A new boardwalk is installed at the Red Cedar River Plant Preserve to reduce the erosion caused by visitors.

What is a Steward?

MNA has 165 sanctuaries spread out across the state of Michigan and only one office (located near Lansing) to keep track of everything. In order to be effective at protecting and maintaining our sanctuaries, we actively recruit and train local caretakers, called stewards, to be the eyes and ears of MNA. We seek to have at least one steward per sanctuary though there are still a few sanctuaries without a steward and others which could use a co-steward to help the existing caretaker.

What are the Requirements for being a Steward?

The minimum requirement for a steward is to visit the sanctuary twice a year and report on its condition through a written monitor report provided by MNA. Many stewards go above and beyond this by leading MNA events on the sanctuary, marking boundaries, keeping the trails open, etc. Stewardship is often very rewarding for those involved. Please review the Stewardship Brochure for more information on this subject. If you are still interested in becoming a steward, contact Paul Steiner to find out more about the specific sanctuary needs in your area.

Where does MNA Need Stewards the Most?

Van Buren
Hillsdale
Shiawasee
Livingston

Documents for Available for Current Stewards: