Description: Take a walk with us at East Creek Reserve to learn about spring edible flora and funga.

When: Thursday, April 25th from 3:00 - 4:30pm

Where: East Creek Reserve. 44.62776, -85.50406. Meet at the parking lot on Mayfield Rd.

Registration: $10. Please click here to register. Attendees aged 18+ are welcome to this event.

Description: Become a certified educator in the nationally-recognized Project Learning Tree and Project WILD curricula! Engage in a hands-on workshop investigating environmental topics with indoor and outdoor activities. This workshop is designed for both formal* and non-formal educators.

When: Thursday, April 18th from 9:00am - 3:00pm

Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Rd., Traverse City, MI 49685

Registration: $70/person. Includes two curriculum books. Registration is required. Please click here to register.

Description: Join us for the first hike in our Family & Children Geology Hike Series featuring the Grand Traverse Area Rock and Mineral Club Pebble Pups - Water Reflections! This hike is designed to explore the world hidden within the river. Through a combination of interactive experiences and expert-led discussions, the program invites your family to connect with the natural beauty of rivers, fostering an appreciation for the delicate ecosystems and mysteries that lie beneath.

This program is geared towards an audience of children and families.

When: Saturday, April 13th from 10:00am - 12:00pm

Where: Meet at the Oleson Pavilion next to the Boardman River Nature Center 1450 Cass Rd., Traverse City, MI 49685.

Registration: Free. Please click here to register.

Description: Have an up-close experience with live raptors from North Sky Raptor Sanctuary! Join us with a blanket on our programming lawn to learn about Michigan raptors in the spring. This program is geared towards an audience of children and families.

This program is geared towards an audience of children and families.

When: Thursday, April 11th from 5:30 - 6:30pm

Where: Outside at the Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Rd., Traverse City, MI 49685

Registration: Registration is full. We hope to see you at our other raport events throughout the summer!

Description: Join GTCD at the Boardman River Nature Center to celebrate the Spring Equinox! On Saturday, March 16th from 10:00 AM-12:00 PM we will prepare for warmer days and the new growing season. Learn about the importance of pollinators and native flowers while making seed balls, building bee hotels, and learn about the process of making honey. Get prepared for your 2024 garden and learn what you can start growing now!

Each individual will take home a seed bomb and each group will make and take home a bee hotel.

When: Saturday, March 16th from 10:00am - 12:00pm

Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Rd., Traverse City, MI 49685

Registration: $10 per person or $30 for a group of 3+. Supplies are limited - register by March 1st to secure a bee hotel (Walk-ins are not guaranteed a bee hotel). Please click here to register.

Description: It’s that time of year! We’re back with our 4th Annual Community Seed Swap!

Bring your garden seeds - any vegetables, fruits, or flowers that you enjoy growing - and plan to leave with seeds and dreams for your 2024 garden.

We will have envelopes and pens at each station. Stations will be grouped by similar plants - squash, tomatoes, peppers, herbs, brassicas, root vegetables, native plants, ornamental (but not invasive!) flowers, etc. You do not have to bring seeds to attend this event.

Shelly Stusick, Go Beyond Beauty Specialist with the Northwest Michigan Invasive Species Network will also be on-site with more information on avoiding invasives and planting native.

When: Saturday, March 9th, 10:00am - 12:00pm.

Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Rd, Traverse City, MI

Registration: Free. Please click here to register.

Description: Join other women who own and/or appreciate woodlands on March 8th from 1:00 - 4:00pm for a hands-on workshop to learn about best land management practices. Discover ways to manage invasive species and deer population. Become inspired to add natives into your landscape, and sketch out a management plan of your own!

Featuring:
Audrey Menninga: Managing Invasives
Nia M Becker: Deer hunting
Carolyn Thayer: Native landscape design
Ellie Johnson: Forestry/Sketching a management plan
Miranda Fraley: Sketching a management plan

When: Friday, March 8th from 1:00 - 4:00pm

Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Rd., Traverse City, MI 49685

Registration: Free. Please click here to register.

