Wild Rivers Invasive Species Coalition Makes Progress in Mine Pond Conservation Efforts
Circle Power Grant Supports Years-Long Conservation Efforts
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, October 1
Contact: aw@platform-communications.com
DICKINSON COUNTY, MICH. -- The Wild Rivers Invasive Species Coalition (WRISC) recently completed critical invasive species removal work at the Groveland Mine Pond Recreation Area in central Dickinson County, removing Autumn Olive from a quarter mile of roadside access as part of ongoing conservation efforts supported by a $25,000 grant from Circle Power.
WRISC professionals targeted the western leading edge of the Autumn Olive population, a strategic approach designed to prevent the invasive shrub from spreading beyond its current footprint. The organization plans to host 2-3 community volunteer workdays next year to continue tackling the heart of the infestation and address the southern leading edge within the Groveland area.
"Circle Power is proud to support WRISC's efforts to enhance and preserve the Groveland Mine Ponds," said Jordan Roberts, CEO of Circle Power. "Their work demonstrates how partnerships can create lasting environmental benefits for the community."
The Autumn Olive removal represents just one component of WRISC's comprehensive conservation efforts at Groveland this year. The three-year Circle Power grant, which supports the development of the Groveland Mine Solar project, has enabled WRISC to complete extensive mapping and surveying of invasive species populations, remove significant amounts of scattered trash throughout the Pine Creek Watershed, and conduct critical Phragmites treatments this fall. The coalition is also coordinating with local Boy Scouts to build and install fishing line receptacles to protect wildlife from harmful litter.
"Circle Power's support has enabled us to take a comprehensive approach to conservation at Groveland," stated Lindsay Peterson from the Wild Rivers Invasive Species Coalition. "Beyond our successful workday targeting Autumn Olive, we addressed invasive Phragmites, removed accumulated trash, and are working to prevent future pollution. This grant allows us to protect natural habitat while keeping trails and access points open for the community to enjoy."
Autumn Olive poses a significant threat to native ecosystems as a highly invasive shrub that dominates forest edges and spreads rapidly through prolific seed production. While its berries may appear beneficial, they offer little nutritional value compared to native shrubs, and the plant's large thorns make it difficult to navigate trails and recreational areas.
"We're committed to maintaining the Mine Pond area as a recreational destination while protecting the area's native flora and fauna," said Mike Anderson from Wildlife Unlimited of Dickinson County, who chaired the grant selection committee. "WRISC's comprehensive management approach—from invasive species control to trash removal and preventive measures—ensures that visitors can continue to enjoy hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation."
Community members interested in participating in volunteer workdays can visit www.wrisc.org for updates and event announcements.
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About Groveland Mine Solar: Located in Dickinson County, Mich., Groveland Mine Solar is an economic development opportunity for the region that will provide new revenue to local governments and create construction jobs. Ground-mounted solar arrays will be sited on public and private lands of the decommissioned Groveland Mine, which operated from the early 1950s until 1981 under the ownership of the Hanna Mining Company. Groveland Mine Solar has signed a letter of intent with the Upper Peninsula Building Trades Council to guarantee that the project will be constructed with union labor. The project is proudly supported by Operating Engineers 324, Laborers' Union Local 1329, Michigan Association of Carpenters & Millwrights, IBEW Local 906, the U.P. Building Trades Council, and the Upper Peninsula Construction Council.