Geography and Ecology

Several books aim to familiarize visitors with Michigan’s unique flora, fauna, and topography.

Barnes, Burton V., and Warren H. Wagner. Michigan Trees: A Guide to the Trees of the Great Lakes Region. Revised ed. Ann Arbor: The University of Michigan Press, 2004. Originally published in 1913 by different authors, this updated field guide was written by two University of Michigan [1] professors of forestry and botany, respectively.

Blacklock, Craig. The Lake Superior Images. 2nd ed. Moose Lake, MN: Blacklock Nature Photography, 1998. Blacklock, son of famous nature photographer Les Blacklock, circumnavigated Lake Superior by kayak to capture images for this award-winning book that belongs on every northern coffee table.

Dickmann, Donald I., and Larry A. Leefers. The Forests of Michigan. Ann Arbor: The University of Michigan Press, 2003. Two forestry professors from Michigan State University [2] examine the natural history, ecology, management, and economic importance of the varied forests that cover roughly half of the state.

Huber, N. King. The Geologic Story of Isle Royale National Park. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Department of the Interior Geological Survey, 1983. For a government publication, this is a rather colorfully written study of Isle Royale’s [3] distinctive topography. Understanding even a little makes an Isle Royale backpacking trip all the more memorable.

Mueller, Bruce, and Kevin Gauthier. Lake Michigan Rock Picker’s Guide. Ann Arbor: The University of Michigan Press, 2006. Filled with several helpful photographs, this rock identification guide appeals to beachcombers of all skill levels.

Peterson, Rolf O. The Wolves of Isle Royale: A Broken Balance. Ann Arbor: The University of Michigan Press, 2007. In this first-hand study, a wildlife biologist scrutinizes the ancient predator-prey relationship between the mysterious Isle Royale wolf and the native moose.

Tekiela, Stan. Birds of Michigan Field Guide. 2nd ed. Cambridge, MN: Adventure Publications, Inc., 2004. With color photographs and an easy-to-use format, this field guide can help even amateur bird-watchers observe Michigan’s native species.

Tekiela, Stan. Wildflowers of Michigan Field Guide. Cambridge, MN: Adventure Publications, Inc., 2000. As with all of Tekiela’s colorful field guides, this one is ideal for both beginners and those familiar with Michigan’s varied flora.