Invasive Japanese Barberry and Spotted Knapweed Removal at Muskegon State Park (Muskegon County)

About the project: On Saturday, August 2, 2025, MUCC's On the Ground program will be partnering with the Michigan DNR to remove invasive vegetation like Japanese barberry and spotted knapweed from Muskegon State Park. The event will be from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Attendees will gather at the parking lot north of the Channel Beach Pavilion to sign in, then work together walking along the dunes to remove the invasive plants from various locations of the State Park. The dunes of Michigan provide critical protection along the coast and support unique ecosystems in addition to their contribution to the economy via tourism. Invasive species, like in many ecosystems, can be detrimental to the health of these critical areas, making management key to conserving this habitat.

Meeting location/coordinates: Volunteers will meet at the north parking lot at the Channel Beach Pavilion at 605 S Scenic Dr, Muskegon, MI, 49441

• Google Maps Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/qbNYCSAvpWDLB1ZE9
• GPS Coordinates: 43.236743, -86.34235

What to bring: Bring your work gloves if you have them and your enthusiasm for improving fish and wildlife habitats! Loppers, hand saws, trash bags, and other necessary equipment will be provided, but feel free to bring your own. 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 August 1 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.