September 2023: Snow Professionals Appreciation Month

Whereas, Michigan is known as a “Water-Winter Wonderland”, and is one of the ten snowiest states in the United States, with an average snowfall of 60 - 120 inches; and,

Whereas, Michigan’s Snow and Ice Management Industry has a significant economic impact on the state's economy and provides crucial services during the winter months, including all aspects of snow removal (plowing, shoveling, deicing, and salting) and relocation, as well as providing snow and ice removal equipment, materials, and supplies; and,

Whereas, it is estimated that Michigan’s Snow and Ice Management Industry generates several hundred million dollars annually and employs thousands of professionals, including drivers, equipment operators, shovel crews, mechanics, manufacturers, suppliers, and administrative staff; and,

Whereas, Michigan county road agencies employ thousands of specially trained, CDL-licensed Snow and Ice Management Professionals statutorily responsible for keeping 90,000 miles of county roads safe in winter along with safely maintaining state highways in 64 of our 83 counties so that travelers can pursue their family, work, educational and medical responsibilities, among other travel needs; and,

Whereas, the Michigan Department of Transportation employs hundreds of trained Snow and Ice Management Professionals that operate more than 350 trucks, with specially chosen names, and contracts with local agencies to maintain our nearly 10,000 miles of state highway system, comprised of all MI and US routes; and,

Whereas, Michigan’s cities, villages, and urban townships employ thousands of Snow and Ice Professionals responsible for maintaining our 21,000 route miles of city and village streets—and 36,000 miles of urban unpaved roads; and,

Whereas, Michigan’s Snow and Ice Management Professionals are trained and certified to use technologically advanced equipment, software, weather-monitoring devices, and specialized materials, while employing safety protocols for their teams and being mindful of environmental impacts and complying with a variety of regulations; and,

Whereas, when there is snow, sleet, ice, and freezing temperatures, Michigan's Snow and Ice Management Professionals jump into action. They endure long hours, often at night, in some of the worst weather conditions; and,

Whereas, Michigan’s Snow and Ice Management Professionals provide vitally important services to keep hospitals, schools, municipalities, governmental agencies, commercial properties, distribution sites, retail, and residential properties protected by providing Michigan residents safe passage and access to critical care and services all winter long; and,

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim September 2023 as Snow Professionals Appreciation Month in Michigan.