Lunch & Learn 2024
The Gull Lake Quality Organization (GLQO) is thrilled to announce our upcoming “Natural Shoreline Workshop,” a Lunch & Learn event scheduled for July 11, 2024. This workshop, prompted by popular demand from our members, aims to delve deeper into shoreline landscaping options—building on the knowledge shared by our speakers at the 2023 and 2022 Fall Fling events.
The workshop will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Kellogg Biological Station’s Carriage House. This comprehensive program is designed for lakefront property owners who are interested in enhancing their shoreline while preserving the health of their lake.
Program Highlights:
Owning a lakefront property is a privilege that comes with the responsibility of maintaining a healthy shoreline. This critical boundary between land and water plays a pivotal role in the lake’s overall health. But how can you ensure your shoreline is beautiful and beneficial to the lake’s ecosystem?
Participants in this workshop will learn about various shoreline planting options through detailed presentations and live demonstrations. Following this, attendees will enjoy a networking lunch at the McClary Dining Hall, offering an excellent opportunity to connect with neighbors and program speakers.
After lunch, the focus will shift to hands-on learning. Our expert instructors will guide participants in creating personalized shoreline landscaping designs tailored to their property’s unique characteristics and personal preferences. Bring a drawing of your property to get help on your specific property!
Presenters:
We are honored to welcome back Erick Elgin and Julia Kirkwood, two leading experts in the field.
- Erick Elgin is a limnologist and water resources educator with MSU Extension. His work focuses on the sustainable use, protection, and restoration of freshwater systems, with recent efforts concentrated on aquatic plants, lake management, natural shorelines, and invasive species. Erick holds an M.S. in aquatic ecology from the University of Calgary and a B.S. in natural resources management from the University of Minnesota.
- Julia Kirkwood is a Senior Environmental Quality Analyst with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE). She collaborates with various organizations to restore and protect inland lakes and rivers. Julia chairs the Michigan Natural Shoreline Partnership and founded the MI Shoreland Stewards Program. She also initiated the MI Shoreland Stewards Ambassador Training program.
Workshop Partners:
This event is presented in partnership with the GLQO, Michigan State University Extension, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE), and the Kellogg Biological Station.
Cost (Includes Lunch):
- $20 for Gull Lake Quality Organization Members
- $30 for Kellogg Bird Sanctuary or Manor House Members
- $40 for Non-Members
Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your shoreline knowledge and network with other lakefront property owners. We look forward to seeing you there!