Earlier this month, the Custodial and Grounds Services (CGS) team played a key role in recovery efforts at the University of Michigan’s Pellston Biostation following a severe ice storm. Located on Douglas Lake in the northern Lower Peninsula, the Biostation is an important site for ecological and environmental research.
The storm caused widespread tree damage throughout the region, making local contractors unavailable and halting research operations. CGS was called in to assist with emergency cleanup, focusing on restoring access and addressing safety hazards.
The CGS team—Stephen Rurka, Mike Rutkofske, Cole Szenderski, Paul Taylor, and Connor Caroen—traveled four hours from Ann Arbor, navigating limited fuel availability north of Grayling. Upon arrival, they encountered extensive damage.
Thanks to coordination by Biostation staff members Scott Haley, Eareckson Myers, and Adam Schubel, they were able to access the site and begin work quickly.
Once on-site, the team assessed the situation, cleared blocked access routes, and used an aerial lift truck to remove hazardous limbs. The work required advanced rigging techniques and long shifts—12 hours on Saturday and additional work on Sunday. The CGS crew stayed in the station’s dormitory, the only building with power, supplied by a propane generator.
“It was definitely an adventure,” said Mike Rutkofske. “The photos really don’t do it justice, but there was widespread damage throughout the entire northern Lower Peninsula.”
For Biostation staff, the support made a significant difference and helped the facility return to regular operations more quickly and safely—an example of how CGS supports the university’s mission beyond the Ann Arbor campus.
“I cannot thank the CGS team enough,” said Aimée Classen, Director of the University of Michigan Biological Station. “It was transformational to have the Ann Arbor crew up there.”
Whether handling day-to-day responsibilities or responding to unexpected situations, CGS helps keep university spaces safe and operational. Thank you to the entire team for their hard work, dedication, and the essential role they play in supporting our campus community.