This December, we had the exciting chance to connect with the David and Thu Brulè YMCA preschool group in Marquette, bringing a little winter magic and conservation education to some of the youngest members of our community. Through a hands-on, eco-friendly craft, the children discovered how songbirds and small mammals survive our snowy season and learned about the important role native seeds play in supporting wildlife and the broader ecosystem.
This special event was organized by Lewis Goff, UPLC’s dedicated intern from Northern Michigan University. Studying Sustainable Business and Enterprise Creation, Lewis has a deep passion for conservation programming—especially when it comes to engaging kids. He designed an interactive presentation that introduced the preschoolers to winter wildlife and the importance of native food sources. The highlight of the day? A craft where each child made not one, but two bird feeders!
These handmade feeders weren’t just about feeding the birds—they were designed to give back to nature in more ways than one. In addition to traditional birdseed, the feeders contained native seeds like milkweed and coneflower. As birds snack on them throughout the winter, they help distribute these seeds across the landscape, benefiting pollinators and native plants when spring arrives.
Each child took one feeder home to enjoy with their families, along with a note encouraging them to watch for visiting birds like chickadees and nuthatches. The second feeder found a home at Tory’s Woods Nature Preserve, a beloved wetland bird habitat managed by UPLC. Now, thanks to the YMCA kids, local birds will have an extra snack at Tory’s Woods this season, and families across Marquette will get a chance to experience the joy of backyard birdwatching.
At UPLC, we believe that conservation begins with connection. By fostering a love for nature in young learners, we help create a future where communities care for and protect the land. We’re grateful to Lewis for his dedication, to the YMCA for welcoming us, and most of all, to the preschoolers who reminded us how exciting it is to explore and care for the world around us.
If you visit Tory’s Woods this winter, take a peek—maybe you’ll spot one of these special feeders and the happy birds enjoying them!
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