GRASS LAKE, Mich. (May 29, 2025) — Yesterday, Sen. Sue Shink (D-Northfield Twp.) again welcomed residents to join her alongside officials from the Michigan Dept. of Natural Resources (DNR) for a “Walk and Talk” event. While exploring some of Waterloo’s 20,000 acres, the group discussed the importance of Michigan’s breathtaking natural landscapes, learned about native plants such as mayapple and tulip tree and their importance in the ecosystem, and learned how to safely roll over a log to see the wildlife underneath.
“Exploring the trails with local residents at Waterloo was an absolute blast. The DNR officers shared some insightful information about our native plant life,” said Sen. Shink. “Events like this allow our community to connect in a unique and meaningful way, and they highlight the importance of the work we’re doing in the Senate to conserve and protect Michigan’s natural spaces for everyone to explore and enjoy for generations to come.”
Accompanied by four representatives from the DNR, including park manager Matt Schweda and unit supervisor Michelle Lupenski, Sen. Shink strolled alongside over 25 community members, including three dogs, on the Waterloo Pinckney Trail near Portage Lake Campground in Grass Lake.
As Chair of the Senate Committee on Natural Resources and Agriculture and Majority Vice Chair of the budget committee devoted to the same areas, Sen. Shink has dedicated herself to crafting legislation aimed at safeguarding the environment while fostering economic growth. Sen. Shink was instrumental in getting the Clean Energy Future package signed into law, helping to move Michigan to 100% clean energy by 2040, while creating hundreds of good-paying jobs. She also played a pivotal role in delivering millions of dollars to parks and trails in Washtenaw and Jackson counties, including the Border-to-Border Trail and the Safe Routes to School program.
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