Wood Duck Box and Public Access Maintenance at Maple River State Game Area (Gratiot County)

About the project: On Saturday, February 7, 2026, MUCC's On the Ground program will host a wood duck nesting box and public access project in partnership with the Michigan DNR at Maple River State Game Area in Gratiot County. Volunteers are needed on Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 9:30 A.M. - 12:30 P.M. The purpose of this project is to improve habitat for wood ducks by maintaining existing nest boxes. Additionally, volunteers will be conducting maintenance on a cross bridge to improve public access.

Meeting location: Volunteers will meet at the DNR Barns on Crapo Rd, just south of Ranger Rd in Ashley, MI

• Google Maps Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Wi97r2j9ZnziSQnXA
• GPS Coordinates: 43.148949, -84.523954

What to bring: Bring your work gloves if you have them and your enthusiasm for improving wildlife habitat! Closed-toed boots and long pants are recommended. This project will take place rain or shine unless there is severe weather, so please dress accordingly. Be prepared to work outside in cold weather for the duration of the event. We could use assistance with volunteers providing pry bars, cordless drills and bits, a small step ladder, and jet sleds, if possible. A volunteer lunch and free appreciation gift will also be provided to all registered volunteers. We recommend bringing a reusable water bottle to reduce waste, but plastic water bottles will be available throughout the day.

Registration closes on February 6 at noon. If you need to register or cancel after this date/time, please email MUCC's Director of Habitat Conservation and Partnerships, Olivia Triltsch, at otriltsch@mucc.org so the lunch order can be updated.