See what’s planned this month at the Grand Traverse Conservation District!

Saturday, March 3, 2 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
The Story of Stuff
Recommended for adults // Boardman River Nature Center
Drop into the Boardman River Nature Center for a group viewing of the inspiring 20 minute short film, “The Story of Stuff,” which explores where all our stuff comes from, where it goes, and what it all means for our community.  Stay afterwards for a group discussion on the film, as well as to chat with a variety of local experts on recycling, composting, crafts from waste scraps, and more. $5 suggested donation.

Tuesday, March 6, 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Peepers – Swimming with the Fish
Preschool aged children and families // Boardman River Nature Center
Kids will journey through the Northern Michigan waterways as they explore life under water and learn about the fish that call our region home! Join the Grand Traverse Conservation District for the Peepers program at the Boardman River Nature Center. This fun and educational program is designed to foster the exploration of nature in preschoolers. Every Tuesday your preschoolers can explore a different seasonal nature theme with experienced early childhood educators and naturalists. Each morning will include indoor and outdoor activities – so dress for the weather! Learn more!

Saturday, March 10, 10 a.m. -  12 p.m.
Beginning Birders Workshop with the Grand Traverse Audubon Club
Recommended for adults & teens // Boardman River Nature Center
Join the Grand Traverse Audubon Club for this free beginning birder’s workshop at the Boardman River Nature Center!  Learn about what equipment you need, how to get started, and some of the joys of birding.  Spend time interacting one-on-one with experienced birders to get all of your questions answered.

Tuesday, March 13, 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Peepers – A Special Friend
Preschool aged children and families // Boardman River Nature Center
Join the Grand Traverse Conservation District for the Peepers program at the Boardman River Nature Center. This fun and educational program is designed to foster the exploration of nature in preschoolers. Every Tuesday your preschoolers can explore a different seasonal nature theme with experienced early childhood educators and naturalists. Each morning will include indoor and outdoor activities – so dress for the weather! Learn more!

Saturday, March 17, 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
‘Back to Nature’ Yoga
Ages 13+ // Boardman River Nature Center
Take a journey to the center of your true nature, through yoga! Join Amy Hubbell, Certified Yoga Teacher and founder of Yoga On The Beach, as she leads students of all levels through a relaxing and rejuvenating practice designed to increase flexibility, build strength, and create a greater connection with ourselves and our surroundings. With the tranquil setting of the Nature Center as a backdrop, we will focus on breath and movement, challenging our bodies to be more responsive and adaptable both on and off the mat. Cost is $10 per person. Bring your own yoga mat.

Tuesday, March 20, 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Peepers – Here Come the Birds
Preschool aged children and families // Boardman River Nature Center
One of the first signs of spring is the return of seasonal residents – the avian kind! Kids will learn about migratory birds and how their journeys back to Northern Michigan signal the start of spring. Join the Grand Traverse Conservation District for the Peepers program at the Boardman River Nature Center. This fun and educational program is designed to foster the exploration of nature in preschoolers. Every Tuesday your preschoolers can explore a different seasonal nature theme with experienced early childhood educators and naturalists. Each morning will include indoor and outdoor activities – so dress for the weather! Learn more!

Tuesday, March 20, 7 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Pacific Crest Trail with the Grand Traverse Hiking Club
Recommended for adults & teens // Boardman River Nature Center
Join the Grand Traverse Hiking Club at the Boardman River Nature Center for the first installment of the continuing adventures of Mike Schaeffer as he follows his dreams along the Pacific Crest Trail.  Listen to tales of high alpine, smooth Yosemite rock, and a few of his misadventures. $5 suggested donation.

Thursday, March 22, 7 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Purple Martin Program with the Grand Traverse Audubon Club
Recommended for adults & teens // Boardman River Nature Center
Join the Grand Traverse Audubon Club at the Boardman River Nature Center for a program on this intriguing feathered friend. A program on these beautiful members of the swallow family is sure to captivate you!

Saturday, March 24, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Recognizing Unwanted Invaders
Recommended for adults & teens // Boardman River Nature Center
What are some of the invasive trees, shrubs, and other plants you’ll find lurking in the Grand Traverse region? And how can you help control these pesky invasive species? Join the GTCD’s very own Invasive Species Program Coordinator, Robin Christensen, as she answers these questions and more! $5 suggested donation.

