Pause in Federal Funding Impacts Two Programs
Six of our staff members (almost half our workforce) are fully funded through federal grants. Due to recent actions from the new Administration, there has been a lot of uncertainty whether we will receive payment for work already performed or additional funds moving forward. Sadly, due to cash flow concerns, we have asked staff to do a combination of the following: shift responsibilities (and hence funding source), reduce hours, take paid leave, and take unpaid leave. The programs impacted most include Michigan Climate Smart Farms Project and the Transition to Organic Partnership Program. Please note that staff may be slower in responding to inquires regarding these programs.
We hope these measures are temporary, but we will keep our residents updated as we learn more. In the meantime, if you have enjoyed or benefited from WCCD events or services, and are in the position to assist financially, please consider making a donation. The WCCD is a local unit of State government and charitable contributions to governmental units are tax-deductible under section 170(c)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code if made for a public purpose, but please consult a tax professional for further information. |
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Tree Sale Discounts on 16 Riparian Species!
We’re excited to offer discounts on Riparian species, thanks to our partnership with the Huron River Watershed Council and Legacy Land Conservancy through a MI Forest 2 Faucet grant. These plants thrive near rivers and water bodies, and with these special codes, you can save 25%:
- HRWC2025 for Huron River Watershed Council
- LLC2025 for Legacy Land Conservancy
Click the links above to apply your discount and browse the offerings. |
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Spring Native Plants Pre-sale is open!
The Spring Native Plant Presale is here! It’s a great opportunity to pre-order native plants that support local ecosystems and thrive in our region.
Don’t wait—these plants are popular and sell out fast. Secure your selection early and get ready to plant a beautiful, sustainable garden this season. |
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Join us for the 6th annual Native Plant Expo & Marketplace on Saturday, June 7, at the Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds.
Beat the crowds with the exclusive “Early Bird Hour” from 8 am to 9 am, offering plant enthusiasts first dibs. Limited tickets are available for just $5 each, kids under 10 are free. The main event is free and open to the public from 9 am to 1 pm. |
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2024 Annual Report
The WCCD accomplished much in 2024: plant sales, forestry programs, habitat projects, farmer support and incentives, providing tools & equipment, watershed plans, and more!
Read all about it and our update from our Executive Director in the WCCD 2024 Annual Report.
Want to get a mailed copy, including the plant sale forms? |
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Order Your Rain Barrel!
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| Ready to collect rainwater and conserve resources?
Our Rain Barrel Sales are now open with limited inventory in 2025! Purchase a rain barrel to reduce water use, support sustainable gardening, and protect local waterways. It’s a simple step toward eco-friendly living! The first pick-up date for 2025 will be on Monday, March 24th.
For more information and to order your rain barrel, visit Rain Barrel Sales. |
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Protecting Your Land, Preserving Our Future: Lyndon & Superior Township Events
Join us for two free events to learn about farmland and natural area preservation, connect with conservation experts, and explore opportunities for your property:
- Lyndon Township
Monday, March 3, 2025 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
17751 N Territorial Rd, Chelsea, MI
- Superior Township
Monday, March 10, 2025 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
3040 N Prospect Rd, Superior Township, MI
These events offer a unique opportunity to:
- Learn about the benefits and opportunities for preserving your land.
- Engage with township representatives and conservation experts.
- Discuss your property’s potential with staff from local conservation organizations, including:
- Washtenaw County Conservation District
- Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation
- Legacy Land Conservancy
- River Raisin Watershed Council
Whether you’re a landowner considering preservation options or simply interested in the future of our community’s natural spaces, this event is for you. |
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Farewell John!
John Scaramucci’s time with The WCCD has been eventful, to say the least. Since joining in May, he has taken great pride in the work he has contributed to and the dedicated team that makes it all happen. He has had the honor of being involved in the Native Plant Expo and Marketplace, Washtenaw Field Day, Coffee and Conservations, Well Water Testing, farm visits for MAEAP verifications, Annual Celebration planning, and much more.
The support The WCCD receives from its residents is truly special, enabling impactful actions that directly benefit the community through soil and water conservation efforts. John extends his gratitude to his co-workers and partner organizations, who have been a guiding force throughout his time at WCCD.
Coming into the position with little knowledge of what a conservation district even was, he now leaves as an advocate, a fan, and a soon-to-be volunteer for his local CD—something he highly recommends to anyone reading. He is grateful to Washtenaw County for the opportunity to serve the community and the planet. Share your farewell message to John by emailing him at john@washtenawcd.org |
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77th Annual Celebration Recap
Our 77th Annual Celebration put a bow on what was a memorable 2024. Thank you to everyone that was able to join us for an evening of music, awards, local food, and mingling.
This event would not be possible without the hard work of staff, volunteers, members of the community, and partner organizations throughout the year.
Bridget O’Brien of Garden Juju Collective and Gateway Farm shared her experiences with permaculture and rewilding during the keynote presentation.
Attendees were treated to culinary excellence provided by Chef Keith Sexton of Harvest Kitchen.
We welcomed the newest members of our board of directors, Brandon Henes and Patricia Denig, who were elected by Washtenaw residents during the celebration!
Taking this time to reflect on and celebrate the last year of service helps to put into focus our mission of assisting residents and landowners with the conservation, management, and wise use of natural resources in Washtenaw County moving forward.
Stay up to date on all the happenings from your conservation district by visiting our website at washtenawcd.org |
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- City of Ypsilanti Sustainability Commission
Monday, February 10th at 7 p.m. at City Hall, 1 S Huron Street, Ypsilanti, MI
- Sharon Township Planning Commission
Tuesday, February 18th at 7 p.m. at the Sharon Township Hall, 18010 Pleasant Lake Road, Manchester, MI
- Salem Township Land Preservation & Conservation Board
Tuesday, February 18th at 7 p.m. at the Salem Township Hall, 9600 Six Mile Road, Salem, MI
- Northfield Township Land Preservation Committee
Tuesday, March 4th at 7 p.m. at Fire Station 2, 2727 E. North Territorial Rd., Whitmore Lake, MI
- Augusta Charter Township Farmland Preservation Committee
TBD
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Community Updates
| Other local events, programs, and happenings. |
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Seeds 2 Community – Winter Sowing
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| Marshall Nature Area, 3327 N Dixboro Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Feb 15-16
Join us for a hands-on planting workshop and get a head start on Spring gardening and habitat projects! We will guide you through Winter Sowing and indoor tray planting. Beginners or experienced gardeners welcome!
Learn more & Register |
2025 MI AG Ideas to Grow With Conference
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| Virtual, February 24 – March 7, 2025
Michigan State University (MSU) Extension will hold this two-week educational experience featuring a variety of tracks focused on livestock production, fruit and vegetable production, crop production, beginner farmers, irrigation and drainage, community food systems, food preservation, and solar projects.
Several of the sessions may offer RUP and/or CCA credits. There is no cost, but pre-registration is required. |
Spring Master Rain Gardener Class
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In-person!
Manchester Library
912 City Rd, Manchester, MI 48158
Fridays April 4,11,18,25 and May 2, 2025.
Class 1:00-3:30, office hours 12:00-1:00
Protect your home against flooding & help birds, & butterflies with a RAIN garden! Washtenaw County Water Resources’ Commissioners Office and River Raisin Watershed Council are offering this series of classes. Outdoor Rain Garden tours times TBD. $89 registration fee.
Spring Class Registration here |
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| Washtenaw County Conservation District |
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