amelanchier canadensis). Native species help to feed and provide habitat for Michigan birds and wildlife. Tree and plant pickup will be Saturday, April 26, 2025 10:00 am - noon at Ewen Centennial Hall. We will also include some Arbor Day activities, so bring the whole family. The Ontonagon Conservation District Board of Directors would like to thank the residents and landowners of Ontonagon County for your continued support of our natural resources. Volunteers are also needed to help set up the hall and sort orders April 24-25 as we mourn the loss of stalwart conservationist and former board member, Al Warren. For good news, it was confirmed at the March 13th meeting that two cougar cubs (Felis concolor) were found in Ontonagon county only a few miles away. The sighting, verified by MDNR biologists, the first such cubs found in over 100 years. The last known wild cougar legally taken in the state occurred in 1906 near Newberry. In recent years, numerous cougar sighting reports have been received from various locations in Michigan. There have been many confirmed cougar sightings since 2008, including two illegal harvests in the Upper Peninsula. Incidentally, only adult MALE cougars have been confirmed by the state since the dawn of the 21st century. Upcoming meetings of the Ontonagon Conservation District for 2025 will all be held the second Thursday of the month, 5:00EST at Rockland Township Hall, next meeting April 10. Associate members and potential board members are sought, especially from Bergland and Carp Lake Townships.
Press Release. December 15, 2024
Submitted by V. Talsma
Highlights of December Conservation Meeting.
ROCKLAND: The Ontonagon County Conservation District met Thursday, December 12, 5:00 pm at Rockland Twp Hall. Three board members, Talsma, Burger and Baciak, constituted a quorum. Heather David, board member since 2021 and District Treasurer accepted a leadership position at Citizen State Bank in Ontonagon and tendered her resignation effective December 11, 2024. We wish her well and will miss her on the Board. Rachel Guth, MDARD Regional Coordinator, shared that our OCD District Manager Anne Kretschmann was voted 2024 Regional (R1) Employee of the Year by her peers in the organization of Conservation District Employees of Michigan (CDEM). This is a notable honor for our Manager who is only employed part-time. The slate of officers for 2025 was approved with V. Talsma continuing as Chair, Mike Jarvi as Vice-chair, Charle Burger as Treasurer, and Sara Baciak as Secretary. Mike McCabe of Ontonagon was appointed to fill David’s vacated position until the next Annual Meeting/election. The OCD approved a scholarship program for Ontonagon Residents graduating from High School in 2025 (More details to follow). Plans are moving forward on the Annual Tree Sale with orders in March 2025. Also in the works is the Clean Boats/Clean Water boat washing for the Aquatic Invasive Species Grant through the USFS Ottawa Forest. UPPCO has indicated interest in funding boat washes on the Bond Flowage. The next meeting will be Thursday, January 9, 2025, 5:00 est at Rockland Twp Hall.
Submitted by V. Talsma
Highlights of December Conservation Meeting.
ROCKLAND: The Ontonagon County Conservation District met Thursday, December 12, 5:00 pm at Rockland Twp Hall. Three board members, Talsma, Burger and Baciak, constituted a quorum. Heather David, board member since 2021 and District Treasurer accepted a leadership position at Citizen State Bank in Ontonagon and tendered her resignation effective December 11, 2024. We wish her well and will miss her on the Board. Rachel Guth, MDARD Regional Coordinator, shared that our OCD District Manager Anne Kretschmann was voted 2024 Regional (R1) Employee of the Year by her peers in the organization of Conservation District Employees of Michigan (CDEM). This is a notable honor for our Manager who is only employed part-time. The slate of officers for 2025 was approved with V. Talsma continuing as Chair, Mike Jarvi as Vice-chair, Charle Burger as Treasurer, and Sara Baciak as Secretary. Mike McCabe of Ontonagon was appointed to fill David’s vacated position until the next Annual Meeting/election. The OCD approved a scholarship program for Ontonagon Residents graduating from High School in 2025 (More details to follow). Plans are moving forward on the Annual Tree Sale with orders in March 2025. Also in the works is the Clean Boats/Clean Water boat washing for the Aquatic Invasive Species Grant through the USFS Ottawa Forest. UPPCO has indicated interest in funding boat washes on the Bond Flowage. The next meeting will be Thursday, January 9, 2025, 5:00 est at Rockland Twp Hall.
Press Release. November 10, 2024
Submitted by V. Talsma
ROCKLAND: The Ontonagon County Conservation District held its Annual meeting on Thursday, November 7, at 5:00 pm Est at the Rockland Township Hall. Chairperson Talsma welcomed the public and had participants introduce themselves. Talsma and Burger were both reelected to four year terms as Board members. Roger Labine, Michigan’s leading Manoomin expert gave the keynote address on Manoomin (Wild Rice) Conservation Efforts. The Conservation Board presented Labine with a Certificate recognizing his efforts. The certificate reads: “Ontonagon Conservation District recognizes Roger Labine, for his efforts in the restoration and conservation of Wild Rice (Manoomin, Zizania palustris) and working to have Manoomin recognized as the Michigan State Native Grain. Photo Caption: The 2025 Board of Directors: (back) Charle Burger, Bohemia Twp; Mike Jarvi, Interior Twp; Sara Baciak, McMillan Twp.; Heather David, Ontonagon Twp.; (front) Guest Speaker Roger Labine, LVD; and Chair, Valerie Talsma, Haight Twp.
Submitted by V. Talsma
ROCKLAND: The Ontonagon County Conservation District held its Annual meeting on Thursday, November 7, at 5:00 pm Est at the Rockland Township Hall. Chairperson Talsma welcomed the public and had participants introduce themselves. Talsma and Burger were both reelected to four year terms as Board members. Roger Labine, Michigan’s leading Manoomin expert gave the keynote address on Manoomin (Wild Rice) Conservation Efforts. The Conservation Board presented Labine with a Certificate recognizing his efforts. The certificate reads: “Ontonagon Conservation District recognizes Roger Labine, for his efforts in the restoration and conservation of Wild Rice (Manoomin, Zizania palustris) and working to have Manoomin recognized as the Michigan State Native Grain. Photo Caption: The 2025 Board of Directors: (back) Charle Burger, Bohemia Twp; Mike Jarvi, Interior Twp; Sara Baciak, McMillan Twp.; Heather David, Ontonagon Twp.; (front) Guest Speaker Roger Labine, LVD; and Chair, Valerie Talsma, Haight Twp.
Press Release. November 3, 2024
Roger Labine Speaks on Wild Rice (Manoomin) Conservation
Submitted by V. Talsma
Rockland: The Ontonagon County Conservation District Annual meeting on Thursday, November 7, at 5:00 pm EST Rockland Township Hall will feature Roger Labine as Keynote Speaker. LaBine is an enrolled member of the Lac Vieux Desert Band of Lake Superior Chippewa (LVD) and employed in the Environmental and Planning Department as a Water Resource Technician. He is widely regarded as Michigan’s leading Manoomin expert. He has worked for more than 50 years to restore this species after historic European colonization essentially removed the aquatic grain from the landscape. Michigan legislators voted in November 2023 to designate Manoomin, or wild rice, as the state’s native grain. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed House Bill 4852 on December 1, 2023, making Manoomin the official native grain of Michigan. Other states already have designated state grains – but Michigan is the first to designate a state Native Grain. Labine’s efforts to have Wild Rice (Manoomin, Zizania palustris) recognized as Michigan’s State Native Grain was noted at the district’s February meeting and inspired board member Talsma to recruit Labine to be the Keynote Speaker for the Annual Meeting. Manoomin, translated from Ojibwemowin, means the “good berry,” To the Anishinaabe (Chippewa or Ojibwa) it is the “food that grows on water,” whose presence fulfilled the prophecies foretold in the origin story of the Anishinaabe’s migration from the east. According to Ojibwe oral tradition, centuries ago the Ojibwe were instructed to find the place where "the food grows on the water." This ultimately led them to the shores of Lake Superior and the northern inland lakes of the Michigan, Wisconsin and Minnesota where flowing fields of Manoomin were found in abundance. Considered a special gift from the Manitou, this “spirit food” has been a central component of Native American culture in the rice region for hundreds of years, featuring in the lives of the Dakota and the Menominee (who took their name from this plant) as well as the Ojibwa. The August, or Rice Making Moon, signaled the harvest season, which was a time for celebrations of thanksgiving. Labine is an active member of the Three Fires Midewiwin Lodge. He is the current tribal delegate on the Michigan Wild Rice Initiative, Co-Chairman of the Native Wild Rice Coalition, was a member of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) Wolf Advisory Committee, a member of the MDNR Moose Advisory Committee, and a member of the U.S. Ottawa National Forest Interpretive Association Board. LaBine sat on the Voigt Task Force as a LVD Tribal Representative and is the recipient of the “2019 Heritage Award” from the State of Michigan and the Michigan State University Museum Board of Directors for his work with Manoomin Restoration and Preservation. Labine is a graduate of Ewen-Trout Creek Schools. He and his family live in the ceded territory of Duncan Twp near Trout Creek, MI. While Native Americans have traditionally respected and protected the important wild rice fields in northern lakes and rivers, development following European immigration to the Great Lakes region has taken its toll on Manoomin stands. Some historic rice fields no longer exist, and others are far less abundant. The valued plant has suffered from environmental changes such as water level fluctuations from dams, the use of motorized boats tearing up the fragile stalks and the introduction of exotic plants. Consequently, GLIFWC (Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission), an intertribal organization representing eleven Ojibwe bands in Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin, has pursued the protection and enhancement of wild rice beds since 1984. GLIFWC works with a wide coalition of other natural resource interest groups to restore historic wild rice beds, protect existing beds, and establish new rice beds. Besides being an important food source for the people, many species of wildlife, especially ducks and geese, also depend on it for food and habitat. Protection of native Manoomin translates into sound habitat and watershed management. (https://glifwc.org/publications/pdf/Goodberry_Brochure.pdf). Photo Caption: Roger LaBine and his son Anthony use traditional methods with canoe and ricing sticks to harvest Manoomin in a way that doesn’t damage the sensitive rice beds. (photo provide by Labine, September 2022).
