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	<img alt="" src="{filedir_5}Catching-butterflies-4-cropped-250pxl.jpg" style="width: 250px; height: 168px; float: right; " />Throughout July, Au Sable has been hosting an <a href="/news_and_resources/news/july_community_days_at_au_sable#.UBhG57Se6p1">evening programs </a><a href="/news_and_resources/news/july_community_days_at_au_sable#.UBhG57Se6p1">series</a>&nbsp;for the local community to learn more about the unique ecosystems and landscapes in Northwest Lower Michigan. &nbsp;Our programs culminated in our annual Butterfly Day.</p>
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	Butterfly Day is more than an event to raise awareness for Au Sable&rsquo;s programs. &nbsp;It&rsquo;s a great gathering time for the larger community, and a chance to educate local citizens on the importance of butterfly habitat for the wellness of many northern Michigan plants and critters. &nbsp;By learning more about preserving butterfly populations, we can bring about beneficial changes to northern Michigan ecosystems that have cascading ecological effects. &nbsp;Butterfly habitat increases plant and, consequently, pollinator diversity, which in turn encourages avian and small mammal presence. &nbsp;Native plants are more resilient to natural disturbances like drought and fire, balance soil pH, and bring us joy through endless hours of flower and wildlife observation.</p>
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	With this in mind, we thought we found the right man to help spread the word about butterflies and butterfly habitat in Vern Stephens. &nbsp;The ex-fighter pilot and current DNR employee spends his spare time as owner of <em>Designs by Nature</em>, a native plant nursery out of Laingsburg, Michigan with his wife and 5 year old son. &nbsp;Vern&rsquo;s passion for native habitat restoration exceeded anything I could have reasonably expected and his willingness to share his love and knowledge for native plants with participants helped make butterfly day another success.</p>
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	Over 50 attendees enjoyed arts and crafts, plant sales, and viewing the more than 35 butterflies on display in the butterfly house. &nbsp;Butterfly day concludes our 2012 summer community program schedule, but stay tuned for updates on fall and winter community events. &nbsp;Thanks to all who came out!</p>
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