Stories

Each July and August I collect seeds from the tickseed, which indeed do look like ticks, and then start them indoors each spring and plant t

Leaning over the edge of my kayak, I peer into the depths and spot numerous small depressions scattered across the sandy bottom. These are t

Explore the natural beauty of Ogemaw County through "An Ogemaw County Year," a project celebrating its diverse flora and fauna across the se

Michigan's agates, particularly those found along the shores of Lake Superior, are celebrated for their vibrant colors, intricate patterns,

In the northern forests, a plant of remarkable beauty thrives—the bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis).

Also known as Shadbush or Saskatoon, this small tree thrives as an early spring bloomer in forested areas, providing vital support to...

Few species exhibit such a striking seasonal change as the American goldfinch.

Wild turkeys, often associated with Thanksgiving, are more than just a holiday symbol. They are an integral part of our ecosystem, and their

The Tamarack tree stands out as a unique gem in the state's landscape. Unlike most conifers, the Tamarack tree (Larix laricina) sheds its...

Michigan is home to three predominant species of aspen, each with its distinct characteristics. Aspens often hold their leaves later into...

Birch trees are found throughout Michigan but did you know there are multiple varieties? These birch trees not only play a vital role in...

Sharp-shinned Hawks are small hawks characterized by their short wings, long tails, and distinctive slate-blue plumage in adults. They...

As fall stretches across Michigan, ospreys embark on their annual journey south. The osprey, scientifically known as Pandion haliaetus,...

I learned something really interesting at the art fairs this summer. People don't like the basic black frames I put the 5x7 original...

Michigan is blessed with a diverse range of wildlife, and among its avian residents, the American Kestrel (Falco sparverius) stands out...

Monarch butterflies have bright orange wings covered with black veins and rimmed with a black border and white dots. This brilliant...

White Shoal Lighthouse is located in the middle of the Straits of Mackinac about 20 miles west of the Mackinac Bridge on a shoal covered...

In 1825, the original Fort Gratiot Light was built approximately where the Blue Water Bridge now stands at a cost of $5,762. That makes...

In 1873, Congress appropriated $10,000 for a lighthouse at Port Austin, Michigan. The original plan was to build a brick lighthouse on...

Gray tree frogs live in forested areas throughout the eastern United States and southern Ontario. They are about two inches long and have...