Whereas, America’s system of public lands includes parks, unique landscapes, forests, wildlife refuges, historic trails, natural streams and wetlands, nature centers, gardens and other landmark areas throughout the nation that individually and collectively represent irreplaceable national resources; and,

Whereas, Public lands provide locally accessible natural and cultural resources for environmental learning, wildlife appreciation and recreation; and,

Whereas, Public lands promote civic ideals that include shared stewardship and recognition of public ownership; and,

Whereas, Shared stewardship requires the goodwill, cooperation and active support of citizens, community, city and state officials, business leaders, children and adults; and,

Whereas, The Civilian Conservation Corps gave our nation a magnificent legacy of stewardship of our treasured natural resources that is being passed to younger generations; and,

Whereas, Land conservation builds awareness among urban dwellers with concerns about planned development, shared land use, preservation of wild areas and natural habitats, and the benefits realized by diligent restoration and enhancement efforts; and,

Whereas, An alliance between private citizens and land manager and community leaders improves the condition of publicly held lands for the greater enjoyment and enrichment of all Americans; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim September 18, 2004, as Public Lands Day, and I encourage all citizens of Michigan to recognize and participate in this special observance.