Program Information

The Michigan Conservation Stewards Program (CSP) is an 8-week, hybrid educational program for adults who are enthusiastic about learning science-based ecosystem management principles and sharing this knowledge with others to help improve their local communities. Through this program, learners will learn essential strategies to understand and help restore and conserve ecosystems in Michigan communities. This program includes field experiences to explore area natural communities, online learning, and indoor classes held in unique places. Participants also put their learning into action by working directly with local conservation groups. Learning cohorts are instructed and organized by MSU Extension, Michigan Sea Grant, Michigan Natural Features Inventory, and/or a variety of local conservation organizations and experts. 

Program Components

  • Weekly, Virtual Lessons
    • Online course content to review and complete on-your-own via the course website prior to each week's session.
  • Weekly, In-person Classes
    • Up to three hours of lecture and field instruction at various locations within your cohort's region.
    • 8 total sessions
  • 1-2 Saturday, In-person Field Days
  • Capstone (Applied) Project related to restoring and conserving Michigan’s ecosystem, with guidance provided by local instructors

Program Topics

  • Foundations of Conservation
    • Ecological Foundations & Michigan Natural Communities
    • Michigan Conservation Heritage
    • Society & Conservation
  • Terrestrial, Wetland and Aquatic Ecosystems

Certification Requirements

  • Full attendance in weekly classes and field days
    • 2 excused absences are allowed.
  • Completion of weekly online content and 80% or above on all online quizzes
  • Completion of Capstone Project

Program Requirements

  • This program is for adults (18+) only.
  • An email address is required to participate in the program.
  • Weekly classes and field days are at various locations in learning cohort regions.