Protecting the Great Lakes: Day 1

by: jcherry

Wed Jul 09, 2008 at 07:52:38 AM EDT

Our lakes are not only a beautiful treasure, but are also a key component of Michigan's - and the Midwest's - economy.   Our lakes provide recreation, jobs, drinking water, food, commercial navigation and water resources that help sustain industries and utilities.

Additionally, tourism in Michigan thrives along the water's edge.  Both Michiganders and our friends from out of state flock to the bountiful waters of our 5 Great Lakes and more than 11,000 inland lakes to relax and enjoy the natural beauty our State has to offer.

Michigan has already stepped up to invest millions of dollars in this effort but we can't stop here.  The Governor and I have urged federal lawmakers to reauthorize the Great Lakes Legacy Act which will preserve federal funds for this work and Congress has recognized the importance of the Great Lakes to not only Michigan but the entire United States.  Michigan needs the federal government to be our committed and fervent partner in the work ahead.

As I said earlier, this week I'll be traveling Michigan to highlight the importance of protecting our lakes and raise awareness of both the challenges we face and of the successes we have achieved.

This morning, I begin my travels in Port Huron at the Healthy Lakes, Healthy Lives Boat Tour where I will join local officials to celebrate our water and advocate for urgent action in restoration.

I will then travel across the State to Benton Harbor and will spend the remainder of my week journeying up Michigan's West Coast along beautiful Lake Michigan to visit the communities of Benton Harbor, St. Joseph, Muskegon, and Traverse City.  I will also have the chance to meet with local Democrats in Allegan and Berrien counties as well as Leelanau County to support State Representative Candidate Dan Scripps.  

On Thursday I will join local officials in the Benton Harbor area at the majestic Warren Dunes State Park to discuss restoration efforts and how the Park will benefit.

Friday will be a full day in Muskegon where I will visit Muskegon Lake to announce an exciting new project that will help reverse years of neglect and damage to this lake - a hidden jewel of West Michigan.  I'll finish the day by attending a fundraiser for Dan Scripps in Leelanau County.

My travel for the week concludes on Saturday in Traverse City where I will be attending Cherry Festival festivities including the Cherry Festival Parade.  As you can imagine, I always feel quite at home in Traverse City during the Cherry Festival!

And later in July and August, I'll be traveling to communities in the Upper Peninsula, the northeastern Lower Peninsula, the Saginaw Bay area, Macomb County, Detroit and Downriver.

Stay tuned as I will continue to update throughout the week.  Please share with me any thoughts or ideas that come to mind.  I look forward to reading your comments on this very important issue.