Seney National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) and the Friends of Seney National Wildlife Refuge invite you to participate in a series of Community Read events featuring the transformative book, Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teaching of Plants! This enlightening work by Robin Wall Kimmerer weaves together narratives that seek to heal our bond with the natural world. As we celebrate the 90th anniversary of the Refuge, this initiative seeks to deepen our commitment to protecting lands, waters, and wildlife.
Part 1 – August 12, 2025. 4:30PM. Seney NWR Temporary Visitor Center
The Serviceberry: Abundance and Reciprocity in the Natural World This discussion will act as a warm-up to Kimmerer’s community read lecture and can be a short introduction to her work and field of thought. The Serviceberry is Robin’s most recent book, and Grace Verciglio – Seasonal Park Ranger at Seney NWR – will be sharing her thoughts and perspectives about this work. As an ecology and conservation student at The University of Vermont, Grace has been frequently exposed to Robin’s works during her classes. This is an opportunity to hear a perspective from a new generation in the ecological profession. The Serviceberry is a short book; consider reading it ahead of this program to share your own perspective.
Part 2 – August 22, 2025 3:50 PM Erickson Center for the Arts
Robin Wall Kimmerer recording at Loonapalooza This part of the series will feature a pre-recorded 
lecture by Kimmerer, as part of the Loonapalooza 2025 Lectures. Titled Restoration and Reciprocity, this presentation examines the ecological and ethical significance of healing our environment. Dani Fegan, Wildlife Program
Manager for the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, will introduce the presentation and lead a post-video discussion that connects Kimmerer’s themes to local restoration efforts and Anishinaabe values.
Part 3 – September 25, 2025 5:00PM Papermill Books, Manistique MI
Braiding Sweetgrass Book Discussion
This is an adaptation of our season of FEASTs -Friends Eating And Storytelling Together. It is an opportunity to come together to share food and insights gained from Braiding Sweetgrass and the earlier presentations. Finger foods provided and welcomed.
To RSVP to participate in the Community Read, or if you have questions, email us at seneyrefuge90years@gmail.com or call/text 810-938-3020.
To RSVP for Loonapalooza call 231-333-4199 or visit friendsofseney.org/loonapalooza2025
Loonapalooza Lectures 2025
Celebrating 90 Wild Years of Seney Refuge Friday, August 22, at the Erickson Center for the Arts in Curtis, Michigan.
Time: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Location: Pine Performance Center, W9224 Saw-Wa-Quato St., Curtis, Michigan.
Admission: Free and open to the public
2:10 – 2:50 PM
Dr. Russell M. Magnaghi, Professor Emeritus, Northern Michigan University will present Seney Before the Wildlife Refuge, tracing the area’s story from Indigenous history through its wild railroad era.
2:55 – 3:35 PM
James Myster, retired USFWS archaeologist, will speak on The Long and Fascinating History of the Seney National Wildlife Refuge, highlighting the Civilian Conservation Corps and conscientious objectors who helped shape the refuge.
3:50 – 4:50 PM
Dr. Robin Wall Kimmerer, author of Braiding Sweetgrass, will share a pre-recorded talk titled Restoration and Reciprocity, with a live introduction and discussion by Danielle Fegan, Wildlife Program Manager for the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians.
4:55 – 5:45 PM
Joe Kaplan, Director of Common Coast Research & Conservation, will offer insights into loon conservation during his talk titled The Past, Present, and Future of Loons.
Loonapalooza Celebration follows at 6:30 for Friends members.
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RSVP or find more info for the Lectures and Celebration: 231-333-4199 or friendsofseney.org/loonapalooza2025
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