Michigan Volunteer River, Stream and Creek Cleanup Grants Available for 2008

The Great Lakes Commission (GLC) and the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) are pleased to announce the release of the 2008 Grant Application Package (GAP) for Michigan’s Volunteer River, Stream and Creek Cleanup Program (VRSCCP). A total of $25,000 (plus carryover from FY 2007) is available under the program for Fiscal Year (FY) 2008. This funding is provided by the MDEQ through fees collected from the sale of the State’s Water Quality Protection license plates (Public Act 74 of 2000). The application deadline for Volunteer River, Stream and Creek Cleanup grants is January 25, 2008.

The Michigan VRSCCP provides small grants to local units of government to help implement the cleanup and improvement of the waters of Michigan’s rivers, streams, and creeks. Local units of government may partner with nonprofit organizations or other volunteer groups to carry out the cleanups. There is a minimum local match requirement of 25 percent of the total project costs.

The Volunteer Stream Cleanup GAP and application instructions are available online at http://www.glc.org/streamclean/app08. The GAP contains detailed instructions, including eligibility requirements and other information for developing a proposal, evaluation criteria, and items that should be included with your application. Applications will be reviewed and assessed by GLC and MDEQ staff, with final decisions anticipated in March 2007. Contractual arrangements will be facilitated by the GLC, which is administering the VRSCCP on behalf of the MDEQ.

Once again, the deadline for submitting grant applications under the FY 2008 Volunteer River, Stream and Creek Cleanup Program is January 25, 2008. If you have questions regarding the GAP or your application, please contact John Hummer at the Great Lakes Commission at 734-971-9135 or jhummer@glc.org.

Thank you for your interest in cleaning up Michigan’s water resources!

a news release of the Great Lakes Informantion Network, Jan 4, 2008
See Spirit of the Woods Chapter of the North Country Trail Association
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The Science, Practice & Art of Restoring Native Ecosystems

The Stewardship Network is a grassroots cooperative organization working to protect, restore, and manage Michigan's natural lands and waters. It helps individuals, organizations, and businesses manage specific sites through sharing ideas, resources, and information

The Network's Annual Conference will be held January 25 & 26, 2008 at the Kellogg Center, East Lansing, MI. Its theme is: Linking researchers and practitioners to improve the science, practice, and art of ecological restoration.

Join over 200 wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, land managers, researchers, and others from Michigan and throughout the midwest.

The conference is designed for everyone interested in caring for natural lands and waters. Volunteers and professional land managers alike; elected and appointed officials; MDNR employees; birders, teachers, hunters, nature enthusiasts; staff and board members from land trusts; anyone responsible for caring for native habitats--will all take away valuable information on the restoration of native ecosystems.

from The Stewardship Network
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Sunshine - It's Good For You

Study finds boost in vitamin D could outweigh skin cancer risks in certain populations

more sunshine might be good for you photo by Geoffrey Woodley, stock.xchng

A new study by scientists at the U.S. Department of Energy's Brookhaven National Laboratory and colleagues in Norway suggests that the benefits of moderately increased exposure to sunlight - namely the production of vitamin D, which protects against the lethal effects of many forms of cancer and other diseases - may outweigh the risk of developing skin cancer in populations deficient in vitamin D.

"We know that solar radiation is the leading cause of skin cancer," said communicating author Richard Setlow, but solar radiation is also a major, if not the main, source of vitamin D in humans. In the presence of sunlight, the body converts certain precursor chemicals to active vitamin D.

"Since vitamin D has been shown to play a protective role in a number of internal cancers and possibly a range of other diseases, it is important to study the relative risks to determine whether advice to avoid sun exposure may be causing more harm than good in some populations." The concern, he says, is particularly great in populations from northern latitudes.

"There is a clear north-south gradient in vitamin D production," Setlow says, "with people in the northern latitudes producing significantly less than people nearer the equator."

So, how can people get the benefits of vitamin D without running the risk of deadly skin cancer?

