June on the Marsh

June on the marsh is an exciting time of year! The world has become green
almost overnight and with it the sound of life is everywhere, birdsong, buzzing bumble
bees, hovering dragonflies and the leaves flickering in the wind with a breeze. A
freshwater marsh is a unique ecosystem filled with a high diversity of life, from
specialized plants, insects, animals that are adapted to a wetland way of life and a
variety of birds, amphibians and reptiles that make it their home. What a great place to
explore!

Last year in June, a kayak launch was installed to make it easier for people to
access the marsh by water. Many people took advantage of this launch throughout the
season. Visiting the marsh by way of water is an exceptional experience, often the
ability to glide soundlessly on the water allows you to see areas of the marsh that are
inaccessible by land. It is an up close and personal way to move quietly, gliding through
the area.

This year, The Friends of the Manitowoc River Watershed along with CEI, the
friends group of Collins Marsh, are hosting a joint event on Saturday, June 7 th. We invite everyone to attend, bring your own kayak or rent one from the Nature Center.
Be sure to attend a special presentation “Birds of Collins Marsh” by Dr. Medhavi
Ambardar, Chief Scientist at the Lake Michigan Bird Observatory. This presentation will
begin at 10:00 AM in the Neustadter Nature Center. Come and learn from an expert all
about the birds that breed and raise their young at Collins Marsh.
Beginning at 11:00 AM and running through the afternoon will be Paddling on the
Marsh. Bring your own kayak or canoe and PDF’s or rent one. Did you know that
members of Collins Marsh enjoy free kayak and canoe rentals? Think about becoming a
member and support this beautiful wetland area and all the educational events that we
host. From 11:00 AM-1:00 PM, learn about boating safety from the Coast Guard
Auxiliary and sharpen your awareness of invasive species with the help and information
from the DNR.

There will be food available for purchase on the grounds. The tower will be open
for climbing and trails for walking. Check out the views and bring the family for a
beautiful summer day by the marsh. Take a look at the butterfly host plant garden or
simply watch the resident purple Martin’s as they fly about the grounds. There is so
much to see, learn about and appreciate for everyone.