March 26 – March 30, daily from 1 p.m. – 2 p.m.
Spring Break at the Boardman River Nature Center
All ages welcome// Boardman River Nature Center
Join us for fun family activities at 1 p.m. daily during spring break week at the Boardman River Nature Center!  What a great time of year to explore the outdoors!  All programs will include time on the trails, so be sure to dress for the weather. Learn more!

March 31, by appointment only (30-minute appointments available between 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.)
Native Landscaping Clinic
Boardman River Nature Center
This is your chance to bring in your specific landscape questions and talk with our experts about which species will work best on your property.  This appointment will offer you a one-on-one opportunity to discuss your landscape options.  Bring along photos or yard plans if you have them!
To register for your 30-minute consultation, please call 231.941.0960.

POSITION IDENTIFICATION:

Office Assistant; part-time; 20 hours per week, Hours; Primarily Noon to 4:00PM, M-F; FLSA non-exempt position.

View the job description as a PDF.
Get the Online Job Application.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Office Assistant is responsible for providing day-to-day administrative support to finance and administration staff of the Grand Traverse Conservation District.  Primary responsibilities may include: daily mail processing to include receivables and donor/membership data basing; daily server back-ups; processing outgoing daily mail; maintaining adequate office and janitorial supplies and postage; filing; entering data into QuickBooks and eTapestry computer programs; assisting with District meetings, Annual Meeting & election documents; tracking raffle tickets; and, other duties as directed by the Finance and Administration Coordinator.

PREFERRED START DATE:  9 April 2012

TO APPLY: Please email completed application, resume, and cover letter stating your suitability for the position based on required knowledge and skills to the Finance and Administration Coordinator; Kathleen Zatorski at gtcd.a3@gmail.com. The application can be found on the GTCD website www.natureiscalling.org. No calls please.

Applications must be received no later than 4:30 PM EST, Friday 24 February 2012.

RELATIONSHIPS:

Reports to: Finance and Administration Coordinator

Supervises: None

Works with: All Grand Traverse Conservation District staff; volunteers

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

Office Assistance (40%)

• Obtains, distributes and files all incoming mail and takes daily outgoing mail to a postal receptacle;
• Reviews for accuracy, print and distribute electronic timesheets to staff after each pay period;
• Programs recorded updates into phone system to accommodate new staff, revise phone extension cards and edit and record District main phone message;
• Programs District cash registers for various events;
• Acts as regular contact for the independent custodial contractor for the Boardman River Nature Center and District offices;
• Monitors and orders to maintain adequate levels of janitorial and general office supplies for the District;
• Performs errands that assist regular office functions as needed; post office, banking, office supplies, janitorial supplies, etc.;
• Responds to staff inquires regarding office machine maintenance and repairs and makes appropriate calls for service; for copier, printers, fax and telephone system, nature center appliances;
• Organizes and maintains the files/records for office equipment manuals, repairs and warranties;
• Maintains established office filing and storage systems;
• Maintains and distributes updated Board/Staff contact lists;
• May assist Finance and Administration Coordinator with other duties as needed.

Financial Assistance (50%)

• Completes accurate receipting of daily receivables of cash, checks or credit cards;
• Processes daily donations and enters gifts into eTapestery and file per Development Coordinator;
• Prepares donor letters for Executive Director’s signature within 48-hours of receipt;
• Monitors and initiates renewals for Grand Traverse Conservation District’s friends (membership) program;
• Reconciles Nature Center cash register and obtains monies from donation tube regularly;
• Assists in safeguarding the integrity and security of District information and property, backs up the server daily and carries tapes off-site;
• Assists on cash register at District events such as the Seedling, Native Plant Sales and other district events, to include proper internal controls and separation of duties for cash handling;
• Assists Finance and Administration Coordinator in various duties including but not exclusive of: preparing payables to be entered in the accounting system; compiling annual SS/NPS Statistics for various reports; tracking raffle ticket sales per license requirements;

Organizational Support (10%)

• Attends and participates in regular staff meetings;
• May be asked to provide general information and support to staff for Conservation District operations as it relates to budgets, policy and/or general operations.

