July in Michigan

Always projects to work on, never a dull moment. The Vacciniums and many varieties of Rubus are all ripe. Easy forging while working in the woods. I got a break from the forest to spend a day snorkeling and freediving  to remove the invasive aquatic species Myriophyllum spicatum. The site was near a popular boat launch which provides access to a wilderness area. The M. spicatum has not spread into the adjoining waterways leading into the wilderness area. Even paddlers need to be reminded to clean their boats and equipment.

Also began doing some aquatic and emergent species surveys. The first was in a dammed lake which has been proposed for removal. The dam was constructed sixty years ago as a recreational site and now is being removed due to lack of use.

I had the opportunity to do some interpretive work between forest wildlife biologists and their Spanish speaking chainsaw crew. The crew had a contract to maintaining a wildlife opening and help was need to communicate which trees and shrubs to cut, girdle, and/or save.

I did some work with a group of campers to create a native plant garden. Preparing the site with a rototiller, putting down compost and mulch, and then planting with the campers.

Some more plant photos!!