2023 Annual Report

2023 ANNUAL REPORT

2023 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

• Steve Springsdorf, Chair

• Charlie Polzin, Vice-Chair

• Mindy Lewin, Treasurer

• Chris Hale, Secretary

• Gillian Cobb Niemisto

• James Costello

• Joe Fischer

• Rich Hannan

• James Hook

• Gary Knapp

• Terry VanAlstine, County Liaison STAFF

• Jenn Wright, Executive Director

• James Dake, Education Director

• Emily Burke, Conservation Director

• Betsy Willis, Development Coordinator

• Laurie Boccia, Financial & Admin. Manager

• Brian Thelen, Facilities & Land Steward

• Anne Drake, Naturalist

• Arlene Westhoven, Naturalist

• Franny Bluhm, Naturalist

• Fern Sexton, Naturalist

• Angie Les, Naturalist

• Karen Michalec, Summer Naturalist

• Katie Wilson, Env. Ed. Intern

• Maddie Birgy, Env. Ed. Intern

Photo by Mikkie Morley

YOURS TO EXPLORE YOURS TO PROTECT

Aldo Leopold wrote, “A cardinal, whistling spring to a thaw but later finding himself mistaken, can retrieve his error by resuming his winter silence. A chipmunk, emerging for a sunbath but finding a blizzard, has only to go back to bed. But a migrating goose, staking two hundred miles in the black night on the chance of finding a hole in the lake, has no easy chance for retreat. His arrival carries the conviction of a prophet who has burned his bridges.”

And so here we are, bemusingly making our way through winter, wondering if we should keep our skis in the car in hopes of one more good snowfall or follow the lead of the goose and shed our heavy coats for spring jackets.

One of the best parts about working at Grass River Natural Area (GRNA), is the chance to watch, firsthand, the changes that mark the shift in seasons. In the stories that follow, you’ll see how through year-round programing, our staff provide YOU, our users, opportunities to connect on a personal level with our changing world.

Read about programs that, no matter the participant’s age, inspire appreciation for the magic found in nature. Learn about ways in

which we are addressing changes to our landscape, and specifically to the Grass River, caused by a warming climate. And catch up on exciting new projects like the development of a natural playground and the boardwalk reconstruction. I hope you connect to the stories and images within this report and are inspired to learn more.

The cycle of the seasons brings new opportunities to appreciate the wonders in nature. I invite you to continue (or perhaps, begin) your journey with a visit to GRNA, in any season! After all, it is YOURS TO EXPLORE. YOURS TO PROTECT.

Happy Exploring!

Jenn Wright Executive Director

GROWING THROUGH EDUCATION

In 2023, GRNA experienced a revitalization in field trips, welcoming over 880 students for educational experiences throughout the winter, spring, and fall seasons. These trips provided invaluable hands-on learning opportunities, linking classroom studies with real-world exploration of the natural environment. Particularly noteworthy was the inclusion of preschool and lower elementary students, many of whom experienced their first-ever field trip, fostering a deeper connection to their local ecosystems.

Summer camp remained a highlight, with 60 excited campers engaged in a variety of activities over four weeks. A partnership with NMC Extended Education for College for Kids Camp at the VASA Trails expanded outreach, drawing an additional 27 campers. These program provided immersive experiences, fostering lasting memories and deep connections with nature.

Kayak tours on Grass River saw continued growth, accommodating over 120 participants for over 300 hours on the water through guided tours and self-guided rentals. These on-the-water experiences provide a unique perspective and expand our trail system to include the Chain of Lakes Water Trail. Accessibility enhancements, as part of the 2024 boardwalk reconstruction, will bring a new

universally accessible kayak launch and ADA boardwalks from the Grass River Center to the dock.

Partnerships with Birdsfoot Native Nursery and the Wildflower Association of Michigan facilitated the distribution of nearly 3,000 native plants and the enhancement of native gardens at the Grass River Center. Fundraisers such as the native tree Earth Day event at Ethanology and the Stewardship Day seeding of eco-grass at the center’s entrance further promoted environmental stewardship and beautification efforts.

The continuation of popular events and programs ensured ongoing community engagement. Events like the Grass River Shiver snowshoe race, MapleFest, Earth Week, AutumnFest, Wild Turkey Trot 5k, and Lighting of the Bridges drew enthusiastic participation and positive feedback. Additionally, recurring programs such as lantern-lit evenings, maple tapping, mushrooming, and owl prowls continued to captivate audiences.

These efforts reflect our dedication to fostering environmental education and community engagement within Northwest Michigan.

