Provided photo The USFS Hydroteck Boat Wash is refitted and ready to battle Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) thanks to the efforts of Ontonagon County Conservation District Board Member, Mike McCabe of Ontonagon Township

ROCKLAND: The Ontonagon County Conservation District (OCCD) regular monthly meeting was held on Oct. at the Rockland Twp Hall. According to a OCCD press release the “Good News” at the meeting was that Michigan finally passed the 2026 Budget and Gov. Whitmer signed the appropriations act. This secures the $40,000 operating grant for the OCCD budget and it can resume planning for the next year. On the “bad news” side, according to the release, is the federal government shut down which affects partners in the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) which oversees many partnerships with county land owners and the Forest Service (USFS).

OCCD continues custody of the Forest Service Hydrotek Power Boat Wash. This is a key instrument in the battle against Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS). Board member Mike McCabe has spent many hours reversing the neglected maintenance, damage by varmints and getting the machine winterized, including a new tarp. The custody has been transferred to Bruce Crossing for the winter where it can be kept undercover. Hopefully everything will be ready for providing boat washing at the Spring fishing tournaments and boating events.

The OCCD is looking forward to the 2025 Annual Meeting on Nov. 13 at the Rockland Twp Hall. Three Candidates will stand for two board positions: Mike McCabe of Ontonagon Township, Anne Sudden and Josh Wall of Stanndard Twp. In addition to the election, the Annual Meeting will include short presentations by the district manager and partners (if the US Govt. reopens) and a Key Note Address by Michael Paling, Michigan Forester and American Bird Conservancy on: “Managing Forests for Young Forest Birds.” Light Refreshments will be served. Everyone interested in conservation is warmly invited to attend. Voters much provide proof of county residency.

Going forward, monthly meetings for 2026 are scheduled for the second Thursday, 5:00 pm at Rockland Twp Hall. The publici welcome, as the OCCD mission is to “Promote stewardship of natural resources through education, outreach, community partnerships, and management.”