WLAC Summer Speaker Series 2026

This summer, the WLAC invites you to deepen your connection to the lake and land we all care about through the WLAC Summer Speaker Series. Each session brings together experts, community members, and curious learners to explore the conservation issues shaping the Walloon Lake watershed.

From sustainable agriculture to fisheries science, invasive species, geology, and native plants, this series offers practical insights and inspiring conversations designed to strengthen stewardship across our community.

We hope you’ll join us to learn something new, ask questions, and be part of the ongoing work to protect Walloon Lake for generations to come.

Check out the schedule below!

Sustainable Agriculture Near Walloon Lake Date: Tuesday, May 19, 2026 Time: 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm Location: The Talcott | 4078 M-75, Walloon Lake, MI 49796 Hear from Dave Skornia of Lakeside Farms as he shares how sustainable agricultural practices can protect soil health, reduce runoff, and support clean water in the watershed. This session highlights real-world approaches to farming that balance productivity with long-term environmental stewardship. This event is free and open to the public.   Register

Invasive Species of the Walloon Lake Watershed Date: Thursday, June 18, 2026 Time: 10:00 am to 11:30 am Location: The Talcott | 4078 M-75, Walloon Lake, MI 49796 Join WLAC and Katie Gray from CAKE CISMA for a summer lecture on aquatic and terrestrial invasive species affecting the Walloon Lake watershed. Learn how these species spread, the impacts they have on ecosystems and water quality, and what can be done to manage and prevent them. This session highlights practical steps residents and visitors can take to protect the landscape and lake.   Register

The Walloon Lake Fishery Date: Tuesday, July 14, 2026 Time: 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm Location: The Talcott | 4078 M-75, Walloon Lake, MI 49796 Join WLAC for a presentation on the Walloon Lake fishery featuring Heather Hettinger, Fish Biologist with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Learn about fish populations, habitat conditions, and current management efforts that support a healthy and balanced lake ecosystem. This session offers a closer look at the science behind fisheries management and what it means for the future of Walloon Lake.   Register

Wine, Geology, and the Walloon Lake Watershed Date: Thursday, August 27, 2026 Time: 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm Location: The Talcott | 4078 M-75, Walloon Lake, MI 49796 Join WLAC and Koffi Kpachavi of Wine and Geology Tours for a lecture and tasting focused on wines from the Tip of the Mitt American Viticultural Area. Learn how the geology of the Walloon Lake watershed influences soil composition, drainage, and growing conditions that shape local wine production. This event combines education and tasting to highlight the connection between landscape and flavor. Tickets are $30 per person for this event. Stay tuned for more information on how to purchase tickets.

Choosing Native Plants for Your Garden Date: Tuesday, September 1, 2026 Time: 10:00 am to 11:30 am Location: The Talcott | 4078 M-75, Walloon Lake, MI 49796 Join Monica Gruler of Gruler Gardens for a presentation on incorporating native plant species around your property. Learn how native plants support pollinators, improve soil health, and reduce runoff to benefit the Walloon Lake watershed ecosystem. This session offers practical ideas you can apply at home to help protect the landscape and water quality.   Register