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Advancing Scientific Understanding
MNA’s network of over 180 Nature Sanctuaries across the state provide “living laboratories” for academic and agency researchers in our mutual quests to answer vital questions about ecology, habitat restoration and management, and endangered species recovery. We are especially proud of the contributions to national, regional, and state science made possible by supporters of MNA, and we hope to grow the research “leg of the MNA stool” in the coming years. Here are some highlights from 2022.
Growing Scientific Presence with Conservation Scientist
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In 2022, MNA invested in expanding its capacity as a hub for research in the state by hiring a Conservation Scientist. This newly-created position has a wide range of responsibilities to help advance MNA’s mission including cultivating collaborations with academic institutions, performing ecological monitoring at sanctuaries, and partnering with the conservation team to help inform decisions about stewardship activities.
Dwarf Lake Iris Research
MNA is working in partnership with the Michigan Natural Features Inventory to address several recovery goals under the US Fish and Wildlife Service’s Recovery plan for the federal and state threatened dwarf lake iris. Research is underway at MNA Nature Sanctuaries to develop habitat management plans to maintain or increase populations and then monitor those populations’ response to management treatments to better understand habitat requirements of this rare plant. An outreach and education program will also be initiated.
Blanding’s and Spotted Turtle Surveys
Over the course of several years, a dedicated MNA volunteer conducted Blanding’s and Spotted turtle surveys at several MNA nature sanctuaries in the southern lower peninsula. The results of the surveys help MNA better understand the turtles’ usage of the habitat at each of the sanctuaries, as well as contribute to the statewide population surveys that are used by the Michigan Natural Features Inventory, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, and many colleges and universities.
