September 25, 2009

The Department of Environmental Quality is partnering to present the third Michigan Port Collaborative Summit, taking place October 28-29 at the Radisson Hotel in Lansing.  The mission of the Michigan Port Collaborative is to elevate the recognition and economic vitality of our state's Great Lakes port communities.  

The Summit will unite Michigan port community leaders with their state and federal partners to advance shared goals.  The collaborative will explore a support structure, a port community designation process, and formation of a Michigan port legislative caucus. In addition, cargo port communities will develop a shared agenda, and the ad hoc small harbors coalition will also develop its new agenda.

To enrich the Summit results, each Michigan port community is encouraged to send a delegation with diverse perspectives and ideas, including elected officials; tourism, recreation, and convention and visitor bureau leaders; economic development specialists; cargo shipping, ferry, marina, and harbor operators; and museum, lighthouse, and Great Lakes underwater sanctuary and preserve leaders.  

The cost to attend the Michigan Port Collaborative Summit is $40 for those who pre-register, or $60 at the door.  Registration can be done online at www.michigan.gov/deqworkshops (click on "Upcoming DEQ Workshops, or by contacting the DEQ's Environmental Assistance Center at 1‑800‑662‑9278, or e-mail at deq-ead-env-assist@michigan.gov .

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"