As I grew up in MI I participated in school programs that centered around the Rouge. When I became an adult I participated with Friends of the Rouge in events such as Rouge Rescue. I was fortunate enough to work as a Student Naturalist for the Environmental Interpretive Center at U of M Dearborn. I facilitated programs for all age groups and enjoyed every minute. I kept a watchful eye on Hines Park during flooding of the Rouge.It was this flooding process that I learned about Floodplains and the effects of flooding. The Rouge has been a vital learning tool that has taught me about the life cycle of a river. I learned how Henry Ford harnessed its power to aid his work. The Rouge is also a recreational river, it is a home to lots of wildlife too. I do not think I could have learned so much about a river through reading a textbook or listening to lectures.Because of organizations like Friends of the Rouge I gained better knowledge of the river and it has led me to the place I am now. I work as the Education / Outreach Coordinator for the Upper Guyandotte Watershed Association in southern WV. We deal with the same type of issues they deal with.The Rouge is a hands on kind of river. Folks should take time to get to know it. It can prove to be a good resource and friend. Here’s to another 25 years! Thank you Friends of the Rouge for a fine job of taking care of an old friend.
Submitted by: Erica H
Celebrating 25 Years 