Are you curious about what is going on in the conservation world in Kalkaska County? This is your chance to find out! Join us for a day of discovery and appreciation for the delicate balance between human activity and the preservation of our natural resources.

On May 11, we will be ‘touring’ Kalkaska County to see three different areas of conservation: a working farm, a wetland, and an active logging site.

Our first stop on the tour will be the Kalkaska School Forest. We will take a walk through the forest while talking about the importance of wetlands and forest ecology.

Next, we will head to Iott Seed Farm. There, we will learn about their operation and how they successfully grow 25 million pounds of potatoes every year while staying mindful about our environment. We will tour both the field to see the planting process and the storage facility. Lunch will be provided at Iott’s.

Finally, we will go to an active logging site. Sam Fahl, owner of Fahl forest products, will teach us why logging is necessary and how to do it responsibly. Witness firsthand how forestry management can be environmentally sensitive, ensuring the preservation of our forests for future generations.

This event will be taking place outside, rain or shine. In the event of severe weather, we will reschedule. Please dress accordingly and wear comfortable closed-toe shoes as we will be around heavy machinery.

Don't miss this chance to deepen your connection with the environment and gain a new perspective on the intersection of conservation and everyday activities.

RSVP’s are required by Monday, May 6. A registration cost of $10 includes transportation to all locations, lunch, and a full day of learning.

We will leave the Municipal Lot (across from the KCD office) at 10:00 am and be dropped back off by 3:15 pm. Please arrive to the parking lot at least 10 minutes early to get sign in and load the bus.

Registration can be done online (below) or by calling the KCD office at 231-258-3307. You may also email sarah.schroeder@macd.org. A final headcount is due by Monday, May 6th.