Great Lakes Climate Corps readies for summer season

MARQUETTE, Mich. (WLUC) — One group will spend the whole summer on projects like fixing trails and adding native plants.

Starting Friday morning, the Great Lakes Climate Corps will travel across the U.P. to bolster its climate. The group will perform various tasks, such as cleaning up beaches, planting native grass and trees, and improving the coastlines.

Crew leader Andie Ballenger said she is looking forward to working with local tribal groups.

“The future of conservation is indigenous. Indigenous voices need to be at the forefront of our conservation efforts. They’ve been taking care of the land for time and memorial. They know what they’re doing, and I’m really looking forward to learning from these knowledge keepers,” Balenger said.

Balenger said native tribes are vital to protecting the local climate. Superior Watershed Partnership Program Manager Tyler Penrod says the goal is to protect local communities.

“We have boots on the ground all summer and fall. These crews will be working on sustainability and climate change projects. So even though we are an environmental nonprofit, our focus is really on the communities of people and the ecosystems that we serve,” Penrod said.

Balenger said while the work the corps does is valuable, the real net gain from this program is fostering strong relationships.

“Just to form great relationships with my crew members and also establish those community partnerships, relationships with tribal entities. We thrive on partnerships. We thrive on collaboration, and that is the future for us in this field,” Balenger said.

The Great Lakes Climate Corps’ first assignment is this Friday at Clark Lambros Beach Park in Marquette. The team will plant beachgrass and clean up the area.

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