Ann Arbor, MI -- Citing Rick Snyder's plans to protect Michigan's environment and his position on the role it plays in enhancing business development and job creation in Michigan, the Michigan League of Conservation Voters (Michigan LCV) today endorsed Rick Snyder for Governor. This endorsement marks the first time the Michigan LCV has ever endorsed a Republican candidate for Governor and speaks to Rick’s appeal amongst voters from both sides of the aisle. This endorsement comes on the heels of the Michigan chapter of Republicans for Environmental Protection endorsing Rick’s candidacy last week (click here for details).

“Without a doubt, Rick Snyder is the clear choice for any Michigan voter in the Republican primary that cares about the future of our beautiful Great Lakes and valuable natural resources,” said Lisa Wozniak, Executive Director for Michigan LCV. “His focus throughout the campaign on the benefits that a green vision brings to Michigan’s economy is a key element in any honest plan for our state’s future. The unfortunate lack of attention to this vital part of Michigan’s recovery by his Republican opponents only further highlights Mr. Snyder’s stand-out presence in this race.”

“I strongly believe we must conserve, protect and enhance Michigan’s environment and awe inspiring natural resources if we are to deliver long-term prosperity for our state," said Rick Snyder. "Our entire economy depends upon our environment and we must create a thriving economy to be able to provide the resources needed to protect our environment. Neither can be successful without the other for very long."

"As I aim to turn around Michigan’s economy, I will lead the charge to ensure our children and their children are able to live in a Michigan more beautiful and prosperous than what we have today," continued Snyder. "I am proud to have the support of the Michigan LCV and look forward to working with them to ensure Michigan's beautiful outdoors remain protected.”

The Michigan LCV is a non-partisan, non-profit organization which seeks to turn environmental goals into legislative and community priorities by electing, educating, and holding officials accountable for their votes and actions. The Board of Directors is comprised of members affiliated with both parties, including Republicans of note such as Congressman Joe Schwarz, Grand Rapids attorney Bill Farr, and Governor Bill Milliken.

For information on this endorsement and Michigan LCV’s activities, please visit www.michiganlcv.org.

About Rick’s Plan To Protect Michigan’s Environment

Michigan needs to be a national leader and innovator in protecting the environment.

Michigan is blessed with natural resources that serve as the foundation for the quality of life of our citizens, contribute to the economic vitality of our state, and offer a competitive advantage as we transition into a new era. The state must make smart investments and develop long range plans focused on safeguarding its citizens, protecting the environment, and ensuring that Michigan’s natural treasures are preserved for future generations. Michigan must also support industries like agriculture, tourism, outdoor recreational activities, and renewable energy.

Career politicians are jeopardizing our resources and compromising our reputation as a leader in environmental stewardship.

In recent years, a lack of leadership has allowed Michigan to become more reactive than proactive in protecting the environment and positioning the state for future success. Despite being situated in the heart of the Great Lakes, Michigan was one of the last states to join the Great Lakes Compact. What’s more, the ongoing state budget crisis has destabilized funding for critical conservation and preservation efforts and is threatening federal funding.

Public and private partnerships provide a sustainable funding model to stem the tide.

State government needs to build partnerships with local governments, private businesses, non-profits, and citizens to preserve and protect our environment. Michigan’s research universities and talented professionals need to be leveraged as part of a comprehensive plan to safeguard our communities when unforeseen environmental hazards occur. Public and private partnerships should not only help with funding but also monitor the environment, identify potential threats before they occur, and swiftly deal with incidents that do occur.

The state needs a systematic approach for managing and safeguarding natural resources against environmental threats.

Limited financial resources require Michigan to have consistent and reliable conservation strategies to efficiently and effectively deal with environmental threats. The four step process that should serve as the framework for protecting Michigan for future generations includes 1) Prevention, 2) Early Detection, 3) Rapid Response Mechanism, and 4) Management.

Rick Snyder is the right leader to protect the environment while growing the economy.

As a member of the board of trustees of the Michigan Chapter of the Nature Conservancy, Rick has gained great insight into the issues facing Michigan and the role that the state should play in the Great Lakes Region. As an entrepreneur, Rick understands how to quickly and efficiently transfer technology from the classroom to the marketplace, which will help protect Michigan’s environment and create “green collar” jobs.