Description: Join GTCD staff as we prepare for this year’s Native Seedling Sale! Want to plant a tree, but don’t know where to start? District Forester Ellie Johnson, along with members of the GTCD staff, will walk you through the process from start to finish. We will discuss a seedling’s journey from the nursery to your home, planting tips & tricks and how to care for your newly planted trees, as well as common ecosystems in Northwest Michigan you may have on your property, and how to choose which species will fit well in your landscape. This webinar is geared towards residents and landowners in Grand Traverse, Leelanau, and Benzie counties.

When: Tuesday, March 5th from 6:00 - 8:00pm

Where: Zoom.

Registration: Free. Registration is required. A zoom link will be sent to participants. Please click here to register.

Description: Do all birds fly south for the winter? Let's learn about Michigan's winter birds and search for them in the sky!

Our Peepers Program is an adult-accompanied program for early learners ages 3-5 years old, of all experience levels with the natural world. Join us for 60-minute nature programs that include music, discovery hikes, stories, and crafts.

When: March 5th from 10:00 - 11:00am

Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Rd., Traverse City, MI 49685

Registration: $5/child per session. Please click here to register.

Description: Experiment with textures and ink with monoprinting at the Boardman River Nature Center! Whether you're a seasoned printmaker or a curious beginner, you’ll create something completely unique.

Participants will have the opportunity to create and take home three 9x12 prints and 5 charming greeting cards.

This workshop is recommended for ages 18+.

When: Thursday, February 29th from 6:00 - 7:30pm

Where: The Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Rd., Traverse City, MI 49685

Registration: $35/person. Registration is limited and required. Please click here to register.

Description: How much longer will we have winter? Can we see our own shadow? Join us to learn about mother nature’s very own weather predictor.

Our Peepers Program is an adult-accompanied program for early learners ages 3-5 years old, of all experience levels with the natural world. Join us for 60-minute nature programs that include music, discovery hikes, stories, and crafts.

When: February 27th from 10:00 - 11:00am

Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Rd., Traverse City, MI 49685

Registration: $5/child per session. Please click here to register.

Description: Join Grand Traverse Conservation District staff on a guided hike on the trails of Brown Bridge Quiet Area to learn about the parkland’s history, management, flora & fauna, and more! A limited amount of snowshoes are available.

When: Saturday, February 24th from 10:00am - 12:00pm

Where: Brown Bridge Quiet Area.

Registration: Free. Please click here to register.

Description: In partnership with MSU Extension and the Michigan Association of Conservation Districts, join us for this two-part workshop and gain insights on the status and interests of Women who own or feel a connection to Michigan Forests!

The first part of this event will consist of a webinar on February 21st followed by an in-person workshop at the Boardman River Nature Center on March 8th.

When:

• Webinar: Wednesday, February 21st from 6:00 - 7:15pm

• In-Person Workshop: Friday, March 8th from 1:00 - 4:00pm

Where:

• Webinar: Zoom

• In-Person Workshop - Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Rd., Traverse City, MI 49685

Registration: Free. Please click here to register.

Description: The procedures for adding invasive species to the Prohibited and Restricted lists are more complicated (and interesting!) than you might expect! Join Katie Grzesiak, Terrestrial Invasive Species Coordinator for the Michigan DNR, to learn how the process works in Michigan.

This event has been approved by the national Society of American Foresters (SAF) for one (1) category 1 CFE

When: Tuesday, February 20th from 6:00 - 7:00pm

Where: Virtual Webinar. A Zoom link will be provided.

Registration: Free. Registration is required. Please click here to register.

Description: Learn how we can prepare to be outside in the winter. A few tips and tricks for spending time out in the cold and snowy weather can help us have fun.

Our Peepers Program is an adult-accompanied program for early learners ages 3-5 years old, of all experience levels with the natural world. Join us for 60-minute nature programs that include music, discovery hikes, stories, and crafts.

When: February 20th from 10:00 - 11:00am

Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Rd., Traverse City, MI 49685

Registration: $5/child per session. Please click here to register.

