Whereas, 700 million ash trees blanket the great state of Michigan contributing to air quality, natural landscapes, recreational destinations, wildlife habitats, tourism, manufacturing, commerce and property/land values; and,

Whereas, Increasing public awareness and understanding of the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), a destructive exotic beetle, benefits the state of Michigan by curtailing the artificial spread of the beetle through the movement of firewood; and,

Whereas, Through the joint efforts of the states of Michigan, Ohio and Indiana as well as private, local and federal partnerships, which are all striving to protect the 8 billion ash trees in the United States; and,

Whereas, Employing the cooperative spirit and encouraging environmental stewardship throughout the three states ultimately reduces the risk to the ash resource of Michigan, Indiana and Ohio as well as the nation; and,

Whereas, Spring makes the beginning of the travel and tourism season in Michigan; and,

Whereas, Emerald Ash Borer Awareness Week is an opportunity for the government to join forces with business, industry, environmental groups, community organizations, tourists and citizens to take action against the spread and introduction of EAB; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim the week of May 22, 2005, as Emerald Ash Borer Awareness Week in Michigan in partnership with our neighboring states of Ohio and Indiana and I encourage all citizens to increase their understanding and awareness of EAB and its environmental and ecological impact on the state of Michigan.