Join the Muskegon Area Parks and Greenways Coalition (MAPGC) for a discussion of Doug Tallamy’s “Nature’s Best Hope: A New Approach to Conservation That Starts in Your Yard” to learn how you can help improve our ecosystems!

One of the most critical challenges to the social and ecological health of our communities is the loss of biodiversity. Locally (as well as globally) plant and animal species are under stress and in decline. However, the good news is that there are a lot that people our community can do to make a difference and increase biodiversity through landscaping with native plants. To raise community awareness of this issue and how each of us can help, the Muskegon Area Parks and Greenways Coalition (MAPGC) is partnering with the Muskegon Area District Library to host a book discussion of Nature’s Best Hope by Doug Tallamy.

Muskegon Conservation District Executive Director, Chelsea Lawton, will talk about some of the Muskegon Conservation District’s ongoing restoration and native landscaping efforts. Find out more about some of the technical services MCD can provide to public and private landowners. Hear about how MCD helps West Michigan citizens take action to protect and enhance local natural resources.

Events will include presentations by local nature experts from our community.

Attendees will receive a Native Planting Action Kit and seedling starter plant, as well as other resources, and ways to get more involved. And if you have any seeds or plants to swap, feel free to bring your treasures to share! Registration required.

Ch. 5 “Homegrown National Park” – The Thrill of Discovery

Guest Presentation: Jason Carlson, Bird Enthusiast, Meinert Park Steward

Longtime Montague resident and active birder Jason Carlson will talk about some of his birding expeditions and ongoing bird surveys along dune, Lake Michigan and marshland in Muskegon County. To date he’s worked with others to band over 150 Saw Whet Owls in Muskegon County – one of the owls banded was later recaught in Wisconsin. You’ll also hear about “The Muskegon Birding Connection” web page and project-oriented club.