Roger Labine Speaks on Wild Rice (Manoomin) Conservation
Submitted by V. Talsma
Rockland: The Ontonagon County Conservation District Annual meeting on Thursday, November 7, at 5:00 pm EST Rockland Township Hall will feature Roger Labine as Keynote Speaker. LaBine is an enrolled member of the Lac Vieux Desert Band of Lake Superior Chippewa (LVD) and employed in the Environmental and Planning Department as a Water Resource Technician. He is widely regarded as Michigan’s leading Manoomin expert. He has worked for more than 50 years to restore this species after historic European colonization essentially removed the aquatic grain from the landscape. Michigan legislators voted in November 2023 to designate Manoomin, or wild rice, as the state’s native grain. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed House Bill 4852 on December 1, 2023, making Manoomin the official native grain of Michigan. Other states already have designated state grains – but Michigan is the first to designate a state Native Grain. Labine’s efforts to have Wild Rice (Manoomin, Zizania palustris) recognized as Michigan’s State Native Grain was noted at the district’s February meeting and inspired board member Talsma to recruit Labine to be the Keynote Speaker for the Annual Meeting. Manoomin, translated from Ojibwemowin, means the “good berry,” To the Anishinaabe (Chippewa or Ojibwa) it is the “food that grows on water,” whose presence fulfilled the prophecies foretold in the origin story of the Anishinaabe’s migration from the east. According to Ojibwe oral tradition, centuries ago the Ojibwe were instructed to find the place where "the food grows on the water." This ultimately led them to the shores of Lake Superior and the northern inland lakes of the Michigan, Wisconsin and Minnesota where flowing fields of Manoomin were found in abundance. Considered a special gift from the Manitou, this “spirit food” has been a central component of Native American culture in the rice region for hundreds of years, featuring in the lives of the Dakota and the Menominee (who took their name from this plant) as well as the Ojibwa. The August, or Rice Making Moon, signaled the harvest season, which was a time for celebrations of thanksgiving. Labine is an active member of the Three Fires Midewiwin Lodge. He is the current tribal delegate on the Michigan Wild Rice Initiative, Co-Chairman of the Native Wild Rice Coalition, was a member of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) Wolf Advisory Committee, a member of the MDNR Moose Advisory Committee, and a member of the U.S. Ottawa National Forest Interpretive Association Board. LaBine sat on the Voigt Task Force as a LVD Tribal Representative and is the recipient of the “2019 Heritage Award” from the State of Michigan and the Michigan State University Museum Board of Directors for his work with Manoomin Restoration and Preservation. Labine is a graduate of Ewen-Trout Creek Schools. He and his family live in the ceded territory of Duncan Twp near Trout Creek, MI. While Native Americans have traditionally respected and protected the important wild rice fields in northern lakes and rivers, development following European immigration to the Great Lakes region has taken its toll on Manoomin stands. Some historic rice fields no longer exist, and others are far less abundant. The valued plant has suffered from environmental changes such as water level fluctuations from dams, the use of motorized boats tearing up the fragile stalks and the introduction of exotic plants. Consequently, GLIFWC (Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission), an intertribal organization representing eleven Ojibwe bands in Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin, has pursued the protection and enhancement of wild rice beds since 1984. GLIFWC works with a wide coalition of other natural resource interest groups to restore historic wild rice beds, protect existing beds, and establish new rice beds. Besides being an important food source for the people, many species of wildlife, especially ducks and geese, also depend on it for food and habitat. Protection of native Manoomin translates into sound habitat and watershed management. (https://glifwc.org/publications/pdf/Goodberry_Brochure.pdf). Photo Caption: Roger LaBine and his son Anthony use traditional methods with canoe and ricing sticks to harvest Manoomin in a way that doesn’t damage the sensitive rice beds. (photo provide by Labine, September 2022).
Press Release. November 3, 2024
Related Story: Manoomin Biology and life Cycle
Submitted by V. Talsma
Manoomin (Wild Rice, Zizania palustris) a plant native to the Western Upper Peninsula, is considered to be an “indicator species” by biologists and conservationists. An indicator species is a plant, animal, bird, insect, or bacteria that reflects the health of its environment. They are often the first to be affected by environmental change. Manoomin requires healthy water, stable water levels, lack of invasive competitors, and a predictable temperature range to proliferate. Further, this amazing grain feeds waterfowl and fishes, and is in relationship to a diversity of microorganisms and macroinvertebrates who compose the largely unseen web of life beneath the water and within the sediment. Manoomin is an annual plant that grows from seed each year. The seed drops off the plant in August or September and usually sinks rapidly into the sediment near the mother plant. The seed remains dormant in the mud until spring when warming water and low oxygen conditions stimulate germination (see diagram). The plant typically grows best in shallow water depths (1-3 feet) in areas containing soft, organic bottoms. Clear water is preferred, as very dark or turbid water limits sunlight penetration and may hinder early plant development. Manoomin does best in the presence of gently flowing water, with sloughs, rivers and flowages being optimal examples. Manoomin also does well in lakes that have an inlet and outlet. Manoomin grows to the water surface usually by mid-June. During this time, the plants lay flat on the water surface and can form vast leafy mats. During this floating-leaf stage (see diagram), Manoomin is extremely susceptible to water level fluctuations. Plants can be uprooted and washed away by high water levels. During July, Manoomin will grow vertically (see diagram) and can eventually stand up to 6-8 feet out of the water. Each rice plant has unisexua flowers, with male spikelets below the female spikelets which are located at the top of the stalk. Cross pollination by the wind occurs naturally in Manoomin beds usually in late July. Rice kernels begin to fill with a milky substance in late July to early August. These kernels harden to become the seed (or grain) of the plant. Ripe Manoomin seed will eventually fall into the water if not harvested. Seeds sink and settle into the sediment at the bottom of the lake or river. With favorable conditions, seeds will grow into wild rice plants beginning the next spring. However, Manoomin seed also has the ability to remain dormant until favorable conditions are encountered. This dormancy can last for years if the seed remains in the water. This extended dormancy allows Manoomin to survive occasional bad environmental years. In terms of conservation, Manoomin is important in the ecology of many lakes and streams. Its nutritious seeds have long been recognized as a valuable waterfowl food, being readily and heavily consumed by mallards, blue-winged teal, ring-necked ducks, wood ducks and other species. Manoomin also benefits breeding waterfowl, providing roosting and resting areas to adults and essential brood cover for the young. Manoomin’s other ecological contributions are often less appreciated. From the muskrat that feeds on a tender spring shoot, to the macro-invertebrates that thrive on the fall’s dying straw, to the browsing Moose, Manoomin benefits a wide range of species because of the food, cover, or physical structure it adds to the environment. The habitat it provides adds to the biological diversity of the wetlands where it is found. Manoomin can also help maintain water quality by binding loose sediments, tying-up nutrients and slowing winds across shallow wetlands. These factors can increase water clarity and reduce algae blooms. Manoomin is an aquatic grain, or a cereal. A truly healthy natural food, uncooked kernels contain more than 12 percent protein and are richer in protein than Asian white rice and most other grains. Gluten free, low in fat, Manoomin is also a good source of minerals, such as iron, potassium and phosphorus, as well as vitamins like thiamine, riboflavin and niacin. Manoomin contains more niacin, also known as vitamin B, than brown rice. In fact, Manoomin has more overall nutrition than any other food once available to the native diet (GLIFWC GoodBerry Brochure https://glifwc.org/publications/pdf/Goodberry_Brochure.pdf). Manoomin is used medicinally by the Anishinaabe, mixing herbs in cooked rice to make poultices. It is also widely used as a spirit offering for ceremonies such as funerals. To express gratitude to the spirit provider for the gift of wild rice, people give offerings of thanks and act as respectful stewards of this valuable resource. For these reasons, some Anishinaabeg communities believe strongly that wild rice should be a wild harvested food, not a cultivated crop. Manoominikewin (Making Rice): Manoomin is hand harvested by tribal members using traditional harvesting methods, floating through the rice beds and knocking the ripe grains into a canoe. Canoes are the best watercraft to use because their shape and smoothness causes the least harm to the rice plant. The only tools needed for harvesting manoomin are those required to move the canoe through the plants and light weight ricing sticks or knockers to thresh the kernels into the canoe. Long forked poles are used to maneuver the canoe through the Manoomin beds to protect the root systems and sediments. Freshly harvested Manoomin must be dried and processed for safe storage. Frequently, the “wild rice” offered for sale in local grocery stores or at roadside markets is paddy-grown rice– a different product than the true Manoomin wild rice taken from naturally growing stands of Manoomin. Paddy grown rice has larger, darker (almost black) kernels, takes longer to cook and lacks the distinguishing nutty flavor and fragrance found in native Manoomin. Paddy rice is farmed in large rice paddies in Minnesota and California and mechanically harvested with combines. Caption: General Life Cycle of Manoomin (Wild Rice, Zizania palustris ) (adapted from McGlip et al Crop Science 2023).
Related Story: Manoomin Biology and life Cycle
Submitted by V. Talsma
Manoomin (Wild Rice, Zizania palustris) a plant native to the Western Upper Peninsula, is considered to be an “indicator species” by biologists and conservationists. An indicator species is a plant, animal, bird, insect, or bacteria that reflects the health of its environment. They are often the first to be affected by environmental change. Manoomin requires healthy water, stable water levels, lack of invasive competitors, and a predictable temperature range to proliferate. Further, this amazing grain feeds waterfowl and fishes, and is in relationship to a diversity of microorganisms and macroinvertebrates who compose the largely unseen web of life beneath the water and within the sediment. Manoomin is an annual plant that grows from seed each year. The seed drops off the plant in August or September and usually sinks rapidly into the sediment near the mother plant. The seed remains dormant in the mud until spring when warming water and low oxygen conditions stimulate germination (see diagram). The plant typically grows best in shallow water depths (1-3 feet) in areas containing soft, organic bottoms. Clear water is preferred, as very dark or turbid water limits sunlight penetration and may hinder early plant development. Manoomin does best in the presence of gently flowing water, with sloughs, rivers and flowages being optimal examples. Manoomin also does well in lakes that have an inlet and outlet. Manoomin grows to the water surface usually by mid-June. During this time, the plants lay flat on the water surface and can form vast leafy mats. During this floating-leaf stage (see diagram), Manoomin is extremely susceptible to water level fluctuations. Plants can be uprooted and washed away by high water levels. During July, Manoomin will grow vertically (see diagram) and can eventually stand up to 6-8 feet out of the water. Each rice plant has unisexua flowers, with male spikelets below the female spikelets which are located at the top of the stalk. Cross pollination by the wind occurs naturally in Manoomin beds usually in late July. Rice kernels begin to fill with a milky substance in late July to early August. These kernels harden to become the seed (or grain) of the plant. Ripe Manoomin seed will eventually fall into the water if not harvested. Seeds sink and settle into the sediment at the bottom of the lake or river. With favorable conditions, seeds will grow into wild rice plants beginning the next spring. However, Manoomin seed also has the ability to remain dormant until favorable conditions are encountered. This dormancy can last for years if the seed remains in the water. This extended dormancy allows Manoomin to survive occasional bad environmental years. In terms of conservation, Manoomin is important in the ecology of many lakes and streams. Its nutritious seeds have long been recognized as a valuable waterfowl food, being readily and heavily consumed by mallards, blue-winged teal, ring-necked ducks, wood ducks and other species. Manoomin also benefits breeding waterfowl, providing roosting and resting areas to adults and essential brood cover for the young. Manoomin’s other ecological contributions are often less appreciated. From the muskrat that feeds on a tender spring shoot, to the macro-invertebrates that thrive on the fall’s dying straw, to the browsing Moose, Manoomin benefits a wide range of species because of the food, cover, or physical structure it adds to the environment. The habitat it provides adds to the biological diversity of the wetlands where it is found. Manoomin can also help maintain water quality by binding loose sediments, tying-up nutrients and slowing winds across shallow wetlands. These factors can increase water clarity and reduce algae blooms. Manoomin is an aquatic grain, or a cereal. A truly healthy natural food, uncooked kernels contain more than 12 percent protein and are richer in protein than Asian white rice and most other grains. Gluten free, low in fat, Manoomin is also a good source of minerals, such as iron, potassium and phosphorus, as well as vitamins like thiamine, riboflavin and niacin. Manoomin contains more niacin, also known as vitamin B, than brown rice. In fact, Manoomin has more overall nutrition than any other food once available to the native diet (GLIFWC GoodBerry Brochure https://glifwc.org/publications/pdf/Goodberry_Brochure.pdf). Manoomin is used medicinally by the Anishinaabe, mixing herbs in cooked rice to make poultices. It is also widely used as a spirit offering for ceremonies such as funerals. To express gratitude to the spirit provider for the gift of wild rice, people give offerings of thanks and act as respectful stewards of this valuable resource. For these reasons, some Anishinaabeg communities believe strongly that wild rice should be a wild harvested food, not a cultivated crop. Manoominikewin (Making Rice): Manoomin is hand harvested by tribal members using traditional harvesting methods, floating through the rice beds and knocking the ripe grains into a canoe. Canoes are the best watercraft to use because their shape and smoothness causes the least harm to the rice plant. The only tools needed for harvesting manoomin are those required to move the canoe through the plants and light weight ricing sticks or knockers to thresh the kernels into the canoe. Long forked poles are used to maneuver the canoe through the Manoomin beds to protect the root systems and sediments. Freshly harvested Manoomin must be dried and processed for safe storage. Frequently, the “wild rice” offered for sale in local grocery stores or at roadside markets is paddy-grown rice– a different product than the true Manoomin wild rice taken from naturally growing stands of Manoomin. Paddy grown rice has larger, darker (almost black) kernels, takes longer to cook and lacks the distinguishing nutty flavor and fragrance found in native Manoomin. Paddy rice is farmed in large rice paddies in Minnesota and California and mechanically harvested with combines. Caption: General Life Cycle of Manoomin (Wild Rice, Zizania palustris ) (adapted from McGlip et al Crop Science 2023).
