The Importance of Riparian Buffer Zones
Monday, August 17, 2026
6:30 pm to 8:00 pm (EDT)
Rogue River Park
6300 Belshire Ave NE, MI, 49306
Note that the walk will start at the Rogue River Park entrance on 6300 Belshire Ave—NOT the Belmont Ave. entrance to the park.
Public Welcome • Free Event • Nature Walk/Hike
Public Restroom • Free Public Parking
The field trip will be led by Jessie Schulte, Program Coordinator, Stewardship and Volunteer Services, Kent County Parks.
Jessie will take participants on a relaxed-pace walk with frequent stops through Rogue River Park to explore the native vegetation and learn about the importance and benefits of healthy riparian buffers. She will note the restoration goals of the Rogue River Watershed Partners (RRWP) and the Kent County Parks and highlight the special species at the park.
RRWP and Kent County Parks are very proud of the work they have accomplished to control invasive buckthorn in the riparian buffer and along the northern board walk along the Rogue and throughout the park.
What is a Riparian Buffer?
View a video by Jessica Gregory for RRWP. https://vimeo.com/730627862?fl=pl&fe=shwww.rogueriverwp.org
Jessie Schulte is the Volunteer Services Coordinator & Habitat Restoration Specialist for Kent County Parks and served as the Kent Conservation District Manager for several years. She truly enjoys helping Kent County residents find ways they can help the land. She spent five years working as the Land Manager and Volunteer Coordinator at Blandford Nature Center. She is also a member of the all-volunteer board of Rogue River Watershed Partners.
Jessie has a BS in Resource Ecology and over 14 years of conservation experience gained from working all over the U.S. from City Public Works to three National Parks. She is passionate about invasive species education and control.
The Mission of the Rogue River Watershed Partners is to Protect, Preserve, and Promote the Rogue River, its Tributaries, and its Watershed.
Rogue River Watershed Partners is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization run by a volunteer board.
Kent County Parks Mission:
The Kent County Parks Department enhances the quality of life in Kent County by providing outstanding parks and trails adhering to the highest standards of recreation. The department efficiently achieves this vision by developing vibrant partnerships, sustainable funding, and accessible parks and trails that amply meet the needs of future generations.