“Thank you so much for another stellar field trip for our 2nd graders! We appreciate how wellorganized, professional, and patient your naturalists are! Even the chaperones and teachers learn something new each year and many are eager to return with their families.” – Teacher

ROOTED IN CONSERVATION

Our conservation program achieved significant milestones with important initiatives throughout 2023, furthering our efforts towards stewardship and community engagement.

The development of the Grass River Adaptive Management Plan reached a pivotal stage, with EGLE’s official approval in September. This comprehensive plan, informed by stakeholder input, geo-database analysis, and alignment with the Elk River Chain of Lakes Watershed Management Plan, sets forth goals and strategies to enhance the health of the river and its subwatersheds. The plan will guide our conservation strategy and direction through the next decade, and implementation is already underway.

Implementing the fen monitoring project, GRNA began surveys to assess threats and characterize the ecological integrity of fen habitats. Progress in surveying two out of five fen units in 2023 contributes to a comprehensive understanding of these critical ecosystems, guiding our conservation efforts.

Our stream monitoring efforts, now running for 10 consecutive years, yielded promising results, with all four sites along Cold Creek demonstrating “very good” water quality scores. Despite the detection of New Zealand mudsnails downstream, ongoing monitoring ensures timely intervention and conservation efforts in collaboration with relevant agencies.

Volunteer-driven vernal pool monitoring revealed stable reproductive activity among amphibian species, with evidence of wood frog and spotted salamander breeding observed across GRNA’s five monitored vernal pools. These findings underscore the importance of wetland habitat preservation and monitoring in safeguarding biodiversity.

A Paddle Antrim Ripple Effect mini-grant enabled GRNA to certify a staff member as a pesticide applicator, ensuring compliance with state regulations for invasive plant management. Bringing this skill in-house reinforces GRNA’s commitment to sustainable land management practices.

All of these projects marked significant progress in management, research, and community partnerships, reflecting GRNA’s mission of conserving GRNA’s significant natural communities and fostering environmental stewardship.

STEWARDSHIP IN ACTION

Our stewardship efforts in 2023 saw a significant increase in volunteer participation, marking a notable 40% rise in volunteer hours. This surge was primarily driven by ongoing volunteer contributions to our new Natural Playground designs and site preparation. This new space, located behind the Grass River Center, will invite families to play and explore in a variety of natural playscapes. Look for these exciting additions to begin in summer of 2024.

Infrastructure improvements were evident with the resurfacing of Center walkways using ADA-approved limestone dust, ensuring accessibility from the main parking lot to the Grass River Center. Volunteers and KBK Construction also collaborated to prepare and construct a new trail connecting the Center to the Sedge Meadow boardwalk in the fall, enhancing the visitor experience with a more direct and accessible connector to the boardwalk. This new trail will connect to the new boardwalk construction that will begin in 2024, creating a fully accessible link to the Grass River.

Planting of eco-grass seed on the Center’s front lawn promoted environmentally friendly landscaping practices. Additionally, the volunteer gardening team kick-started the spring season by transplanting various native plants like butterfly weed, asters, goldenrods, and ironweed throughout our native gardens.

Operational efficiency received a boost with updates of our geothermal heat pumps and the acquisition of a newer snowmobile through a generous donation, replacing an aging Skidoo for winter trail grooming.

Overall, 2023 showcased increased volunteer engagement and infrastructure enhancements reinforcing our stewardship of this important natural area.

RECOGNIZING OUR DONORS

YOU ARE APPRECIATED. THANK YOU!

We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of this list. If you notice any errors, please accept our sincerest apologies, and our invitation to lunch! Contact us at 231-533-8314 or email

Laurie Boccia at Laurie@grassriver.org.

LEGACY SOCIETY

Anonymous (2)

Dr. Doug and Sr. Mary Brothers

James Dole

Stan & Betsy Dole

Lucy Dueck

Bob & Sue Holtzmann

Sharon Joy

David & Maureen Latanick

Ray & Nancy Ludwa

Mike Moquin & Julia Spalding

Erik & Elizabeth Rasmussen

Mary Richards

John Ross, Jr.

Dottie Schaefer

Colette Stanish

Warren Studley & Barbara Smith

Kjell Svensson & Sue Haadsma-

Svensson

HERON SUSTAINER ($1,500+)

Anonymous (2)

Brigitte Anderson

Richard & Susan Bingham

Norton & Mary Lee Bretz

Kevin Celarek

Cherry Republic

Chris & Merrie Corbett

Jim & Meg Costello

Sally DeLange

Stan & Betsy Dole

Dole Family Foundation

Karen Franseen

Lawrence & Marilyn Gawne

Warren & Mary Gilbert

Rich & Anna Hannan

Dennis Harrell

Jim & Catherine Hook

Huntington Family

Illinois Tool Works Foundation

Tom & Bette Irwin

Pat & Sue Kelly

Philip & Sarah LeMessurier

Ray & Nancy Ludwa

Karen Maccracken

Thomas & Wendy Miller

Elizabeth Oliver

Charles & Robyn Polzin

Tim & Susan Rapinchuk

Louise & David Schraa

Sue Schuler

Deanna & George Seifried

Sue Haadsma-Svensson & Kjell

Svensson

Charles & Chris Ward

EAGLE SUSTAINER ($500 - $1,499)

