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+--- Thread: Michigan DNR Offers Free On-the-Water Boating Experiences June 8 (/showthread.php?tid=824700)
Michigan DNR Offers Free On-the-Water Boating Experiences June 8 - FishNews - 06-05-2013
As part of a nationwide observance, Michigan is celebrating Welcome to the Water on National Marina Day, June 8, by inviting anyone interested in learning more about what it takes to get into boating to try a free, on-water demo at any of the participating destinations.
Through a partnership with the DNR, the Michigan Boating Industries Association and the Association of Marina Industries, Michigan boating dealerships are collaborating with local marinas to provide a Boating 101 experience. Boating 101 is a free, introductory boating program with expert instruction available. Tips on trailering and boat safety and experience in operating a boat all will be part of the event.
"With direct access to four Great Lakes, and more than 11,000 inland lakes, Michigan is a boating paradise," said Nicki Polan, executive director for the Michigan Boating Industries Association. "We wanted to come together to provide an opportunity for people to experience the boating lifestyle and better understand how easy it can be to become a boater."
"Michigan is investing in the boating community because of how important the industry is to our economy," said Ron Olson, chief of the DNR's Parks and Recreation Division. "That's why we felt it was important that the taxpayers, who are partially funding the State's dredging efforts, also have the opportunity to enjoy the experience they are helping to protect. This partnership is a great 'front door' for exploring boating, and we hope Michigan will take advantage of the opportunity."
For a complete list of participating marinas celebrating National Marina Day with family-friendly activities and educational experiences, visit www.nationalmarinaday.org/participants/.
Free boating demos, as well as other demonstrations and activities, will be available at:
Great Lakes Docks & Decks
Contact: Wally Dombrowski<br />
7427 Dyke Rd (M-29), Algonac<br />
Offering free on-water kayaking experiences from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.<br />
For more information, call 586-725-0009 or visit www.thekayakstore.com
Klave's Marina<br />
Contact: Charlotte Klave<br />
8789 McGregor Road (on Portage Lake), Pinckney<br />
Free paddleboarding and boating demos available from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.<br />
For more information, call 734-426-4532
MacRay Harbor<br />
Contact: Steve Remias<br />
30675 N. River Rd., Harrison Township<br />
Sun Sport Marine will provide boating demos from noon - 4 p.m.<br />
For more information, call 586-350-8581
Pier 33<br />
Contact: Tighe Curran<br />
250 Anchors Way, St. Joseph<br />
Marina tours and boating demos available 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Refreshments will be provided.<br />
For more information, call 800-886-0493 or visit www.pier33.com
Terrace Point Marina<br />
770 Terrace Point Blvd., Muskegon<br />
Free bike, kayak, paddle boat and paddle board rentals and pontoon boat tours of Muskegon Lake from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.<br />
For more information, call 231-727-8483
Wilson Marine<br />
3981 Cass Elizabeth Rd., Waterford Township<br />
Boat demos will be available at Island Cove Marina on Cass Lake from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.<br />
For more information, call 248-683-0200
Welcome to the Water on National Marina Day is produced by the Association of Marina Industries, and Discover Boating. The nationwide annual event, in its twelfth year, provides an opportunity for marinas to showcase their facilities to local boaters and non-boaters alike. For more information visit www.nationalmarinaday.org.
The Michigan Boating Industries Association is a non-profit trade association representing Michigan's $3.9 billion marine industry. MBIA is dedicated to the advancement, promotion and protection of recreational boating in Michigan. For more information about the MBIA call 734.261.0123 or visit www.mbia.org.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state's natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.