Author

Sam Kapp

Sam Kapp is an independent historian with a passion for the environment. Sam graduated from Northern Michigan University in 2021. He has also served on the Board of Directors of the Upper Peninsula Land Conservancy since 2018. New to Southwest Michigan, Sam is eager to immerse himself in his new community and its natural wonders.

Sam Kapp's Latest Articles

From farm to can: Zazu Mushrooms brews up a fungal fusion

After an unexpected leap into mushroom farming, Brad and Angie McLeish of Zazu Mushrooms are blending innovation and community — most recently through a unique mushroom matcha in collaboration with Shades of Lavender.

Climate change forcing animal and plant migration — and they may need human help

“Very few nonhuman climate migrants are moving fast enough [and] the rate of movement is going to increase [which] leads to the conclusion that to avoid extinction, many species are going to require us to intervene via assisted migration."

Rare interdunal wetlands under threat from development, climate change in Michigan

Wetlands located near freshwater dunes are 'globally imperiled,' according to Dr. Tiffany Schriever, a freshwater ecologist and WMU Associate Professor. Michigan's interdunal wetlands are home to rich and rare ecological diversity and need protection.

What are young voters’ concerns? KalaSalon hosts Young Adult Voters Panel to find out

Local organization KalaSalon invited young adults from the area to answer questions about their views on the upcoming 2024 elections.

Kalamazoo’s first-ever Home Energy Efficiency Summit to be held this Saturday

Home Energy Efficiency Summit seeks to educate attendees on what they can do to improve efficiency and save money.

Unsung heroes: Two faces behind Kalamazoo’s recycling efforts

Republic Services truck driver Dale Mentor and Kalamazoo’s Solid Waste Coordinator Chris Broadbent are integral in the recycling system for the community, managing waste collection and advocating for sustainable practices.

Green Sanctuary: Ahead of the curve, People’s Church commits to carbon neutrality by 2030

The City of Kalamazoo's Sustainability Director, Justin Gish, spoke on Kalamazoo's carbon emissions to the People's Church Green Sanctuary Committee. "The Green Sanctuary Committee is essentially walking the talk…even when it seems like it's just a drop in the bucket.”

Care about the climate? Meet Kalamazoo County’s new Climate Sustainability Coordinator

Taylor Van Winkle has been hired as the new Kalamazoo County Climate Sustainability Coordinator to complete a job — the creation of a countywide climate action plan. And she needs the help of residents. Care about the climate? Take the survey to help inform the plan.

Trail Tales: Protecting Kalamazoo’s Asylum Lake, an urban oasis

In this final installment of our mini-series Trail Tales, writer and naturalist Sam Kapp explores Asylum Lake Preserve, a development-locked urban oasis for trail lovers and wildlife. Kapp digs into Asylum's unique history as a working and recreation farm for the 'insane' and the ongoing struggle to preserve the preserve.

Ice Cream Summer: Scootin’ over to Scooters in Scotts

Scooters Malt Shoppe and Traveling Treats in Scotts has small-town charm and great food to attract visitors from all over!   

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