Anonymous (2)

Kathrine Amerman & John Vogel

Garnett Anderson

Karen Andrews

Melynda Bagley & Dale Claudepierre

Tom & Ellen Baird

Bob & Priscilla Baker

Kenneth Beck

Richard & Elizabeth Bellingham

Essie Blackburn

Dana Boals

Laurie & David Boccia

Debbie & Rod Bosma

Alfred Brothers

Gary & Lisa Buczkowski

Ms. Carolyn Burke & Mr. Ric Cicone

Pete Byron

Mary Campbell & John Larch

Albert Cash

Tom Cavalier & Cecille Lindgren

Mark & Susan Cetnar

Dan & Linda Cline

Al & Becky Conn

Bill & Paula Cordes

Katherine & Jack DiClaudio

Mike & Rhea Dow

Joe & Debbie Eggleston

Virginia & John Erb Family Foundation

John & Gina Erb

Ina Fernandez & Joseph Berkowski

Harriet Field

Mr. Michael & Ms. Mary Foley

Laura Franseen & Norman Kjome

Lauri Frederick

Lauri Frederick

Mary Frost

Jim & Lucy Gerlach

Mary Glidden

Robert & Sheridan Haack

Dan & Karen Hess

Tim Hildreth

Donald Hirt & Lisa Hall

Charlie & B.J. Holton

Matthew Howell & Julie Wagner

Mr. Jim & Mrs. Diana Huckle

Al & Julie Hurd

Bruce & Robin Insalaco

Randy & Bonnie Johnson

Norm & Judy Jones

Jim & Amy Keane

Bob & Mary Keedy

Matthew & Deborah Knudstrup

Gerald & Patricia Kolb

Jayme Lahut & Katherine Robinson

David & Maureen Latanick

Mark & Kathrine Lefanowicz

Ray Loeschner

Robert & Norma Lyon

Graham & Peggy Martin

Dick & Diana Milock

Susie Nagel

John D. & Barbara O’Hair

Linda Oxford

Russell Price

Hal & Julie Raupp

Dave & Sue Reck

Molly & David Schneider

M.K. & Janice Simpson

Stacy & Alan Sollenberger

Steve & Judy Springsdorf

Marty Swanson & Doriann MacGillivray

Ralph & Barbara Thayer

Traverse City Horse Shows, LLC

Laura VanVlack

Todd & Pam Vitaz

Thomas & Cottie Volle

Dorothy Wierman

Betsy Willis

Woody Wright

LOON ($150 - $499)

Anonymous (4)

