Great Lakes Policy Conference Highlights the Business of Fresh Water
The Macomb County Chamber brought together business leaders, policymakers, environmental experts and industry professionals on Aug. 12 for its inaugural Great Lakes Policy Conference at MacRay Harbor in Harrison Township.
Presented in partnership with Macomb County Planning & Economic Development, the conference focused on “The Business of Fresh Water” and the economic value of Lake St. Clair and the Great Lakes. Sessions explored tourism, recreation, environmental health, infrastructure, marine industry growth, workforce development and Great Lakes restoration.
Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel and Deputy County Executive John Paul Rea opened the conference with an overview of Macomb County’s Blue Economy, including the businesses, jobs, tourism and recreation supported by Lake St. Clair and the county’s waterfront communities. Their presentation also highlighted investments in the Clinton River, shoreline restoration and public access.
Throughout the day, speakers reinforced the link between freshwater investment and economic growth. Dr. John Hartig of the Great Lakes Institute for Environmental Research cited the Detroit RiverWalk as an example of waterfront improvements that drive private investment and visitor spending. Dr. Megan Elliott, President and CEO of the Belle Isle Conservancy, discussed how access to waterfront parks and recreation can influence where people choose to live, work and invest.
Claude Molinari, Visit Detroit President and CEO, highlighted freshwater as a competitive advantage for Southeast Michigan, particularly as the region expands waterfront tourism, Great Lakes cruising and international connections. The conference also addressed water quality, infrastructure needs, marine industry workforce challenges and the economic return generated by Great Lakes restoration.
Thank you to the Macomb County Chamber’s Blue Economy Committee for its leadership in developing the conference and for bringing together the business, government and community partners who are helping shape the future of Macomb County’s freshwater economy.
Save the Date! The Great Lakes Policy Conference will return to MacRay Harbor on July 28, 2027. Stay tuned for additional details.