Press Release. October 13, 2024
Ontonagon Conservation District October Meeting Summary
Submitted by V. Talsma
ROCKLAND: The Ontonagon Conservation District met Thursday, October 10 at Rockland Twp Hall. Three items were of special note. First, partner Mark Menigoz, USFS shared information of the Lake Superior Performance Rally (LSPR) October 11-12 with Friday stages in the Ottawa National Forest with a spectator area in Sidnaw. The second item of note was the U.S.Farm Bill that is languishing in congress. The one-year extension of the 2018 Farm Bill officially expired September 30. Congress won’t return to D.C. until November 12, after the election, leaving just five more weeks to do business. Earlier this year, the House Agriculture Committee advanced a version of the Farm Bill but it has not been approved by the full House, and the Senate Agriculture Committee has yet to hold a markup. Among the many pieces of the Farm Bill are conservation programs that provide $6 billion a year to help farmers, ranchers, and other landowners adopt better conservation systems and build climate resilience. Going forward without a new Farm Bill puts a number of these programs at risk. Further delays also shrink an opportunity to make a generational investment in conservation programs. In 2022, Congress passed the Inflation Reduction Act, which added nearly $20 billion to several conservation programs to help farmers and ranchers adopt climate-smart conservation practices. While extremely positive, this investment was just one-time funding. This Farm Bill cycle, Congress has a unique opportunity to fold nearly $14 billion that remains into the Farm Bill in a way that could increase long-term funding for conservation–perhaps a 20% or 30% increase annually–for decades to come. This strategy has been embraced by both Republicans and Democrats alike. However, to make the most of the opportunity, Congress must act swiftly. Residents should contact their Representative in the Michigan 1st District and Senators Peters and Stabenow regarding their position on the Midwest Farm Bill. Lastly, the board addressed plans for the Annual Meeting on Thursday, November 7 at Rockland Twp. Hall. The Annual Meeting will include election of board members for the two open seats, a presentation of district activities in 2024 and a preview of 2025 activities. Partner agencies will have exhibits and be present to answer questions. The keynote speaker will be Roger Labine, Water Resource Technician at Lac Vieux Desert Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, speaking on Wild Rice (Manoomin , Zizania palustris) Conservation. Light Refreshments will be served. Two county residents submitted the nominating paperwork by the September 6, 2024 deadline, incumbents Charle Burger and Valerie Talsma. Charles (Charle) Burger was elected in November 2023 to complete a vacant one year term. He and his wife Grace have retired to Misery Bay in Bohemia Twp in 2013 after a long Career in Environmental, Civil, Industrial, and Residential Construction and Project Management Since joining the board, Burger has applied his experience and energy to building partnerships with county township boards, submitting the Community forestry grant and collaborating on a grant for Trail-head boot brush stations at forest trailheads for the Ottawa RAC grant. Valerie (V) Talsma was elected to the Conservation District in November 2022 to fill a vacant two year term. She likes to claim that she was totally naive about the OCD when she was recruited and underwent a steep learning curve, especially when the former chair, Cam Coleman, resigned for medical reasons in the Spring 2023. Talsma found herself as acting Chair on a board with only one member with a multi-year experience. Since that time she has worked diligently to increase public awareness by publishing OCD news and promoting the OCD at public events throughout the county. Talsma brings a science background in ecology and environmental education and decades of experience as a teacher educator, classroom teacher, and in project-based curriculum development. You may know her from her wide ranging involvement in community organizations. The standard term for board members is 4 years. If (when) elected, Burger and Talsma will serve until 2027. After the Annual Meeting on Nov 7, the OCD will meet on the second Thursday of Month (Dec 10, Jan 9, Feb 13, Mar 13, and Apr 10) 5:00 local time at the Rockland Twp Hall. All interested parties are welcome at any board meeting. Our mission is to: “Promote stewardship of natural resources through education, outreach, community partnerships, and management.” Contact us via email at [email protected] Or find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/OntonagonCD.
Image Caption: Ontonagon Conservation District Annual Meeting convenes Thursday, November 7, 2024 5:00 pm at Rockland Township Hall. Public warmly welcomed. Election of Board Members, District Updates, Keynote Speaker Roger Labine, Water Resource Technician at Lac Vieux Desert Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, speaking on Wild Rice (Manoomin, Zizania palustris) Conservation. Light Refreshments.
Ontonagon Conservation District October Meeting Summary
Submitted by V. Talsma
ROCKLAND: The Ontonagon Conservation District met Thursday, October 10 at Rockland Twp Hall. Three items were of special note. First, partner Mark Menigoz, USFS shared information of the Lake Superior Performance Rally (LSPR) October 11-12 with Friday stages in the Ottawa National Forest with a spectator area in Sidnaw. The second item of note was the U.S.Farm Bill that is languishing in congress. The one-year extension of the 2018 Farm Bill officially expired September 30. Congress won’t return to D.C. until November 12, after the election, leaving just five more weeks to do business. Earlier this year, the House Agriculture Committee advanced a version of the Farm Bill but it has not been approved by the full House, and the Senate Agriculture Committee has yet to hold a markup. Among the many pieces of the Farm Bill are conservation programs that provide $6 billion a year to help farmers, ranchers, and other landowners adopt better conservation systems and build climate resilience. Going forward without a new Farm Bill puts a number of these programs at risk. Further delays also shrink an opportunity to make a generational investment in conservation programs. In 2022, Congress passed the Inflation Reduction Act, which added nearly $20 billion to several conservation programs to help farmers and ranchers adopt climate-smart conservation practices. While extremely positive, this investment was just one-time funding. This Farm Bill cycle, Congress has a unique opportunity to fold nearly $14 billion that remains into the Farm Bill in a way that could increase long-term funding for conservation–perhaps a 20% or 30% increase annually–for decades to come. This strategy has been embraced by both Republicans and Democrats alike. However, to make the most of the opportunity, Congress must act swiftly. Residents should contact their Representative in the Michigan 1st District and Senators Peters and Stabenow regarding their position on the Midwest Farm Bill. Lastly, the board addressed plans for the Annual Meeting on Thursday, November 7 at Rockland Twp. Hall. The Annual Meeting will include election of board members for the two open seats, a presentation of district activities in 2024 and a preview of 2025 activities. Partner agencies will have exhibits and be present to answer questions. The keynote speaker will be Roger Labine, Water Resource Technician at Lac Vieux Desert Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, speaking on Wild Rice (Manoomin , Zizania palustris) Conservation. Light Refreshments will be served. Two county residents submitted the nominating paperwork by the September 6, 2024 deadline, incumbents Charle Burger and Valerie Talsma. Charles (Charle) Burger was elected in November 2023 to complete a vacant one year term. He and his wife Grace have retired to Misery Bay in Bohemia Twp in 2013 after a long Career in Environmental, Civil, Industrial, and Residential Construction and Project Management Since joining the board, Burger has applied his experience and energy to building partnerships with county township boards, submitting the Community forestry grant and collaborating on a grant for Trail-head boot brush stations at forest trailheads for the Ottawa RAC grant. Valerie (V) Talsma was elected to the Conservation District in November 2022 to fill a vacant two year term. She likes to claim that she was totally naive about the OCD when she was recruited and underwent a steep learning curve, especially when the former chair, Cam Coleman, resigned for medical reasons in the Spring 2023. Talsma found herself as acting Chair on a board with only one member with a multi-year experience. Since that time she has worked diligently to increase public awareness by publishing OCD news and promoting the OCD at public events throughout the county. Talsma brings a science background in ecology and environmental education and decades of experience as a teacher educator, classroom teacher, and in project-based curriculum development. You may know her from her wide ranging involvement in community organizations. The standard term for board members is 4 years. If (when) elected, Burger and Talsma will serve until 2027. After the Annual Meeting on Nov 7, the OCD will meet on the second Thursday of Month (Dec 10, Jan 9, Feb 13, Mar 13, and Apr 10) 5:00 local time at the Rockland Twp Hall. All interested parties are welcome at any board meeting. Our mission is to: “Promote stewardship of natural resources through education, outreach, community partnerships, and management.” Contact us via email at [email protected] Or find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/OntonagonCD.
Image Caption: Ontonagon Conservation District Annual Meeting convenes Thursday, November 7, 2024 5:00 pm at Rockland Township Hall. Public warmly welcomed. Election of Board Members, District Updates, Keynote Speaker Roger Labine, Water Resource Technician at Lac Vieux Desert Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, speaking on Wild Rice (Manoomin, Zizania palustris) Conservation. Light Refreshments.
Press Release. September 16, 2024
Notice of Election of Directors Ontonagon Conservation District
To all residents of the Ontonagon Conservation District, notice is hereby given that on the 7th day of November 2024 at 5:00pm, the Ontonagon Conservation District will hold a board of directors election and annual meeting at the Rockland Township Hall, 101 National Avenue, Rockland, MI 49960. The annual meeting will feature local speaker who will present about conservation programs available. On September 23, 2024, being forty-five (45) days prior to the date of the election, absentee ballots are available for voting in the election by sending an email to ontona[email protected]. In person voting can also occur at the prior date and time above. Positions for Election: Two (4) year terms. Candidates: Charles Burger (4 year) and Valerie Talsma (4 year). Residents are individuals of legal voting age who can demonstrate residence in the Conservation District (Ontonagon County) via one (1) piece of identification.
Notice of Election of Directors Ontonagon Conservation District
To all residents of the Ontonagon Conservation District, notice is hereby given that on the 7th day of November 2024 at 5:00pm, the Ontonagon Conservation District will hold a board of directors election and annual meeting at the Rockland Township Hall, 101 National Avenue, Rockland, MI 49960. The annual meeting will feature local speaker who will present about conservation programs available. On September 23, 2024, being forty-five (45) days prior to the date of the election, absentee ballots are available for voting in the election by sending an email to ontona[email protected]. In person voting can also occur at the prior date and time above. Positions for Election: Two (4) year terms. Candidates: Charles Burger (4 year) and Valerie Talsma (4 year). Residents are individuals of legal voting age who can demonstrate residence in the Conservation District (Ontonagon County) via one (1) piece of identification.
