July 12, 2006

Governor Jennifer M. Granholm has proclaimed July 16, as Lake Superior Day in Michigan in celebration of one of Michigan’s greatest natural resources. The Lake Superior Basin supports a variety of aquatic and terrestrial wildlife populations, including species found nowhere else on the planet.

The Department of Environmental Quality works to protect the health of Lake Superior through the Lake Superior Binational Program, a partnership of government, business, universities, environmental groups, and the public, all of who are dedicated to protecting and enhancing the Lake Superior basin.

The DEQ is also continually committed to promoting new opportunities for Michigan’s citizens, as well as those visiting our state, to connect with Lake Superior. The DEQ has worked with the city of Marquette to create increased access and enjoyment of the waterfront, bike paths that extend miles along the coast, and restaurants and nightlife that offer a view of the Lake.

The DEQ has also helped fund a number of projects along Lake Superior including the Whitefish Point Museum which offers visitors a chance to see artifacts from Lake Superior shipwrecks, visit a lighthouse, and see the U.S. Coast Guard Surfboat House Lifesaving Exhibit.

“I hope that all Michigan families take the time to visit Lake Superior this year, and understand how fortunate we are to have such an incredible natural treasure here in our own backyard,” said DEQ Director Steven E. Chester.

For further information on Lake Superior, including how to get involved in protecting it, go to http://www.superiorforum.info.

Editor’s note: DEQ news releases are available on the department’s Internet home page at www.michigan.gov/deq.

“Protecting Michigan’s Environment, Ensuring Michigan’s Future”

Revised July 12, 2006 by Pat Watson