STANDARDS OF PERFORMANCE:

Success is measured by the degree to which:

• Daily Receivables are processed and entered accurately in accounting and donor software, letters are generated and mailed on time;
• New and renewed friends (membership) applications are maintained and generated on time;
• Timesheets for Conservation District staff are processed on time;
  • District phone systems are maintained and updated with proper recordings and individual staff office phone cards are accurate and up-to-date.
  • District cash registers are programmed as needed and are balanced regularly.
  • Office machinery contracts, warranties and supplies are filed and maintained within budget as planned;
  • Highest standards of confidentiality are maintained regarding our donors, volunteers and district personnel;

WORKING CONDITIONS:

The primary work place is in a typical office setting at the Grand Traverse Conservation District office in the Boardman River Nature Center in Traverse City, MI.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE:

Related Work Experience

• A minimum of four years current experience in an administrative role.

Formal Education or Equivalent

• High school diploma required.
• Associates degree (or equivalent training) in business management and/or accounting  preferred

Skills & Abilities

• Excellent organizational skills, with motivation for details and high level of accuracy;
• Able to focus and manage several projects in an environment with multiple distractions;
• Must be able to work independently of direct supervision and as part of a team;
• Experience working with QuickBooks, or similar accounting software;
• Familiarity with the eTapestery (or similar donation management software) a plus.
• Ability and track record of maintaining strict confidentiality regarding personnel information and as appropriate; the assets of the Conservation District;
• Ability to operate a standard cash register
• Proficient in use of PC and Microsoft Office Suite, specifically Excel;
• Must have valid driver’s license and vehicle that may be used for local travel for the District.

COMPENSATION

$12.00 to $14.00 per hour. Benefits include 8 paid holidays, 12 vacation days and 12 sick days per year; pro-rated.

PREFERRED START DATE:  9 April 2012

TO APPLY: Please email completed application, resume, and cover letter stating your suitability for the position based on required knowledge and skills to the Finance and Administration Coordinator; Kathleen Zatorski at gtcd.a3@gmail.com. The application can be found on the GTCD website www.natureiscalling.org. No calls please.

Applications must be received no later than 4:30 PM EST, Friday 24 February 2012.

The Grand Traverse Conservation District is an equal opportunity employer and will not discriminate in employment, promotions, or compensation on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, age, marital status, handicap, or veteran status.

The article below discusses what forest inventory data tells us about the mix of tree species throughout Michigan’s diverse and variable forest.  Thank you to the article’s author, Bill Cook, MSU Extension, for sharing this information with us.

What’s the most common tree in Michigan?  Sugar maple!  Followed by red maple, cedar, quaking aspen, and red oak.  These five species make-up nearly half the volume in the forest.  In fact, if you can identify the ten most common tree species, you’ll know three out of four trees you run across.

However, these species do not have geographically even distributions.  Sugar maple, cedar, and red oak are rather particular about the site upon which they will grow.  On the other hand, red maple and quaking aspen occupy a wide spectrum of sites and grow almost anywhere.  Tamarack is common in the north, but you’ll be hard-pressed to find a tulip poplar above mid-Michigan.

Various sites support different mixes of tree species.  These mixes are called forest types.  There are 36 forest types in Michigan, according U.S. Forest Service definitions and inventory data.  Throughout these 36 types are 72 tree species recorded, although you could probably find more.

Forests cover about half of Michigan, although their distribution is mostly a northern land cover.  Much of the southern Michigan forest has been replaced by farms and cities.  The twenty million acre forest resource is one of the largest and richest in the United States.

The most common Michigan forest type is “northern hardwoods”, where nearly half the volume is sugar maple.  Common associates in northern hardwood types include red maple, basswood, beech, yellow birch, and hemlock.  Two-thirds of the northern hardwood acreage lies in the Upper Peninsula.  No other U.P. forest type comes close in frequency, although the next most common forest type is cedar.

