Summertime in Michigan Brings Camping, Boating and Local Fairs

By Cindy Denby

Spring weather has finally arrived here in Michigan and summer is fast approaching.

Over the next few months there are a multitude of state fairs and events taking place across the state, including the Fowlerville Family Fun Fair on July 22-27.

The Michigan Association of Fairs and Exhibitions has put together a brochure with a calendar of all the fairs and events taking place across the state. I encourage you all to check out the list and explore our state this summer.

To get a copy of the brochure please contact my office or visit www.michiganfairs.org.

Camping in Michigan

Now is the perfect time to book your campground for the summer. As you begin the process make sure to check out the Michigan Camping and Recreation Locater-Mobile App. It is available in the Apple, Blackberry, and Google mobile stores. The app allows you to search by different criteria to find the perfect campground for your trip. Search by proximity or region, you can also learn what there is to see and do by each campground. To find out more information about the app and other resources for outdorr recreation in Michigan visit http://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,1607,7-153-10365_58554---,00.html.

Boating in Michigan

The start of May and the arrival of warm weather means many of you are starting to think ahead to boating season. With 11,000 inland lakes and rivers in Michigan addition to the Great Lakes throughout the state, there is a type of boating for you. Michigan has more than 7,000 miles of streams for canoeing, 13,000 miles of trout waters, and 700 lake and river access sites. Before you head out, it is important to make sure you have everything you need, especially a boater's license.

Michigan requires anyone born in 1979 or later to have their boater's safety certificate before heading out on the water. The Department of Natural Resources website lists classes throughout the state and also online options. For more information about boater's safety certificate requirements, or to find classes in your area, visit the DNR's website http://www.michigan.gov/dnr. 

Don't forget to visit the Fowlerville Farmer's Market this summer every Friday from 3-7. This Friday May 10, I will be at the market and look forward to seeing you there.

If you have any questions or need assistance with any state issues, please contact me toll free at 866-828-4863 or via e-mail at cindydenby@house.mi.gov.