The inaugural Pure Award was presented to the organizers of the Grand Haven Salmon Festival at the Pure Michigan Governor’s Conference on Tourism today in Lansing.
The Pure Award recognizes innovative tourism industry efforts to keep Michigan’s resources and environment in pristine condition. The award is an initiative of the Resources and Environment Implementation Committee of the 2012-2017 Michigan Tourism Strategic Plan, whose stated goal is for Michigan to “be internationally recognized for our stewardship of – and rich opportunities to experience – our natural, cultural and heritage resources.”
The MTSP was developed by MSU Department of Community Sustainability associate professor Sarah Nicholls, who is leading efforts to implement the plan on behalf of the Michigan Travel Commission and tourism industry members across the state.
The Grand Haven Salmon Festival, the only zero-waste-to-landfill event in the state, was selected as this year’s winner based on its strong commitment to minimizing its impact on the environment. In 2015, 96 percent of the festival's waste was composted or recycled, and the remaining 40 pounds of trash were processed in a waste-to-energy incinerator.
Four other sites were also recognised for their sustainability efforts: Chateau Chantal, for their installation of a 148.5 kilowatt-hour solar array; the City of Frankenmuth, for its construction of a fish passage at the Cass River Dam; Great Lakes Endurance, for its organization of minimal-impact silent sports events; and the West Michigan Shoreline Regional Development Commission, for its efforts to restore the quality of White and Muskegon Lakes.
For information about the MTSP and how to apply for the 2017 Pure Award, email Sarah Nicholls at nicho210@msu.edu or check the MTSP website in the fall.