Membership

We are a diverse group open to anyone interested in the objectives and the functions of the Michigan Botanical Society. Amateurs and professionals of all ages are welcome. Your membership will support the Society in its important program to conserve and to protect native flora and the natural resources of the state and the nation.

Membership in the Michigan Botanical Society is handled through local chapters.

Chapter Membership - Annual

Most activity is centered in the Chapters. During the non-growing season, Chapters hold meetings with interesting speakers and presentations, and social activities. During the growing season (and sometimes other times) Chapters have organized field trips to preserves. Because of the sensitive nature of some of these areas, field trips are only open to current members. 

• Huron Valley Chapter: Southeast Michigan outside of Detroit Metro area. Download a membership form here. Online payment can be made here.

• Great Lake Chapter:  Northern and Mid-Michigan, as well as neighboring States in the Great Lakes area.  Canadian residents and other US States are also include. Download a membership form here. Online Payment can me made here.

• Southeastern Chapter:  Detroit Metro Area, Monroe County. Membership Form

• Southwestern Chapter: Southwestern corner of Michigan. Online Payment can be made here.

• White Pine Chapter: Grand Rapids and Western Michigan Download a membership form here.

Each chapter has its own dues and membership forms.  Please print out the form and send a check (U.S. funds) to the person listed on the form. You can also inquire about membership at any of the scheduled meetings of the chapters.

Statewide Activities

The MBS State board holds two in-person meetings and one virtual meeting per year. The in-person meetings are held at each of the two forays. All members are invited to attend state board meetings.

Annual Grand Foray: Once a year, a three-day event of speakers, field trips, and social activities is held, usually on Memorial Day Weekend. The Foray is only open to current members and may have a cap on the number of registrants. Field trips are led by experts and are a guided tour of unique high-quality natural areas. 

Annual Mini-forays: A mini-foray (usually held in fall) is a day-long event with a lecture and field trips to a natural area.

Statewide Virtual Presentations (usually in Winter) are offered by the MBS Education & Outreach Committee.

Membership Benefits

As a member, you will receive the following publications and benefits:

• The Great Lakes Botanist, a journal of North American botany

• Arisaema, the bi-annual newsletter

• Local chapter newsletter (with chapter membership)

• Activities at the local and state level

• Membership in a local chapter (optional)

• Statewide Virtual Presentations

Membership in the Michigan Botanical Society is open to anyone interested in its aims:

• Conservation of all native plants and their home places.

• Education of the public to appreciate and preserve plant life and their home places.

• Sponsorship of research and publication on the plant life of the State adn their home places.

• Sponsorship of legislation to promote preservation of Michigan native flora and their home places.

• Establishment of suitable sanctuaries and natural areas.

• Cooperation in programs concerned with the use and conservation of all natural resources and scenic features.