For Friday, Feb. 2, 2024

1 – World Wetlands Day is celebrated every year on February 2. 

It’s meant to raise awareness about the vital role of wetlands for people and the planet. 

The National Audubon Society says the Saginaw Bay area is a priority region for coastal wetlands. 

Wetlands here provide habitat for a variety of waterbird species. Birds use the area to rest and refuel during migration and for habitat and food during winter and breeding seasons. 

Coastal wetlands make up most of the bay’s 100-mile shoreline. 

But Audubon says these wetlands face significant threats including invasive species and water-quality issues due to legacy contaminants and agricultural runoff. 

The organization says it’s working with state and federal partners to restore wetlands for the benefit of birds and local communities.

Saginaw Bay is recognized as a globally significant Audubon Important Bird Area for the habitat it provides to migratory waterbirds.  

The region’s wetlands are also important to the community, Audubon says, serving as natural water purifiers that absorb pollutants. 

Wetlands also store water, which protects local communities from flooding and drought and provides a buffer in a changing climate. 

…

2 – Midland County’s newest nature preserve just got a boost. 

Little Forks Conservancy has been awarded a $20,000 grant from Capital Power, owner and operator of the Midland Cogeneration Venture power plant. 

The support will go to assist with the conservancy’s Nelson Woods project, a 106-acre preserve  along the Tittabawassee River, just upstream from downtown Midland.

Nelson Woods will be Little Forks’ fourth nature preserve along the Tittabawassee River between Midland and Sanford. 

The conservancy says it’s working with a landscape architect to design trails, a parking area and river overlook. 

The property includes floodplain habitat, mature maple forests, and is home to a range of wildlife. The development into a preserve will provide floodwater storage, sequester and store carbon, and protect the biodiversity of local species. Non-native, invasive species also will be managed. 

– Mr. Great Lakes is heard at 6:45 and 8:45 Friday mornings on Delta College Public Radio 90.1 FM in University Center, Michigan, near Bay City (listen live). Follow @jeffkart on Twitter #MrGreatLakes

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