"As far as skin cancer goes, we need to be most worried about melanoma, a serious disease with significant mortality," Setlow says. Melanoma is triggered by UVA (the long UV wavelengths) and visible light. Vitamin-D production in the body, on the other hand, is triggered by UVB (the short UV wavelengths at the earth's surface). "So perhaps we should redesign sunscreens so they don't screen out as much UVB while still protecting us from the melanoma-inducing UVA and visible light."

read the full article from Brookhaven National Laboratory, "More sun exposure may be good for some people", Jan 7, 2008
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Ice Skating Trail Opens at Muskegon

The Muskegon Sports Council announces the opening of an ice skating trail at the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex.

The 700-foot (0.13 mi) loop trail is new this season. It meanders through the woods and is lighted and maintained. The trail is about 8-10 feet wide. Already the skating trail is proving to be a hit.

A spokesperson for the Sports Council said, "The idea came about when our cross country ski trails were iced up after a storm. Our director said we should put our skates on and have an ice trail through the woods. Amazing how some ideas are born!"

The Muskegon Winter Sports Complex is open from 10 am to 10 pm, and is located at 462 Scenic Drive, N. Muskegon, MI 49445

by Joan H. Young
See Muskegon Winter Sports Complex
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Get Online Training to Fight Invasive Species

Online invasives training is available to help volunteers interested in this important work. Here, Refuge System staff and volunteers are helping to eradicate lesser celandine (also known as fig buttercup). photo by Jan Ferrigan, VA Cooperative Extension

In collaboration with the Center for Invasive Plant Management, the National Wildlife Refuge System has designed an online training course for people interested in fighting one of the single greatest threats to the Refuge System – invasive species. The Refuge System has worked aggressively to combat invasive species, targeting more than 280,000 acres of refuge lands. Yet an estimated 1.72 million acres remain untreated.

The new invasive species Web site includes video, text and photos that provide background on the Refuge System and information about the science and management of invasive plants. The site also includes links to government and private Web sites dealing with the issue.

In 2003, the Refuge System joined The Nature Conservancy, the National Wildlife Refuge Association and the U.S. Geological Survey in training volunteers to use hand-held GPS devices to map invasive species on national wildlife refuges.

"We want volunteers to be able to engage their communities on the issue of invasives," said Jenny Ericson, national invasives volunteer coordinator for the Refuge System. "The online training provides practical tools on how to prevent and control invasive plants. Volunteers can be our greatest advocates in the fight against this major nationwide threat to wildlife and habitat."

a news release of the US Fish and Wildlife Service, Jan 7, 2008
See invasive species Web site
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Reserve 2008 Campsites, Harbor, Rec Area Use Now

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources wants to remind users of Michigan state parks, harbors and recreation areas that reservations are now available for much of the 2008 summer season. Reservations for harbor slips, campsites, cabins, teepees and yurts are now available on-line or through the reservation call center for dates into early July.

"Campsites become available for arrival dates six months out from the date a reservation is made, so we are already booking into the Fourth of July timeframe," said Ron Olson, chief of the DNR Parks and Recreation Division. "Staff at the reservation call center begin taking phone calls at 8 a.m. on weekdays and at 9 a.m. on weekends. New site availability dates roll into the database at those times to be fair to all users."

Campers and boaters who have planned vacations are reminded to make their reservations now to secure a campsite or slip at their favorite park, harbor or recreation area.

In 2007, over 500 events were held in state parks, harbors or recreation areas. New and special events are being scheduled or planned for the 2008 season, and are added to the "GO-Get Outdoors" calendar of events, daily. Check out the calendar of events at www.michigan.gov/dnr. Under "Recreation and Camping," select "GO-Get Outdoors" to review the "Get Outdoors Calendar."

Reservations can be made on-line at www.midnrreservations.com, or by contacting the reservation call center at 800-447-2757. Questions regarding reservations or events can be directed to the Parks and Recreation Division office in Lansing at 517-373-9900, or by contacting Cheryl Greaney at 517-373-0399.

