Heart of the Lakes

#RecreateResponsibly Michigan

5/21/2020

In anticipation of Memorial Day weekend, I want to highlight the launch of the new #RecreateResponsibly coalition and its message. As supporters of our outdoors, I hope you might join us and consider sharing this content with your own constituents and network of partners.

During this public health crisis, spending time in outdoor spaces has become so important for many, and we anticipate this trend will continue. People are drawn to the outdoors for fresh air, stress relief, and the freedom it provides. As our public lands and waters reopen, our special places could get overwhelmed and people could be at risk.

To help ensure people thrive outside and stay safe, a national coalition launched today: www.recreateresponsibly.org.

The #RecreateResponsbily campaign shares guidelines and best practices to protect each other and our natural landscapes. We are a diverse community brought together by our love of the outdoors and a desire to help everyone experience the benefits of nature safely during this public health crisis.

If you’d like to join the movement:

Use the hashtag #recreateresponsibly on your social media posts.
Download graphics and social contact specific to Michigan at
bitly.com/recreate-responsibly.
Adopt, integrate, and promote this content in any way you wish!
Join the national coalition by visiting www.recreateresponsibly.org/coalition.

We're not out of the woods and there will be updates of course and continued conversation over the long term including aligning efforts with other messaging efforts. The Fourth of July and Labor Day will see their own special needs.

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WLAC Seeks Director of Conservation Programs

3/19/2020

The Walloon Lake Association and Conservancy is seeking a full-time Director of Conservation Programs to promote the mission and the interests of the WLAC to the internal membership community as well as in the greater regional community. This position directly influences the Conservancy's activities to acquire land or interests in land, oversees management of fee properties, leads water protection initiatives, administers the conservation easement stewardship program, and assists with communications, fundraising, regional planning as well as staff and volunteer management in coordination with the Executive Director.

Legacy Land Conservancy Seeks Seasonal Stewardship Crew

3/5/2020

The Legacy Land Conservancy is seeking part-time seasonal Stewardship Crew members to implement management plans on its public nature preserves. This position begins in May and ends in August 2020 and will be responsible for invasive species control, trail maintenance, data collection, and assistance with habitat restoration projects and volunteer workdays. Deadline to apply is March 20, 2020.

Land Conservancy of West Michigan Seeks Land Protection Director

3/5/2020

The Land Conservancy of West Michigan is seeking a full-time Land Protection Director to manage all aspects of conservation easements, land acquisitions and projects with community partners. This position oversees land protection programs and projects through conservation planning, project assessment, and transactional project management. Follow the link above for further position and application details.

Southeast Michigan Land Conservancy Seeks Office Specialist

2/7/2020

Southeast Michigan Land Conservancy is seeking a part-time Office Specialist to support the day-to-day administrative duties with a focus on improving and advancing SMLC's operational systems and functions. This position will also assist with SMLC's membership and community engagement efforts and facilitate excellent financial and donation processes and records. Preference will be given to those who submit by March 2, 2020.

GTRLC Seeks Director of Development

2/4/2020

Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy is seeking a full-time Director of Development who will be responsible for developing and managing innovative fund development strategies to meet the short and long-term funding needs of the organization. Find the full position description and application details here. Preference will be given to applicants that submit by February 21.

2019 in Review: New Year, Who Dis?

1/3/2020

At the core of our work is an understanding of people's connection to land and water — how it enriches our lives, defines our sense of place and provides for our most vital needs. As we welcome a new year, we wanted to give you a recap of some of our favorites from 2019. Looking back, we cannot thank you enough for your continued support.

Top Photos

Coastal Adventures

All last year we've been sharing insights into our coastal project that highlights outdoor businesses in Michigan who give back to coastal conservation.

The wait will finally be over on January 8, 2020, when we launch the film and the stories behind each featured brand.

Ahh man, the content in this space is only available for those who subscribe to our monthly emails.

Don't miss out next time!

Michigan's Outdoor Recreation Industry

2019 was a monumental year for Michigan's Outdoor Recreation Industry! In the Spring, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources announced the creation of an Office of Outdoor Recreation Industry, driving the expansion, awareness, and protection of the state's natural resources for recreational purposes that will bolster our economy.

More industry news followed in the Fall during a gathering of conservation nonprofits and outdoor businesses. Governor Whitmer announced Michigan would be signing onto the Confluence Accords in October, moving towards ensuring Michigan brings a unified "outdoor voice" to the national conversation surrounding outdoor recreation and conservation.

Parks, Trails, & Land

Sharing common missions and philosophies, Heart of the Lakes, Michigan Parks and Recreation and Michigan Trails and Greenway Alliance banded together last summer and aligned themselves on several policy issues — including Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund and Michigan Recreation Passport program.

