"The year-over-year increase in value-added by hiking, biking, running, and paddling are proof that Michigan's investments in trails have big payoffs," said Andrea LaFontaine, executive director of Michigan Trails & Greenways Alliance. "We continue to attract destinations for travelers while maintaining beautiful public lands for our residents."

Inflation-adjusted GDP for the outdoor recreation economy increased by 18.9 percent in 2021, compared with a 5.9 percent increase for the overall U.S. economy.
 
"The rate at which the outdoor recreation economy continues to increase is a great sign for our state. As more jobs are being created, more talent is moving to Michigan, more money is being generated, and in turn, more investments are being made in our outdoors spaces,” said Jonathan Jarosz, executive director of Heart of the Lakes.​

The North Country Trail Association is seeking a full-time Director of Trail Protection to lead the efforts to securing permanent corridor for the North Country National Scenic Trail and surrounding landscapes. Full description and application details here. 

The Leelanau Conservancy is seeking a full-time Fund Development Director responsible for leading, creating and executing fundraising strategies, along with continuing to build, engage and retain a growing donor base. Full description and application details here. 

Chikaming Open Lands is seeking a full-time, seasonal Stewardship Field Technician to participate in planning and implementation of land stewardship activities, and participation in education and outreach programs.  Full description and application details here. 

COL is also seeking a part-time seasonal Outreach + Marketing Intern responsible for assisting with planning and implementation of outreach and education programs. Along with participating in development, marketing and communication activities. Full description and application details here. 

Chikaming Open Lands is seeking a full-time Education + Outreach Coordinator responsible for developing, planning and implementing conservation and stewardship education programs, community and member engagement, and increase awareness for the organization. This position is also responsible for website, social media and event needs. Full description and application details here. 

Dogs naturally live in the moment — unburdened from the everyday minutiae their outlook is simple; eat, drink, sleep and play. But arguably, they probably look most forward to adventuring with us. There's a reason we have to spell out "W-A-L-K" because they instinctively know that word directly correlates with being outdoors. Dogs are the best adventure buddies because they know the hype and receive the same influx of endorphins when they step outside. So that got us wondering, if dogs could talk, what would they say about living your best outdoor life? 

We recruited the help of the dogs from Heart of the Lakes to share a "loose" interpretation of what this advice might be. Hit the plus signs (+) to see what they have to say!
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The Nature Conservancy in Michigan is seeking a full-time Director of Land and Water Management. This position is responsible for overseeing and authorizing priority settings, planning, budgeting, project management and implementation, standard setting, legal monitoring and data management. Application deadline is November 25, 2021. Click here for full job description and application details. 

Legacy Land Conservancy is seeking a full-time Business Manager responsible for supporting the Finance, HR and Development departments, keeping office systems functioning and working as a liaison between staff and IT provider. Deadline to apply is December 6, 2021. Click here for full job description and application details. 

The Friends of Grand Rapids Parks is seeking a full-time Executive Director.  This position is responsible for upholding the values of the organization and implementing policies set by the Board of Directors as well as annual goals and objectives, and financial, program, and administrative management of the corporation. Click here for full job description and application details. 

The Detroit Parks Coalition is seeking a Coalition Leader responsible for hiring and managing DPC staff, securing contractural support, build the DPC's identity and reputation, advocate for increased resources and expertise throughout Detroit's park system and maintain strong relationships with State, regional and City government. For the full description and how to apply - click here.