New perspectives: Understanding ecological restoration while on the water
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EmailConservation Stewards Program participants from Macomb County kayaked the Clinton River Spillway to experience ecological restoration projects up close.
On a sunny mid-September morning, I prepared to lead a group of 18 Michigan State University Extension Conservation Stewards participants on an educational kayak trip on the Clinton River Spillway in Harrison Township in Macomb County.
The MSU Extension Conservation Stewards Program (CSP) is an adult educational course designed for those who are enthusiastic about learning science-based ecosystem management principles and sharing this knowledge with others to help improve their local communities. There had never been a kayaking trip as part of the course, and although I have kayaked for over 30 years, I had never led a group trip. Additionally, there were some first-time kayakers.
However, I was convinced that the participants’ understanding of ecological restoration projects in the Spillway would be much deeper and more meaningful if they experienced them from the water. Thanks to some wonderful late summer weather, cooperative wildlife showing up, and our great partners with the Macomb County Public Works Commission, the trip was a success on many levels!
When the participants were asked, “What were the most enjoyable aspects of today's session?” many replied, “Kayaking!”
Other responses included:
- “Being on the water and seeing so much wildlife and diverse areas”
- “Seeing the turtles, kingfishers, egrets, great blue heron, and cormorants”
- “Enjoying the wetland perspective from the water was quite immersive”
When we asked the participants, “What was the most important thing that you learned and why?” the responses were even more rewarding:
- “People of SE Michigan shouldn’t have to go up north to experience the outdoors. It’s right here in our backyard if we can take care of and invest in it.”
- “The habitat restoration.”
- “Protection of the natural environment and invasive species control. Will help me be a better steward.”
I could not agree more with those responses. There are many natural areas in the urban and suburban southeast Michigan with diverse plant and animal life worth experiencing, and there is no better way to empower people in the care and conservation of those areas than to provide enjoyable and educational experiences in them.
Green spaces are important for recreation, well-being and quality of life. Investing in the restoration and maintenance of these green spaces is one of the best things we can do for our communities and ourselves.
When we asked, “What about your CSP experience made you feel especially proud?” one participant’s response was particularly memorable:
“A new knowledge and respect for nature as a whole, not just as an admirer.”
Those words were music to an outdoor educator’s ears, and show the value of encouraging participants to view ecology from new perspectives.
