Lance Rogalski, of Sister Lakes, is a volunteer with the Michigan Nature Association, a nonprofit conservation organization that preserves more than 170 nature sanctuaries across Michigan, including those in Cass and Berrien counties. Rogalski was honored last month as the association’s Volunteer of the Year.

 

When did you join the Michigan Nature Association?

I got involved with the nature association one year ago. I’ve been volunteering with them, going up to different sanctuaries in the lower half of the peninsula, working at sanctuaries — reinvigorating the prairies and habitats for the butterflies, birds and everything else.

 

How did you get started with the association?

I was driving down the road one day and I saw the nature association truck sitting on the side of the road. I asked him [the driver] if he was out collecting bugs or something, and then he said “No, I’m eradicating invasive species of plants.”

I had just gotten interested in plants, and had a whole bunch of books…I told him I was a plant guy and asked what he was getting rid of. He took me out, showed me all sorts of stuff, and I’ve been involved ever since. I love being in the outdoors. Helping out nature seems to be something no one wants to do anymore.

 

What have you gained through your work so far?

It has let me meet some real extraordinary people, some real knowledgeable people. I have gotten a commercial pesticide applicator’s license, so I can contract myself out to different places if they want something eradicated. Just learning about nature, basically — it has taken me places where some people don’t seem to want to go.

 

What were your thoughts about receiving such an honor from the association?

I was super thrilled. It was unexpected, that’s for sure. I was ecstatic.

 

Is there anywhere else you volunteer?

I’ve been a member of the [Sister Lakes] Fire Department for almost 30 years. I’ve been involved with it my entire life — both my parents were on it. I was kind of raised there.

 

What would you say to others to encourage them to volunteer?

Just get outdoors and get involved. Get off your butt, get off the computer, and see what’s going on. There are a lot of amazing things out there.

For more information on volunteering with MNA, people can contact their office by emailing michigannature@michigannature.org or calling (517) 655-5655.

 

Do you know a volunteer worthy of recognition? Nominate him or her by calling Craig Haupert, community editor, at (269) 687-7720, or by email at craig.haupert@leaderpub.com.