Presented by Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians

On a bright morning at Northport Highlands Assisted Living, residents were treated to an engaging and educational presentation by members of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians. The event, held in the cozy common area, offered a fascinating glimpse into underwater exploration and the rich marine ecosystems of the Great Lakes region.

The presentation kicked off with Chris and Nich from the Grand Traverse Band, dressed in matching polo shirts adorned with their tribal logo. They brought along an impressive array of equipment, including a custom-built underwater camera rig, which immediately captured the attention of the residents. The setup featured a sturdy metal frame equipped with four GoPro cameras and an orange basket, hinting at the hands-on nature of their work.

Their presentation was displayed stunning visuals of underwater environments, showcasing the vibrant life beneath the Great Lakes’ surface. The presenters began with a “Background” segment, highlighting the historical context of the Great Lakes, the interplay between native and invasive species, and ongoing research projects funded by grants. This set the stage for a deeper dive into their work, detailing the strategic placement of their equipment to monitor aquatic habitats.

As the presentation progressed, the audience learned about the technical aspects of their underwater camera systems. The “How do the camera systems work?” segment explained the use of historic data, sensor arrays, shallow and deep deployment, habitat monitoring, and species identification. The presenters demonstrated the equipment with enthusiasm, adjusting the rig and answering questions from the intrigued residents.

The room was filled with a sense of curiosity and wonder as the attendees leaned in to get a better look. The residents love events in our lovely lobby as the presence of a piano in the background and a beautiful arrangement of yellow flowers on a coffee table added a warm, homely touch to the setting, making the event feel both educational and community-oriented.

This presentation not only educated the residents about the ecological efforts of the Grand Traverse Band but also fostered a connection between the local community and the tribe’s conservation initiatives. The event concluded with appreciative applause, and many residents expressed interest in future presentations or opportunities to learn more about the underwater world preserved by the Great Lakes.

The Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians continues to play a vital role in environmental stewardship, and this visit to Northport Highlands was a wonderful example of their commitment to sharing knowledge with the broader community. We look forward to more such enriching experiences in the future!