Kirk Acharya

Dan & Julie Anderson

Gary & Myra Andrews

Sharon Bacon

Butch & Liz Bartz

Walter Baughman

Herwig & Vickie Baumann

Ken Beeby

Bellaire Conservation Club

Jessica Bellinder & Brian Arthur

Mrs. Diane Bengtson

Benjamin Benner

Jack & Birdell Berry

Kenneth Bloem & Royce Ragland

Catherine Boardman

Daniel & Patricia Bober

Joseph Boner

Patricia Bouck

Richard & LeAnn Burdette

Jim & Nancy Campbell

Kevin & Anne Case

David & Ann Catlin

David & Eunsook Christian

Kim Clarke

Gillian Cobb Niemisto & Sean Niemisto

Christopher & Martie Conner

Alison Corrigan

Patrick & Judith Corso

Johanna Cressy

Melvin & Mary Ann Czechowski

James & Lauren Dake

Mags Dillon

Amy Dirosa

Gary & Peggy Doty

Ken & Claudia Drake

Grant & Vicki Duley

Debbie & Mark Eberly

Brian & Lindsay Eggers

Rick Ericksen

Pam & Bill Esterline

Mr. Carl Strebel & Mr. Fred Farage

Paul & Charlene Fitzpatrick

Paul & Mari

Frost

Mike & Carolyn Galsterer

Dr. Richard & Connie Garcia

Mandy Garver & Allen Wolf

Tom & Sandra George

Alexander & Marilyn Gibbs

Jeanette Gillespie

Don & Judy Goodrich

Sharon Gunn

Robert & Elaine Hameister

Larry & Barbara Hamilton

LeAnne Hamilton

David & Ellen Hansz

Meribeth Hiestand

Robert Hockenberger

Priscilla Horton

R. Craig & Ginger Hupp

Rich & Shannon Isaacson

Gert & Ron Jacobson

Mary Janik

Bradley Jensen & Rebecca Benson

Andrew Jester

Natalie Johnson

Richard Karow

Larry & Kay King

Robert & Karen Kingon

M. Kathleen Klosterman

Gary & Sue Knapp

Janet & Mike Kronk

Michael Lajiness

Eileen Larsen

Brian & Susan Larson

Connie Laufersky

Mindy Lewin

Andrew & Kathy Lightbody

Robert & Susan Lockwood

John & Catherine Loomis

Robert & Sheryl Lorenz

Lorraine Lund

Law Firm Lynch Law

Anne Magoun

Mike & Lucy Mang

Henry & Connie Mast

David Mathews

Lucy McArtor

Lucy McArtor

Deb McGee

Eldon & Kathy McPherson

Jill Meyer

Dan Mielke

Anne Miller

Brooke Minore

Brooke Minore

Jay Mittner & Christina Torres

John & Vicki Moseley

Patrick & Christine Muldoon

Gerald Nester

Norm & Ann Neuenschwander

Richard & Vickilyn Olsafsky

Oryana Natural Foods Market

Rachel Payne

Dr. Ralph Pearlman & Karen Swanson

Kat (Katherine) Polmear

Robert Probst

Lisa Pysher

Bob & Kay Rankin

Erik & Elizabeth Rasmussen

Kendra Rasner

Chris Richter

Alexander & Patricia Robinson

Penny Rogers-Geresy

Julie Ruma & Brian Scallen

Blain & Bridget Russell

Paul & Lori Sak

Mary Ann Schaefer

Claudia Baidas Schwartz

Robert & Kathryn Schwert

Jim Sington & Susan Murdock

Laura Smith

Janet Stahl

Gregory & Kerry Steck

Richard & Nancy Thompson

Townline Ciderworks

Kim VanBuren

David Varga & Barbara Van Pelt

Don & Susan Venburg

David & Tammy Walsh

William & Dorothy O’Donnell

Jim & Gera Witte

Jennifer & Dougg Wright

BLUEBIRD ($51 - $149)

Anonymous (10)

Patricia Avery

Robert & Yolanda Ayala

Michael & Kathleen (KC) Babb

Jan & Cheryl Bachman

David & Carole Baker

Mr. and Mrs. Bob Barron

Amber Becker

G Craig & Claudia Becker

Jean Bedell & Judd Fuller

Richard & Karlane Belaire

Ms. Jan Rocker

Charles Bingham

Frances & Ken Bluhm

Earl Bogrow & Julie Upp

Gary & Linda Bokerman

James & Norma Bour

Gordon & Kathleen Bradford

Priscilla Brehe-Pixler & Bill Pixler

Gregory Brooks

Veta and David Brooks

Gary & Linnea Brunk

Robert & Linda Bryson

Alison Burdick

Terence & Maria Burfiend

Emily Burke & Andrew Moore

Steve & Chris Burke

Jennifer & Dan Byce

Gary Cardwell

Donald Chakeres

Gary Chenoweth

Michelle & Vince Chiara

Shelby Clark

Cindy Collins

Todd Collins

John Colquhoun

Dave & Diane Comfort

Peg & Tom Comfort

Ransom Comfort

Glenn & Susan Cook

Anne Costello & Mike Wallace

Elodie Crawford

James and Ann Crawford

Leon & Pat Crossman

Art Curtis

JoAnne Dawson

Fred Dery

Dale Devries

Marie Dieudonne

Deb Dingus & David Chapman

Bruce & Marilyn Dodds

James & Debbie Donaldson

Linda Douglas & Kevin Lester

Beth Dowling

Tom & Tammy Eckhardt

Elk Rapids Garden Club

Chuck Ellinwood

Doug & Judy Ettema

Jim & Terry Ferguson

Kari & Jim Fisher

George & Alex Fogel

Steven & Sallie Foley

Lisa Franseen

Matt & Terri

Franzen

Norm & Mary Anne Frey

William & Constance Frey

Salomon Gabrielle

Andrew German

Seth Gernot & Rebecca Rankin

Tom & Peggy Gielda

R. Catherine Giguere

Dean & Sharon Ginther

Roberta & Joseph Goergen

Arlene Gorelick

Jan Gottschalk

Ed & Sandy Gourley

Mary Green

Laurence & Michelle Grewe

Mike & Kathe Gruber

Evelyn & Peter Gryson

Chris & Alise Hale

Nancy Hamlin

Ted & Jeanne Hammond

Dale Hanson

Mike & Fran Harmon

David Harmony

Judith Heffron

Mary Hensel

Mary Jo & Daniel Hickey

Douglass & Marquerite Hickman

Arthur & Carol Hoadley

Steve & Rachel Hoadley

Charles & Susan Holmes

Richard & Beth Hubbell

Lauren Hucek & Nick Beadleston

David Hulefeld

Intermediate Lake Association

Joachim Janecke

Melanie Jaramillo

Paula Johnson

Kenneth & Dagmar Jones

Juniper Garden Club

Tom & Sarah Juntune

F Kamminga

Chris & Julia Keller

Karen Kerrigan

Annie Kiermaier

Erin King

J. Keller Kirby & Nancy Keller

Char Kirchner & Lewis Kirchner, Jr.

