By Allison Torres Burtka, Author at Rapid Growth

By Allison Torres Burtka's Latest Articles

Buckthorn is an invasive plant that began as a popular hedge.Photo by Imad Hassan.

DNR’s volunteer stewards safeguard Michigan’s natural areas

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June 8, 2017

At 20 state parks and recreation areas across southern Michigan, groups of volunteer stewards regularly roll up their sleeves to help protect and restore natural areas. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Volunteer Steward Program puts volunteers to work, typically removing invasive species, planting native species, and collecting native seed. The program holds about 200 workdays per year.

Canoemobile guides GRPS students along the Grand River

By By Allison Torres Burtka

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Michigan Nightlight

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May 4, 2017

More than 1,000 eighth graders in the Grand Rapids Public Schools will get a chance to see their city from a new perspective next week: from a canoe. A program called Canoemobile, which brings canoes to urban areas across the country for hands-on learning experiences, is setting up at Riverside Park May 8 to 12. The experience aims to foster an appreciation of nature, boost performance and engagement in school, and build participants’ confidence, teamwork, and relationships with others.