The new campaign aims to conserve 30% of the state’s lands and waters by 2030 through public engagement and collaborative action.
LANSING, MI — As Michiganders take to the state’s diverse outdoor landscapes, from the serene shores of the Great Lakes to the vibrant trails winding through its forests, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is launching a new initiative to ensure these cherished natural resources are preserved for future generations. The ‘Michigan the Beautiful’ campaign invites residents to share their thoughts and priorities on how best to conserve and restore the state’s lands and waters.
Through a series of public webinars and an online survey, the DNR is seeking input to help shape a comprehensive plan for conserving at least 30% of Michigan’s natural areas by 2030. This ambitious goal aligns with broader national and global efforts to protect biodiversity and address climate change.
“Time spent in the outdoors means different things to different people, and these unique or shared experiences are what make Michigan special and what is at the heart of Michigan the Beautiful,” said Shannon Lott, DNR natural resources deputy director.
Engaging the Public to Shape Conservation Priorities
The DNR’s approach emphasizes community engagement and collaboration, recognizing that conservation efforts are most successful when they reflect the diverse values and needs of the people they serve. Michiganders are encouraged to participate in one of two webinars scheduled for October 7 and 8 or to complete the online survey currently available.
Public feedback, along with insights gathered from targeted focus groups held over the summer, will inform a report titled “Pathways to Michigan the Beautiful.” This document will outline specific conservation actions across the state’s natural and working lands, contributing to the initiative’s overarching goals.
Building a Shared Vision for Michigan’s Natural Future
The ‘Michigan the Beautiful’ initiative is more than just a planning exercise, according to Scott Whitcomb, director of the DNR’s Office of Public Lands. It’s a collaborative effort to build a shared vision for the future of the state’s natural resources, incorporating input from local governments, conservation organizations, and community members.
“It’s building a shared vision together, one that Michiganders can get behind, and ensuring there is room in the tent for everyone,” Whitcomb said. “From conservation organizations prioritizing restoration activities to local township parks planning renovations, and from state and federal agencies planning public land management to the people next door planting native plants and trees, everyone has a role to play.”
Conservation Amidst Challenges: Addressing Climate and Biodiversity Loss
The initiative comes at a critical time for Michigan’s natural landscapes, which are facing numerous challenges, including climate change, habitat loss, and inequitable access to outdoor spaces. By engaging a broad cross-section of Michiganders, the DNR hopes to create solutions that are locally driven and sustainable.
“Michiganders know nature is one of our most precious resources because we live it every day. From the Great Lakes and wetlands to extensive forests and farms, Michigan’s natural landscape touches our work, recreation, community, and family time in ways large and small,” Whitcomb noted.
How to Get Involved: Share Your Voice and Take Action
The DNR is encouraging residents to get involved in the ‘Michigan the Beautiful’ campaign through several avenues:
- Join a Webinar: Participate in one of two scheduled webinars to learn more about the initiative and share your ideas directly with the DNR.
- Take the Survey: Complete the online survey to provide input on how Michigan can better protect and enhance its natural beauty for all to enjoy.
- Commit to a Conservation Action: Pledge to take one new conservation action over the next year, such as restoring a habitat, planting a pollinator garden, or volunteering at a local park.
- Connect Locally: Engage with local conservation districts, land conservancies, or environmental organizations to find additional ways to support conservation efforts in your community.
- Share Your Stories: Write to the DNR at DNR-OPL@Michigan.gov to share your favorite Michigan outdoor experiences and what makes these places special to you.
By participating in these activities, Michiganders can help shape a future where the state’s natural resources are not only preserved but thrive, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the same outdoor experiences.
A Vision for a Beautiful, Sustainable Michigan
The DNR’s ‘Michigan the Beautiful’ initiative is an invitation to all residents to join in a collective effort to protect and celebrate the state’s natural heritage. Whether it’s through attending a webinar, taking the survey, or committing to a personal conservation action, every voice and effort counts towards building a resilient and beautiful Michigan.
Learn more about this statewide initiative at Michigan the Beautiful.
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