Who Should Manage Changing Great Lakes Shorelines? MSU Survey Asks for Public Input

October 18, 2021 - Diane Huhn

Researchers at Michigan State University are calling on residents, who live or own property along the Great Lakes, to provide input regarding the management of Great Lakes shorelines in a new survey. A team of coastal scientists within the Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences at MSU have been working to better understand future challenges facing coastal environments, especially those brought about by human activity and climate change. Research from this team is taking a scientific approach to inform policy and management of Michigan's coastal communities.

As they begin to craft plans and recommendations for coastal communities facing impacts from changing coastlines, the researchers are asking residents to complete a survey to gather information about the public's view of the Great Lakes. The online survey is open to anyone over the age of 18. It asks respondents to provide information about their experiences with the region's coastal changes, thoughts regarding the causes of these changes, what should be done in response, and who they feel should be responsible for addressing these current and future challenges to coastal communities throughout the region.

"Because shoreline changes can present major challenges for people living and working along our coastlines, we're working on a variety of projects to better equip citizens and communities with the information and tools they need to address these challenges," said Elizabeth Mack. Mack is an associate professor in economic geography at MSU. "Collecting input from community members is a valuable way for us to ensure that we are addressing the needs and desires of all stakeholders, not just those that are most vocal with their concerns."

Residents are asked to respond by November 20, 2021. Respondents are given the option to remain anonymous. For additional information or questions, please contact Dr. Elizabeth Mack at emack@msu.edu. For news media requests, please contact Becky Jensen, jensenr7@msu.edu or 989-277-8912.

Photos and Videos, mandatory courtesy, Ethan Theuerkauf, Michigan State University: View Media Kit.

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