Press Release. September 15, 2024
Ontonagon Conservation District Aligns FY24-25 Budget to Meet Mission Goals
Submitted by V. Talsma
Rockland Twp: Ontonagon County Conservation District (OCD) met Monday, September 9 for the regular monthly meeting. After Talsma called the meeting to order at 7:00, the regular meeting was recessed and the Board entered a special session for the FY2024-25 Budget and Appropriations Act. The OCD Mission: Promote stewardship of natural resources through education, outreach, community partnerships, and management. One emphasis in the new budget is Community Outreach and Promotion. Leveraging off this summer’s outreach activities and the Annual Spring Tree and Plant Sale, the board is looking to involve more county residents in conservation activities, including possible scholarships for graduating high school seniors. To attract more board candidates and remove some of the burden of serving, the board approved a $25.00 per meeting per member. OCD income derives from a $40,000 State of Michigan Appropriation Grant, other grant activities and income from the annual Tree Sale. Once the board approved the annual budget and appropriations, the special hearing adjourned and the board resumed the regular monthly meeting. Highlights from the regular meeting: no new candidates submitted the nomination forms for the two open seats on the OCD Board of Directors so incumbents Talsma and Burger will run unopposed. Elections take place during the Annual Meeting schedule for Thursday, November 7, 2024, 5:00 est at Rockland Township Hall. At the next meeting, Thursday, October 10, 5:00 pm, the board will pilot the new employee evaluation forms introduced by Charle Burger over the summer. Any county residents that have had interactions with employees Parker Wohlstein, Forestry Assistance Program or Anne Kretschman, District Manager are invited to share their experiences with any of the Board members (Heather David, Mike Jarvi, Valerie Talsma, Sarah Baciak, Charle Burger). The board also discussed the various grants in progress. The Community Forestry Grant encompassing seven underserved Ontonagon townships has been submitted with favorable feedback. The Aquatic Invasive Species Grant with the Ottawa Forest was submitted in August. Talsma is working on a Forest Service RAC grant reestablishing stands of Manoomin (Wild Rice, Zizania palustris) within Ontonagon County. And Burger presented an in-progress RAC Grant for Boot cleaning stations at trailheads in the Ottawa National Forest. With the changing season, the Board will move it’s regular monthly meetings to Thursday afternoons, Oct 10, Nov 7, Dec 12, 5:00 at Rockland Twp Hall. Public is welcome to attend and address the board with resource concerns. If you have questions or are interested, contact the Ontonagon Conservation District at email: [email protected], the OCD website: www.ontonagonconservationdistrict.com/ or on Facebook www.facebook.com/OntonagonCD
Ontonagon Conservation District Aligns FY24-25 Budget to Meet Mission Goals
Submitted by V. Talsma
Rockland Twp: Ontonagon County Conservation District (OCD) met Monday, September 9 for the regular monthly meeting. After Talsma called the meeting to order at 7:00, the regular meeting was recessed and the Board entered a special session for the FY2024-25 Budget and Appropriations Act. The OCD Mission: Promote stewardship of natural resources through education, outreach, community partnerships, and management. One emphasis in the new budget is Community Outreach and Promotion. Leveraging off this summer’s outreach activities and the Annual Spring Tree and Plant Sale, the board is looking to involve more county residents in conservation activities, including possible scholarships for graduating high school seniors. To attract more board candidates and remove some of the burden of serving, the board approved a $25.00 per meeting per member. OCD income derives from a $40,000 State of Michigan Appropriation Grant, other grant activities and income from the annual Tree Sale. Once the board approved the annual budget and appropriations, the special hearing adjourned and the board resumed the regular monthly meeting. Highlights from the regular meeting: no new candidates submitted the nomination forms for the two open seats on the OCD Board of Directors so incumbents Talsma and Burger will run unopposed. Elections take place during the Annual Meeting schedule for Thursday, November 7, 2024, 5:00 est at Rockland Township Hall. At the next meeting, Thursday, October 10, 5:00 pm, the board will pilot the new employee evaluation forms introduced by Charle Burger over the summer. Any county residents that have had interactions with employees Parker Wohlstein, Forestry Assistance Program or Anne Kretschman, District Manager are invited to share their experiences with any of the Board members (Heather David, Mike Jarvi, Valerie Talsma, Sarah Baciak, Charle Burger). The board also discussed the various grants in progress. The Community Forestry Grant encompassing seven underserved Ontonagon townships has been submitted with favorable feedback. The Aquatic Invasive Species Grant with the Ottawa Forest was submitted in August. Talsma is working on a Forest Service RAC grant reestablishing stands of Manoomin (Wild Rice, Zizania palustris) within Ontonagon County. And Burger presented an in-progress RAC Grant for Boot cleaning stations at trailheads in the Ottawa National Forest. With the changing season, the Board will move it’s regular monthly meetings to Thursday afternoons, Oct 10, Nov 7, Dec 12, 5:00 at Rockland Twp Hall. Public is welcome to attend and address the board with resource concerns. If you have questions or are interested, contact the Ontonagon Conservation District at email: [email protected], the OCD website: www.ontonagonconservationdistrict.com/ or on Facebook www.facebook.com/OntonagonCD
Press Release. August 26, 2024
Notice of Invitation to Review Proposed Annual Budget of Ontonagon Conservation District
To all residents of the Ontonagon Conservation District, notice is hereby given that the public is invited to comment on the proposed budget prior to the final passage by the board. The proposed budget is available for public viewing at www.ontonagonconservationdistrict.com or can be obtained via email request to [email protected]. Public comments will be accepted at the September 9, 2024 board meeting which will include a budget hearing beginning at 7:00pm at the Rockland Township Hall, 101 National Avenue, Rockland, Michigan 49960.
Notice of Invitation to Review Proposed Annual Budget of Ontonagon Conservation District
To all residents of the Ontonagon Conservation District, notice is hereby given that the public is invited to comment on the proposed budget prior to the final passage by the board. The proposed budget is available for public viewing at www.ontonagonconservationdistrict.com or can be obtained via email request to [email protected]. Public comments will be accepted at the September 9, 2024 board meeting which will include a budget hearing beginning at 7:00pm at the Rockland Township Hall, 101 National Avenue, Rockland, Michigan 49960.
Press Release. August 18, 2024
Ontonagon Conservation District August Meeting Summary.
Submitted by V. Talsma
Rockland Twp: The August meeting of the conservation district was called to order at 7:00 pm on Monday August 12, 2024. Directors Valerie Talsma, Sara Baciak, Charle Burger, and Heather David were present. Also present were partners Mark Menigoz, USFS and Anne Collins, NRCS and district manager Anne Kretschmann. Director Mike Jarvi joined after presenting the Community Forestry/Urban Forest Grant Partnership to Interior Twp. Board member Charle Burger has really spearheaded the effort to build a coalition of partnerships with Ontonagon Co Townships and Governmental Units. With the agreement from Interior Twp that Jarvi delivered, the OCD has agreements from seven townships to partner with the conservation district. There are three main objectives of the Community Forestry grant: 1) to inventory existing trees on community property such as cemeteries, parks, schools, office buildings, etc owned by the townships. 2) Remove as many as 50 damaged, dying, safety hazard trees and plant two new trees for each one removed, site selected by our Forestry Technicians. 3) Provide education opportunities about the value of community forestry. OCD is applying for the maximum grant of $225,000 and is committed to using locally sourced labor and vendors for the implementation of the grant.
The OCD also finalized details on the Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Prevention: “Clean Boats Clean Waters” grant with the US Forest Service: Ottawa National Forest. This grant commits the district to hosting “Clean Boats” boat washing events at major boat launches in the country as well as Educational Programming. Talsma noted, in her review of the grant, that the MDNR Boaters’ Safety course that all six-grade students complete does not address the topic of AIS and “Clean Boats” and will see if the OCD can piggy-back on that program in the two local school districts. OCD will be seeking employees in summer 2025-26-27 to implement this grant.
Talsma met with Roger Labine, Water Resource Technician at Lac Vieux Desert Band of Lake Superior Chippewa regarding surveying county sites and working to re-establish stands of Manoomin (Wild Rice, Zizania palustris) within Ontonagon County. LaBine is widely regarded as Michigan’s leading Manoomin expert. He worked for more than 50 years to restore the food staple after historic European colonization by-and-large removed the species from the landscape. Generations of habitat loss, degraded water quality, improper harvesting and climate change have further diminished the stands of this native grain. Labine and Talsma identified several sites within the county for study and possible establishment of sustaining stands of Manoomin. Mark Menigoz, USFS and the other board members concurred that a Manoomin project would be a good project to submit for the Ottawa National Forest Resource Advisory Committee (RACs) Grant and charged Talsma with pursuing this. Anne Collins, NRCS, strongly urged the board to involve the resource people at The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community (KBIC) as well as the Lac Vieux Desert Band as they all have treaty rights within the county. Talsma also intends to incorporate strong educational and outreach activities for county residents, visitors and youth. County residents can learn more about Manoomin and LaBine’s effort to get this species recognized at Michigan’s Native Grain at the OCD Annual Meeting on Thursday, November 7, 2024 5:00 pm at Rockland Twp Hall. Roger Labine has consented to be the Keynote Speaker and will share his stories of learning to harvest Wild Rice with his Elders, his work throughout the Upper Great Lakes with re-establishing stands of Manoomin, and the recognition of Manoomin (Wild Rice, Zizania palustris) as Michigan’s state native grain.
In other business of the conservation district, it was noted that no new candidates have submitted nomination forms for the two open seats on the Board. To be eligible for a board position, candidates must be 18 years old, a resident of Ontonagon Co. interested in the stewardship of natural resources and willing to commit 2-3 hours a week to board activities. Interested candidates have until close of business on Friday, September 6 to file a nominating petition for the election that will take place at the Annual Meeting on November 7. if you have questions or are interested, contact the Ontonagon Conservation District at email: [email protected], the OCD website: www.ontonagonconservationdistrict.com/ or on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/OntonagonCD
Ontonagon Conservation District works to provide for the conservation, protection, and restoration of natural resources within the county. The board participates in identifying and addressing conservation needs within the district through available resources and agency partnerships. Decisions relating to water quality, fisheries and wildlife habitat improvement and restoration, invasive species, climate resilience, local energy production, and resource extraction are examples of the types of resource issues that a Board Member might provide insight and advice. Board members serve as volunteers and attend the Regular Monthly Meetings.
The September Meeting will be Monday, September 9, 7:00 pm at Rockland Twp Hall and will include a budget hearing in a special session. Under the Michigan Open Meeting Act, the public is welcome to attend all board meetings and budget hearings.
Ontonagon Conservation District August Meeting Summary.
Submitted by V. Talsma
Rockland Twp: The August meeting of the conservation district was called to order at 7:00 pm on Monday August 12, 2024. Directors Valerie Talsma, Sara Baciak, Charle Burger, and Heather David were present. Also present were partners Mark Menigoz, USFS and Anne Collins, NRCS and district manager Anne Kretschmann. Director Mike Jarvi joined after presenting the Community Forestry/Urban Forest Grant Partnership to Interior Twp. Board member Charle Burger has really spearheaded the effort to build a coalition of partnerships with Ontonagon Co Townships and Governmental Units. With the agreement from Interior Twp that Jarvi delivered, the OCD has agreements from seven townships to partner with the conservation district. There are three main objectives of the Community Forestry grant: 1) to inventory existing trees on community property such as cemeteries, parks, schools, office buildings, etc owned by the townships. 2) Remove as many as 50 damaged, dying, safety hazard trees and plant two new trees for each one removed, site selected by our Forestry Technicians. 3) Provide education opportunities about the value of community forestry. OCD is applying for the maximum grant of $225,000 and is committed to using locally sourced labor and vendors for the implementation of the grant.
The OCD also finalized details on the Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Prevention: “Clean Boats Clean Waters” grant with the US Forest Service: Ottawa National Forest. This grant commits the district to hosting “Clean Boats” boat washing events at major boat launches in the country as well as Educational Programming. Talsma noted, in her review of the grant, that the MDNR Boaters’ Safety course that all six-grade students complete does not address the topic of AIS and “Clean Boats” and will see if the OCD can piggy-back on that program in the two local school districts. OCD will be seeking employees in summer 2025-26-27 to implement this grant.
