European Frogbit Removal at Shiawassee River State Game Area

About the project: On Saturday, July 26, 2025, MUCC's On the Ground program will be partnering with the Michigan DNR to remove the invasive European frogbit from the Shiawassee River State Game Area. The event will be from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Attendees will gather at the DNR Field Office in St. Charles to sign-in, then work together walking along the dikes to remove the invasive aquatic plant from various locations of the State Game Area. The Shiawassee River State Game Area is one of Michigan's popular sites for waterfowl hunters during the migration season, as it plays a key role in critical habitat for waterfowl refuge. The existence of frogbit forming dense mats along the top of the water negatively impacts food and habitat for ducks and fish alike by reducing oxygen and light where this invasive thrives.

Meeting location/coordinates: Volunteers will meet at the Shiawassee River State Game Area DNR Field Office at 225 E Spruce St, St Charles, MI 48655

• Google Maps Link : https://maps.app.goo.gl/pha4J8VF5Nc3cdbNA 
• GPS Coordinates: 43.300191, -84.140384 

What to bring: Bring your work gloves if you have them and your enthusiasm for improving fish and wildlife habitats! Waders, rakes, trash bags, and other necessary equipment will be provided, but feel free to bring your own. If you wish to bring your own, other materials that may be useful include: garden rakes with a rope tied to the end, a kayak to reach deeper into the waterway, bug spray, sunscreen, and a hat. This project will take place rain or shine unless there is severe weather, so please dress accordingly. Be prepared to work outside for the duration of the event. MUCC will provide lunch to all registered volunteers and a volunteer appreciation gift. We recommend bringing a reusable water bottle to reduce waste, but plastic water bottles will be available throughout the day. 

Registration closes on July 25 at noon. In addition to registering, please fill out this MUCC digital volunteer waiver individually for each person in your party. Individuals under 18 can have a parent or guardian sign for them. If you need to register or cancel after this date/time, please email MUCC's Habitat Program and Partnerships Coordinator, Olivia Triltsch, at otriltsch@mucc.org so the lunch order can be updated.