Heart of the Lakes // Passion & Purpose June 25, 2020 Robert Byrne Michigan's outdoor industry is an economic powerhouse reaching $26.6 billion in consumer spending and 232k direct jobs. This may come with little surprise knowing Michigan has a wealth of forests, trails, rivers, and lakes — rivaling top outdoor states such as Colorado, Montana, and California. What sets Michigan apart? The 4,500 miles of coastline known as the Great Lakes. Michigan residents and businesses thrive on the revenue brought in from the Great Lakes, but these extra footprints in the sand raise concerns for our coastlines. Some businesses in the outdoor industry have adopted the outdoor lifestyle branding and the importance of advocating the conservation of our coasts. Contributions: Editor, Videographer