Natural Resources and the Economy on February 23rd

The public is invited to a community conversation about Natural Resources and the Economy on February 23rd asking the question: Is a View of the Bay Worth More Than Half the Pay?

How important do you think natural resources are to the future of our economy? Join business leaders and the Grand Vision Natural Resources Network for a panel presentation and community conversation on Wednesday, February 23rd from 6:00 – 9:00 pm to discuss how these resources help to drive our region’s prosperity. The event will be held at the Oleson Center in Traverse City, located on the main campus of Northwestern Michigan College. It is being hosted by the Natural Resources Network of the Grand Vision, which includes businesses, civic , and environmental organizations.

The event will feature opening remarks by Derek Bailey, Tribal Chairman of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians; a panel discussion with Jim MacInnis, President and CEO of Crystal Mountain Resort, Matt Myers, Co-Owner of M-22, Deborah Wyatt Fellows – Publisher of Traverse, Northern Michigan’s Magazine, Kim Pontius, Executive Vice President of the Traverse Area Association of Realtors and Gene LaFave, Developer.

Panelists will share their perspectives on the importance of natural resources to the success of business in our region and then participants in the event will be invited to join break out groups to discuss the following questions as they relate to different topics such as recreation and access to nature, regulatory frameworks, education, energy, food, transportation, and housing.

Snacks will be served and door prizes, including several wildlife prints, will be awarded. There is no fee to participate, but pre-registration is encouraged due to limited space. You may register by contacting The Watershed Center Grand Traverse Bay, 231-935-1514 Ex. 4 or by e-mail todbaker@gtbay.org. On-site registration on the day of the event begins at 5:30pm.

Photo Credit: Pyramid Point from Van’s Beach in Leland by Trish P. – K1000 Gal