Description: Join Grand Traverse Conservation District staff on a guided hike along the trails of the Natural Education Reserve to explore the beauty of the Boardman-Ottaway River Valley. Learn more about new and upcoming projects as we walk through time and observe the magnitude of restoration that has occurred following the removal of Sabin Dam in 2018. A limited amount of snowshoes are available.

When: Saturday, February 10th from 9:30am - 12:00pm

Where: Meet at the Boardman River Nature Center Oleson Pavilion, 1450 Cass Rd., Traverse City, MI 49685

Registration: Free. Please click here to register.

Description: Nick Sanchez, Network Manager at the Old-Growth Forest Network, will explore the status of old-growth in Michigan and the importance of old forests for human health, biodiversity and water quality. In addition, Nick will also discuss actions needed to protect and restore future old-growth and how to connect people to these forests.

When: Tuesday, February 6th from 6:00 - 7:00pm

Where: Virtual Webinar. A Zoom link will be provided.

Registration: Free. Registration is required. Please click here to register.

Description: GTCD naturalists and Grand Traverse Audubon Board member Kirk Waterstripe invite you to a community birdwatching hike on the Natural Education Reserve! This less than 1 mile loop hike is free and open to all ages and experience levels.

All children must be accompanied by an adult/guardian.

Please dress for the weather!

When: Saturday, January 13th from 9:00 - 10:30am

Where: Natural Education Reserve. Meet at the Oleson Pavilion behind the Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Rd, Traverse City, MI 49685

Registration: Free. Pre-registration is required. Please click here to register.

Description: Join Grand Traverse Conservation District staff in celebration of the new year’s first full moon - the Wolf Moon! Amid the stillness of winter, we will take in all the sounds of nature, perhaps even a howl, during this self-led hike. Dress appropriately for inclement weather and bring headlamps in case of clouds.

Due to very limited parking available, we recommend carpooling if you’re able.

When: Thursday, January 25th from 5:00 - 7:00pm

Where: Hickory Meadows. Meet at the main parking lot off Randolph St.

Registration: Free. Registration is limited and required! Please click here to register.

Description: Join GTCD and the Northwest Michigan Invasive Species Network for a winter seed sowing event!

Did you know that most native plant seeds need a cold/moist period for optimal germination? It's nature's way of preserving their energy until optimal conditions arise.

Get your hands in some soil, learn about the importance of native plants, and help us cold-stratify native seeds in containers for the Boardman River Nature Center gardens while taking one home for yourself!

When: Wednesday, January 24th from 6:00 - 7:30pm

Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Rd., Traverse City, MI 49685

Registration: $5/person. Space is limited. Please click here to register.

Description: Vernal pools are critical to a healthy, functioning forest; however, these small but mighty wetlands are often overlooked. This presentation by Abby Pointer, Michigan Vernal Pools Partnership Coordinator at the Michigan Nature Association, will discuss the ongoing conservation work happening in Michigan to protect vernal pools and opportunities to take part in this collaborative effort!

When: Tuesday, January 23rd from 6:00 - 7:00pm

Where: Virtual Webinar. A Zoom link will be provided.

Registration: Free. Registration is required. Please click here to register.

Description: Let’s be nature detectives and discover signs of wildlife in winter. What are these animals up to in the cold months? Join us to find clues of our furry friends!

Our Peepers Program is an adult-accompanied program for early learners ages 3-5 years old, of all experience levels with the natural world. Join us for 60-minute nature programs that include music, discovery hikes, stories, and crafts.

When: Tuesday, January 23rd from 10:00 - 11:00am

Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Rd., Traverse City, MI 49685

Registration: $5/child per session. Please click here to register.

Description: Field Botany and gardening are often looked at as two distant sciences. Join Matthew Ross, Executive Director of The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park, as he outlines ways in which plants in their natural habitat can provide valuable lessons for gardeners, horticulture professionals, and ecologists. From determining the perfect plant combinations to playing botanical CSI, Matthew will walk you through various ways in which field botany can play a vital role in determining the success of plants in a cultivated setting. Gardening tips, techniques on how best to maximize your time spent in the field, and how to apply the lessons learned to your own garden will also be shared!