Motor vehicle and boating access site permit fees remain the same as last year at all Michigan state parks, recreation areas and boating access sites. All motor vehicles entering a state park or recreation area must display a motor vehicle permit, available for purchase at the entrance. Cost is $24 for resident annual and $6 for resident daily. A non-resident annual is $29 and a non-resident daily is $8. Boating access site permits are also available at $24 for an annual permit and $6 for a daily permit.

a news release of the Michigan DNR
See MDNR Reservations
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LWCF 2008 Grant Applications Available

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources today announced that communities interested in applying for grants through the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) to support outdoor recreation development have until March 1, 2008 to submit their applications.

The LWCF is a federal program, administered by the National Park Service (NPS) and managed by the DNR in Michigan. The program provides funding assistance for state and local outdoor recreation needs, including development of outdoor recreation facilities. This assistance is directed at creating and improving outdoor recreational opportunities and to create and maintain a nationwide legacy of high quality recreation areas and facilities and to stimulate non-federal investments in the protection and maintenance of recreation resources across the United States.

Types of development projects that are eligible for LWCF funding include non-motorized trails and riverwalks, skate and spray parks, playgrounds, athletic fields, picnic areas, and other types of outdoor recreation. Roughly $1 million in LWCF assistance is available annually.

Grant application materials can be obtained from the DNR Web site. Interested individuals also may call Grants Management at 517-373-9125, or write to: Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Grants Management, P.O. Box 30425, Lansing, MI 48909-7925.

a news release of the Michigan DNR
See Michigan DNR; click on "Grant Programs", "Land and Water Conservation Fund" and "Forms and Publications"
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White Pine Stampede and VASA - February's Michigan Ski Races

White Pine Stampede 2005 photo from WPS

The first two weeks of February should be hot and cold. Hot, in the sense that northern Michigan hosts major Nordic ski races on each of the first two weekends of that month. Cold, well... it's hard to keep the snow around without it.

Both events have races that are part of the Michigan Cup series. Men and women who ski the race can qualify for Michigan Cup points.

White Pine Stampede
First up, on February 1 & 2, is the White Pine Stampede in Mancelona, Antrim County. For 31 years, skiers from all over the state have been gathering for these races to celebrate their passion for the sport of cross-country skiing, and for 31 years, smiling faces have raised money for charitable organizations around the state while having fun with their friends and family.

The 50 Kilometer Event (32 miles) is staged on professionally groomed trails which wind through the most picturesque landscape of northwestern Lower Michigan. The race ends at Summit Village at Shanty Creek.

The 20 Kilometer Event (12 miles) takes skiers over rolling hills and across fields, concluding at Schuss Village at Shanty Creek.

The Roger Eschedor 10 Kilometer Timed Tour (6 miles), finishes at Schuss Village at Shanty Creek.

All races begin at Mancelona High School. Pre-register at the web site below.

Awards given are: a White Pine Stampede tee shirt and commemorative medal to each entrant. White Pine Stampede commemorative plaques are given to the top three finishers in the each classification. The 50km and 20km men's and women's champions receive the traditional award together with a gift certificate for Shanty Creek. In addition, skiers finishing the Stampede will receive a specially cast and registered medal to mark their accomplishment as they cross the finish line.

North American VASA
The Vasa Trail of Traverse City welcomed skiers of all abilities to a warm-up event this weekend, in preparation for the big races to be held February 9 & 10. The unseasonably warm weather did not keep people away, although indoor recreation was popular due to sloppy trail conditions. Families turned out for games and ski instruction. More serious skiers came to practice the trails. Vasa organizers are confident that there will be plenty of snow before the actual race date.

As part of the Vasa weekend festival of Races, there will be 27 & 50km special classic skiing races, and a 12km Timed Class. The Sunday events will be offered by Hagerty Insurance. The Gran Travers will feature both 6km and 16km challenging loop courses that will capture the rich heritage of traditional cross-country skiing at it's finest.

The trail will be carefully groomed and double-tracked to provide kick-and-gliders the opportunity to test their skills while enjoying the breath-taking beauty of the Vasa Pathway.

