Local Economic Growth and Environmental Stewardship

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Local Economic Growth and Environmental
Stewardship

• January 7, 2008

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The Needs of the Local Economy and its
relationship to the Local environment have
changed dramatically over time - although this
may not be perceived by local residents

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• In the Past
• Economy dependent on extraction of copper ore
  wood fiber
• Extractions impact on the local environment was
  of secondary importance to creating local jobs
• Economy environment seen as zero sum
  relationship

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• Since 1985 KEDA has worked to
• Transform the Keweenaw economy from one
  characterized by extraction by a few large
  companies to..

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• ...an economy characterized by
• Value-added activities
• Performed by smaller companies
• Started by local entrepreneurs
• Using a higher level of technology
• And producing higher paying jobs

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• These jobs are filled by
• Local residents who want to remain in the
  community
• Visitors, e.g., college students, vacationers,
  etc. who also want to live here.

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• Companies also want to be here
• Lower business costs
• Access to Michigan Tech students others
• Ability to attract retain talented people

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• And, talented people want to be here
• Family sustaining jobs
• Ability to enjoy recreate in this easily
  accessible and beautiful environment

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• That is, the relationship between our economic
  needs and our natural environment has now changed
  in a fundamental way!

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• The health of the Keweenaw economy is now
  dependent upon and interconnected to the health
  of our natural environment!

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• In order to grow jobs, we must be able to offer
  a great quality of life, including a cared-for
  natural environment in which to live and
  recreate.

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• The LSSI will help to instill appreciation for
  and stewardship of the Lake Superior Region.
  This will have a direct, positive impact on our
  ability to create a strong, sustainable economy