About Us
Plant-Based U.P. seeks to improve the health and wellbeing of residents of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula by sharing the transformative power of plant-based nutrition.
Plant-Based U.P., formerly Plant-Based Marquette, got its start in the fall of 2022 as an initiative spearheaded by Skandia resident, Natasha Lantz, and Marquette physicians, Ryan Brang, MD and Katrina Brang, MD of Northcountry Health, and Evan Loukusa, MD. After a highly successful community event in January of 2023 and a follow up support session, the four found themselves engrossed in work and family life, leaving little room for community outreach.
Late in 2024, Dr. Loukusa introduced Natasha to a new colleague, Maureen Bodenbach, PA-C, MSH, DipACLM. During an initial conversation between Maureen and Natasha, they discovered that Maureen is a graduate of the T. Colin Campbell Center for Nutrition Studies Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate, a program offered by the organization where Natasha serves as the executive director of core operations.
In late spring of 2025, the universe conspired to bring the five of them together to continue the work that started in 2022. In order to be more inclusive, the name of their initiative became Plant-Based U.P.
-
Maureen Bodenbach, PA-C, MSH, DipACLM
Medical Team Member
-
Ryan Brang, MD, FAAFP
Medical Team Member
-
Evan Loukusa, MD
Medical Team Member
-
Natasha Lantz
Events Coordinator
Events
We offer educational presentations, support groups, and health retreats, time permitting.
Cozy, Quiet Health Retreat - January 15-18-2026
Set the tone for your best year yet with our cozy, quiet health retreat taking place January 15-18, 2026 deep in the quiet forest of western Marquette County.
Contact Us
Your thoughts, questions, and ideas matter to us. We respond to all emails within 48 hours, including weekends.