JCM Blog - The Loon Ranger
So just what is a Loon Ranger? I would be remiss if I didn’t say it for all of us. When you hear Loon Ranger, most likely the image that comes to mind is of The Lone Ranger, as in “Hi-Yo, Silver! Away!” And, if you are a Loon Ranger, you better be prepared for some teasing followed by a not-so-great rendition of the William Tell overture.
Loon Rangers, however, serve a meaningful purpose for the Michigan Loon Preservation Association (MLPA,) of Michigan’s DNR. Here is a little history.
To protect the loons from both intentional and unintentional harassment by humans, interested citizens formed the Michigan Loon Preservation Association (MLPA) in the 1980s; the first grant from the Michigan DNR secured by founding member Gary Dulan. The MLPA’s primary goals were to educate the public about the threatened status of the common loon (Gavia Immer) in Michigan and to support research. The vision was to enhance environmental conditions for loons so that their populations would be secure. One of the programs of MLPA, referred to as Michigan Loonwatch, involved designating a local volunteer (Loon Ranger.) Their responsibility was to monitor loons on a lake on which they owned property, to report on nesting and reacting of young loons, and perhaps most significantly, to educate all other users of the lake about loons and their vulnerability to intrusions.
My good friend, Barb, is the Loon Ranger on our lake in the Upper Peninsula. Having joined the ranks (more of a Loon Deputy supporting Barb,) I am enjoying all aspects of this community. Invited to serve on the MLPA Board, I recently met my fellow board members. The remainder of the blog will highlight how these individuals came to serve on the MLPA Board, and their words of wisdom they have for us going forward.
Arlene Westhoven, Board President, was in graduate school for Biological Illustration when she became involved with the newly formed MLPA. Affectionately known as “Arloon,” her enthusiasm even today is endearing. She has spoken to countless groups, from elementary school children to lake homeowners, advocating for the loons’ respect and care. Adding a touch of humor into her presentations, Arlene selects a member of the audience who she then dresses up as a loon. She often has her audience in hysterics while her “model” willingly makes this transformation. My favorite image is of her volunteer awkwardly putting on scuba fins. What a clever way to demonstrate the physical challenge loons encounter when walking on land.
Ross Powers, the Board Vice President, became involved after retiring from the EPA as an Aquatic Engineer. Since a young boy growing up on a lake, Ross was intrigued with aquatic wildlife. He and his buddies would catch and release various creatures such as pollywogs, salamanders, snakes, frogs, turtles, and more; often setting up a neighborhood catch and release “zoo.” Ross was introduced to the MLPA from a fellow EPA engineer, Bob Bowlus. Together they devised a Nest Island, a realistic looking floating nest to facilitate successful loon breeding. Ross and Bob fabricate these nests using PVC piping and recycled artificial Christmas trees. Ross encourages others to give earnest consideration for every species on the planet, and to be aware of the interconnectedness necessary for our survival. He would ask you to reflect upon the words of “Chief Seattle’s” A Web of Life.
When I first met Luanne Jaruzel, Secretary and Membership Chairman, her kindness and humility were instantly discernible. She and her husband, Wayne, both are active within the MLPA. Growing up a farm girl, Luanne’s family would camp in the upper peninsula of Michigan where she first heard the mesmerizing calls of the common loon. Luanne has been a committed MLPA participant since the early years; most notably with her hands-on involvement alongside the US Fish and Wildlife Service and the banding of loons. She explains in detail the significance of the various colors used on these bands to collect much needed data for the loons’ plight. Luanne’s resolve for the education and communication regarding loon survival has affected real change. I’ll add that it’s a delight to observe Wayne, right there alongside her lovingly cheering her on.
Dr. Gerald D. Purdy, aka Gerry, is a retired Neonatologist serving on the board. An avid birder, he was first exposed to the calls of loons when on a Canadian fishing trip with his son on Lake Wabatongushi. Gerry became a member of the MLPA in the mid 1990’s, and soon transitioned to serving on the board. In 2001, Gerry spearheaded the Lead Symposium International Meeting. The primary goal of this symposium was to facilitate the ban of lead sinkers, which are extremely detrimental to loon and other aquatic wildlife survival. Today Gerry tends to his expansive butterfly garden and is a hummingbird enthusiast. He simply states that his hope is for the world to have a better appreciation of nature.
Recently taking over as the State Coordinator, Melissa Jorgenson is responsible for compiling the data collected by the Loon Rangers and presenting the results to the Michigan DNR. She is currently updating the MLPA website.
To close – we each have our interests and areas of passion. Hearing others’ enthusiasm as they share theirs kindles our own. I only hope that I am respectfully voicing the obvious commitment and care for the common loon that the board members have shared. Our loons are in good hands.
Julie