The Mackinac Center for Public Policy is pleased to host monthly Issues & Ideas Luncheons in Lansing. These luncheons, which feature experts on a diverse array of subjects, offer a forum that enhances and broadens the policy debate to include theoretical and philosophical ideals-and suggestions for achieving them.

MAY ISSUES & IDEAS LUNCHEON

"Great Lakes, Great Debate: How Best to Manage Michigan's Greatest Natural Resource"

The Great Lakes are Michigan's greatest natural resource, an essential element of the state's industrial base as well as the most beloved recreational destination of tourists and residents alike. State and federal stewardship efforts have largely focused on restricting discharges into lake waters, with welcome results. But challenges to the health of the Great Lakes remain, including the invasion of nuisance species and sewage overflows. On the political front, Michigan and other states in the region must increasingly fend off attempts by Congress and the federal government to seize control of the lakes. Meanwhile, an array of proposals for Great Lakes management have been offered by candidates competing to establish environmental credentials.

Join us for a lively panel discussion on these issues with state Sen. Ken Sikkema, who will discuss the recently released report of the Great Lakes Conservation Task Force, and Keith Schneider, program director for the Michigan Land Use Institute. The forum will be moderated by Diane Katz, Mackinac Center director of science, environment, and technology policy, who will challenge the conventional wisdom that government regulation always yields the greatest environmental benefits.

The luncheon begins promptly at 12:00 noon. Please make reservations for yourself and any guests by noon on May 21, 2002, by calling the Mackinac Center at (989) 631-0900 or send your e-mail to: rsvp@mackinac.org.