Michigan Trails & Greenways Alliance Seeks Executive Director

11/8/2019

Michigan Trails & Greenways Alliance seeks a full-time Executive Director to provide overall leadership for the organization and is responsible for consistent achievement of its mission and financial objectives. This position includes leading and development of programs and projects to help improve and enhance non-motorized trails throughout Michigan and the management of MTGA's budget and fundraising. Deadline to apply is November 22, 2019.

Huron Pines Opens Alpena Office and Seeks Two Full-Time Positions

10/29/2019

Huron Pines recently announced they are opening, in early 2020, a second office in Alpena that will focus on the Lake Huron coast! Huron Pines is in search of two new full-time staff members who will occupy the new space.

The Coastal Project Manager will provide leadership in native ecosystem protection and restoration by identifying and prioritizing projects, coordinating programs and finding the resources necessary to conserve natural ecosystems. This position will also serve as a community liaison for Huron Pines within the community, at partner meetings and at conferences in Michigan. Applications are due by November 8, 2019.

The Communications Associate will develop and execute communications and marketing strategies in print and on the web to reach donors, volunteers, funders and partners across Michigan. This position will also support fundraising and development efforts and is expected to be engaged and active within the community and the region. Applications are due by November 8, 2019.

An Afternoon for the Outdoors

9/17/2019

September 11, 2019 - Governor Whitmer joined representatives from conservation nonprofits and outdoor businesses in Grand Rapids to celebrate Michigan's outdoor recreation industry. Held within the greenspace of Outside Coffee Co. and at the doorstep of Woosah Outfitters, leaders in the industry shared the impact of the state's recreation economy, the changing industry landscape and how Michigan can position itself to help drive the national discussion on outdoor recreation.

"From the Great Lakes to our expansive forest lands to a vast network of trails, Michigan boasts unparalleled natural resources and countless opportunities for outdoor recreation,” said Gov. Gretchen Whitmer

“Our state is well-positioned to be a leader in this new effort to support and promote the outdoor recreation economy." The establishment of an Outdoor Recreation Advisory Council and more recently, an Office of Outdoor Recreation; Michigan has advanced its efforts to be recognized as a leader of outdoor recreation with Whitmer's announcement that Michigan is set to sign onto the Confluence Accords this October.

Stoked is an understatement!

Michigan's move to join the Confluence of States this fall is an important next step in ensuring Michigan brings a unified "outdoor voice" to the national conversation surrounding outdoor recreation and conservation.

"While each of the states that belong to the confluence is unique, there is a shared commitment to promoting love for outdoor experiences, facilitating a sense of place and improving the mental and physical health of our residents," Jonathan Jarosz, Executive Director of Heart of the Lakes and member of the Michigan's Outdoor Recreation Advisory Council, explains how the National Confluence benefits the states.

Jarosz continued, "Not only do the Accords bring together diverse states, but they also provide a unifying platform of diverse businesses and stakeholders that make up the industry."

The Confluence Accords were drafted in January 2018 in Denver and then finalized and signed by eight original states: Colorado, Montana, North Carolina, Oregon, Utah, Vermont, Washington, and Wyoming. Michigan and Maine are next in line to sign the accords, with Michigan earning the title — first in the Midwest — to join the Confluence of States.

According to the Outdoor Industry Association's 2017 National Outdoor Recreation Economy Report, Michigan:

Generates $26.6 billion a year in consumer spending.
Creates 232,000 direct jobs and an annual $7.5 billion in wages and salaries.
Contributes $2.1 billion in state and local tax revenue.

Michigan offers more than 8 million acres of publicly accessible lands, 12,000 miles of state-designated trails, and enviable Great Lakes, rivers and streams.
“As an owner of an outdoor recreation-based business whose value is tied to the character and quality of the natural environment, Michigan's decision to sign on to the national Confluence Accords is a big deal that we enthusiastically support," says Chris MacInnes, President of Crystal Mountain Ski Resort and co-chair of Michigan's Outdoor Recreation Advisory Council. ”We believe it will give Michigan access to best practices of other members, who also value outdoor resources and understand their connection to a thriving state economy and quality of life."

The Accord signing announcement was followed up with an introduction to the new Director of Michigan's Office of Outdoor Recreation, Brad Garmon, who discussed Michigan's vital role in the industry.

"Historically, Michigan has been a national leader in conservation and recreation issues – from inspiring a young Ernest Hemingway to creating the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund that's become a national model for recreation funding," said Garmon.

Garmon continues, "now it's time to apply that tradition of national leadership to the outdoor recreation economy." Michigan will officially join the Confluence of States during a joint signing at the end of October in St. George, Utah.

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