Environmental enthusiasts - whose interests run the gamut from identifying creatures caught in Grand Traverse Bay to promoting ways to save birds through natural habitat - came together Saturday at Nature North III to promote awareness of northern Michigan's natural resources.
The event, sponsored by the Northern Michigan Conservation and Wildlife Alliance, offered a variety of informational programs including a presentation about Michigan's wetland creatures, given by Michigan United Conservation Clubs.
"We've tried to offer more interesting programs this year. This wetland's program is top notch,” said Kay Charter, executive director of Saving Birds Thru Habitat and organizer of the Nature North program.
Rebecca Lessard of Wings of Wonder presented her raptor program followed by TV 9&10 News chief meteorologist David Barrons who led a forum on global warming entitled "The Weather Machine
University's Grand Traverse County Extension office, was also on hand to offer a presentation on butterflies.
Throughout the day, Plant It Wild sold rescued native plants from the site of newly created hiking and biking trails.
"We are trying to get people to think about the connection between native plants and the animal population,” said group member Anne Kaminski.
"Native plants are so carefree and beautiful, providing much needed shelter for animals and birds,” she added.
Karen Schmidt, of The Botanical Garden Society of Northwest Michigan, shares Kaminski's efforts to promote the use of native plants.
"We plan to use wildflowers and native plants in the new location of our Botanic Garden,” said Schmidt, noting that the Society is working to establish a garden on the state hospital barns site.