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Book

This magnetic north : candid conversations on a changing Northern Michigan

Call Numbers

  • H 977.46 M956 (CEN)
  • 977.46 M956 (CEN, OSH)

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Publication Information

East Lansing : Michigan State University Press, [2025]

Physical Description

xiii, 288 pages ; 26 cm

Summary

"This book explores a phenomenon occurring around Michigan's Great Lakes and other high-demand scenic locations across the country: natural landscapes are undergoing profound human and climatological change as people pick up their lives and move to bucolic locations. The Grand Traverse region in northeastern lower Michigan has been one of the most impacted regions in Michigan, with the population increase accelerated by the pandemic and climate change. The impact of this growth is explored through field observations and interviews involving dozens of born-and-raised locals, "boomerangers" (those who grew up, left, then returned), and relocators. Mulherin explores the tensions between newcomers and "natives." Interviewees include tourist industry leaders, conservationists, business owners, public safety officials, tribal members, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore officials, and more. These voices characterize the region's diverse views, providing insight into how one of the most popular vacation destinations in the country is attempting to balance environmental preservation with an influx of people"--

Contents

  • A migration story
  • An indigenous perspective
  • Welcome wagon
  • Settlers
  • A taste of Northern Michigan
  • Invasive species
  • "The most beautiful place in America" : Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
  • Protecting paradise
  • Eyes to the skies
  • Every day is Earth Day.

Subjects