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Thornapple River
Watershed Management Short Course

September 9-October 2, 1999

In partnership with MSU-Extension

Protecting our surface and groundwater from nonpoint source pollution means examining land use and it's impact on water quality. Managing water resources from a land use perspective is called watershed management.

This course is designed for local officials, residents, landowners, educators, builders, developers, and real estate agents concerned with water quality and land use issues in the West Michigan area.

    Learn:
  • Thornapple River features and watershed science
  • Historical perspectives of watershed management
  • Sources of local information and resources
  • Watershed planning and community action

Participants attending all five sessions will receive a certificate of completion. Two Michigan State University Continuing Education Units and Certified Crop Advisor credits have been requested.

Session I: Thursday, September 9
 (Registration at 5:30 p.m.)
6-10 p.m. Welcome to the Thornapple River watershed

Take a visual tour of the Thornapple River Watershed. MSU faculty will introduce you to the science behind the watershed including geology, watershed boundaries, soils, and hydrology.

Session II: Thursday, September 16
 6-10 p.m. Land use and water quality.

Discover the true meaning of "clean water", possible contamination routes, land use impacts and management solutions.

Session III: Thursday, September 23
 6-10 p.m. Our watershed history.

WMU faculty will examine the historical relationships between west Michigan's abundant water resources and its land use patternes. Current land use trends specific to the Thornapple River Watershed will be highlighted along with successful local and statewide watershed projects.

Session IV: Thursday, September 30
 4-7 p.m. Community Watershed Expo

Network with organizations involved in water quality issues and projects at the Watershed Expo. Discover Available rsources and make contacts with individuals working on watershed programs. 6-10 p.m. Watershed planning: the sea of resources.

Explore the role of local officials and resource professionals in the watershed planning process. Learn how to move your message throught effective and fun educational activities. Get your message on the air and in print through the media.

Session V: Saturday, October 2
 8:30 a.m. Coffee and rolls
9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Watershed tour!

This session will offer a hands-on visit of the local sites, features and problem areas discussed during previous sessions.
Bring your WADERS!! Lunch and presentation of certificates will follow.

The registration fee for this course is $75 per person, and includes four class sessions, a watershed tour and luncheon, special reference materials, and refreshments.

CLICK HERE
for printable application form.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Patricia
Thornapple River Watershed Group
P.O. Box 341
Caledonia, Michigan 49316
616-891-8817
fax:616-891-9820
thornappleriver@hotmail.com

Kara Griffith
Kent/MSU Extension
836 Fuller Ave. NE
Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503
616-336-3265
fax: 616-336-3836
griffitk@msue.msu.edu

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