On the Ground: Glossy Buckthorn at Gourdneck State Game Area

Olivia Triltsch • September 4, 2025

On Saturday, August 30, 2025, MUCC's On the Ground program partnered with the City of Portage Parks and Recreation and the Michigan DNR’s Wildlife Division for a stewardship day event at Gourdneck State Game Area in Kalamazoo County. 

Volunteers Clear Invasive Species

Volunteers worked as a team to remove woody invasive species, such as glossy buckthorn, that were encroaching on a wetland/fen area. This project will help improve habitat for imperiled species found in the area, including eastern massasauga rattlesnakes and eastern box turtles. In total, volunteers directly improved 0.5 acre of wildlife habitat through this project. 

Why is it Important?

Gourdneck State Game Area became established as the first urban State Game Area in 1941 in an effort to provide quality hunting habitat. Harbored near the city of Portage, this game area provides critical habitat for migrating birds, wild game, and threatened and endangered species. 


The Henslow’s Sparrow is one of the species that rely on habitats like that of Gourdneck State Game Area. Preferred habitats include fields and meadows in damp areas with scattered shrubs, according to the Michigan Natural Features Inventory. Breaking up the barrier of dense invasive vegetation created by glossy buckthorn can create a habitat closer to natural origins while creating a landscape preferable to the species. Other management techniques to maintain the desired grassland habitat included burning, mowing, and grazing. Although not federally listed, this songbird is legally protected and considered endangered in Michigan.  


Photo: Henslow's Sparrow courtesy of Jim Hudgins, US Fish and Wildlife Service.

Learn More

Want to participate in more invasive species removal projects? Visit our website for more information and a list of upcoming events. We work to conserve and enhance public lands by hosting volunteer workdays throughout the state geared toward habitat improvement. Common habitat projects include invasive species removal, wood duck boxes, river cleanups, tree plantings, and more. All ages are welcome, so bring a friend or two if you’d like! Registration details and more can be found on our website at mucc.org/on-the-ground.   

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