Students from across the Eastern Upper Peninsula are making their way to the 25th annual Frog Fest this weekend to celebrate the natural world and all its wonders.
Frog Fest is an annual tradition in the Les Cheneaux Islands that offers a close-up look at the critters that live all around us.
What originally began as a school program to teach children about natural science, Frog Fest has expanded to include presentations from biology experts from across the state and a chance to learn more about biology, conservation efforts and practices.
Hosted by the Les Cheneaux Watershed Council, the festival is meant to support education and foster a connection with nature.
“It really is a wonderful day for science and I love that people are gathering to learn more about nature,” said event organizer Valerie Wolters.
The frog became the symbol of the festival because they are commonly used as an indicator of clean and healthy water. When frog sounds can be heard coming from a lake or pond, it’s a good sign that the habitat is in good shape.
“Frogs are an indicator of wellness in the environment,” said Wolters. “When the frogs are doing well, the water is doing well, and the people are better off because of it.”
During the festival, frogs, toads, butterflies, caterpillars and many other small animals will be on display.
It is tradition at Frog Fest to collect creatures in the most humane way possible. The animals are caught just days before the festival from the surrounding area. The day after the festival, all the animals are released back into the wild where they were originally caught. This way, there is minimal impact on the environment.
Mike Gay, who was mainly responsible for catching most of the animals, died recently. The festival is now relying on volunteers to help bring in animals without disturbing the environment.
Festival organizers said they are confident they will still be able to fill exhibits with local animals, but are always looking for more volunteers to help out.
A number of other exhibits will be available, including presentations from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, invasive species researchers, the Les Cheneaux Islands Association and more. There will also be games for children and guided walks through the woods.
“Kids will have a chance to interview scientists, learn from presentations and even win free ice cream,” said Wolters.
The event is free to attend, but there will be opportunities to give donations. All proceeds support the Les Cheneaux Watershed Council. The festival takes place starting at 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 12 at Heritage Park in Cedarville.
More information can be found on the Les Cheneaux Watershed Council’s website.
People interested in volunteering for the event or helping catch animals can reach out to the festival organizers at frogfest4eup@gmail.com.
— Contact Brendan Wiesner: BWiesner@Sooeveningnews.com
This article originally appeared on The Sault News: Hop to it: Annual Frog Fest highlights wonders of the natural world
Reporting by Brendan Wiesner, Sault Ste. Marie News / The Sault News
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