Description: Join us in our Annual Earth Day WorkBee at the Grand Traverse County Natural Education Reserve! This Earth Day we will be planting native seedlings and plants in the bottomlands of the parkland on the East side of the river to help to restore forest and riparian ecosystems.

Feel free to stop by at anytime! Plant one seedling, or stay for the entirety of the event. Please wear closed-toed shoes, long pants, sun protection, and gloves (if desired). Bring your own shovel if you're able, shovels and buckets will also be provided.

When: Wednesday, April 22nd from 10:00am - 2:00pm

Where: Grand Traverse County Natural Education Reserve, meet at Boardman River Nature Center

Registration: Free. Click here to register.

Description: Join District staff in planting 35-40 native tree species that will be able to provide shade relief for trail users, increase wildlife habitat, and increase native biodiversity throughout Hickory Meadows! This event is sponsored by DTE with match funds to plant potted stock trees across Hickory Meadows landscape.

When: Friday, April 24th from 10:00am - 2:00pm

Where: Hickory Meadows Natural Area, meet at Randolph Rd Trailhead

Registration: Free. Registration is required. Click here to register.

Audience: Adults and families

Description: Contribute to science and help document local biodiversity at our community bioblitz at Hickory Forest. Join GTCD staff and volunteers as we identify and record plant, animal, and fungi species using the iNaturalist app, creating valuable data that supports conservation and land management efforts.

Whether you are an experienced naturalist or simply curious about the outdoors, this event is open to all skill levels. GTCD staff will provide guidance on species identification and using iNaturalist. Bring your smartphone, dress for the weather, and discover the incredible diversity in our community.

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

Where: Hickory Forest Natural Area

Registration: Free. Registration is required. Click here to register.

Description: Join GTCD and the Northwest Michigan Invasive Species Network (ISN) at Hickory Meadows for a hands-on stewardship event focused on restoring native habitats. Together, we will remove garlic mustard, protecting the integrity of our local ecosystem. Afterwards, we will transition to planting native seedlings to enhance biodiversity and support the long-term health of habitats throughout Hickory Meadows.

When: Friday, May 15th from 10:00am - 12:00pm

Where: Hickory Meadows Natural Area

Registration: Free. Click here to register.

Description: Contribute to science and help document local biodiversity at our community bioblitz at Brown Bridge Quiet Area. Join GTCD staff and volunteers as we identify and record plant, animal, and fungi species using the iNaturalist app, creating valuable data that supports conservation and land management efforts.

Whether you are an experienced naturalist or simply curious about the outdoors, this event is open to all skill levels. GTCD staff will provide guidance on species identification and using iNaturalist. Bring your smartphone, dress for the weather, and discover the incredible diversity in our community.

When: Thursday, June 11th from 10:00am - 1:00pm

Where: Brown Bridge Quiet Area, meet at the Trailhead on Brown Bridge Rd across from Trailhead 3

Registration: Free. Registration is required. Click here to register.

Audience: Adults and teens

Description: Cross the Ottaway Crossing Footbridge and collect natural data of the east side of the Natural Education Reserve. Join GTCD staff and volunteers to record plant, animal, and fungi species using the iNaturalist app, creating valuable data that supports conservation and land management efforts.

Whether you are an experienced naturalist or simply curious about the outdoors, this event is open to all skill levels. GTCD staff will provide guidance on species identification and using iNaturalist. Bring your smartphone, dress for the weather, and discover the diversity in our community.

When: Friday, August 28th from 10:00am - 1:00pm

Where: Natural Education Reserve, meet in front of the Boardman River Nature Center

Registration: Free. Registration is required. Click here to register.

Description: Help restore, diversify, and beautify the Brown Bridge Quiet Area by planting native trees and shrubs along the banks of the Boardman-Ottaway River. Plants will range in size from very small bare-root seedlings to large saplings. All ages and abilities are welcome. A limited number of extra shovels will be available, please bring your own if you're able.

When: Thursday, October 29th from 10:00am - 2:00pm

Where: Brown Bridge Quiet Area, meet at the Canoe Landing Trailhead off Brown Bridge Road

Registration: Free. Registration is required. Click here to register.

Audience: Adults and families