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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.

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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.

Chikaming Open Lands Seeks Stewardship Coordinator

9/6/2019

Chikaming Open Lands is seeking a full-time Stewardship Coordinator to assist with all land protection activities and participate in education and outreach programs. The coordinator will also help develop, plan and implement stewardship programs, including nature preserve management and conservation easement stewardship. Deadline to apply is September 30, 2019.

Parks, Trails, & Land

7/12/2019

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

“There are a lot of differences but there is so much overlap that once everyone sat in the room together it became obvious that working together is a no brainer,” said Jarosz.

Keep reading...

Two Full-Time Positions Available in West Michigan

7/9/2019

The Land Conservancy of West Michigan is seeking applicants for two full-time positions.

The Development Director is responsible for the oversight of all LCWM annual fund, major gift, and planned giving activities and includes identifying, researching and securing funds available through individuals, foundations, and businesses. This position also oversees the development staff and all development initiatives.

The Development and Events Specialist is responsible for assisting the Development Director with all aspects of organizational fundraising, with a primary focus on events and donor database management. The Specialist will also assist with any additional operational or strategic needs of the organization.

Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy Seeks Sign Technician

6/7/2019

Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy is seeking a full-time Sign Technician to work as part of the communications team. This position will serve an eighteen-month term responsible for content creation, design, and installation of preserve and natural area signage. Applications due by June 21, 2019.

Announcing Michigan's Outdoor Recreation Industry Office

5/21/2019

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources today announced the creation of an Office of Outdoor Recreation Industry, in partnership with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, on behalf of the Michigan Strategic Fund.

“Every year, millions of Michiganders spend their summers swimming and kayaking in our Great Lakes and inland lakes, hiking and biking on our trails, and climbing the dunes on Lake Michigan,” said Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.

“And it’s not just Michiganders. People come here from all over the world because of the outdoor experiences our state has to offer."

The Office of Outdoor Recreation Industry will be overseen in part by Michigan’s Outdoor Recreation Advisory Council, the first such council in the Midwest. The council makes recommendations to the DNR and the MEDC on ways to improve partnerships, attract businesses, and support conservation and public recreation assets.

"With the longest freshwater coastline in the US, seven million acres of public forest, and hundreds of miles of world-class trails and trout streams, Michigan's outdoor assets support a unique Great Lakes lifestyle — and one of the larger outdoor recreation economies in the country," said Brad Garmon from Michigan Environmental Council.

And It's Rad!!

When asked about the connection between outdoor recreation and conservation, Jonathan Jarosz, Executive Director for Heart of the Lakes said, "It's simple. We believe that the precedent exists for the adventurers of today to become the fiercest defenders of wild places tomorrow."

Jarosz continued, "The common narrative of outdoor recreation and conservation is one of relevancy. How we address issues of outdoor access, stewardship, and next-generation leadership are all key to the future of Michigan's natural resources. The places we protect, the organizations we support, and the communities we call home — all say something — about who we are, our values, and our passions."

“An office like this, dedicated to bringing greater focus on the economic impact of Michigan’s outdoor recreation, is critical to the industry,” said Linda Hubbard, president and COO of Carhartt, Inc., who also serves on the Outdoor Recreation Advisory Council.

The new Office of Outdoor Recreation Industry will work to:

Expand the outdoor recreation economy in the state.
Build awareness about the importance and value of the businesses – large and small –that comprise the industry.
Collaborate with industry partners to anticipate emerging recreation trends.
Promote outdoor recreation activities across the state.
Create support for the stewardship of Michigan’s natural resources.

“The outdoor recreation economy is a massive industry, accounting for 2.2% of American GDP,” says David Weinstein, State and Local Policy Director for Outdoor Industry Association. “State offices of outdoor recreation industry actually create efficiencies within state government by breaking down silos between different agencies that have responsibilities within this sector – from outdoor recreation infrastructure to public health and wellness to economic development and more.”

As 11 other states have realized, a recreation-sector lead in state government is an important point of contact for business, NGOs, and other governmental jurisdictions, all of which are working to bolster their state’s recreation economy.

"At the essence of our work, we recognize the need for all Michigan citizens to simply get outdoors and connect with our natural resources and each other. We support this new office of Outdoor Recreation Industry as another signal of the growing importance placed on sustainable public access in both the public and private sectors," said Bob Wilson, Executive Director of Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance.

Heart of the Lakes would especially like to thank Recreational Equipment, INC., Colorado Office of Outdoor Recreation, and the Outdoor Industry Association for their ongoing support and encouragement to get us to this place.

Walloon Lake Trust + Conservancy Seeks Director of Conservation Programs

5/14/2019

Walloon Lake Trust + Conservancy is seeking a full-time Director of Conservation Programs. The Director of Conservation Programs directly influences the Conservancy’s activities to acquire land or interests in land, oversees management of fee properties (Preserves), 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.

<<Previous

2019 in Review: New Year, Who Dis?

Top Photos

Coastal Adventures

Michigan's Outdoor Recreation Industry

Parks, Trails, & Land

Michigan Trails & Greenways Alliance Seeks Executive Director

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

An Afternoon for the Outdoors

Stoked is an understatement!

Chikaming Open Lands Seeks Stewardship Coordinator

Parks, Trails, & Land

Two Full-Time Positions Available in West Michigan

Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy Seeks Sign Technician

Announcing Michigan's Outdoor Recreation Industry Office

Walloon Lake Trust + Conservancy Seeks Director of Conservation Programs

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