Campus, public voice concerns about water at town hall

The campus community and members of the public voiced their concerns about Michigan's water priorities and the economic activity generated from the natural resource during a town hall November 4 in the Kirkhof Center.

The event was co-hosted by Grand Valley and the Center for Michigan/Bridge Magazine as part of the center's "Your Water, Your Voice" campaign. Similar events have been held throughout the state; the Center for Michigan will share perspectives with state leaders.

Travus Burton, director for Civic Learning and Community Engagement, said comments shared during the event varied from more regulations to protect water quality to using tax dollars to protect the Great Lakes from Asian carp.

"Students had a real appreciation for the opportunity to express their voice to a publication that will be sharing directly with Michigan elected officials," Burton said.

The town hall linked closely with Grand Valley's Making Waves About Water initiative, a two-year endeavor that creates opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, resources and activities surrounding the natural resource.