River News

River Walks give watershed enthusiasts a chance to experience the watershed in a variety of ways. Whether it is a bird walk, or cross country skiing, everyone who participates enjoys spending times out in the watershed.

Birdwatchers enjoy the sightings at Independ-ence Oaks located in Independence Twp.

In July of 2009 some rain and dark thunder clouds did not keep CRWC member and former director Nancy Strole from giving a walking tour of one of the most beautiful wetland areas in Southeast Michigan. Nancy and those that attended this walk explored the Shiawassee Basin Preserve, a prairie fen which is one of the most biologically rich ecosystems in Michigan, providing habitat for hundreds of native plants and animals. In August certified Texas Master Naturalist Karen Arquette-Loesch took over 20 ‘early birds’ on a guided bird walk through Independence Oaks County Park in Independence Township. We explored several different habitats including forest, open field and wetlands. Participants were able to add the Scarlet Tanager and the Cerulean Warbler to their life lists. It was a beautiful morning and a good time was had by all. In 2010 we will again go birding but are also planning a mushroom hunt led by our own CRWC staffer Jason Davis.