In the Northern Lower Peninsula, northern hardwoods is also the most common forest type, but aspen and oak types come close.  Red oak and bigtooth aspen become a common northern hardwoods associate, which are less common in the U.P. northern hardwoods.

The Northern Lower Peninsula oak types are largely composed of red oak, white oak, red maple, black oak, and northern pin oak.  These five species make up over three-quarters of the volume in oak types.

The Northern Lower Peninsula aspen type consists mostly of bigtooth aspen, quaking aspen, and red maple.  White pine and red oak are reasonably well represented, too.

The majority of pine forest types (red, jack, white) occur in the Northern Lower Peninsula, about a million acres.  Half of this is red pine.  Among the pine types, most of the jack pine and red pine volume is found in its respective forest type.  However, the majority of white pine is mixed with other forest types, such as red pine, aspen, northern hardwoods, and oaks.

The forest types with the greatest number of tree species are aspen, mixed upland hardwoods, and northern hardwoods.  Forest types with the fewest tree species are swamp conifers and the pines.  However, this varies by region.  The western U.P. forests are much different than the southern Michigan forests, even within the same forest types.

The set of most common tree species in the eastern and western U.P. are different.  Both of the U.P. sets are different than those in the Northern Lower Peninsula, and the Southern Lower Peninsula has yet another set.  All four sets differ from the statewide top ten.  For example, even though sugar maple is the most common tree species, statewide; it ranks number eight in the southern counties.

While statewide average statistics sometimes have value, it’s important to understand that averages cannot describe variability across the landscape, nor will they necessarily describe what’s around your town.

Forest composition is but one factor in defining the diversity of Michigan’s forest.  However, it well demonstrates the variability.  The complex nature of our forests becomes clear when other factors are added-in, such as age classes, stand densities, patch sizes, size classes, and physical structure.  And that’s just talking about the trees.

A forest owner needs to know about their particular forest for better appreciation or to manage the forest.  Forest enthusiasts can delight in the variability across the state.  And, of course, forest management practices will vary almost as much as the forest does.

Credit to Bill Cook, MSU Extension, cookwi@msu.edu

Saying goodbye to a valued staff member is always difficult. Cindy Retherford, the Grand Traverse Conservation District’s Education Program Coordinator, will be retiring from the Conservation District effective January 31^st.

Cindy has been with the Conservation District for nearly 12 years, during which she has engaged and inspired so many children, young people and adults—opening their eyes to the beauty and wonder of the natural world.  Additionally, Cindy has presided over the Gypsy Moth Program, was instrumental in the development and success of our native plant sales, and was our go-to person for forest health issues for years.  Her many talents will be deeply missed—not least of which, her exceptional knowledge of our local natural history.

Please join us in congratulating Cindy on her pending retirement and in wishing her the very best in her newest adventure.

See what’s planned this month at the Grand Traverse Conservation District!

Saturday, February 4, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m.
The ABC’s of Nature
Fun for the whole family! // Boardman River Nature Center
Stop by the Boardman River Nature Center any time between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to participate in a fun scavenger hunt to find the alphabet throughout the Natural Education Reserve. $5 suggested donation.

Tuesday, February 7, 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Peepers – Winter Birds
Preschool aged children and families // Boardman River Nature Center
Which birds decide to stay “up north” throughout the winter rather than flying south to warmer climates? Kids will learn about the different species of Michigan birds and how they survive the harsh northern winters.Join the Grand Traverse Conservation District for the Peepers program at the Boardman River Nature Center. This fun and educational program is designed to foster the exploration of nature in preschoolers. Every Tuesday your preschoolers can explore a different seasonal nature theme with experienced early childhood educators and naturalists. Each morning will include indoor and outdoor activities – so dress for the weather!

Saturday, February 11, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m.
Photo Frenzy on the Natural Education Reserve
All ages welcome // Boardman River Nature Center
Spring is on its way, so now is the time to traverse the trails of the Natural Education Reserve! Stop in to the Boardman River Nature Center anytime between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. to pick up a Photo Scavenger Hunt sheet and take it out on the trails. Your goal is to snap pictures of everything on the list, then bring your camera back to the Nature Center desk and show off your pictures for a prize. Be sure to bring your own camera! $5 suggested donation.