This event has been approved by the national Society of American Foresters (SAF) for one (1) category 1 CFE

When: Tuesday, January 9th from 6:00 - 7:00pm

Where: Virtual Webinar. A Zoom link will be provided.

Registration: Free. Registration is required. Please click here to register.

Description: Welcome back to our pop-up Peepers! Join us in investigating the fascinating world of snowflakes.

Our Peepers Program is an adult-accompanied program for early learners ages 3-5 years old, of all experience levels with the natural world. Join us for 60-minute nature programs that include music, discovery hikes, stories, and crafts.

When: Tuesday, January 9th from 10:00 - 11:00am

Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Rd., Traverse City, MI 49685

Registration: $5/child per session. Please click here to register.

Description: Meet GTCD's Forester, Ellie Johnson for a hike on the Natural Education Reserve to learn about identifying trees and woody plants in the winter months. Gather at the Boardman River Nature Center, Oleson Pavilion at 10:00am for about a 1 mile, educational, morning walk.

When: Friday, January 5th at 10:00am

Where: Natural Education Reserve. Meet at the Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Rd, Traverse City, MI 49685

Registration: Free. Registration is required. Please click here to register.

Description: Kick off the holiday season by creating a fresh wreath for your front door at the Boardman River Nature Center’s Wreath Making Workshop! This DIY experience allows you to create a beautiful wreath you'll be proud to hang in your home. Wreath form, a mix of fresh evergreens, ribbon, instructions, and tools will be provided. Attendees will take home their gorgeous wreaths at the end of the class.

When: Friday, December 8th from 5:00 - 7:00pm

Where: Meet at the Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Rd., Traverse City, MI 49685

Registration: $50. Space is limited. Please click here to register.

Description: Kick off the holiday season by creating a fresh wreath for your front door at the Boardman River Nature Center’s Wreath Making Workshop! This DIY experience allows you to create a beautiful wreath you'll be proud to hang in your home. Wreath form, a mix of fresh evergreens, ribbon, instructions, and tools will be provided. Attendees will take home their gorgeous wreaths at the end of the class.

When: Saturday, December 2nd from 10:00am - 12:00pm

Where: Meet at the Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Rd., Traverse City, MI 49685

Registration: Registration is now full. Please check out the Wreath Making Workshop on December 8th!

Description: Please join us for GTCD's 2023 Annual Meeting where we'll reflect on our accomplishments over the past year and share updates while enjoying refreshments with our friends and partners.

Agenda: 
4:30 - 5:00pm - GTCD Board Meeting
5:00 - 5:30pm - Refreshments & Networking
5:30 - 6:00pm - Presentation & Remarks
6:00 - 6:30pm - Refreshments & Networking

When: Monday, November 20th from 4:30 - 6:30pm

Where: The Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Rd., Traverse City, MI 49685

Registration: All are welcome! Kindly RSVP by Thursday, November 16th so we can plan for food and drinks. Please click here to RSVP.

Description: GTCD invites you and your family to join members of the STEAM/Maker Alliance for a Mini MakerFest with local STEAM organizations. Engage in activities with the Grand Traverse Conservation District, TADL Youth Services, the Great Lakes Children's Museum, and Challenge Island, and Inland Seas Education Association!

The STEAM/Maker Alliance's goal is to create opportunities for youth to explore STEAM in Northwest Michigan. For more information about this alliance and its partner organizations, please visit their webpage.

All children attending must be accompanied by an adult/guardian.

When: Friday, November 17th from 5:00 - 7:00pm

Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Rd., Traverse City, MI 49685

Registration: Free. Please click here to register.

Description: Forest forensics is the art and science of using landscape features to learn more about the history of an area. Nearly every hill, pile of rocks or clearing tells us a story of past events - if we pay attention!

Start your forest forensics adventure at Brown Bridge Quiet Area with a History Hike!

*location details will be emailed to registered participants.

In partnership with MSU Extension educator, Julie Crick

When: Saturday, November 4th from 9:00 - 11:00am

Where: Brown Bridge Quiet Area. Meet at the East Overlook trailhead.

Registration: Free. Please click here to register.