The event includes Junior VASA races sponsored by the Bayshore Marathon. The races are for kids from 4-15 who are not part of high school ski programs. The Vasa Board supports youth nordic ski programs in the Grand Traverse Region. These high-energy events include 1 & 3km Classic, and a 3km Freestyle race.

from Traverse City Record Eagle, "Vasa warms to new skiers", by Jeff Peek, Jan 6, 2008
from White Pine Stampede
from North American VASA
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Ice Skating Trip Turns Tragic - An Historic Saga

The following is an excerpt from a story which we believe is worthy of reading, but would lose too much of its charm if it were re-written for presentation on this blog. Please link through for the rest of the story, but hurry back! ... Editor

by James Mann

"On the morning of Jan. 9, 1908, the family of 10-year-old Albert Hosner was moving from their home at 306 Oak St. to their new house at 845 Ann St. Albert left the house on Oak Street with a pet chicken under one arm, and a pair of ice skates over his shoulder.

At about 9 a.m. Flora Walker saw Albert walking down the Lake Shore railroad tracks. He was walking toward the bayou where it joins the Huron River behind the Ypsilanti Hay Press factory. The Hay Press factory was on Forest Avenue across the street from the Michigan Ladder Co.

Albert's mother and the rest of the family arrived at the new home at about noon. The chicken was in its coop, but there was no trace of Albert... "

finish the story at the Ann Arbor News - see FAIR USE notice.
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Patching Through to Outdoor Souvenirs

The following is an excerpt from a story which we believe is worthy of reading, but would lose too much of its charm if it were re-written for presentation on this blog. Please link through for the rest of the story, but hurry back! ... Editor

by Christie Bleck

"Those of you who know me even casually probably have realized I'm not a fashionista. I try to wear socks that match, but my tastes run more to L.L. Bean than Neiman-Marcus (and that's not a slam against Bean; it's geared toward the outdoorsy types). Maybe if my bank account allowed it, I'd buy showier garb.

Anyway, my personal interests gravitate more to the outdoor world than the one when you're surrounded by four walls. Back in my upper-elementary years, I was a Camp Fire Girl (Girl Scouts weren't prevalent where I lived in my formative years). Camp Fire Girl attire involved a blue felt bolero that a girl could decorate..."

finish the story at the Lansing State Journal - see FAIR USE notice.
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MPRA Access Funds - West Michigan, 2007

Access to Recreation is a Michigan Parks and Recreation (MRPA) Foundation initiative to provide a catalyst for enabling MRPA member communities to create greater universal access and inclusiveness in recreation facilities, programs, and services for people of all ages and abilities. Enhancements to the MRPA Foundation Access to Recreation program has enabled a larger number of smaller communities to benefit from a wide range of grant opportunities.

In 2007, the MRPA Foundation awarded $59,695 in Access to Recreation grants to the following west Michigan communities:

• Plainfield Charter Township (Kent County)- Surfacing for playground - $20,000
• Kent County Parks - Shelter Improvements/picnic tables - $20,000
• Comstock Charter Township (Kalamazoo County) - Shade structure/accessible picnic tables - $6,000
• Village of Constantine (St. Joseph County) - Fishing platform with boat landing - $13,695

A total of $185,000 in Access to Recreation grants were awarded in the entire state.

from Michigan Parks and Recreation
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Leelanau Parks Waiting to See the Cash

The good news has been that Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund money has been awarded for the purchase of land for the Herman Park (see Plan to Raise $2M for Herman Park, Suttons Bay), and Veronica Valley (see Veronica Valley Purchase- Leelanau Commission Votes Yes). The bad news is that Leelanau County is still waiting to receive the funds. This wait puts a strain on the families who are waiting to sell, because they must continue to pay the taxes on the land.

It is to the credit of both families, the Hermans and Bill and Diane Grant, that they have stong feelings that the properties be converted to parks and not sold for development.

The total amount of the two grants, $994,200 toward the purchase of a total of 219 acres, was announced in December of 2006. The county has yet to receive a single cent of that amount. The DNR blames the legislature, and the legislature blames the governor.

"We just know that the Herman family has been very patient, and we're hoping that they'll hang in there with us a little while longer," said Deb Slocombe, the chair of Suttons Bay Township's parks and recreation committee. "We've never been able to figure out exactly why this process has been taking so long."

read the full article at the Leelanau Enterprise, "Families still await state funds for parks", Jan 6, 2008
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