July 31, 2024: Lake St. Clair Appreciation Day in Michigan

WHEREAS, the state of Michigan is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty, including the stunning Lake St. Clair; and

WHEREAS, Lake St. Clair and its 430 square mile body of water is one of the best freshwater fisheries as well as one of the busiest recreational waterways in North America; and

WHEREAS, Lake St. Clair has over 160 miles of augmented and physical coastline including nearly 11 miles of coastline accessible to the public: and

WHEREAS, on these coastlines are 8 public boat launches, 20,000 boat slips, 10 public parks, and 62 marinas which receive over 1.4 million visitors annually; and

WHEREAS, a recent study estimated over 18,000 jobs and a nearly 2 billion dollar annual economic impact directly related to businesses and related tourism in and around Lake St Clair; and

WHEREAS, with recent support from federal, state, non-profit, and philanthropic agencies, 173 million dollars have been invested in pollution reduction and habitat enhancements respectively in a sustained effort to protect the Lake’s natural resources and beauty; and

WHEREAS, the last Wednesday in July provides an opportunity for the citizens of Michigan’s Macomb, St. Clair, and Wayne Counties to come together and recognize the importance of preserving and appreciating our natural resources and the strong economic impact it provides for the surrounding communities; and

WHEREAS, the citizens of Michigan are encouraged to celebrate the last Wednesday in July as Lake St. Clair Appreciation Day, to raise awareness about the significance of this natural wonder and to promote responsible stewardship of its resources;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim July 31, 2024, as Lake St. Clair Appreciation Day in Michigan.