Tuesday, February 14, 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Peepers – Active Animals of Winter
Preschool aged children and families // Boardman River Nature Center
Some animals hibernate through the winter as a survial strategy, but others have adapted to cold climates and stay active all winter long. Find out which animals stay active through the cold and how they survive with less food available. Join the Grand Traverse Conservation District for the Peepers program at the Boardman River Nature Center. This fun and educational program is designed to foster the exploration of nature in preschoolers. Every Tuesday your preschoolers can explore a different seasonal nature theme with experienced early childhood educators and naturalists. Each morning will include indoor and outdoor activities – so dress for the weather!

Saturday, February 18, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Beekeeping Basics
Recommended for adults // Boardman River Nature Center
Learn the basics to get started in beekeeping! Local beekeepers Yvonne Stephens and Heather Miller will lead this workshop which will cover essential tools and equipment, how to obtain bees, basic bee care, ideal hive location, foraging plants, and more.  This will be an introduction to the resources you need to begin this relaxing and compelling hobby. A partnership of the Grand Traverse Conservation District, ISLAND, NRCS and the Northern Michigan Small Farm Conference. Contact Yvonne at ISLAND at 231-480-4515 or yvonne@artmeetsearth.org to preregister by February 15th. The cost is $15 per person to attend this workshop.

Tuesday, February 21, 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Peepers – Sleeping Animals of Winter
Preschool aged children and families // Boardman River Nature Center
Some animals stay active all winter long, while others have adapted to hibernate through the colder months. This amazing adaptation will be studied and explained highlighting some of northern Michigan’s favorite critters! Join the Grand Traverse Conservation District for the Peepers program at the Boardman River Nature Center. This fun and educational program is designed to foster the exploration of nature in preschoolers. Every Tuesday your preschoolers can explore a different seasonal nature theme with experienced early childhood educators and naturalists. Each morning will include indoor and outdoor activities – so dress for the weather!

Tuesday, February 21, 7 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Celebrating GTHC’s 100 Miles of Trail with the GT Hiking Club
Recommended for adults & teens // Boardman River Nature Center
Join the Grand Traverse Hiking Club as they celebrate the GTHC’s 100 miles of trail with a slideshow of member’s images of the beautiful North Country trail. We’ll also celebrate people who have completed the 100 Mile Challenge and those who have made it possible. $5 suggested donation.

Thursday, February 23, 7 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Birds and Animals of the Serengeti: Tanzania, Africa with the Grand Traverse Audubon Club
Recommended for adults & teens // Boardman River Nature Center
Join the GT Audubon Club at the Boardman River Nature Center as we listen to fellow birder Emmy Lou Cholak talk about the animals found in the Serengeti!

Saturday, February 25, 1 p.m – 3 p.m.
Mushing 101: An Intro to Dog Sledding & Rides
All ages welcome // Hickory Meadows Open Space (Use the parking lot off Randolph St. at the base of Hickory Hills)
See what this unique sport is all about. Local mushers will share the adventures of owning and operating small sled dog kennels. This exciting, hands-on presentation will explain the experience of mushing, introduce attendees to the history of dog sledding, local events, and sled dog racing. Mushers will give an overview of equipment, basics used in the sport and talk about the relationships with the dogs.  Participants get to meet some of the dogs and see their unique personalities. The presentation will conclude with the opportunity for some attendees to experience the thrill of being pulled by a team. Only a certain number of rides will be offered in order to limit physical strain on the dogs. Please call 231-941-0960 to reserve a ride; all remaining ride slots will be filled on a first come, first served basis on the day of the event. $5 suggested donation.

Tuesday, February 28, 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Peepers – Slitherin’ Snakes
Preschool aged children and families // Boardman River Nature Center
This is one animal you won’t find in Michigan during the winter – snakes! Kids will learn all about this slitherin’ reptile while the snakes are busy sleeping the winter away! Join the Grand Traverse Conservation District for the Peepers program at the Boardman River Nature Center. This fun and educational program is designed to foster the exploration of nature in preschoolers. Every Tuesday your preschoolers can explore a different seasonal nature theme with experienced early childhood educators and naturalists. Each morning will include indoor and outdoor activities – so dress for the weather!

