April 9, 2002

UM-MSU Partnership Marks 25 Years of Cooperation and Service to State

Ann Arbor – For 25 years the University of Michigan (UM) and Michigan State University (MSU) have been partners in a unique enterprise that does ground-breaking research on the Great Lakes and disseminates the practical results of that research to stakeholder groups throughout the state.

The state legislature has recognized that partnership and its contributions to Michigan by naming April 15-20 Michigan Sea Grant Week. On April 18, an afternoon seminar, "Science Based Decisions for the Great Lakes," will celebrate the event, 1-1:45 p.m., at the Michigan Historical Museum, 717 West Allegan St. in Lansing. It will be followed by a reception, 5-7 p.m.

The resolutions marking the quarter-century anniversary were introduced by Sen. Ken Sikkema (R-Grandville) and Rep. Chris Kolb (D-Ann Arbor). "With its long history of Great Lakes research and outreach, Michigan Sea Grant is a true champion of the Great Lakes and a valuable asset to the State of Michigan," Kolb said.

The mission of Michigan Sea Grant is to develop knowledge through research and to apply that knowledge to communities throughout the state, using a network of advisory agents who can help their constituents recognize problems, identify solutions, and get the resources to implement them. For example, the sustainable coastal development initiative works with coastal communities to make sound land-use decisions that balance the pressures of urban development with the need to protect valuable coastal habitat, prevent soil erosion and maintain excellent water quality for future generations.

"The strength of Michigan Sea Grant lies in its ability to apply university-based research to current Great Lakes challenges," said Interim Director George Carignan. "The combined talents of people at the University of Michigan and Michigan State University have made Michigan Sea Grant a particularly effective partnership."

"The partnership allows university-based research to be developed in concert with the needs of diverse Great Lakes stakeholders and industries," added Associate Director William Taylor.

The seminar and reception are being co-sponsored by the Great Lakes Fishery Trust, Michigan Alliance for Environmental and Outdoor Education, Michigan Fish Producers Association, Michigan Boating Industries Association, Michigan Charter Boat Association, Michigan Steelhead and Salmon Fishermen's Association, and Michigan Aquaculture Association.