Conservation News

As stewards of land and water, it’s important to understand how large-scale development like data centers can affect groundwater, surface water, and energy use. Two recent reports highlight what this means for our communities and natural resources.

Over 1.3 million Michigan households rely on septic systems to safely treat wastewater. Well maintained septic tanks protect groundwater, lakes, and streams—but when they fail, they can pollute our drinking water and environment. Learn how to keep your system working and avoid costly repairs.

If you’ve picked up native plants, rain barrels, or compost bins from WCCD this spring or summer, chances are Walker Whitehouse helped get them into your hands. As the Conservation District’s seasonal staff member, Walker plays a vital role in executing conservation resource programs across Washtenaw County.

Farmers are finding unique ways to diversify their operation while also protecting water quality. One practice they are exploring: Harvestable Buffers.

Logsdon writes out his love and history with the groves he knows in folksy anecdotes: probably best read while falling asleep in a cabin warmed by wood fire's light. Borrow this book and planting tools from the Washtenaw Tool Bank Collective, and don't forget to order some Fall Sale trees to plant your own future groves!

The annual Fall Tree & Native Plant Sale opened on August 4!
Now offering even more variety of potted native wildflowers, grasses, garden kits, trees, shrubs, berries and more! Also available are bulk bare-root conifers and planting aids. Order online or by paper form by Sept 15, and pick-up on Friday, Sept 26!

From studying primates in Africa to helping farmers in southeast Michigan, Paul Buzzard brings global conservation experience to local landscapes. As WCCD’s Conservation Technician and co-owner of Flight Path Farm, Paul champions regenerative, climate-smart farming.

"For as long as expensive equipment has existed in farming, so have communities who have joined together to jointly own, lease, or otherwise share that equipment." Rogue Farm Corps (Oregon) put together an amazing set of resources on equipment sharing for in various collaborations. Bonus, included is their recent webinar, with a flower farmer sharing a soil steamer and the WCCD staff sharing about the Washtenaw Tool Bank Collective.

Farmers in Washtenaw County are vital to protecting the Huron River, River Raisin, and Western Lake Erie Basin from harmful algal blooms (HABs). By adopting conservation practices like cover crops, buffers, and nutrient management, they reduce runoff and keep our waterways clean and healthy.