Ellie, Tom & Gwen Kirkpatrick

Bill & Debbie Kitchin

Jon & Janet Koch

Geraldine Koesters

Peter & Mera Kohler

Ken Kohlman

Michael Koryto & Jo Ann Merrick

Sanford & Ellen Kossek

Jeff Kroeger

Cammie & Don Kurowski

Gregory Lake

Hayley Lamb

John Patrick Lambert

Mike & Helen Lambert

Steven Laurenz

Ellen & Douglas Law

Jim & Margaret Lawrence

Theresa & Mark Lemke

Carmen & Greg Leschuk

Elise Levasseur

Kirk & Connie Lignell

Barbara Lockrey

Robert Logee

Janet Loveland

Diane Lowes

Kendra Luta & Kevin Carroll

Tonya Lutz

Abigail Maat

Tricia Mack

Stewart & Connie Maggrett

Andrew Malone & Sarah Garcia

Rebecca Mang & Homer Nye

Jennifer Margraf

Stephanie Marianos

Ken & Kathy Masck

Rick & Joan McCarren

Donald & Brenda McClellan

Restoration Services of Michigan

McClellan

Hugh & Karen McDiarmid

Jan McNish & Al Bliss

Alan & Rose Mikesell

Carol & Edward Miller

Steve & Kathleen Miller

Susan Miller

Virginia Miller

Hank & Peggy Moczul

Hank & Peggy Moczul

Thomas & Olga Moeller

Annie & Chuck Moeser

Buck & Cathy Montgomery

Bruce Moore

Tim Morin

Chandra & Douglas Morse

John & Deborah Morse

Sean & Amy Muldoon

Larry & Jeanne Muzzo

Roberta M Mylan

Nancy & Henry Nabors

Doug & Dale Neuenschwander

Caryn Nienhouse

Molly Jo Noland

Rebecca Norris

Michael Oakes

Gwen Owen

Daniel & Jill Packer

Ann Parris

Virginia Pear

Larry & Sarah Peck

Dave & Kate Petrick

Sheila Pettersen

Gary & Lyn Petty

Ray & Jan Pezzi

Cliff & Cherie Pixler

Nancy Podurgiel

Patricia Pokay & Linda Grandstaff

George & Nancy Powell

The Pyle Foundation

Lisa & David Rabaduex

Helen Raica-Klotz & Steve Klotz

Don and Renee Fedrigon

Matthew Read & Tracy Zeman

Jerry & Connie Rehage

Mary Ann Reynolds

James Ribby

Helen & Bonita Richards

Mary Richards

Suzanne Ring

Ron & Nancy Ritsema

Jim Robertson

Jim & Amanda Roble

Jan Rocker

Bob & Nancy Rodriguez

Tom & Vickie Ross

Bill & Lucinda Ruesink

Cecilia Schaefer-Mysliwiec

Paul & Mikkie Schemanski

Craig & Peggy Schmidt

Bob Schmitt

John & Liz Schneider

Sylvia Schonauer-Kalchik

Theresa Schurman

Max & Ann Schwandt

Alfred & Alice Seaman

Judie Sharar

Carolyn Sherwood

Tom & Pam Siegenthaler

Frederick & Susan Sittel

Carolyn Smith

Doug & Jude Smith

Katherine Smith

Samuel & Veronica Smith

Bob & Jill Spencer

Catherine Stark

Gary & Jane Stauffer

Barb Stefkovich

Monica, Niles & Mila Stelkic

Yvonne Stephens

Derek & Olga Stine

Teresa & Russell Stites

Christian & Anja Stoldt

Bob & Kathy Strehl

Judy Strickland

Anne & Todd Sutton

Salo & Jane Suwalsky

David Swanson

Jim Taup

James Templin, Jr.

