News and Information
NATIVE MICHIGAN WILD FLOWERS
Did you know that Michigan has more than 1,800 native plant species and 900 introduced species? Our natives come in every color of the rainbow, every shape and texture. And, most importantly, they perform an amazing array of ecological functions. In comparison, the traditional lawn, which is increasingly becoming the "landscape of America," offers little in the way of ecological value to the environment. Not only do the two million acres of American lawn not contribute to the natural world, modern lawns also cause detrimental ecological impacts. For example, ten times more chemical pesticides are applied to lawns than to farm crops? Plus, there are concerns about air pollution, water use for lawn maintenance, and effects of lawn fertilization.
So, promoting the use of native plants really does make a lot of ecological and economic sense. For more information, see the Annual Tree, Shrub, and Plant sale section on native plants.
FROM THE RED ROCK RAMBLER NEWSLETTER
WINDS AND WINDBREAKS—The use of windbreaks for winter climate control around the home can reduce winter fuel consumption by 10 to 25 percent. More . . .
MAPLE SYRUP—Black and sugar maples, native to the northeastern U.S. and parts of ONtario and Quebec, yield a sap prized for its flavor. More . . .
FROM THE BOARD—Jim Krenek and the BCD Board of Directors have developed a five-year Strategic Plan with the intention of assisting landowners in Baraga County. More . . .