The Michigan Department of Natural Resources and the Michigan Natural Resources Commission have announced the formation of an advisory body to identify new collaborative opportunities and further broaden the base of support for outdoor recreation and natural resource stewardship within the state.
The Outdoor Recreation Advisory Council is composed of leaders in Michigan’s outdoor recreation industry, reflecting the manufacturing, retail and service sectors, as well as employers in health, community finance and other leading industries. Heart of the Lakes' Executive Director, Jonathan Jarosz, has been asked to serve on the Council representing the interests of Michigan's land conservancies and their friends.
“Enjoying the great outdoors in many different ways is a significant driver of our state’s economy, and a big part of what draws people to visit, live and work in Michigan,” said Gov. Rick Snyder. “
The creation of the Outdoor Recreation Advisory Council will pay dividends in both expanding the outdoor recreation economy and further supporting the enjoyment and stewardship of natural resources for all of Michigan.”
The council’s creation recognizes the tremendous economic contributions of the state’s outdoor recreation opportunities and businesses and accessible natural resources, as well as the positive effect those collective assets have on Michigan’s quality of life.
Read more here
The Outdoor Recreation Advisory Council is composed of leaders in Michigan’s outdoor recreation industry, reflecting the manufacturing, retail and service sectors, as well as employers in health, community finance and other leading industries. Heart of the Lakes' Executive Director, Jonathan Jarosz, has been asked to serve on the Council representing the interests of Michigan's land conservancies and their friends.
“Enjoying the great outdoors in many different ways is a significant driver of our state’s economy, and a big part of what draws people to visit, live and work in Michigan,” said Gov. Rick Snyder. “
The creation of the Outdoor Recreation Advisory Council will pay dividends in both expanding the outdoor recreation economy and further supporting the enjoyment and stewardship of natural resources for all of Michigan.”
The council’s creation recognizes the tremendous economic contributions of the state’s outdoor recreation opportunities and businesses and accessible natural resources, as well as the positive effect those collective assets have on Michigan’s quality of life.
Read more here
The Outdoor Recreation Advisory Council is modeled on similar efforts in eight other states. The Michigan council will be the first in the Midwest.
When asked about the connection between outdoor recreation and conservation, Jonathan Jarosz 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."
When asked about the connection between outdoor recreation and conservation, Jonathan Jarosz 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."
DNR Director Keith Creagh and NRC Chair Vicki Pontz, jointly appointed members to the council. In addition to NRC Commissioner Chris Tracy, they include:
The council also will benefit from two ex-officio members representing state agencies:
- Suzanne Miller Allen, director of Community Responsibility, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Michigan’s largest health insurer.
- Bo Brines, owner of Little Forks Outfitters, a Midland sporting goods store.
- Troland V. Clay, president and CEO, Mno-Bmadsen, an investment enterprise of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi.
- Chris Lampen-Crowell, co-owner of Gazelle Sports, a running gear retailer with five Michigan locations.
- Linda Hubbard, president and COO of Carhartt, Inc., a work and outdoor apparel manufacturer.
- Jonathan Jarosz, executive director, Heart of the Lakes, a conservation organization representing the state’s land conservancies and affiliate organizations.
- Andy Lindsay, VP of Sales Americas, Groupe Beneteau Cadillac Operations.
- Chris MacInnes, president and co-owner of Crystal Mountain, a ski and golf resort in Benzie County.
- Tracy Mayer, owner of Backcountry North, a sporting goods retailer with three Michigan locations.
- Steve Nadolski, vice president of commercial accounts, AMROCK, a real estate title company, and part of the Rock Venture family of companies.
- Jeff Poet, president and co-owner of Jay’s Sporting Goods.
- Matt Ruiter, general manager of Velocity USA, a manufacturer of bicycle wheels.
- Chuck Smith, CEO of Hemisphere Design Works, manufacturer of kayaks, fishing boats, canoes, pedal boats and hunting/fishing accessories.
- William Smith, CFO of Detroit RiverFront Conservancy.
- Lindsay Struve, store manager, Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI) in Ann Arbor.
- Paul Vitrano, vice president of global government relations, Polaris Industries, manufacturer of ORVs and snowmobiles.
- Dennis West, president of Northern Initiatives, a community development financial institution.
The council also will benefit from two ex-officio members representing state agencies:
- Claire Stevens, for Director Kirk Steudle, Michigan Department of Transportation.
- Brenda Stewart, for Director Jeff Mason, Michigan Economic Development Corporation
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