Talsma met with Roger Labine, Water Resource Technician at Lac Vieux Desert Band of Lake Superior Chippewa regarding surveying county sites and working to re-establish stands of Manoomin (Wild Rice, Zizania palustris) within Ontonagon County. LaBine is widely regarded as Michigan’s leading Manoomin expert. He worked for more than 50 years to restore the food staple after historic European colonization by-and-large removed the species from the landscape. Generations of habitat loss, degraded water quality, improper harvesting and climate change have further diminished the stands of this native grain. Labine and Talsma identified several sites within the county for study and possible establishment of sustaining stands of Manoomin. Mark Menigoz, USFS and the other board members concurred that a Manoomin project would be a good project to submit for the Ottawa National Forest Resource Advisory Committee (RACs) Grant and charged Talsma with pursuing this. Anne Collins, NRCS, strongly urged the board to involve the resource people at The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community (KBIC) as well as the Lac Vieux Desert Band as they all have treaty rights within the county. Talsma also intends to incorporate strong educational and outreach activities for county residents, visitors and youth. County residents can learn more about Manoomin and LaBine’s effort to get this species recognized at Michigan’s Native Grain at the OCD Annual Meeting on Thursday, November 7, 2024 5:00 pm at Rockland Twp Hall. Roger Labine has consented to be the Keynote Speaker and will share his stories of learning to harvest Wild Rice with his Elders, his work throughout the Upper Great Lakes with re-establishing stands of Manoomin, and the recognition of Manoomin (Wild Rice, Zizania palustris) as Michigan’s state native grain.
In other business of the conservation district, it was noted that no new candidates have submitted nomination forms for the two open seats on the Board. To be eligible for a board position, candidates must be 18 years old, a resident of Ontonagon Co. interested in the stewardship of natural resources and willing to commit 2-3 hours a week to board activities. Interested candidates have until close of business on Friday, September 6 to file a nominating petition for the election that will take place at the Annual Meeting on November 7. if you have questions or are interested, contact the Ontonagon Conservation District at email: [email protected], the OCD website: www.ontonagonconservationdistrict.com/ or on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/OntonagonCD
Ontonagon Conservation District works to provide for the conservation, protection, and restoration of natural resources within the county. The board participates in identifying and addressing conservation needs within the district through available resources and agency partnerships. Decisions relating to water quality, fisheries and wildlife habitat improvement and restoration, invasive species, climate resilience, local energy production, and resource extraction are examples of the types of resource issues that a Board Member might provide insight and advice. Board members serve as volunteers and attend the Regular Monthly Meetings.
The September Meeting will be Monday, September 9, 7:00 pm at Rockland Twp Hall and will include a budget hearing in a special session. Under the Michigan Open Meeting Act, the public is welcome to attend all board meetings and budget hearings.
Press Release. August 1, 2024
Call For Directors: Nominating Petitions Due
The Ontonagon Conservation District is seeking interested persons to serve on the Ontonagon Conservation District Board of Directors. Ontonagon Conservation District works to provide for the conservation, protection, and restoration of natural resources locally within the county. The board participates in identifying and addressing conservation needs within the district through available resources. Decisions relating to water quality, fisheries and wildlife habitat improvement and restoration, and invasive species are examples of the types of resource issues that a Board Member might provide insight and advice. Board members serve as volunteers and attend the Regular Monthly Meetings. Board positions are four years in length and will begin after the election at the annual meeting. Candidates have until September 6, 2024 (no later than close of business at 4:00pm) to file a nominating petition for the election that will take place at the Annual Meeting on November 7, 2024. A candidate must be a resident of Ontonagon County. A resident is defined as an individual of legal age who lives within the district (county) and can verify this by one piece of identification. The petition needs to be signed by at least five (5) district residents. If you have additional questions or are interested, please contact [email protected].
Call For Directors: Nominating Petitions Due
The Ontonagon Conservation District is seeking interested persons to serve on the Ontonagon Conservation District Board of Directors. Ontonagon Conservation District works to provide for the conservation, protection, and restoration of natural resources locally within the county. The board participates in identifying and addressing conservation needs within the district through available resources. Decisions relating to water quality, fisheries and wildlife habitat improvement and restoration, and invasive species are examples of the types of resource issues that a Board Member might provide insight and advice. Board members serve as volunteers and attend the Regular Monthly Meetings. Board positions are four years in length and will begin after the election at the annual meeting. Candidates have until September 6, 2024 (no later than close of business at 4:00pm) to file a nominating petition for the election that will take place at the Annual Meeting on November 7, 2024. A candidate must be a resident of Ontonagon County. A resident is defined as an individual of legal age who lives within the district (county) and can verify this by one piece of identification. The petition needs to be signed by at least five (5) district residents. If you have additional questions or are interested, please contact [email protected].
Press Release. July 14, 2024
Ontonagon Conservation District Pursues Grants and Seeks Partners
Submitted by V. Talsma
ROCKLAND TWP: The Ontonagon County Conservation District (OCCD) met Monday, July 8 for their regular monthly meeting. Regular business included completing the State mandated MDARD Operations Review Element, working on the quarterly budget review and planning for the September budget meeting, Plans for the Annual Meeting and elections on Thursday November 7 (5:00 pm Rockland Twp Hall) were also addressed. Burger submitted his petition for re-election and Talsma accepted the paper-work for her nomination. Talsma also noted that nominations are open to any county resident age 18 and over and interested in the Stewardship of Natural Resources. Interested candidates have until close of business on Friday, September 6 to file a nominating petition for the election that will take place on November 7. If you have questions or are interested, please contact the Ontonagon Conservation District at [email protected].
The bulk of the meeting was spent reviewing possible grant opportunities and potential partnerships throughout the county. Director Burger has taken the lead of the Application for MICHIGAN URBAN AND COMMUNITY FORESTRY INFLATION REDUCTION ACT GRANT PROGRAM (Community Forestry). He has approached the elected leaders of Ontonagon County, the Village of Ontonagon and the nine eastern townships of the county. The Community Forestry grant can bring in as much as $225.000 in value to the county through employment contracts and purchases. The overall focus of the grant is to plant trees and remove damaged and dangerous existing trees from the community spaces, parks, cemeteries and public lands in each township. The intention is to award local contractors, professional staff and gig workers to complete the work covered by the scope of the grant. Additionally there will be trainings, awareness outreach, and community cooperation elements required for the grant award. Director Burger emphasized that to enhance grant awardability and to enable each township and village a better chance of benefiting from the return of taxpayer dollars to your communities, a partnership agreement with your Conservation District is a valuable first step. Citizens can help by encouraging their local leaders to partner with the OCCD.
The second grant the OCCD is actively pursuing is the “Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) in Ontonagon County” grant with the Ottawa Forest. This is a proposed partnership between the Conservation District and USDA Forest Service: Ottawa National Forest. From 2010-2019 the US Forest Service partnered with Bergland Township and the Lake Gogebic Improvement Association to provide “Clean Boats, Clean Waters” education and a boat wash station at the Bergland Launch on Lake Gogebic. The current proposed partnership will leverage the resources of the OCCD to expand the program to the county park on the west side of the lake, the launch site at Bond Flowage and the Lake Superior access in Ontonagon. In addition the OCCD will seek to partner with the local school districts to expand the Safe Boating Certificate program to include “Clean Boats” activities. The AIS Clean Boat grant will bring approximately $10,000 in goods and services to the county.
See the related graphic showing the potential impact of these grants across Ontonagon County.
The third grant that the OCCD will be pursuing comes under the title “Secure Schools & Self Determination Act (Resources Advisory Committee or RAC). The RAC program seeks to develop projects in and around the Ottawa National Forest that will: (1) Improve maintenance of existing infrastructure. (2) Implements stewardship objectives to enhance forest ecosystems, (3) Restores and improves land health (including noxious weed control) and (4) Restores Water Quality. The OCCD seeks private and public partners and their site specific project ideas. Interested parties are invited to contact Board Chair, Valerie Talsma who will be representing the OCCD at various events this summer. Or if you have questions or are interested, contact the Ontonagon Conservation District at email: [email protected], the OCCD website: https://www.ontonagonconservationdistrict.com/ or on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/OntonagonCD
Upcoming OCCD meetings on the Summer Schedule are Mondays, August 12 and September 9, 7:00 pm at Rockland Township Hall. Or contact your board members with concerns. 2024 Board Members are: Heather David, Mike Jarvi, Sara Baciak, Charle Burger, and Valerie Talsma
Ontonagon Conservation District Pursues Grants and Seeks Partners
Submitted by V. Talsma
ROCKLAND TWP: The Ontonagon County Conservation District (OCCD) met Monday, July 8 for their regular monthly meeting. Regular business included completing the State mandated MDARD Operations Review Element, working on the quarterly budget review and planning for the September budget meeting, Plans for the Annual Meeting and elections on Thursday November 7 (5:00 pm Rockland Twp Hall) were also addressed. Burger submitted his petition for re-election and Talsma accepted the paper-work for her nomination. Talsma also noted that nominations are open to any county resident age 18 and over and interested in the Stewardship of Natural Resources. Interested candidates have until close of business on Friday, September 6 to file a nominating petition for the election that will take place on November 7. If you have questions or are interested, please contact the Ontonagon Conservation District at [email protected].
The bulk of the meeting was spent reviewing possible grant opportunities and potential partnerships throughout the county. Director Burger has taken the lead of the Application for MICHIGAN URBAN AND COMMUNITY FORESTRY INFLATION REDUCTION ACT GRANT PROGRAM (Community Forestry). He has approached the elected leaders of Ontonagon County, the Village of Ontonagon and the nine eastern townships of the county. The Community Forestry grant can bring in as much as $225.000 in value to the county through employment contracts and purchases. The overall focus of the grant is to plant trees and remove damaged and dangerous existing trees from the community spaces, parks, cemeteries and public lands in each township. The intention is to award local contractors, professional staff and gig workers to complete the work covered by the scope of the grant. Additionally there will be trainings, awareness outreach, and community cooperation elements required for the grant award. Director Burger emphasized that to enhance grant awardability and to enable each township and village a better chance of benefiting from the return of taxpayer dollars to your communities, a partnership agreement with your Conservation District is a valuable first step. Citizens can help by encouraging their local leaders to partner with the OCCD.
The second grant the OCCD is actively pursuing is the “Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) in Ontonagon County” grant with the Ottawa Forest. This is a proposed partnership between the Conservation District and USDA Forest Service: Ottawa National Forest. From 2010-2019 the US Forest Service partnered with Bergland Township and the Lake Gogebic Improvement Association to provide “Clean Boats, Clean Waters” education and a boat wash station at the Bergland Launch on Lake Gogebic. The current proposed partnership will leverage the resources of the OCCD to expand the program to the county park on the west side of the lake, the launch site at Bond Flowage and the Lake Superior access in Ontonagon. In addition the OCCD will seek to partner with the local school districts to expand the Safe Boating Certificate program to include “Clean Boats” activities. The AIS Clean Boat grant will bring approximately $10,000 in goods and services to the county.
See the related graphic showing the potential impact of these grants across Ontonagon County.
