Michigan Park Invites Volunteers to Restore Dunes Habitat

A Michigan state park is opening its gates to everyday people who want to make a real difference in their local environment.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is hosting a free volunteer event at Saugatuck Dunes State Park on February 22. From 10 a.m. to noon, anyone can join natural resource steward Tyler Lidgard to learn how to identify and remove invasive shrubs threatening the park's dune and prairie ecosystems.

The timing isn't random. Winter actually offers the perfect conditions for this conservation work.

"Wintertime is actually a wonderful time to tackle invasives for a few reasons," Lidgard explained. The sparse vegetation makes it easier to spot and reach woody invasive species that hide during lusher seasons.

There's a scientific advantage too. Treating invasive shrubs with herbicide works better in winter because plants naturally store energy in their roots during cold months. That means the treatment reaches deeper and stops regrowth more effectively.

Why This Inspires

This event represents something bigger than pulling a few shrubs. It's about everyday people taking ownership of the natural spaces they love.

No special skills required. No expensive equipment to buy. The park provides all the tools, and volunteers just need to dress warmly and show up ready to learn.

These hands-on conservation days transform abstract environmental concerns into tangible action anyone can take. Participants leave knowing they've directly protected habitat for native plants and wildlife while gaining skills they can use anywhere invasive species threaten local ecosystems.

The event takes place at 6575 138th Ave. in Laketown Township. Interested volunteers can register by emailing lidgardt@michigan.gov.

One morning of work will help Michigan's dunes thrive for generations to come.