Department of Environmental Quality Director Steven E. Chester will host a public meeting on Thursday, May 29, in Grand Rapids to discuss the issue of Climate Change and Michigan's role in addressing it. The forum will take place from 6:30 - 9:00 p.m. at the Loosemore Auditorium at Grand Valley State University.

"I look forward to hosting this important discussion that will help guide Michigan's policymakers in addressing the global problem of climate change," said DEQ Director Chester. "Michigan is in a unique position to make the kinds of changes necessary to protect our environment while also fostering the growth of alternative energies that will grow our economy."

Director Chester will be joined by Grand Rapids Mayor George Heartwell and will hear from a panel of climate change experts who will share their knowledge of the issue and answer questions from the audience. The panelists include Dr. Knute Nadelhoffer from the University of Michigan, Dr. Karel Rogers from Grand Valley State University, and David Ullrich of the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative.

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 May 28, 2008 by Pat Watson