Grass River Natural Area (GRNA), along with event partner the Pelican Family of Business, is hosting Riverfest, its annual fundraiser on Thursday, August 15th from 5:30pm to 9pm at Shanty Creek’s Cedar River Lodge. This annual community event promises a fun-filled evening of celebration, live music, a strolling dinner, and a lively auction filled with unique experiences. In addition to the live event, an online auction will run August 1st – 16th with new and exciting offerings. These events raise critical funds to support the work of the GRNA staff to fulfill the mission protect and preserve the Grass River watershed.
“Our role to protect the 1,502-acres that make up the natural area is made possible because of the generosity of our community. Events like Riverfest provide critical funding to support education, conservation, and future protection of this unique, living laboratory.”, says Jenn Wright, GRNA Executive Director. “In addition to raising funds, Riverfest truly has become a celebration of the positive impact we have on thousands of visitors and program participants each year. From awe of a summer camper who witnesses a monarch emerging from their chrysalis to the family who shares adventure on our boardwalk, to the students whose biological research on the river ensures healthy and clear water for future generations, Grass River Natural Area has something for everyone!”, says Wright.
While the highlight of Riverfest is the live event on August 15th, there are many ways in which the community can support important work of the GRNA staff to conserve and protect the Grass River watershed:
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Riverfest Online Auction runs August 1st – 16th. Bid on a wonderful selection of items geared towards a diverse audience. New in 2024, GRNA is focusing on experiences like mini-adventure packages at local attractions, unique gathering experiences at places like A Matter of Taste, or Set in Many Stones, or activity packages for water sport adventurers or pickleball enthusiasts.
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Also NEW in 2024 is an option to purchase a raffle ticket and have 1 in 100 chance to win a Lifetime Membership to Short’s Brewing Mug Club (for the Bellaire Pub Location)! As a mug club member, you will be the envy of the almost 500 people currently on the wait-list – estimated as around a 20 year wait! Tickets are $100 each and the winner will be drawn at the live event on August 15th.
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For those who just want to support the work of GRNA you can Raise your Paddle! There are few things more relaxing than paddling the Grass River. “Raise your Paddle” with a monetary donation to help us keep the river and its beautiful surroundings healthy and accessible to all.
For more information go to https://fundraiser.bid/Riverfest2024, email info@grassriver.org, or call 231-533-8314.