March 18, 2009

The Department of History, Arts and Libraries (HAL) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) are seeking public input on the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary's Draft Management Plan. Citizens who are interested in the plan, would like to learn more or would like to offer comment are encouraged to attend a public hearing in Lansing:

WHAT: Public Hearing on Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary Draft Management Plan

WHEN: Friday, Friday, March 20 at 2 p.m.

WHERE: Michigan Historical Center, Lake Erie Room, 702 W. Kalamazoo St., Lansing

The draft plan is available for download at http://thunderbay.noaa.gov/management/mpr/welcome.html. Hard copies are also available by request via phone at (989) 356-8805, ext.38, or e-mail at TBMPR@noaa.gov.

The National Marine Sanctuaries Act requires periodic updating of each sanctuary's management plan. These plans identify immediate, mid-range and long-term challenges and opportunities and describe resource protection, research and education programs that guide sanctuary operations. Work on the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary Draft Management Plan began in September 2006 with a series of public meetings. The sanctuary advisory council established working groups that developed the action plan strategies.

Written comments on the plan also may be submitted. They must be received by April 10 and may be sent to Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary (Management Plan Review), 500 West Fletcher Street, Alpena, MI, 49707; faxed to (989) 354-0144 or e-mailed to TBMPR@noaa.gov. Additional public hearings will be held in Rogers City, Harrisville and Alpena.

HAL is the lead agency in the NOAA/state of Michigan partnership managing the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary and Underwater Preserve in Alpena.

Read more press releases from the Department of History, Arts and Libraries (HAL).