ST. JOSEPH, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — A new coalition has been formed to help inform citizens and tourists on the statuses of local beaches.
The coalition has been formed by the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber of Commerce and Southwestern Michigan Tourist Council, billed as a “Summer Tourism Coalition.”
The purpose of the coalition is to “create an honest and open communication stream for locals and tourists to get more information regarding the condition of local beaches.”
Not only is the coalition meant to relay information about beaches to locals, but it is also meant to highlight the beaches to tourists as well.
“Tourism is a major driver of the local economy and businesses cannot afford to have people second guess their trip to our area,” said Arthur Havlicek, President & CEO of the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber. “The truth is, Southwest Michigan still has plenty of beach for visitors to enjoy. With summer around the corner, we understood the best way to get that message out was to unify the efforts of our regional partners and craft a collaborative strategy to promote our beaches and the amazing amenities that surround them.”
Aside from the Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Council, other participants in this coalition include representatives from St. Joseph Today; the KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship; the Cornerstone Alliance; the Berrien County Parks Department, and more.
“Tourism is the third largest industry in Michigan’s Great Southwest and in the State of Michigan. It is the reason that we as residents have vibrant downtowns and a variety of restaurants and shops to enjoy year-round.” said Millicent Huminsky, Executive Director of the Tourist Council. “Lake Michigan is the number one reason that summer vacationers chose this area and we need to be sure that they receive accurate information on the condition of our beaches.”
The coalition has started a new website at https://www.lovemibeaches.com/, which will serve as the hub of information on Lake Michigan beaches.
According to the coalition staff, content for the campaign and website is is still being created at this time.
However, citizens can sign up for updates as they occur on the website now.
Additionally, photos, videos, and social media content for supporting organizations are being gathered for the website. Community members, individuals and entities are encouraged to join the efforts of this coalition.
“We need the community to be a voice multiplier this year and do their part to promote our beautiful area,” Huminsky said. “We encourage you to visit www.lovemibeaches.com, follow our progress, and give your suggestions for what you’d like to see included in this campaign.”
Erosion continues to be a problem along the beaches of Lake Michigan, along with elevated lake levels. Issues surrounding these environmental factors are expected to continue into this year.
More recently, Allegan County has filed for additional funding in addressing these issues.