January 28, 1-2 p.m. / All ages welcome / Boardman River Nature Center

Join the Grand Traverse Conservation District and Wings of Wonder’s Rebecca Lessard for an educational program on raptors! Learn more about these majestic animals and see them up close and personal.

There will be a hands-on display table set up with raptor wings, feathers, feet, and pellets to investigate, as well as unique Wings of Wonder and Grand Traverse Conservation District merchandise.  Don’t forget your camera and be sure to arrive early for the best seat!

Registration is required: please call 231-941-0960 or stop by the Nature Center to reserve your spot!  Program fees are: $6 for adults and $4 for children. Children under 2 years old are free.

You must register by Wednesday, January 25 and program fees must be paid prior to the day of the program.

Use your creativity and imagination to create beautiful ornaments from the wide variety of natural materials that you can find right outside your door! Follow the directions below to create a natural star ornament.

Natural Star Ornament

Materials:

Milkweed pods, feathers, pine cones, seed heads, glue gun, glue, string or ribbon (and any other natural materials you want to use to create your star).

Directions:

• Lay out five milkweed pods upside down in a circle so that the sides touch. It works better if all the pods are about the same size.
• Find a pine cone or seed head that will fit in the center of the pods and is big enough to touch all of the pods.
• Glue the pods to the pine cone or seed head.
• Turn the ornament over so the open pods are visible.
• Glue one feather into each pod.
• Punch a hole in one pod tip and put a piece of string or ribbon through the hole.
• Tie a knot in the string or ribbon and your ornament is ready to hang.

There are a number of ways to customize your ornament using your favorite natural materials (such as evergreen sprigs for color). You can also spray the pods with gold or silver paint before decorating them to give them a different look.

Have fun!

There’s only one week left to take advantage of an amazing promotion with our partner, Floor Covering Brokers. Donate at least $50 to the GTCD by this Friday, 12/16, and you’ll receive a coupon for $150 off your next flooring purchase of $500 or more. That’s a savings of up to 30%! There are no exclusions, offer is valid anytime, and does not expire! Be sure to take advantage of this amazing deal!

View the flyer!

Tickets are available at the Boardman River Nature Center, McLain Cycle & Fitness (Garfield and Eighth St locations) and Floor Covering Brokers.
Get yours today for a chance to win!

It may be getting chilly, but don’t let that keep you inside! Warm up your winter activities with the Grand Traverse Conservation District! We’ve got programs slated for kids, families, and adults that will make you appreciate the winter months even more. Peepers, our preschool (ages 3-5) program, has two great educational opportunities coming up: Pine Cones and Oh, Christmas Tree. Pine Cones is all about, you guessed it, pine cones! Our educators will explain what pine cones are, how they work, and how trees and animals benefit from them. In Oh, Christmas Tree, kids will learn about Michigan’s evergreen trees and what makes them unique compared to other trees. Our Peepers programs blend learning, crafts, and hiking into one fun and educational adventure for kids.

Looking to get some holiday shopping done? Support local artists, craftsmen, and farmers – as well as the GTCD – by joining us at the Holiday Nature Arts and Crafts Sale on December 3^rd at the Boardman River Nature Center. We will have nature art prints, hand-crafted wooden goods, locally grown Christmas trees, wreaths, ornaments and much more! After your holiday shopping is done, beat the cold and cure your cabin fever by joining the GTCD for a guided snowshoe through the Grand Traverse Commons (State Hospital) trails – one of the eight parklands we manage for public use – on December 10^th.

While you’re out hiking this winter, channel your inner artist and express yourself with a camera! The GTCD has our first ever Parklands Picture Challenge! Photographers can submit up to four photos of their favorite trails that the GTCD manages for their chance to win prizes and the display of their work. CLICK HERE for more details.

Don’t forget – the final SwingShift and the Stars Dance-off competition is December 16^th at the City Opera House. The GTCD is currently in first place in total fundraising dollars at $26,000, but we still have a long way to go to meet our goal of $50,000. Learn more by visiting our SwingShift and the Stars page.

CLICK HERE for all December programs.