Rob Karner — Watershed Biologist
Rob has worked on and off for the Glen Lake Association since 1977. Currently, he is serving as the Watershed Biologist. You can often find him in the middle of Glen Lake, Fisher lake, taking water samples, working with riparains on their greenbelt or explaining the life cycle of swimmer’s itch. He also works with the long range planning committee and serves on the water quality task force for Leelanau County.
Rob received his undergraduate degree from Michigan State University in Zoology and Biological Science. His master’s degree in Biological Science with emphasis in Freshwater Biology comes from The University of Michigan.
During the school year, you will find Rob in the classroom teaching Biology at The Leelanau School or performing School Administrator duties. “This was my first job out of college,” he explains. “After my interview back in 1977, I asked ‘How much do I have to pay you to work here?’ “ And he has stayed ever since and now is in his 32nd year.
His high regard for the Glen Lake Watershed and it’s health is evident in all his activities.
Rob has traveled extensively and has taught Marine Biology in the Florida Keys, the Netherlands Antillies and in the British Virgin Islands. His hobbies include reading, snorkeling, cross-country skiing, computers and cycling. Rob also run’s his own photography business specializing in portraits and nature photography.
Sallyanne Morris - Boat Wash Supervisor/ Office Manager
A horticulturist by training, Sallyanne Morris says her job is right up her alley.
She was delighted to become a part of the Glen Lake Association after spending years visiting the area as child on family vacations. When she and her husband, Jim, retired in Leelanau County three years ago she found the perfect job.
Sallyanne has a bachelor’s of science degree from Michigan State University and wears two hats for GLA. She supervisors the Boat Wash program at the public launch site on Little Glen Lake from June through the end of October (weekends only in October). She also spends approximately 10 hours a week year round as office manager for the association.
Plant identification expertise comes in handy in her job as she works to protect the watershed and keep Glen Lake healthy. “At the launch, I have the most beautiful office anywhere,” Sallyanne says. “I enjoy meeting and educating people about invasive species and communicating the importance of taking care of this resource.” With the other boat wash staff, they give out information, check for potential invasives on watercraft, motors and trailers and examine live bait. The three other boat wash employees are Hazel Flaska, Paul Hall and James Harris.
A violinist, glass artist, bicyclist and gardener, Sallyanne is committed to keeping Glen Lake one of the cleanest and healthiest inland lakes in the country.
