Happy March! This is the month we can see anything from a peek of spring or feel like we are still in the throes of winter with cold temps and more snowstorms! Whatever the weather throws at us, the National Lakeshore has an activity to keep us outside and enjoying nature. Keep updated on our trail conditions here or grab your sunglasses and take a hike on the many great beaches. March keeps us on our toes, but the promise of spring is around the corner. Take a look at the following newsletter to find out ways to volunteer as well as a potential new trail system.
Connecting the Leelanau Trail and the Heritage Trail Survey
Traverse Area Recreation and Transportation Trails (TART) and the University of Michigan are partnering on a project to explore expanding non-motorized (biking, running, etc.) trails in Leelanau County. Specifically, how to connect two popular trails, the Leelanau Trail, and the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail. Connecting these two trails would provide an opportunity for people to travel between the two unique trails without having to drive or travel on roads without dedicated space. They want to hear from you to help determine the best way to connect these two trails. To fill out a brief survey please visit the project page (tinyurl.com/connecttrails). The survey will close at 11:59pm on Friday March 12th. Additional information about the project and contact information for the project lead is also on the webpage.
The mix of extreme temperatures creates an almost unworldly landscape on the beaches. These formations are fun to go exploring, but please use caution. Formations like “ice volcanoes” created by freezing waves along Lake Michigan beaches can be beautiful but extremely dangerous. Holes and cracks in the ice quickly become hidden by blowing sand or snow. Recreate responsibly by taking in the experience from the safety of the Lakeshore. Learn more on the Park’s Website
As the lakeshore begins to experience thawing, it is a great to walk the beaches and pick up trash that winter storms have brought or uncovered. It is also a great time to start planning your volunteer activities for the upcoming spring and summer. Keep an eye out for volunteer training on our website and facebook page.
Sleeping Bear Dunes staff began surveying Hemlocks in January when they were made aware that the insect was found at Ludington State Park last fall. So far one Hemlock in the Platte River campground has been identified with Woolly Adelgids. This invasive insect is not native to Michigan and can weaken needles, branches, slows tree growth by sucking sap from the tree. Eventually, without treatment the Woolly Adelgids can kill the tree within four – ten years. Infestations can be reported to the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development at MDA-Info@Michigan.gov or 800-292-3939. Read more in the Ticker article.
Photo submission period for Picture Perfect Sleeping Bear now Closed.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore has been called “The most beautiful place in America” and it needs your help. Our 600+ member organization helps ensure that the more than a million people who visit the dunes each year have a great experience while helping to protect this precious resource.
We are looking for a person with information technology skills. This person would be responsible for the identification and implementation of appropriate software and/or hardware solutions for various organizational needs. Responsible for software/ hardware installation and development of maintenance plans. They would ensure access of documents to appropriate staff and conduct training as needed.
Experience in or proficiency with the following would be helpful but is not required: Word Press, MS Office, Google Drive, and G-Suite, DonorSnap and QuickBooks
Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes will provide training and assistance as needed. A position description is can be found here: https://friendsofsleepingbear.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/IT-Systems-Manager-20210227.pdf
. Interested in helping out? For more information please email wieberd2@gmail.com
We Love Our Heritage Trail: Remember To Take Some Time For Yourself at the Lakeshore.
We hope you can take some time to visit us this month and will plan a trip to the Lakeshore.
Make sure to keep updated about the winter trail conditions before you go – bookmark our updated Trail Conditions page: https://friendsofsleepingbear.org/…/winter-trail-report/
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