Mary Ellen & Kenneth Terrell

William & Mary Thauvette

Brian Thelen & Lisa Thauvette

Richard & Judith Thoma

Edi Thomas

Randy & Sue Thomas

Carol Thompson

James Toussaint

Dave & Karen Tubolino

Anita Udin

David Unger

Debbie Vander & Joanne Scherf

Beth Varty

Desiree Vaughn

Thomas & Susan Verellen

John & Diane Verploegh

Pauline & Pete Viall

Fred & Ellen Vonalt

Bruce Wagner

Kent & Suzanne Walker

Christine Walton

Michael Walton

Kari & Kyle Walworth

Michael & Linda Warner

Ms. Margaret Weeber

Nancy Weese

Pam Weisler

Peter & Ann Wendling

John & Louise Wenzel

Arlene Westhoven

Ellen Whitehead

Ted & Joy Whittlesey

Robert & Barbara Widmer

WARBLER ($1 - $49)

Anonymous (1)

Barb Anderson

Terry Baumann

Ruth Ann Beasley

Daniel & Heather Beem

Guy Bowman

Evan Brummett

Chris Campbell

Rex Castle

Maribeth Condon

John Cooper

William Copeland

Steve & Cheryl Cowherd

John & Pat Curtis

Greg Dobbrastine

Joshua & Katy Dobrowitsky

Jan Douglas

Roberta Dow

Lucy Dueck

Diane & Robin Edgington

Tamurla Fletcher

Dan & Sheila Fox

Tim & Linda Fox

Christine Frary

Bob & Kelly Ferguson

Bob Geiger & Amy Taylor

James & Sheri Greenhoe

William Griffis

Dennis & Anita Harrand

Richard Hasbany

Steve & Diana Howard

Melissa Hubbell

Patrick & Margaret Hudson

Dirk & Melanie Huttenga

Philip & Catherine Jarvi

Jordan Valley Glassworks, INC.

Kip Knight

Kate Knudsen

Rosemary Kornacki

Daniel Lantis

Mike & Karen Lee

Charles & Virginia McCord

Marellene Morrell

Harold Muzzi

Rachel Nelson

Dick & Sondra Nordin

Bonnie Oberg

Ron & Sue Osgood

Judy Owen

Ruth Owens

Steve Pier

Maryann Porter

Janis Priebe

Jennifer Reid

Robert Reider & Susan McCraven

Terri Reisig

Michael & Sharon Root

Dan & Jan Ross

Howard & Jeannie Schwartz

Donald & Jean Seman

Heidi Shaffer

Shirley Shane

Karen Short

Tom & Susie Shultz

Brook & Jean Smith

Maggie Smith

Trisha Smrecak

Zachary Stewart

Marilyn Strader

Dorothy Szramski

Fred & Lisa Taylor

Mary Thomas

Lori Thorpe

Torch Area Artisans Guild

Christine VanTongeren

Steven Veatch

Joe & Ginny Viola

Nancy Wardwell

Amelia Wilks

Irvin Wolfson & Brenda Forbrig Wolfson

John & Denise Wong

Rick & Julie Woods

Ricky Woods

Chris Zaremba

James Zaremba

Mike & Marie Zeller

GRANTS AND FOUNDATIONS

Benevity Community Impact Fund

Boccia Family Foundation

Dole Family Foundation

Virginia & John Erb Family Foundation

Google - Matching Gifts

Grand Traverse Regional Comm. Foundation

Great Lakes Commission - MICORP

Herrington-Fitch Family Foundation

Hildreth Family Fund

Johnson & Johnson - Matching Gifts

Shell Oil Company FoundationMatching Gifts

S. L. Hickman Family Foundation

Worthington Family Foundation

BUSINESSES AND ORGANIZATIONS

Amazon

Antrim County

Antrim Women’s Alliance

Bellaire Ladies Literary Club

Barron Properties LTD Partnership

Bellaire Conservation Club

Benevity Community Impact Fund

Cherry Republic

Elk Rapids Garden Club

Intermediate Lake Association

Jordan Valley Glassworks, INC.

Juniper Garden Club

Network for Good

Re/Max of Elk Rapids

Torch Area Artisans Guild

Townline Ciderworks

SPONSORSHIPS

4Front Federal Credit Union

Alden State Bank

Aster Brands

Desmond Liggett Wealth Advisors

Dewey Insurance Agency, INC

Dockside - Torch Lake

Fischer Insurance Agency, Inc.

