Counties served: Allegan, Berrien, Mason, Muskegon, Oceana, Ottawa, Van Buren
Southwest Michigan
Highlighted Projects
Rip Current Sensor Installed in Grand Haven Researchers say they hope technology long used to predict dangerous weather conditions will help them warn Lake Michigan swimmers about dangerous rip currents. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration recently installed an Acoustic Doppler Profiler near the south pier at Grand Haven State Park. The device uses sonar to measure the strength of currents along the beach and pier. See: Full Article
Grand Haven Salmon Festival Grand Haven’s 5th annual salmon festival will take place along the city’s picturesque waterfront September 19-21, 2008. This popular, three-day event marks the end of summer and celebrates the harvest season and local salmon migration. Weekend events include a fresh catch fish boil, a Big King fishing contest, beach clean-up, nature themed art fair, salmon cook-off, and children’s activities. For more information, see: Visit Grand Haven Website
The West Michigan Angler’s News The May 2008 issue of The West Michigan Angler’s News is now online. Articles include: Tournament Economic Impact Surveys Launched; Charter Boat Statistics for 2007; Red Flags Analysis and the Future of Lake Michigan Salmon; and species profile: Gizzard Shad. See: Current Newsletter (PDF)
Boaters: Steer Clear of Trap Nets
Michigan Sea Grant reminds recreational boaters to steer clear of commercial fishing trap nets anchored in Great Lakes waters. Boaters should give the nets a wide berth to avoid getting tangled in supporting lines. To help boaters recognize and avoid the nets, Michigan Sea Grant and partners produced the popular brochure Don’t Get Trapped! What Recreational Anglers and Boaters Should Know About Commercial Fishing Trap Nets. See: Details
Rein in the Runoff In collaboration with local partners, Sea Grant-funded researchers at Grand Valley State University are addressing the issue of storm water management in the Spring Lake watershed. The project is using an integrated approach to reduce nonpoint source pollution and mitigate its impacts on inland water bodies and ultimately Lake Michigan. Read more about the project and how you can get involved. See: Website
Dan serves as a liaison between coastal resource users in Southwest Michigan and the academic research community. He provides educational information and technical assistance to residents, businesses, government agencies and non-government organizations on managing resources, sustainable economic development, and understanding the Lake Michigan and Great Lakes ecosystems.
