Torch Conservation Center

06/19/2026

Don’t miss our Native Plant Sale starting today - 11am to 4pm! 🌱

Come early for the best selection, limited quantities available. Antrim Conservation District

06/18/2026

Seawalls and hardened shorelines are quietly damaging Michigan’s inland lakes.
They wipe out fish and wildlife habitat, increase runoff, and degrade water quality.

There’s a better way.

If you own lakefront property, you can protect your shoreline and improve your lake’s health with natural solutions like native plants, buffer zones, and woody habitat structures ("fish sticks").

These approaches reduce erosion, restore habitat, and help keep shorelines stable and resilient.

Explore resources to help you get started: michigan.gov/ShorelineProtection

Get inspired by real shoreline projects across Michigan in our interactive story map: https://tinyurl.com/4xv25evw

06/18/2026

Thank you Alden Mill House for the reminder! We will be having our Native Plant Sale this weekend as well. 🌱

Don’t forget! This Sunday in Alden! And don’t forget to stroll around and check out all the shops!

06/17/2026

🌿 Native Plant Sale This Weekend! 🌿

Looking to add beauty to your landscape while supporting pollinators, birds, and local wildlife? Join us at the Torch Conservation Center for our Native Plant Sale this Friday and Saturday!
- Swipe for all event details including a list of native plants available!

Native plants are adapted to our local environment, require less maintenance, help reduce runoff, and provide critical habitat for pollinators and wildlife. Plants are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so stop by early for the best selection!

🌱 Plus, learn about the Barberry Trade-Up Program—bring invasive Japanese barberry (or proof of disposal) and receive a native shrub while supplies last.

Thank you to our partners at the Antrim Conservation District and CAKE CISMA for helping make this event possible.

06/17/2026

Tick Update for Northern Michigan 🕷️

We are currently in the heart of tick season, and activity remains elevated throughout our region. The good news is that a few simple precautions can significantly reduce your risk of tick bites and tick-borne illnesses.

Before heading outdoors:
• Apply an EPA-approved tick repellent
• Wear long pants and closed-toe shoes when possible
• Check yourself, children, and pets for ticks after outdoor activities
• Remove attached ticks promptly

Don't let ticks keep you from enjoying Northern Michigan's beautiful trails, parks, and shorelines. Awareness and prevention are your best defense.

Have you spotted more ticks than usual this season? Share your experience in the comments. 👇

06/17/2026

The Watershed Center Grand Traverse Bay

Happening in 2 days...

Don't miss this chance to hear directly from TWC's experts about water quality work happening right here in our watershed.

Panel Discussion: Let's Talk Water
Wednesday, June 17
5-6:30pm
Elk Rapids Area Historical Museum

Learn about water quality monitoring, restoration efforts, and the policies shaping our waters - plus get your questions answered. Come be part of the conversation.

06/17/2026

Antrim Conservation District

That dead tree in the woods isn't just an eyesore, it's valuable wildlife habitat!

Standing dead trees, known as snags, provide nesting sites, shelter, and food for countless species. Woodpeckers excavate cavities that are later used by owls, bluebirds, chickadees, bats, squirrels, and many other animals. As snags slowly break down, they also support insects, fungi, and other organisms that form the foundation of healthy forest ecosystems.

What looks like the end of a tree’s life is often the beginning of a whole new phase of life in the forest. In many cases, snags become some of the most important habitat features on the landscape, quietly full of activity and ecological value.

Sometimes the best thing we can do for wildlife is leave a dead tree standing (when it’s safe to do so).

06/17/2026

A little calm after the storm and a beautiful sunset over Torch Lake. 🌅Thank you to Theresa Schurman and Heather Testa for sharing these stunning photos!

With another rainy day in the forecast, it’s the perfect time to stop by the TCC Artisan Market. Browse unique gifts for Dad, discover locally made art, and explore our educational displays focused on caring for Torch Lake.
�🕚 Open today from 11am–5pm

06/16/2026

The June Edition of True Blue News is Here!

https://mailchi.mp/44b3ac03ae4f/true-blue-news-june26-6431717