In the spring and summer, a myriad of greens and blues -- trees, bubbling streams, moss, cold lake water. In the fall, the ochre of leaves. In the winter, a stark contrast of deep pine greens, white snow and dark, bare trees.
These are the sites synonymous with Michigan's Upper Peninsula. We tend the UP's plentiful forests, lakes and streams as protected in perpetuity for the people.
That, unfortunately, is not true. Even grand landscapes like Ottawa National Forest are at the whim of mining, logging, development and bad behavior by visitors.
That's where the Keep the UP Wild coalition comes in, which the Michigan Environmental Council is part of. Its 66 members (and counting) of environmental, recreation, academic, business and political organizations are seeking to give federal Wilderness Area designations to the Trap Hills, the Echlo Area, Norwich Plains and the Sturgeon River Gorge.
These four areas, comprising some 51,000 acres of pristine splendor, are gems that make the UP a treasure trove of wonder. Giving them a Wilderness status gives them the best protection our nation can offer. Plus, it will generate good money, wildlife, clean water and awe for generations to come.
Among the minds behind Keep the UP Wild is Horst Schmidt. As president of the Upper Peninsula Environmental Coalition, he has protected the health of people and places up north for years, and this one is no exception.
Join Schmidt and MEC President & CEO Conan Smith to learn about the places they're seeking Wilderness protections for, why and how this endeavor fits into broader conservation efforts in our state and nation.
Generously sponsored by:
Steve and Judy Dobson
