Dive into the fascinating world of freshwater ecosystems with MSU’s Introduction to Lakes Online course, offered again this January! Introduction to Lakes Online is designed for anyone interested in inland lakes, including concerned residents, decision-makers, local leaders, and lakefront property owners interested in gaining knowledge about inland lakes and connecting with others who have a similar interest. In this introductory course, participants increase their knowledge and understanding of the following six topics:
- Lake ecology
- Watersheds
- Shorelines
- Aquatic plant management
- Michigan water law
- Community involvement
The course lasts for six weeks and is taught via pre-recorded video lectures and three “Ask-an-Expert” webinars. Registration is now open, and the deadline to register is January 28, 2025. The course website will be available starting on January 21 for a “getting started” week. The Early Bird price is $95/person for registration by January 6; regular price is $115/person after January 6.
Many of our board members and association members have taken this course. Here is what our Board of Directors Treasurer, Jennifer St. Julian, had to say:
“I found this course very user-friendly and informative! I learned so much that has helped me not only in my role as a GLA board member but, more importantly, as a Little Glen riparian,” said Jennifer St Julian. “As a board member, the course was instrumental in teaching me about lake ecology, water quality metrics, and watershed science so that I could make better contributions and more informed board decisions. As a riparian, it really made me appreciate how the choices my family and I make at home can impact the health of the lake. Learning the specifics of how drainage, hardscaping, and landscaping affect water quality continues to inform many of the decisions my husband and I make on our property. I also learned quite a bit about riparian rights, permitting requirements, and boater safety, which are rather useful for those living on the water. Being able to watch the pre-recorded sessions on my own schedule gave me the flexibility I needed to complete the course, and I’d highly encourage other riparians to take it!”