Governor Gretchen Whitmer is a lifelong Michigander. She is a lawyer, an educator, former prosecutor, State Representative and Senator. She was the first woman to lead a Senate caucus. But the most important title she boasts is MOM. Inspired by her family, she’s devoted her life to building a stronger Michigan for everyone.
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July 01, 2022
WHEREAS, Michigan is home to a significant collection of diverse state, county, and local community parks that provide clean, safe, welcoming recreation spaces for people of all ages and abilities; and,
WHEREAS, Michigan’s state parks and recreation system boasts 103 state parks and recreation areas encompassing nearly 300,000 acres, 140 state forest campgrounds, numerous exemplary natural areas, eight museums and historic sites, more than 200 historic buildings, 1,700 Michigan Historical Markers, 13 state-designated underwater preserves, more than 700 archaeological sites, 82 state-sponsored harbors, 1,300-plus boating access sites, and more than 130,000 miles of state-designated trails; and,
WHEREAS, state, county, and local community parks all contribute immeasurably to residents’ quality of life, health, and well-being, making Michigan a great place to visit, work, and live; and,
WHEREAS, the programs and services at these parks are consistently created and delivered by knowledgeable and passionate park rangers, managers, recreation staff, maintenance workers, naturalists, land stewards, interpreters, historians, stewardship experts, and many other professionals, volunteers, and students committed to customer service and the visitor experience; and,
WHEREAS, partners from a number of parks and recreation organizations, convention and visitors bureaus, and other like-minded associations advocate mightily in support of broader access to quality outdoor public recreation opportunities; and,
WHEREAS, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis, outdoor recreation in Michigan generates about 108,000 direct jobs, $9.5 billion total outdoor recreation value, and $4.6 billion in wages and salaries; and,
WHEREAS, Michigan is a genuine four-season playground offering plentiful opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to hike, bike, picnic, paddle, camp, fish, hunt, snowmobile, ride, swim, or simply sit under the stars with family and friends;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of the state of Michigan, do hereby proclaim July 2022 as Michigan Parks and Recreation Month and encourage all residents to visit their favorite parks, discover new destinations, and take advantage of our state’s abundant outdoor recreation opportunities.