Each of us has a role to play in protecting Michigan’s magnificent lakes and streams. Are you ready to play your part?  If so, the Michigan Lake and Stream Leaders Institute is looking for you!  We invite you to apply for the Class of 2019. Community members, professionals, and undergraduate and graduate students are all welcome.

As an Institute participant, you will increase your understanding of lake and stream science and management, and learn leadership skills necessary to work through the sometimes challenging issues surrounding lake and stream protection, all through interactive, hands-on experiences with expert instructors and peers:

— Study fish, insects, and habitat in Michigan lakes and rivers

— Develop conflict resolution and communication skills

— Discover new resources and partnership opportunities

— Explore Michigan water law, regulations, and programs

— Apply your new knowledge and skills in an independent project

The Institute employs a combination of classroom activities, field experiences, and independent work over three sessions: May 31-June 1 at the Kettunen Center near Cadillac, July 26-27 at the Kellogg Biological Station near Kalamazoo, and October 18 at Michigan State University in East Lansing. Instructors are leaders and experts in their fields including university faculty, agency professionals, and leaders of non-profit organizations. The Institute is a partnership program offered by Michigan State University Extension, Michigan Lake and Stream Associations, Inc., the MSU Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, and the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality.

The application deadline is March 31, 2019. Tuition for the 2019 Institute is $400, and includes all materials, meals, field trips, equipment, and overnight lodging. Limited scholarships are available.

For application forms and more information about the 2019 Institute, visit http://bit.ly/MSU-LSLI. You can also contact Institute Director Dr. Jo Latimore at latimor1@msu.edu or 517-432-1491.