Old Mission Investment and Trust

Pelican Family

Shanty Creek Resorts

Short’s Brewing Company

The Chiropractic Center PLC

IN-KIND DONORS

A Matter of Taste at Tapawingo

Adams Madams

AfterEffect

Alden’s Mill House

Alden Muffin Tin

Alden Outfitters

Daryl Allison-Busch

American Spoon

Applesauce Inn Bed & Breakfast

Art & Connection

Bachmann’s Store

Robert & Char Barko

Bayfront Beach & Bike

Becky Thatcher Designs

Bellaire Bar & Restaurant

Bellaire Blooms Cut Flowers

Bellaire Hardware

Bellaire Smokehouse

Bergstrom Burgers

Maddie Birgy

Blue Heron Gallery

Brownwood Acres

Carolyn Burke & Ric Cicone

Emily Burke

Carter’s Candles

Cellar 152

Cellar 1914

Anne Costello & Mike Wallace

Jim & Meg Costello

James Dake

Dani Davis

Daybreak Dream Farm

Anne Drake

Carolyn Ebbinghaus

Debbie & Mark Eberly

Ethanology

Kari & Jim Fisher

Friends of Glacial Hills

Fudgees

Grace of Alden

Great Lakes International Trading, Inc.

Richard Gunsch

Todd & Jane Gyulveszi

Happy Camper Coffee

Ingrid & Daniel Henderlight

Hidden in the Mitten

Bob & Sue Holtzmann

Jim & Catherine Hook

Julie Hurd

Jordan Valley Outfitters

Incredible Mo’s

Interlochen Public Radio

King Orchards

Christopher Lamb

Angie Les

Little Red’s Ice Cream

Little Treasures Toy and Gift

M88 Morning Grind

Meijer

Mindful Yoga

Miner’s North Jewelers

Jay Mittner & Christina Torres

Theresa Moore

My Michigan Roots

Native and North

Kathleen Newman

Old Town Playhouse

Oryana Natural Foods Market

Oviatt House Bed & Breadfast

Paddle Antrim

Paddles and Pedals

Pearl’s Restaurant (Magnum

Hospitality)

Revive Salon & Spa

Roast & Toast - Coffee & Café

Ruthann’s Gourmet Bakery

Julie & Robert Schulte

Fern Sexton

Shanty Creek Resorts

Short’s Brewing Company

Silly Sister’s Pottery

Stafford’s Perry Hotel

Stone Waters Inn

TC Paintball

Terrain Restaurant

The 45th Apparel LLC

The Flour Pot Bakery & Coffeeshop

The Flying Pig

The Inn at Breezy Hill Farm

The Pear Tree

Torch Lake Beer Company

Trendz

Twisted Fish Gallery, LLC

Two Hoots Studio

Gene & Victoria Utke

Barbara Van Pelt

Vista Ridge Vineyards

Mike Wallace

Waterfire Vineyards

Waterside Wellness

WCMU Public Broadcasting Network

Weedpatch

Arlene Westhoven

Wheels on Rails

Whistling Frog Tile Company

Wildflower Soapworks

Betsy Willis

Wine Guys Restaurant Group

Jenn Wright

Yoga Flow

IN HONOR OF

Dick and Shirley Chapman

Jim & Meg Costello

Meg Costello

Noki & Flach Douglas

Bill Fleet

Garcia Family

Germaine Holton

Julie Hurd

Jester Family

Dean Johnson

Philip LeMessurier

Mindy Lewin

Bob Logee on his 72nd Birthday

Jessie Lutz

Mike McCann

Jean McCormick’s 70th Birthday

David McGee

Rose Mikesell

Susie and Don Miller

Robyn and Charlie Polzin

Kat Polmear and Dino Pizzino

Tom Ruma

Sue Schuler

The Stroud Kids

Kevin Szczepaniak’s Birthday

Sue Thomas’ Birthday

Sue & Randy Thomas’ wedding anniversary

IN MEMORY OF

Robert Allen

Chris Anderson

Thomas P. Anderson

Barry J. Andrews

Louise Harding Adams

Barry J. Andrews

Burt & Vera Bartz

Shelley Seip Beeby

SN Nathan Beem, USCG

Jay Berry

Justin Beutel

Robert Bigler

Birch

Anne Bodnar

Dr. & Mrs. Robert Bogue

Robert & Charlotte Bogue

Bruce & Genevieve Bort

Gloria Brander

Robert W. Brooks

Dr. Mary E. Brothers

George & Faith Bushnell

Walt & Mavis Cain

Shannon Flynn Celarek

Benny Collins

Gene Dawson

Paul & Virginia DeLange

John L. Eberly

John R. & Vaneta Sue Eddy

James Fair

Dave Falvay

Richard & Beverly Fogo

Mark Frank

Leonard “Len” Franseen

William E. “Bill” Frost

Kathy Garwood

Nancy Gehringer

Larry Geresy

Linda J. Gilbert

Nancy Hanson

Marilyn Harding

Rich Harding

Lorna Petty Harrell

Ed & Mary Hayes

Marge Hefner

Richard Hoadley

Carol Hockenberger

Priscilla Hirt

Huck

Dean & Margie Johnson

Tina Lantis

Jerry Lapides

Eric Larson

Karl & Jane Larson

Karyl Lessard

R. D. “Otis” Martin

Jerry McDonald

Rosalie Graham McGee

Darrell Mitchell

Moose & Rusty

John R. “Bob” Neeley

Ruth & Nancy North

Walter & Helen O-Hair

Roy John Oliver

Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Packard

Anna Patti

Melvin Porter

Kent Reynolds

Ruby, our snake

Linda Rudd

Richard “Dick” Ruppenthal

Eric Sandenburgh

Bill & Barbara Schaefer

Esther Ann Schlueter

Lloyd & Mildred Sherwood

Mitchell Simpson Sr.

