On June 15th, Michigan State Senator Sue Shink brought her third annual Walk and Talk event to Watkins Lake State Park, joining 40 community members and DNR staff for a trail walk through one of the Irish Hills’ most beloved natural spaces.
It was, by all accounts, a perfect June day — and a meaningful one. Residents walked the trails, took in the peaceful setting, and spoke directly with their senator about how government and community can work together to protect places like this. Among the concerns raised: the proposed industrial gravel mine in Norvell Township that would border the very park they were walking through.
Sen. Shink, who chairs the Michigan Senate Committee on Natural Resources, has championed bold legislation to protect the state’s fresh water, air, and natural landscapes. Her choice to bring this event to Watkins Lake — and her openness to hearing community concerns — is an encouraging sign that our message is reaching the right people.
This is exactly the kind of engagement that moves the needle. We’re grateful to Senator Shink, the DNR staff, and every community member who showed up and spoke up.