The third grant that the OCCD will be pursuing comes under the title “Secure Schools & Self Determination Act (Resources Advisory Committee or RAC). The RAC program seeks to develop projects in and around the Ottawa National Forest that will: (1) Improve maintenance of existing infrastructure. (2) Implements stewardship objectives to enhance forest ecosystems, (3) Restores and improves land health (including noxious weed control) and (4) Restores Water Quality. The OCCD seeks private and public partners and their site specific project ideas. Interested parties are invited to contact Board Chair, Valerie Talsma who will be representing the OCCD at various events this summer. Or if you have questions or are interested, contact the Ontonagon Conservation District at email: [email protected], the OCCD website: https://www.ontonagonconservationdistrict.com/ or on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/OntonagonCD
Upcoming OCCD meetings on the Summer Schedule are Mondays, August 12 and September 9, 7:00 pm at Rockland Township Hall. Or contact your board members with concerns. 2024 Board Members are: Heather David, Mike Jarvi, Sara Baciak, Charle Burger, and Valerie Talsma
Press Release. July 7, 2024
Ontonagon County Conservation District Works to Elevate Public Awareness
Submitted by V. Talsma
Bruce Crossing: Community members will see members of the Ontonagon County Conservation District (OCCD) popping up at events this summer. Saturday, July 6th Directors Valerie Talsma, Charle Burger, and Mike Jarvi (not pictured) took turns manning the information booth at the Bruce Crossing Area Independence Day Celebration at Stannard Township Park. Talsma also set up at Log Cabin Days at Old Victoria on June 30th. Going forward, look for board members at the Ontonagon Council on Aging Senior Fest on Wednesday July 17th at Ewen Trout Creek School from 10:00 am - 2:00 pm and at Copper Fest, Saturday, July 27 in Ontonagon. Burger will also be presenting at local township meetings about Community Forestry grant opportunities Conservation districts are a governmental subdivision of the State of Michigan, and a public body - corporate and political, created by referendum of the people within the district boundaries under provisions of the Soil Conservation District Law, Public Act 297 of 1937. The OCCD stated mission is to: “ Promote stewardship of natural resources through education, outreach, community partnerships, and management.” To facilitate that mission, the OCCD partners with the US Forest Service (Ottawa Unit) , USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)- Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development (MDARD)- and the Forestry Assistance Program (FAP). Through these partnerships, the district is able to connect property owners with conservation technicians to assess needs, formulate plans of action, and seek grant funding.
By Michigan law, conservation districts are required to have a five person elected board of citizens from their county. This year, Talsma and Burger, who were both previously elected to partial terms, must stand for re-election. This opens the two board seats to any eligible country resident. Interested candidates must be at least 18 years old, residents of Ontonagon County, and should have an interest in the District's mission to promote stewardship of natural resources through education, outreach, community partnerships and management, fresh ideas, the will to make a difference and two-three hours per week. Board members serve as volunteers and attend the Regular Monthly Meetings. Board positions will begin after the election at the annual meeting Thursday, November 7, 2024, 5:00 pm at Rockland Township Hall. Residents of Carp Lake and Bergland Townships are especially encouraged to apply for election to represent the western side of the county around White Pine and Lake Gogebic
Petitions of candidacy must be filed 60 days before the annual meeting. Interested candidates have until close of business on Friday, September 6 to file a nominating petition for the election that will take place on November 7. If you have questions or are interested, please contact the Ontonagon Conservation District at [email protected]. Information is also available on the OCCD website: https://www.ontonagonconservationdistrict.com/
Today conservation districts are overseen by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development with each being administered by a publicly elected board of directors as defined by the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act Public Act 451 of 1994, as amended. Conservation districts are local providers of natural resource management services that help citizens implement conservation on their land and protect the environment for a cleaner, healthier, and economically stronger Michigan. The primary goal of a conservation district is to address the most critical local resource concerns. Currently, Michigan has 75 conservation districts, which are generally organized along county boundaries.
Ontonagon County Conservation District works to provide for the conservation, protection, and restoration of natural resources locally within the county. The board participates in identifying and addressing conservation needs within the district through available resources and agency partnerships. Decisions relating to water quality, fisheries and wildlife habitat improvement and restoration, and invasive species are examples of the types of resource issues that a Board Member might provide insight and advice. Board members serve as volunteers and attend the Regular Monthly Meetings. Board positions begin with the election at the annual meeting.
District elections are held under the oversight of The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), who will certify the elections.
Upcoming OCCD meetings on the Summer Schedule are August 12 and September 9, 7:00 pm at Rockland Township Hall.
Ontonagon County Conservation District Works to Elevate Public Awareness
Submitted by V. Talsma
Bruce Crossing: Community members will see members of the Ontonagon County Conservation District (OCCD) popping up at events this summer. Saturday, July 6th Directors Valerie Talsma, Charle Burger, and Mike Jarvi (not pictured) took turns manning the information booth at the Bruce Crossing Area Independence Day Celebration at Stannard Township Park. Talsma also set up at Log Cabin Days at Old Victoria on June 30th. Going forward, look for board members at the Ontonagon Council on Aging Senior Fest on Wednesday July 17th at Ewen Trout Creek School from 10:00 am - 2:00 pm and at Copper Fest, Saturday, July 27 in Ontonagon. Burger will also be presenting at local township meetings about Community Forestry grant opportunities Conservation districts are a governmental subdivision of the State of Michigan, and a public body - corporate and political, created by referendum of the people within the district boundaries under provisions of the Soil Conservation District Law, Public Act 297 of 1937. The OCCD stated mission is to: “ Promote stewardship of natural resources through education, outreach, community partnerships, and management.” To facilitate that mission, the OCCD partners with the US Forest Service (Ottawa Unit) , USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)- Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development (MDARD)- and the Forestry Assistance Program (FAP). Through these partnerships, the district is able to connect property owners with conservation technicians to assess needs, formulate plans of action, and seek grant funding.
By Michigan law, conservation districts are required to have a five person elected board of citizens from their county. This year, Talsma and Burger, who were both previously elected to partial terms, must stand for re-election. This opens the two board seats to any eligible country resident. Interested candidates must be at least 18 years old, residents of Ontonagon County, and should have an interest in the District's mission to promote stewardship of natural resources through education, outreach, community partnerships and management, fresh ideas, the will to make a difference and two-three hours per week. Board members serve as volunteers and attend the Regular Monthly Meetings. Board positions will begin after the election at the annual meeting Thursday, November 7, 2024, 5:00 pm at Rockland Township Hall. Residents of Carp Lake and Bergland Townships are especially encouraged to apply for election to represent the western side of the county around White Pine and Lake Gogebic
Petitions of candidacy must be filed 60 days before the annual meeting. Interested candidates have until close of business on Friday, September 6 to file a nominating petition for the election that will take place on November 7. If you have questions or are interested, please contact the Ontonagon Conservation District at [email protected]. Information is also available on the OCCD website: https://www.ontonagonconservationdistrict.com/
Today conservation districts are overseen by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development with each being administered by a publicly elected board of directors as defined by the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act Public Act 451 of 1994, as amended. Conservation districts are local providers of natural resource management services that help citizens implement conservation on their land and protect the environment for a cleaner, healthier, and economically stronger Michigan. The primary goal of a conservation district is to address the most critical local resource concerns. Currently, Michigan has 75 conservation districts, which are generally organized along county boundaries.
Ontonagon County Conservation District works to provide for the conservation, protection, and restoration of natural resources locally within the county. The board participates in identifying and addressing conservation needs within the district through available resources and agency partnerships. Decisions relating to water quality, fisheries and wildlife habitat improvement and restoration, and invasive species are examples of the types of resource issues that a Board Member might provide insight and advice. Board members serve as volunteers and attend the Regular Monthly Meetings. Board positions begin with the election at the annual meeting.
District elections are held under the oversight of The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), who will certify the elections.
Upcoming OCCD meetings on the Summer Schedule are August 12 and September 9, 7:00 pm at Rockland Township Hall.
Press Release. June 17, 2024
Summary of Ontonagon Conservation District June 2024 Meeting
Submitted by V. Talsma
Rockland Twp: The Ontonagon County Conservation District (OCCD) convened on Friday, June 14, 2024 at the Rockland Twp Hall. Board members V. Talsma, Mike Jarvi, Heather David, Charle Burger & Sara Baciak in attendance along with district manager Anne Kretschman, Forestry Assistance Program (FAP) Parker Wohlstein, US Forest Service (USFS) Mark Menigoz, and Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development (MDARD), Rachael Guth as well as two guests. Much of the meeting was consumed by statutory requirements such as the MDARD Operations Review Element on Budgets, the quarterly budget review, impaired by glitches in Quick-books online, and revisions to the operations handbook sections on employee evaluation.
Of more general interest: The date of the Annual Meeting has been set for Thursday November 7, 2024 5:00 pm at Rockland Twp Hall. Planning for the evening program and light refreshments is in progress. That night, two board seats will be up for election, the seats held by current incumbents Talsma & Burger.
Interested candidates must be at least 18 years old, residents of Ontonagon County, and should have an interest in the District's mission to promote stewardship of natural resources through education, outreach, community partnerships and management, fresh ideas, the will to make a difference and two-three hours per week. Petitions of candidacy must be filed 60 days before the annual meeting. Interested candidates have until close of business on Friday, September 6 to file a nominating petition for the election that will take place at the Annual Meeting on November 7. If you have questions or are interested, please contact the Ontonagon Conservation District at [email protected]. Information also available on the OCCD website: https://www.ontonagonconservationdistrict.com/
In addition, President V. Talsma has committed to staffing an OCCD information booth at summer events around Ontonagon County. Look for her at Old Victoria Log Cabin Days June 30, Bruce Crossing Independence Celebration, July 6 in Stanndard Twp Park, the Ontonagon Council on Aging Senior Fest at Ewen-Trout Creek School on July 24th and Copper Fest in Ontonagon July 27 & 28th as well as more events in August and September. Talsma will be happy to talk about the Conservation District, it history, mission, and how county residents can become involved.
The next meeting of the OCCD will be Monday, July 8 at 7:00 pm at Rockland Twp Hall. Meetings during July, August & September will be on the second Monday at 7:00 pm to accommodate the baling schedule and other harvests.
Summary of Ontonagon Conservation District June 2024 Meeting
Submitted by V. Talsma
Rockland Twp: The Ontonagon County Conservation District (OCCD) convened on Friday, June 14, 2024 at the Rockland Twp Hall. Board members V. Talsma, Mike Jarvi, Heather David, Charle Burger & Sara Baciak in attendance along with district manager Anne Kretschman, Forestry Assistance Program (FAP) Parker Wohlstein, US Forest Service (USFS) Mark Menigoz, and Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development (MDARD), Rachael Guth as well as two guests. Much of the meeting was consumed by statutory requirements such as the MDARD Operations Review Element on Budgets, the quarterly budget review, impaired by glitches in Quick-books online, and revisions to the operations handbook sections on employee evaluation.
Of more general interest: The date of the Annual Meeting has been set for Thursday November 7, 2024 5:00 pm at Rockland Twp Hall. Planning for the evening program and light refreshments is in progress. That night, two board seats will be up for election, the seats held by current incumbents Talsma & Burger.
Interested candidates must be at least 18 years old, residents of Ontonagon County, and should have an interest in the District's mission to promote stewardship of natural resources through education, outreach, community partnerships and management, fresh ideas, the will to make a difference and two-three hours per week. Petitions of candidacy must be filed 60 days before the annual meeting. Interested candidates have until close of business on Friday, September 6 to file a nominating petition for the election that will take place at the Annual Meeting on November 7. If you have questions or are interested, please contact the Ontonagon Conservation District at [email protected]. Information also available on the OCCD website: https://www.ontonagonconservationdistrict.com/
In addition, President V. Talsma has committed to staffing an OCCD information booth at summer events around Ontonagon County. Look for her at Old Victoria Log Cabin Days June 30, Bruce Crossing Independence Celebration, July 6 in Stanndard Twp Park, the Ontonagon Council on Aging Senior Fest at Ewen-Trout Creek School on July 24th and Copper Fest in Ontonagon July 27 & 28th as well as more events in August and September. Talsma will be happy to talk about the Conservation District, it history, mission, and how county residents can become involved.
The next meeting of the OCCD will be Monday, July 8 at 7:00 pm at Rockland Twp Hall. Meetings during July, August & September will be on the second Monday at 7:00 pm to accommodate the baling schedule and other harvests.
Press Release. June 9, 2024
Conservation Districts Lobby Lansing Legislators
Submitted by V. Talsma
LANSING, MI: The Michigan Association of Conservation Districts sponsored their Annual Summer Conference and Capital Day June 2-4 to provide networking with MACD officials, Legislative Leaders, CD Board Member Peers and other resource partners. Charle Burger of Bohemia township represented the Ontonagon County Conservation District (OCCD) during this two day vvent.
