Events

Every two years the Michigan Inland Lakes Convention brings together passionate lakeshore owners, lake scientists, policy makers, and conservationists to spark new ideas and inspire stewardship of inland lakes. This year’s convention theme is “Protecting Lakes Today for Tomorrow”, and it will take place virtually September 14-16 on Zoom.

The three-day event will include more than 45 engaging presentations and workshops focused on specific issues such as fish management, landscaping near shorelines, lake protection and governance, algal blooms, native freshwater mussels, communications, policy, invasive species, lake restoration, and much more. Wednesday and Thursday will also include keynote speakers who are regionally recognized for their contribution to the field of lake science and conservation. 

The convention is a unique occasion for professionals and lakefront homeowners to learn from prominent lake management and conservation professionals. More importantly, it is an opportunity to learn best practices for the protection and preservation of Michigan’s inland lakes.

Registration

Registration is open! Registration for the event is $60, $15 for students, and free for speakers. Registration deadline: September 11, 2022. Register here.

Agenda

We’re pleased to present the draft Convention agenda (updated June 30, 2022). For more details on each session, see our current list of abstracts, sorted by speaker last name (updated June 30, 2022).

 Additional Convention Information

The Convention is hosted by the Michigan Inland Lakes Partnership, a collaboration of diverse organizations with a common mission to advance stewardship of Michigan’s inland lakes. We will convene again September 14 – 16, 2022, to learn and share the latest innovations and ideas in lake stewardship, and to network with others who share our passion for lakes!

Session Recordings

Most Convention sessions will be recorded.

Lake Photography and Creative Arts Contests

Submit your inland lake-inspired photos and artistic creations to our photography and creative arts contests! Cash prizes will be awarded. Submissions are due August 15.

Lake Trivia!

Everyone will be invited to join the fun of our Lake Trivia competition. Participants will compete for glory and prizes!

Educational Exhibitors

We look forward to hosting Educational Exhibitors online! A diversity of organizations and programs dedicated to protecting Michigan’s inland lakes will be highlighted in a special online space during the Convention.

Continuing Education Credits

We anticipate offering opportunities to those interested in Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) pesticide applicator recertification credits (Commercial Core and Category 5). Check back for details.

Convention Contacts

You are welcome to direct any questions you have about the 2022 Convention to its Co-Chairs: Erick Elgin of Michigan State University Extension or Julia Kirkwood of the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy.

We also invite you to stay in touch with the Michigan Inland Lakes Partnership by joining our email list, and following us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram (Convention hashtag: #MILC2022).