Field Notes

In this episode, Suzie Light and Dr. Nate Bosch welcome Dr. John Korstad, retired limnology professor from Au Sable Institute of Environmental Studies and Nate’s first limnology teacher. John shares how a chance summer class in 1972 redirected his career, leading him to the University of Michigan, Oral Roberts University, and eventually Au Sable, where hands-on lake science and community engagement became central to his teaching.

The conversation explores mentoring, field-based learning on a homemade catamaran raft, early connections with lake residents, and the discovery of invasive Eurasian watermilfoil that helped spark local lake associations. John and Nate reflect on how student research reports, volunteer boat captains, and clear communication of science to the public have shaped both Au Sable’s work and the Lilly Center’s approach today—including the annual Beneath the Surface reports. A warm, full-circle conversation about faith, stewardship, and the lasting impact of investing in the next generation of lake scientists and lake-minded citizens.

Dr. John Korstad is the perfect example of staying loyal to your career. Although he’s retired now, he was a professor of biology at Oral Roberts University for 47 years. He’s taught the Lake Ecology and Management course at Au Sable Institute in Michigan since 1996 and has always had a strong passion for limnology. He passed this love on to Dr. Bosch who attended his Au Sable course as a student several decades ago and the two have stayed in touch over the years. Recently his research has focused on creating biofuels out of algae. He’s married to his wife Sally and the couple has four grown daughters.