Burger was able to attend a workshop on Agroforestry that seems particularly relevant for Ontonagon residents. Several NRCS research partners are developing plots for mixed use “trees and livestock on farms on purpose” either planting wildlife and niche market fruit trees in pastures, or clearing forest canopy and seeding the forest ground for crops and pasture. In both cases the pastures are cordoned and intensively managed. Grant money is available in several ways. The Huff program (MSU) is actively seeking candidate farmers state wide for test plots.
Burger also attended sessions and exhibits on MERS Municipal Employees Retirement System of MI, the necessary of CD’s to maintain financial accuracy through a system of checks and balances, DNR Natural Resources Grants available with multiple grant opportunities for counties like Ontonagon, Social media strategies, and strategies for recruiting teams of directors and associate directors.
Burger was not able to connect with our local legislatures during his Lansing sojourn. Representative Greg Markkanen was “in District” (Houghton) and Senator Ed McBroom had several conflicting appointments on his calendar that prevented his attendance at the CD legislators luncheon at the Lansing Center.
The OCCD Mission is to “Promote stewardship of natural resources through education, outreach, community partnerships, and management.” All of our programming is voluntary and non-regulatory. Conservation District staff, technicians, and volunteers work hand-in-hand with local, state and federal organizations to roll out programming that directly assists and improves environmental quality in our local communities.
We meet Friday, June 14 at 2:00 at Rockland Twp Hall. Our summer meeting schedule is the second Monday, 7:00 pm at Rockland Twp Hall (July 8, Aug 12, Sept 16). Residents may also follow our page on Facebook: www.facebook.com/OntonagonCD or link to our webpage at: https://www.ontonagonconservationdistrict.com/
Conservation Districts Lobby Lansing Legislators
Submitted by V. Talsma
LANSING, MI: The Michigan Association of Conservation Districts sponsored their Annual Summer Conference and Capital Day June 2-4 to provide networking with MACD officials, Legislative Leaders, CD Board Member Peers and other resource partners. Charle Burger of Bohemia township represented the Ontonagon County Conservation District (OCCD) during this two day vvent.
Burger was able to attend a workshop on Agroforestry that seems particularly relevant for Ontonagon residents. Several NRCS research partners are developing plots for mixed use “trees and livestock on farms on purpose” either planting wildlife and niche market fruit trees in pastures, or clearing forest canopy and seeding the forest ground for crops and pasture. In both cases the pastures are cordoned and intensively managed. Grant money is available in several ways. The Huff program (MSU) is actively seeking candidate farmers state wide for test plots.
Burger also attended sessions and exhibits on MERS Municipal Employees Retirement System of MI, the necessary of CD’s to maintain financial accuracy through a system of checks and balances, DNR Natural Resources Grants available with multiple grant opportunities for counties like Ontonagon, Social media strategies, and strategies for recruiting teams of directors and associate directors.
Burger was not able to connect with our local legislatures during his Lansing sojourn. Representative Greg Markkanen was “in District” (Houghton) and Senator Ed McBroom had several conflicting appointments on his calendar that prevented his attendance at the CD legislators luncheon at the Lansing Center.
The OCCD Mission is to “Promote stewardship of natural resources through education, outreach, community partnerships, and management.” All of our programming is voluntary and non-regulatory. Conservation District staff, technicians, and volunteers work hand-in-hand with local, state and federal organizations to roll out programming that directly assists and improves environmental quality in our local communities.
We meet Friday, June 14 at 2:00 at Rockland Twp Hall. Our summer meeting schedule is the second Monday, 7:00 pm at Rockland Twp Hall (July 8, Aug 12, Sept 16). Residents may also follow our page on Facebook: www.facebook.com/OntonagonCD or link to our webpage at: https://www.ontonagonconservationdistrict.com/
Press Release. May 26, 2024
Ontonagon Co. Conservation District Gains County Commission Support for 2025 Funding Resolution
Submitted by V.Talsma
ONTONAGON: Ontonagon Co Conservation District board president, V. Talsma, presented a Funding Resolution to the County Board of Commissioners at their regular meeting on May 21, 2024. This resolution was crafted by the Conservation District in response to Governor Whitmer’s proposed 2025 budget to slash conservation funding by two thirds and to eliminate local administration of the Michigan Agricultural Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP) and consolidate that program under centralized state management. The Commissioners passed the resolution with unanimous support.
Talsma noted that Conservation Districts are state legislated units of government. In the wake of the 1930’s Dust Bowl, President F.D. Roosevelt sent a State Soil Conservation Districts Law to each states’ governors, encouraging them to approve legislation to establish soil and water conservation districts. The purpose of these conservation districts was to work with programs provided by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), to help landowners better manage their soil and prevent erosion. Later, conservation districts were tasked to work with people in their local communities on all aspects of natural resource conservation.
Michigan passed Public Act 297 of 1937 to establish Conservation District’s as local units of State Government to work with landowners in every county to address natural resource concerns driven by a five member publicly elected Board of Directors. These Boards establish conservation priorities based on their local needs and voluntarily work with landowners to address critical natural resource concerns, the only organization that can do this on private land with the trust of the landowner. As Talsma further noted, “We are NOT the scary regulatory agency” and our mission is to: “Promote stewardship of natural resources through education, outreach, community partnerships, and management.“
For the past three years, the 75 Michigan Conservation Districts have been operating under a minimal $3 million budget, which works out to $40,000 to the OCCD for operating expenses. The three million total in state funding for each of the last three years is a far lower level of state support than any other state in the Great Lakes region. If the State funded Districts for $13 million annually, it would provide about $173,000 per district, allowing each district to hire a District Manager, a Conservation Planner, and provide employee benefits for all Conservation District employees.
On, February 7, 2024, Governor Whitmer released her Executive Budget Recommendations for fiscal year 2025 which included under the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) recommended budget of $1,000,000.00 (one million dollar) for the Michigan Conservation District’s operating budget, a two-thirds reduction.
Michigan Conservation Districts have been critically underfunded for decades. This has left many Conservation Districts without staff to implement programs or provide assistance. Because of this, Michigan Conservation Districts experience high employee turnover which undermines the success of programs and the ability to administer assistance to the public. At the same time, historically, for every $1 state investment in Conservation Districts, $4 is generated, making this a great return on tax dollar investment for the State!
The Funding Resolution supported by the County Commissioners seeks to maintain the current funding level and to expand funding commensurate with the economic importance of Natural Resources in the State of Michigan.
Ontonagon Co. Conservation District Gains County Commission Support for 2025 Funding Resolution
Submitted by V.Talsma
ONTONAGON: Ontonagon Co Conservation District board president, V. Talsma, presented a Funding Resolution to the County Board of Commissioners at their regular meeting on May 21, 2024. This resolution was crafted by the Conservation District in response to Governor Whitmer’s proposed 2025 budget to slash conservation funding by two thirds and to eliminate local administration of the Michigan Agricultural Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP) and consolidate that program under centralized state management. The Commissioners passed the resolution with unanimous support.
Talsma noted that Conservation Districts are state legislated units of government. In the wake of the 1930’s Dust Bowl, President F.D. Roosevelt sent a State Soil Conservation Districts Law to each states’ governors, encouraging them to approve legislation to establish soil and water conservation districts. The purpose of these conservation districts was to work with programs provided by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), to help landowners better manage their soil and prevent erosion. Later, conservation districts were tasked to work with people in their local communities on all aspects of natural resource conservation.
Michigan passed Public Act 297 of 1937 to establish Conservation District’s as local units of State Government to work with landowners in every county to address natural resource concerns driven by a five member publicly elected Board of Directors. These Boards establish conservation priorities based on their local needs and voluntarily work with landowners to address critical natural resource concerns, the only organization that can do this on private land with the trust of the landowner. As Talsma further noted, “We are NOT the scary regulatory agency” and our mission is to: “Promote stewardship of natural resources through education, outreach, community partnerships, and management.“
For the past three years, the 75 Michigan Conservation Districts have been operating under a minimal $3 million budget, which works out to $40,000 to the OCCD for operating expenses. The three million total in state funding for each of the last three years is a far lower level of state support than any other state in the Great Lakes region. If the State funded Districts for $13 million annually, it would provide about $173,000 per district, allowing each district to hire a District Manager, a Conservation Planner, and provide employee benefits for all Conservation District employees.
On, February 7, 2024, Governor Whitmer released her Executive Budget Recommendations for fiscal year 2025 which included under the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) recommended budget of $1,000,000.00 (one million dollar) for the Michigan Conservation District’s operating budget, a two-thirds reduction.
Michigan Conservation Districts have been critically underfunded for decades. This has left many Conservation Districts without staff to implement programs or provide assistance. Because of this, Michigan Conservation Districts experience high employee turnover which undermines the success of programs and the ability to administer assistance to the public. At the same time, historically, for every $1 state investment in Conservation Districts, $4 is generated, making this a great return on tax dollar investment for the State!
The Funding Resolution supported by the County Commissioners seeks to maintain the current funding level and to expand funding commensurate with the economic importance of Natural Resources in the State of Michigan.
Press Release. May 23, 2024
ONTONAGON CONSERVATION DISTRICT PLANTING TREES WITH GRANT FUNDING
The Ottawa National Forest, in partnership with the Ontonagon Conservation District, is utilizing U.S. Forest Service grant funding for a tree planting effort designed to mitigate the damage emerald ash borers could cause in areas of the forest. White cedar, basswood, silver maple, tamarack, and white pine are among the species of trees planted in 2022, 2023, and 2024 in some of the forest’s black ash wetlands in southern Ontonagon County.
The goal of the project is to diversify the types of trees growing in the wetlands to decrease the impact of the invasive emerald ash borer on the wetlands. Black ash can make up 90% or more of the tree canopy in these wetlands, so if these trees die due to emerald ash borer damage, the site could change from a forested wetland to shrub swamp or wetland meadow. This could potentially impact water yields and nutrient loads, with negative impacts on surrounding streams and rivers. “We are very concerned about the potential water quality impacts that the loss of forested wetland due to emerald ash borer could have on our county,” says Anne Kretchmann, Ontonagon Conservation District manager, “We are excited to be a part of a proactive project that is making a positive impact on our local forests.”
Emerald ash borer is an invasive beetle that feeds on the inner bark of trees, causing them to die because they can’t transport water and nutrients. The beetle was first discovered in Michigan in 2002 and was recently detected in Ontonagon County. This project continues work by the Ottawa National Forest occurring since 2019. The $10,000 grant for this project came as part of the nearly $4.5 million the Forest Service awarded in 2020 to projects in Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota, Ohio and New York as part of a collaborative Great Lakes Restoration Initiative with the Environmental Protection Agency. The initiative targets some of the biggest threats to the Great Lakes ecosystem and has resulted in over one million trees being planted on nonfederal lands since 2010 along with preventing over 18.5 million gallons of stormwater runoff per year.
More information on Emerald Ash Borer: https://www.michigan.gov/invasives/id-report/insects/emerald-ash-borer
For more information: www.ontonagonconservationdistrict.com or email [email protected].
ONTONAGON CONSERVATION DISTRICT PLANTING TREES WITH GRANT FUNDING
The Ottawa National Forest, in partnership with the Ontonagon Conservation District, is utilizing U.S. Forest Service grant funding for a tree planting effort designed to mitigate the damage emerald ash borers could cause in areas of the forest. White cedar, basswood, silver maple, tamarack, and white pine are among the species of trees planted in 2022, 2023, and 2024 in some of the forest’s black ash wetlands in southern Ontonagon County.
