In an effort to “better protect Lake Leelanau,” the Lake Leelanau Lake Association (LLLA) announced last week that it has hired Elizabeth Haber to served as its first-ever stewardship coordinator. According to a press release, the new full-time, year-round staff role will “support new programs, such as an Aquatic Invasive Species Early Detection Program and the State of Michigan’s Cooperative Lakes Management and Volunteer Stream Monitoring Programs.”

Haber isn’t necessarily new to LLLA: Per the press release, she’s spent the summer “working as the aquatic invasive species field technician and data manager…helping the field crew monitor and control Eurasian watermilfoil (EWM).” She holds a master’s degree in ecology and evolutionary biology from the University of Michigan, and has performed field work and research all over, from the Midwest to the Caribbean to Madagascar.

LLLA created the new rule after spending “a significant amount of time” in recent months “researching and consulting with experts on ways in which the Association can better protect Lake Leelanau.” That process “identified the need for an additional full-time, year-round staff member to support an expansion of its stewardship programs,” and Haber was chosen to fill the role.

Beyond new stewardship programs, Haber “will also provide additional support for LLLA’s existing programs, such as terrestrial invasive species control, shoreline protection and restoration, and EWM remediation project management,” according to the release.

“After working closely with Elizabeth this summer, I am thrilled to have her join our team of dedicated staff and volunteers who care and work tirelessly to protect Lake Leelanau,” said Annalise Povolo, LLLA’s director of administrator and programs. “Elizabeth’s technical and fieldwork experience, combined with her knowledge of botany, are sure to contribute greatly to our mission and new programs.”