From lake and stream user to lake and stream leader

MSU Extension’s Lake and Stream Leaders Institute is currently accepting applications.

Protecting Michigan’s lakes and streams requires enthusiastic and dedicated individuals willing to take the lead. Conservation efforts often call for a solid understanding of the science while balancing the needs and wants of the landowners and other users of the waterbody. Satisfying multiple users while staying connected to what is right for the lake or stream is often the greatest challenge. Local leaders can be the best suited to take on these challenges. Michigan State University Extension’s Lake and Stream Leaders Institute is designed to help individuals learn the science, communicate it clearly, and inspire others to affect positive change within their communities.

Are you ready to take the lead? We invite you to apply for the Michigan Lake and Stream Leaders Institute Class of 2019. Community members, riparians, professionals, and undergraduate and graduate students are all welcome.

As an Institute participant, you will increase your understanding of lake and stream science and management, and learn leadership skills necessary to work through the sometimes challenging and complex issues surrounding lake and stream protection, all through interactive, hands-on experiences with expert instructors and peers:

- Study fish, insects, and habitat in Michigan lakes and rivers

- Develop conflict management and communication skills

- Discover new resources and partnership opportunities

- Explore Michigan water law, regulations, and programs

- Apply your new knowledge and skills through the completion of an independent project

The Institute employs a combination of classroom activities, field experiences, and independent work over three sessions: May 31-Jun. 1 at the Kettunen Center near Cadillac, July 26-27 at the Kellogg Biological Station near Kalamazoo, and Oct. 18 at Michigan State University in East Lansing. Instructors are leaders and experts in their fields including university faculty, agency professionals, and leaders of non-profit organizations. The Institute is a partnership program offered by Michigan State University Extension, Michigan Lake Stewardship Associations, Inc., the MSU Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, and the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality.

The application deadline is Mar. 31, 2019. Class size is limited to approximately 20 participants. Tuition for the 2019 Institute is $400, and includes all materials, meals, field trips, equipment, and overnight lodging. Limited scholarships are available.

For application forms and more information about the 2019 Institute, visit http://bit.ly/MSU-LSLI. You can also contact Institute Director Dr. Jo Latimore at latimor1@msu.edu or 517-432-1491.

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