<p>
	<span class="float-left"><img alt="" src="{filedir_5}Catching-butterflies-4-cropped-250pxl.jpg" style="width: 200px; height: 134px; float: right; " /></span>Throughout July, Au Sable has been hosting an&nbsp;<a href="http://ausable.org/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">&nbsp;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>
<p>
	Butterfly Day is more than an event to raise awareness for Au Sable&rsquo;s programs, 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 many northern Michigan plants and critters. &nbsp;Using the popularity of butterflies as a lure, 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 effect encourages avian and small mammal presence. &nbsp;Native plants are more resilient to natural disturbances like drought and fire, they balance soil pH, and bring us joy through endless hours of flower and wildlife observation all of which result from a natural beautification of the landscape.</p>
