Michigan Botanical Club Spring Foray 2012 at the Tip of the Mitt
Hosted by the Huron Valley Chapter
at the University of Michigan Biological Station, Pellston, Michigan
9133 Biological Road, Pellston, MI (231) 539-8408
May 25 – 28, 2012
This location is distant enough to be somewhat exotic (up north), yet it is not too long a drive for most of us. In choosing this site, we wanted to extend the MBC's botanical/ecological survey of Michigan.Those of you who attend this Foray will be treated to a unique, wide-ranging yet in-depth view of this special region of Michigan.
Another reason for selecting this site is the UM Biological Station, fondly known as the “bug camp”. UMBS is now over 100 years old, and that age brings with it a special accumulation of knowledge and resources from the countless researchers and teachers who have worked here over those years. This institution has made (and will continue to make) many contributions to our knowledge of botany, ecology and other aspects of natural history. In order to teach and carry out research effectively, the UMBS has to be right in the midst of prime, diverse natural areas. We will be able to enjoy that fully, and we will live right on the shore of Douglas Lake in easy contact with nature. Students and alumni consider this a “magical” place. It's a little rustic, but in a very pleasant and comfortable way. UMBS is also a family friendly and handicap-accessible place. Please note that we will be guests of the UM Biological Station during their spring term, so we will share the facilities with students, teachers and researchers, but that will be part of the experience.
The physiography of this site and the area around it is basically time-worn post-glacial features; however, this physiography is quite complex and diverse ranging from glacial lake plain to moraines and the full range of glacial depositional features over relatively short distances. Correspondingly, the flora (and fauna) and ecosystems are highly varied. In addition, this area is part of the transition from deciduous forests to boreal forests, and we will see elements of all of them. Fittingly, we have access to a very good overview of the natural history of this area in the UMBS's centennial commemoration volume: Nadelhoffer, Hogg, and Hazlett. 2010. The changing environment of northern Michigan: A century of science and nature at the University of Michigan Biological Station. Ann Arbor, MI: University of Michigan Press.
We have a great field trip and evening lecture program ahead for us. I am looking forward to seeing you at this wonderful place.
Larry Noodén, President, Huron Valley Chapter