Isle Royale: Michigan's Wild Botanical Stronghold

In this episode of We Have A Plant For That, the host, Marilyn Trent sits down with Abraham Stone, a botanist with the Michigan Natural Features Inventory (MNFI), to explore the extraordinary plant life of Isle Royale National Park — Michigan's only national park and one of the most ecologically unique places in the Great Lakes region. Abraham takes us through the island's volcanic geology, its boreal forests, and why Isle Royale remains one of the last orchid strongholds in the state. He also shares why large, connected conservation land matters so much for the future of native plants, wildlife, and entire ecosystems — and what the rewilding movement in Europe can teach us about what's possible here at home. Plus, Abraham shares his favorite native Michigan plant — the delicate and beautiful Harebell (Campanula rotundifolia) — and why preserving wild spaces isn't just good for nature, it's essential for all of us. Topics covered: Michigan Natural Features Inventory (MNFI) | Isle Royale geology and climate | Native orchids | Wolf and moose populations | Landscape conservation | Rewilding | Harebell | Helen's Flower (Sneezeweed) We Have A Plant For That is a podcast about people making a difference for nature — right where they live. #WeHaveAPlantForThat #IsleRoyale #NativePlants #MichiganNaturalFeaturesInventory #MNFI #MichiganNaturePodcast #NativePlantGardening #Rewilding #ConservationMatters #BotanyPodcast #GreatLakes #NationalParks #NativeOrchids #WildMichigan #PlantLovers #Harebell #NatureEducation #EnvironmentalConservation #MichiganWildlife #NaturePodcast