The goal of the project is to diversify the types of trees growing in the wetlands to decrease the impact of the invasive emerald ash borer on the wetlands. Black ash can make up 90% or more of the tree canopy in these wetlands, so if these trees die due to emerald ash borer damage, the site could change from a forested wetland to shrub swamp or wetland meadow. This could potentially impact water yields and nutrient loads, with negative impacts on surrounding streams and rivers. “We are very concerned about the potential water quality impacts that the loss of forested wetland due to emerald ash borer could have on our county,” says Anne Kretchmann, Ontonagon Conservation District manager, “We are excited to be a part of a proactive project that is making a positive impact on our local forests.”
Emerald ash borer is an invasive beetle that feeds on the inner bark of trees, causing them to die because they can’t transport water and nutrients. The beetle was first discovered in Michigan in 2002 and was recently detected in Ontonagon County. This project continues work by the Ottawa National Forest occurring since 2019. The $10,000 grant for this project came as part of the nearly $4.5 million the Forest Service awarded in 2020 to projects in Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota, Ohio and New York as part of a collaborative Great Lakes Restoration Initiative with the Environmental Protection Agency. The initiative targets some of the biggest threats to the Great Lakes ecosystem and has resulted in over one million trees being planted on nonfederal lands since 2010 along with preventing over 18.5 million gallons of stormwater runoff per year.
More information on Emerald Ash Borer: https://www.michigan.gov/invasives/id-report/insects/emerald-ash-borer
For more information: www.ontonagonconservationdistrict.com or email [email protected].
Ottawa Shopper, May 20, 2024 & Ontonagon Herald, May 23, 2024
The Daily Mining Gazette, November 28, 2023
CALL FOR DIRECTORS: NOMINATING PETITIONS DUE
The Ontonagon Conservation District is seeking interested persons to serve on the Ontonagon Conservation District Board of Directors. Ontonagon Conservation District works to provide for the conservation, protection, and restoration of natural resources locally within the county. The board participates in identifying and addressing conservation needs within the district through available resources. Decisions relating to water quality, fisheries and wildlife habitat improvement and restoration, and invasive species are examples of the types of resource issues that a Board Member might provide insight and advice. Board members serve as volunteers and attend the Regular Monthly Meetings. Board positions are four years in length and will begin after the election at the annual meeting.
Candidates have until September 11, 2023 (no later than close of business at 4:00pm) to file a nominating petition for the election that will take place at the Annual Meeting on November 13, 2023. A candidate must be a resident of Ontonagon County. A resident is defined as an individual of legal age who lives within the district (county) and can verify this by one piece of identification. The petition needs to be signed by at least five (5) district residents. If you have additional questions or are interested, please contact [email protected].
The Ontonagon Conservation District is seeking interested persons to serve on the Ontonagon Conservation District Board of Directors. Ontonagon Conservation District works to provide for the conservation, protection, and restoration of natural resources locally within the county. The board participates in identifying and addressing conservation needs within the district through available resources. Decisions relating to water quality, fisheries and wildlife habitat improvement and restoration, and invasive species are examples of the types of resource issues that a Board Member might provide insight and advice. Board members serve as volunteers and attend the Regular Monthly Meetings. Board positions are four years in length and will begin after the election at the annual meeting.
Candidates have until September 11, 2023 (no later than close of business at 4:00pm) to file a nominating petition for the election that will take place at the Annual Meeting on November 13, 2023. A candidate must be a resident of Ontonagon County. A resident is defined as an individual of legal age who lives within the district (county) and can verify this by one piece of identification. The petition needs to be signed by at least five (5) district residents. If you have additional questions or are interested, please contact [email protected].
Ottawa Shopper. March 3, 2023. p. 5
Ontonagon Herald. September 14, 2022. p.11
CALL FOR DIRECTORS: NOMINATING PETITIONS DUE
The Ontonagon Conservation District is seeking interested persons to serve on the Ontonagon Conservation District Board of Directors. Ontonagon Conservation District works to provide for the conservation, protection, and restoration of natural resources locally within the county. The board participates in identifying and addressing conservation needs within the district through available resources. Decisions relating to water quality, fisheries and wildlife habitat improvement and restoration, and invasive species are examples of the types of resource issues that a Board Member might provide insight and advice. Board members serve as volunteers and attend the Regular Monthly Meetings. Board positions are four years in length and will begin after the election at the annual meeting.
Candidates have until September 2nd, 2022 (no later than close of business at 4:00pm) to file a nominating petition for the election that will take place at the Annual Meeting in the fall of 2022. A candidate must be a resident of Ontonagon County. A resident is defined as an individual of legal age who lives within the district (county) and can verify this by one piece of identification. The petition needs to be signed by at least five (5) district residents. If you have additional questions or are interested, please contact [email protected].
The Ontonagon Conservation District is seeking interested persons to serve on the Ontonagon Conservation District Board of Directors. Ontonagon Conservation District works to provide for the conservation, protection, and restoration of natural resources locally within the county. The board participates in identifying and addressing conservation needs within the district through available resources. Decisions relating to water quality, fisheries and wildlife habitat improvement and restoration, and invasive species are examples of the types of resource issues that a Board Member might provide insight and advice. Board members serve as volunteers and attend the Regular Monthly Meetings. Board positions are four years in length and will begin after the election at the annual meeting.
Candidates have until September 2nd, 2022 (no later than close of business at 4:00pm) to file a nominating petition for the election that will take place at the Annual Meeting in the fall of 2022. A candidate must be a resident of Ontonagon County. A resident is defined as an individual of legal age who lives within the district (county) and can verify this by one piece of identification. The petition needs to be signed by at least five (5) district residents. If you have additional questions or are interested, please contact [email protected].
Ontonagon Herald. September 15, 2021. p.2
Ironwood Daily Globe. December 2, 2020
Ottawa Forest receives grant for tree planting
IRONWOOD — The Ottawa National Forest is receiving funding to continue a tree-planting effort designed to mitigate the damage emerald ash borers could cause in areas of the forest as part of a round of recently announced U.S. Forest Service grants. The Ottawa National Forest, in partnership with the Ontonagon Conservation District, will use the $10,000 grant to plant trees in some of the forest’s black ash wetlands in southern Ontonagon County. The goal of the project is to continue diversifying the types of trees growing in the wetlands as a safeguard for when the emerald ash borer arrives in the forest, according to those involved in the project. “We have white ash and black ash trees scattered throughout the Ottawa National Forest, and most of them will likely die in the coming decades from emerald ash borer,” said Ian Shackleford, the botanist coordinating the effort. “In most areas, other native trees will keep the land forested, but we are worried in particular about our black ash wetlands. Black ash can make up 90% or more of the tree canopy, so if those trees die the site could change from a forested wetland to a shrub swamp or wetland meadow.” The ash borer is an invasive beetle that feeds on the inner bark of ash trees, which then die when they can’t transport water and nutrients, according to the Associated Press. The beetle was first discovered in Michigan in 2002 and has since spread to other states across the country. The ash borer has yet to be found in the Western Upper Peninsula, although those involved in the tree planting say it will be in the region at some point. “It’s inevitable it is going to be here, it’s just a matter of time,” said Al Warren, one of the directors of the Ontonagon Conservation District. Warren said the ash borer totally eliminated all the white ash around his native Alpena over the last decade or so. “Now it’s in the eastern U.P. and it’s working its way this way,” Warren said. “It’s going to be here. All our ash trees are going to die, we know that; and (the question is) what do we do to replace them?” White oak, white pine, balsam poplar, silver and red maples are among the types of trees being planted as part of the grant project, according to Warren. The work continues efforts the Ottawa Forest has been making since 2019, according to Shackleford, in anticipation of the ash borer’s arrival. “Hopefully, when emerald ash borer arrives and begins killing our ash trees, these new species can keep the wetland forested,” he said. Shackleford said the work is based on research from the Forest Service Northern Research Station, Michigan Technological University and other scientists. Much of the actual tree planting is expected to begin in 2021 in wetlands located south of Ewen, according to those involved in the project, near Sleepy Hollow Road. The $10,000 grant comes as part of the nearly $4.5 million the Forest Service awarded in November to 27 projects in Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota, Ohio and New York as part of a collaborative Great Lakes Restoration Initiative with the Environmental Protection Agency. The initiative targets some of the biggest threats to the Great Lakes ecosystem, according to the funding announcement, and has resulted in over 540,000 trees being planted on nonfederal lands since 2010 along with preventing over 31 million gallons of stormwater runoff per year. Among the other projects being funded this year were: the city of Marquette and the Superior Watershed Partnership are receiving $116,268 to plant over 1,800 native trees and shrubs along 4,200 feet of Lake Superior shoreline to restore coastal habitats; and Lake Superior State University is receiving $250,000 to create the first green stormwater demonstration project along the St. Marys River. Editor’s Note: The Associated Press contributed to this story.
Ottawa Forest receives grant for tree planting
IRONWOOD — The Ottawa National Forest is receiving funding to continue a tree-planting effort designed to mitigate the damage emerald ash borers could cause in areas of the forest as part of a round of recently announced U.S. Forest Service grants. The Ottawa National Forest, in partnership with the Ontonagon Conservation District, will use the $10,000 grant to plant trees in some of the forest’s black ash wetlands in southern Ontonagon County. The goal of the project is to continue diversifying the types of trees growing in the wetlands as a safeguard for when the emerald ash borer arrives in the forest, according to those involved in the project. “We have white ash and black ash trees scattered throughout the Ottawa National Forest, and most of them will likely die in the coming decades from emerald ash borer,” said Ian Shackleford, the botanist coordinating the effort. “In most areas, other native trees will keep the land forested, but we are worried in particular about our black ash wetlands. Black ash can make up 90% or more of the tree canopy, so if those trees die the site could change from a forested wetland to a shrub swamp or wetland meadow.” The ash borer is an invasive beetle that feeds on the inner bark of ash trees, which then die when they can’t transport water and nutrients, according to the Associated Press. The beetle was first discovered in Michigan in 2002 and has since spread to other states across the country. The ash borer has yet to be found in the Western Upper Peninsula, although those involved in the tree planting say it will be in the region at some point. “It’s inevitable it is going to be here, it’s just a matter of time,” said Al Warren, one of the directors of the Ontonagon Conservation District. Warren said the ash borer totally eliminated all the white ash around his native Alpena over the last decade or so. “Now it’s in the eastern U.P. and it’s working its way this way,” Warren said. “It’s going to be here. All our ash trees are going to die, we know that; and (the question is) what do we do to replace them?” White oak, white pine, balsam poplar, silver and red maples are among the types of trees being planted as part of the grant project, according to Warren. The work continues efforts the Ottawa Forest has been making since 2019, according to Shackleford, in anticipation of the ash borer’s arrival. “Hopefully, when emerald ash borer arrives and begins killing our ash trees, these new species can keep the wetland forested,” he said. Shackleford said the work is based on research from the Forest Service Northern Research Station, Michigan Technological University and other scientists. Much of the actual tree planting is expected to begin in 2021 in wetlands located south of Ewen, according to those involved in the project, near Sleepy Hollow Road. The $10,000 grant comes as part of the nearly $4.5 million the Forest Service awarded in November to 27 projects in Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota, Ohio and New York as part of a collaborative Great Lakes Restoration Initiative with the Environmental Protection Agency. The initiative targets some of the biggest threats to the Great Lakes ecosystem, according to the funding announcement, and has resulted in over 540,000 trees being planted on nonfederal lands since 2010 along with preventing over 31 million gallons of stormwater runoff per year. Among the other projects being funded this year were: the city of Marquette and the Superior Watershed Partnership are receiving $116,268 to plant over 1,800 native trees and shrubs along 4,200 feet of Lake Superior shoreline to restore coastal habitats; and Lake Superior State University is receiving $250,000 to create the first green stormwater demonstration project along the St. Marys River. Editor’s Note: The Associated Press contributed to this story.
Ontonagon Herald. Wednesday, September 30, 2020. p.2
