Residents Can Join Effort to Sustain Michigan’s Inland Lakes at Sept. 24 Forum in East Lansing
8/20/09
Contact: Laura Probyn
517-432-1555, ext. 175
or
Jo Latimore
517-432-1491
EAST LANSING, Mich. -- Michigan’s inland lakes are precious resources that provide multiple benefits to the state’s residents. A group of organizations has come together to explore opportunities for ensuring the quality, sustainability and ecological diversity of the state’s lakes, and is inviting others to become involved in its work.
The Michigan Inland Lakes Partnership (MILP), a new effort that includes representatives from state and local agencies, Native American nations, outreach institutions, non-profit organizations, businesses and industries, is sponsoring a free, open forum for everyone interested in preserving Michigan’s inland lakes on Sept. 24 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the East Lansing Public Library.
During the forum, residents can learn about the MILP and its organizers’ strategic plan and mission. They can ask questions, provide input and learn how they can be involved in efforts to protect and maintain Michigan’s 11,000 inland lake resources.
“If you’re an individual who’s interested in maintaining the quality of Michigan’s inland lakes, you can also take some time to visit the new MILP Web site to learn about its activities and identify a partner organization that you might be interested in working with,” said Dr. Jo Latimore, Michigan State University fisheries and wildlife outreach specialist.
Individuals can learn about the MILP and its initiatives by visiting the organization’s new Web site at www.michiganlakes.msue.msu.edu. The site provides a wide body of information about Michigan’s inland lakes that everyone from homeowners to business owners to recreational boaters to elementary students can use to learn more about the lakes, their history, management and ecology.
“The MILP was formed in response to recognition there are lots of organizations that are working to protect Michigan’s inland lakes, but there was no way to share communication among them or offer them opportunities to interact,” Latimore said. “The organization, the forum, the Web site and activities give them a way to interact and share what we’ve learned about our lakes. That’s been one of the biggest advantages right from the beginning.”
Though the event is free, participants are asked to call ahead to reserve a seat. To learn more about MILP or the open forum, visit the Web site or contact Latimore at latimor1@msu.edu.
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