Our Committee Structure

Co-Chair(s): Pete Blank (TNC) and Jay Wright (MT)

Committee Priorities:

1. Increase engagement with SE Michigan & NW Ohio conservation partners and private landowners

2. Enhance public recognition and exposure of GRI

3. Increase land protection and stewardship efforts in the region

Co-Chair(s): Jay Wright & Karen Menard (MT)

  •  To promote science-based conservation of the Oak Openings Region and to support research and monitoring of Oak Openings natural communities.

 

Chair: Maureen Bogdanksi (ODNR)

  • To preserve and enhance the region’s native biodiversity and ecological health through active community engagement, and collaborative, science-driven management practices among partner agencies.

Chair: Penny Niday (MT)

  • To increase availability and awareness of diverse, local ecotype native plant materials to meet the restoration needs of regional private landowners and conservation practitioners.

Chair: Melanie Coulter (BSC)

  • To drive strategic land protection within the Oak Openings Region by working collaboratively to maximize opportunities and provide region specific conservation planning tools.

Chair: Matty Watkins (TNC)

  • To expand knowledge and interest in the Oak Openings region, as well as help facilitate and promote impactful education and outreach programming through connections with partner agencies.

Our Mission Statement:

The Green Ribbon Initiative is a shared vision of public and private organizations, landowners, and individuals working to preserve enhance and restore critical natural areas in the Oak Openings region of Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan.

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