SR-33, As Adopted by Senate, April 24, 2007

            Senator Birkholz offered the following resolution:

            Senate Resolution No. 33.

            A resolution designating April 22 - May 1, 2007, as Michigan Conservation Week.

            Whereas, The Michigan Legislature is constitutionally charged with the responsibility to protect and preserve the natural resources of this great state; and

            Whereas, The state of Michigan is blessed with an abundance of natural resources, plentiful lakes, rivers, and streams; bountiful wetlands and sand dunes; and precious forests. These resources provide Michigan residents and visitors to this great state a high quality of life; and

            Whereas, Michigan’s resources provide both beauty and background for those who live and recreate in the state; and

            Whereas, The Legislature has acknowledged the sensitive nature of these resources through a number of environmental programs designed to keep our resource base healthy, while allowing for a wise and continuous use of these natural resources; and

            Whereas, It is in the best interest of Michigan’s resources that the decisions affecting these resources be made by those knowledgeable and trained in sound scientific principles of resource management; to provide for the continuous availability of these resources for such activities as hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, hiking, skiing, and others while also maintaining the multibillion-dollar outdoor tourism industry; and

            Whereas, It is important to recall the tradition America values that respecting our wildlife and beautiful surroundings is practicing responsible conservation; and

            Whereas, Designating April 22 - May 1, 2007, as Michigan Conservation Week will offer local conservation groups and educators an opportunity to educate students and community members on the necessity of managing Michigan’s natural resources in a sustainable manner to provide enjoyment to both current and future generations; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the Senate, That we hereby designate April 22 - May 1, 2007, as Michigan Conservation Week. We urge the citizens of the state of Michigan to celebrate and commemorate the heritage of conservation and its role in maintaining and enhancing the natural resources of the state and preserving the high quality of life available to those who live, work, and recreate in the state; and be it further

            Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to Rebecca Humphries, Director of the Department of Natural Resources; the Natural Resources Commission; Representative Rebekah Warren, chair of the House Committee on Great Lakes and Environment; Representative Joel Sheltrown, chair of the House Committee on Tourism, Outdoor Recreation and Natural Resources; Senate Majority Leader Mike Bishop; Speaker of the House Andy Dillon; Governor Jennifer Granholm; Michigan United Conservation Clubs, and all other state and local conservation groups.