Deborah Southworth

Carl E. Stahl

Jacqueline C. Stahl

John R. Stahl

Jean Stanford

Robert Stanton

Jayson Szramski

Amy G. Taylor

Lauralyn Theodore

Paul Vonalt

Lila Wilson, GRNA Volunteer

UP AND COMING: MARK YOUR CALENDARS

SPRING FLING AT DOCKSIDE

TUESDAY MAY 7, 2024 - 5-9 PM

There is no easier way to support Grass River Natural Area than enjoying food and drinks on the beautiful shores of Torch Lake. Join us at The Dockside south of Bellaire on Tuesday, May 7th from 5 pm to 9 pm where 50% of all food and drink proceeds benefit GRNA. Enjoy great food with wonderful people in a relaxing environment all while supporting a great organization.

SPRING STREAM MONITORING

SATURDAY MAY 11, 8AM

Location: Grass River Center and sampling on Shanty Creek

As part of our Adaptive Management Plan, Grass River Natural Area conducts stream monitoring surveys twice a year. We rotate amongst the three creeks each year, and this year is Shanty Creek! This is a great way to better understand our watershed, and the biodiversity within it. This opportunity does require you to attend a training session. If you’d like to register for this volunteer opportunity, email the Conservation Director at sean@grassriver.org.

SPRING STEWARDSHIP DAY

SATURDAY MAY 18, 2024 - 9AM

As spring rains are falling and flower buds begin emerging, it is time to join in the spring cleaning at GRNA! Trail grooming, garden weeding, and window shining are a few of the many tasks for freshening up our grounds and Center in preparation for summer. No experience is necessary, just a pair of gloves, a “spring” in your step, and an open spirit. Pre-registration is encouraged - email Brian at stewardship@grassriver.org.

KAYAK GRASS RIVER

FIRST TOUR IS

TUESDAY JUNE 4, 2024 - 9:30AM TOURS CONTINUE THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER

$45 per person - includes tour, kayak, PFD, and paddle for each participant There is no better way to experience Grass River than by paddling its calm waters and enjoying its unique wildlife! On these morning guided tours, visitors explore Grass River by kayak and find out about GRNA’s conservation efforts, wetland plants, and wildlife. Adults and Teens Only. Limited to small groups, must pre-register. Call GRNA to register: 231-492-8793, or email james@ grassriver.org. This program meets at the Grass River Center and then walks to the dock to launch kayaks. Kayaks and paddles are provided and ready for you at the dock.

WILD ORCHID WALK

FRIDAY JUNE 7, 2024 - 10AM

$15 per person, must pre-register

Join Education Director James Dake in an exclusive presentation and off-trail expedition to see rare orchids and other amazing plants, like carnivorous pitcher plants and sundews, in lesser known areas of GRNA. Limited space. Must be able to hike on uneven and wet/muddy terrain for the outdoor portion. Wearing muck boots is highly recommended, as the places we go will be very wet. This program meets at the Grass River Center.

SAVE THE DATE FOR RIVERFEST!

THURSDAY AUGUST 15

Riverfest celebrates all we have accomplished over the last year and raises funds to support our important work to conserve and protect this special place. The evening will include a strolling dinner, music, live auction, an update from our Executive Director, and lots of fun and laughter. You don’t want to miss this special evening! More details to follow soon.

For a full listing of events visit www.grassriver.org.

TREASURER’S REPORT

By Mindy Lewin

Grass River Natural Area thanks its many supporters, public agencies, foundations, and business partners for continuing to provide the necessary resources that sustain our efforts to achieve our mission. As noted in the charts and graphs below, we continue to diversify our revenue sources while also being mindful of the ways in which we spend our dollars. The growth in our net assets over the last five years allows for necessary improvements in aging infrastructure as well as future financial stability.

Note: These figures represent unaudited financial information for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2023.

EXPENSES REVENUE

PO Box 231 Bellaire, MI 49615

www.grassriver.org

MISSION: To manage the Grass River Natural Area, conserve and protect its watershed, and provide opportunities that increase knowledge, appreciation, and community-wide stewardship of the natural environment.