Registration Now Open: Introduction to Lakes Online Course January 2027

Written By Jessica Gutowski-Slaydon

Do you know someone passionate about the science and stewardship of Michigan’s inland lakes? Registration is now open for the January 2027 offering of Introduction to Lakes Online and as a past participant we hope you'll help us spread the word about this unique learning opportunity!

The Introduction to Lakes Online course is offered just once a year and the upcoming class kicks off January 26th. Since its launch in 2014, more than 2,800 people from across the United States have participated and 98% say they would recommend it to others.

Course topics include lake ecology, watersheds, shorelines, aquatic plants, Michigan water law, and community engagement. We cover these topics over six weeks through engaging video lectures, interactive activities, and three live Ask-an-Expert webinars. The course equips participants with the knowledge and tools needed to make informed lake management decisions and become effective stewards of Michigan's inland lakes.

2027 Course Details

  • Course runs Jan. 26 - Mar. 17

  • Early bird registration fee (through Jan. 8): $95/person

  • Regular registration fee (Jan. 9 - Jan. 29): $115/person

  • Individual Michigan Lakes and Streams Association members qualify for a one-time $95 reimbursement upon successful completion of the class.

  • The course is approved for 16 Michigan Dept. of Agriculture and Rural Development pesticide recertification credits - 8 Commercial Core and 8 category 5 [aquatic]. 

Learn more: www.canr.msu.edu/lakesonline

If you know someone who would enjoy learning more about Michigan's inland lakes, please consider forwarding this email.

 

We want to hear from you!

We are evaluating the long-term impacts of the MSU Extension Introduction to Lakes Online course and would appreciate your feedback. Whether you took the course to learn about your lakefront property, support your work, or simply explore Michigan inland lakes, your input is valuable.

If you have already responded, thank you!!

This effort is being conducted in partnership with the MSU Office for Survey Research. If you have not yet completed the survey, you should have an email from Karen Clark (clarkk@msu.edu) in your inbox with a survey link. The survey will take about 10 minutes to complete, and participants will receive a $10 gift card.

Jessica Gutowski-Slaydon

Jessica Gutowski-Slaydon is the president and a third-generation leader of Swift Printing, a commercial printing company in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She works alongside her brother, Walt, helping West Michigan businesses, nonprofits, municipalities, and organizations communicate through high-quality print, direct mail, signage, and custom marketing materials. Jessica is passionate about making printing approachable and helping customers choose the right solution for each project.

Learn more about Jessica Gutowski-Slaydon and her printing experience.

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