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Nature Center Summit

The Nature Center Summit was established in 2019 as an opportunity to connect nonformal educators to the science behind resource management. The goal is to provide our many nonformal partners with the latest and most scientifically accurate information about Michigan's wildlife, fisheries, forests and more. Our nonformal partners reach thousands and thousands of students and families with messages about Michigan's natural resources. We strive to find the top experts in these topics in our state so you will be the most informed.

Save the date: 2026 Nature Center Summit

January 30, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

This year, DNR staff and partners will meet together at the Ralph A. MacMullan Conference Center in Roscommon to share the most up-to-date data and trends. Questions about the event? Email Shaun McKeon at MckeonS@Michigan.gov

The 2025 Nature Center Summit lineup included:

  • Bald Eagles: From Recovery to Recent Threats with Julie Melotti from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. 
  • #NotMISpecies: Engaging the public about all things invasive with Christina Baugher from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. 
  • Harmful Algal Blooms in Michigan with Sarah Scheitler, Community Engagement Coordinator for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.
  • Building a Healthy Climate Future: Insights and Opportunities from the MI Healthy Climate Corps with Charlotte Mayworm from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy and Marley Wolff from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. 

  • Rabies and Ticks and Fungal Diseases, Oh My! – Explore Michigan-Specific Data with MiTracking with Sarah Scheitler and Libby Trubac from Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.
  • The History of DNR Land Ownership and Today’s Land Strategy with Meghan Stevens from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.  
  • Navigating Michigan’s natural resources policy landscape: strategies for a sustainable future with Scott Whitcomb from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources