Whereas, Preventing the introduction of aquatic nuisance species ultimately benefits the State of Michigan, and stopping the introduction of these species would eliminate the need of the State of Michigan, business, industry and citizens from employing costly methods to control and manage them; and,

Whereas, Over 160 non-indigenous aquatic nuisance species have been introduced to the Great Lakes; species such as the zebra mussel and the sea lamprey, two of the most devastating species introduced, cost millions of dollars for control efforts each year; and,

Whereas, Michigan has over 3.5 million registered boaters and many other recreational, commercial and industrial users of over 11,000 lakes and ponds and over 36,000 miles of streams in the state, many of which are impacted by aquatic nuisance species; and,

Whereas, Aquatic nuisance species awareness is an important first step towards behavior change, which prevents the introduction and spread of aquatic nuisance species; and,

Whereas, Spring marks the beginning of water related recreational activities in Michigan; and,

Whereas, Aquatic Nuisance Species Awareness Week is an opportunity for government to join forces with business, industry, environmental groups, community organizations and citizens to take action against the spread and introduction of aquatic nuisance species; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim May 31 through June 7, 2003, Aquatic Nuisance Species Awareness Week in Michigan. I encourage all citizens to increase their understanding and awareness of aquatic nuisance species and their environmental and ecological impact on the natural resources of the State of Michigan.