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Benzie Conservation District
Preserving and Enhancing the Natural Resources of Benzie County
 Another planting season is around the corner! This month, you can get started on your next planting project with our biannual Native Seedling Sale.
Our fall catalog is lush with native trees and grasses selected carefully for our region. Between a variety of seedlings, grasses, and wildflowers, the chosen plants reflect Benzie County’s natural beauty while supporting the needs of our community. Wildlife savor the food and resting spots provided by native plants, which also create windbreaks and limit erosion with their root structures. This year’s sale features returning favorites like white spruce, along with new products, such as the Prairie Mix blend of grasses and wildflowers. The 2023 Fall Native Seedling Sale begins August 17th and ends September 21st, with product pickup in early October. These dates are strategically timed for best planting opportunities. In autumn, young trees don’t get scorched by the summer heat, and native grass seeds germinate well in cool soils. Seedling sale orders can be placed in person, by mail, or online starting on August 17th. Items will be reserved for pickup on October 6th at our downtown Beulah office. In the meantime, we’re happy to help you select species for your site and provide free planting guides. Visit us at 280 S. Benzie Blvd in Beulah, mail to PO Box 408, or contact 231-882-4391 or info@benziecd.org. Find the latest sale updates in our e-news, seedling sale page, and social media. Whether you’re planning a long-term conservation project, excited for an opportunity to garden, or want to leave a lasting mark for generations to come, native species are a perfect match for your goals. Happy planting!  Become a Benzie River Steward at the fifteenth annual Platte River Clean Sweep! Last month, during the sweep on the Betsie River, 33 volunteers hit the river and collectively paddled from Homestead Dam all the way to Elberta. In thirteen miles, and just a few hours, the crews removed about 100 pounds of trash. Without their stewardship, this litter could have continued to degrade into the water system or remain tangled in precious wildlife habitats. Want to get involved? Up next, you’re invited to The Platte River Clean Sweep on July 15th. We're aiming to remove harmful debris from over eight miles of the water. Home to the Platte River State Fish Hatchery and Weir, this habitat supports tens of thousands of salmon, and it is essential to their safety that the river is as free as possible from loose fishing line, hooks, plastic, and other harmful debris. River cleanups are an ongoing effort and you can help make the best possible impact. The details
Registration is required so that we can prepare enough food for all volunteers. The Benzie Conservation District will provide cleanup tools (like grabbers and bags). Participants should bring their own boat, life jacket, insect repellent, sunscreen, and water. Before launching, please remember to practice the key habit of cleaning, draining, and drying your boat and equipment. The Clean, Drain, Dry, Dispose approach stops harmful debris (and invasive species!) from entering the water we're working to keep clean and safe. To everyone who has helped keep this river healthy in the past, whether by attending the Clean Sweep, spreading the word, or doing your part to dispose of waste properly, thank you! We hope you’ll join us at the Platte River Clean Sweep in July. Please email info@benziecd.org with any questions or to register. |
We feature our latest updates in our blog posts. Check out the categories below for previous happenings!
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