EDITOR:

There are important issues on the minds of voters this election: health care, roads and education to name a few. But to many Michiganders, preservation of our natural resources and outdoor recreation traditions is also important. On this issue, only Gretchen Whitmer is the candidate of choice.

Michigan is blessed with extraordinary natural resources and beauty the envy of most states. We are surrounded by four of the five Great Lakes; we have thousands of inland lakes and miles of wild and scenic rivers, as well as public land with an abundance of fish and wildlife available for residents and visitors alike. So, environmental and conservation issues are understandably important to many voters.

The need for Great Lakes protection, safe drinking and recreational waters are understood by Ms. Whitmer, as they are cornerstones of her campaign. Old pipelines under the Great Lakes, Flint water crisis, pollutants in our water, water diversions, invasive species and climate change are all current or potential threats to our quality of life in Michigan. Review the Clean Water for Michigan plan on Whitmer’s web site.

She has also committed to protect our outdoor traditions by pledging to rely on science and resource management professionals to help guide decision making on the wise use of our natural resources. She will work to restore Michigan’s DNR and DEQ to their place of national prominence as leaders of resource management in the U.S.

A Whitmer administration in Lansing will welcome input from sportsmen and women.

Her stance on resource conservation is in stark contrast to her Republican opponent who has not put forth specific plans for protecting our water and other natural resources; who is backed by corporate interests who care more about increased profits than natural resources. These are corporate interests who often deny climate change is an issue; who push increased water withdrawals from the Great Lakes; who favor increased exploitation and even sale of our amazing bounty of public lands.

The choice is clear. Gretchen Whitmer is the best candidate for governor for Michigan.

Don Inman

Millersburg