On the Ground is headed back to the Upper Peninsula this summer and you’re invited to volunteer with us!

Kristina Kennedy • July 6, 2023

An On the Ground volunteer places protective wraps on tree trunks before planting.

Join On the Ground in partnership with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) as we plant approximately 100 masting trees and shrubs throughout three openings in the Garden Grade Grouse Enhanced Management Site (GEMS) in Delta County.

Volunteers are needed on Saturday, August 26 from 10am to 3pm.

This project is an effort to establish soft mast that will benefit various species of wildlife including grouse, deer and turkey. It also offers a great opportunity to connect with your public lands and fellow conservationists and learn about Michigan’s state wildlife areas!

A red oak tree is planted by a volunteer on state-managed land in the Upper Peninsula.

Volunteers are required to wear closed-toed shoes and are encouraged to wear long pants and long sleeves. Attendees are also encouraged to bring reusable water bottles, although bottled water and snacks will be provided throughout the day. This project will take place rain or shine, unless there is severe weather so please dress accordingly.

All ages are welcome to attend and registered participants will receive free lunch and a volunteer appreciation gift.

Please register to attend this event at https://mucc.org/inspire_events/mast-producing-tree-and-shrub-planting-in-the-garden-grade-gems/ Please note that registration will close on Wednesday, August 23 at 4pm. If you wish to register after the closing date, contact MUCC Habitat Volunteer Coordinator Kristina Kennedy at kkennedy@mucc.org.

Recent Posts

On the Ground: Clean Up at Yates Park

By Olivia Triltsch • April 23, 2026
On Saturday, April 18, 2026, MUCC’s OTG program partnered with the Clinton River Watershed Council and Metro-West Steelheaders to host the annual Clinton River clean-up at Yates Park. Volunteers removed about 270 pounds of trash from the riverbanks and the surrounding watershed. Approximately 80.3 acres of fish and wildlife habitat were directly impacted by this project, in addition to improving local outdoor recreational opportunities. Cleaning up the watershed is critical for ensuring safe drinking water, safe recreation, and a clean habitat for fish and wildlife alike.

OTG Volunteers Needed in Crawford County Tree Plantings

By Olivia Triltsch • April 16, 2026
MUCC’s On the Ground (OTG) will be in the northern lower peninsula in late spring to improve habitat for wildlife. Volunteers are needed on Saturday, April 25th, from 8 AM to 12 PM and Saturday, May 3rd, from 9 AM to 2 PM to plant trees across Crawford County. These projects will take place rain or shine, except in the event of severe weather, so please dress accordingly. All registered volunteers will receive lunch and a free appreciation gift for their efforts.

White Oaks vs Red Oaks: Why Does It Matter?

By Olivia Triltsch • April 9, 2026
Oaks are a critical tree species for wildlife in Michigan as they provide food, cover, and long-term habitat in forests, field edges, and public lands. Both red oaks and white oaks are native to Michigan, but there are differences in management between the species, making an impact on conservation and hunting success. The growth patterns are important to understand when planning for land management due to variation in growth, acorn production (mast), and wildlife use.
More Posts