BROOKLYN, MI (June 16, 2026) — Yesterday morning, Sen. Sue Shink (D-Northfield Twp.) joined community members at her third Walk and Talk event, held this year at the Watkins Lake State Park. This event welcomed residents to walk one of the trails with the Senator and Ben Spiegel, Watkins Lake Unit Supervisor at the Michigan Dept. of Natural Resources (DNR), to discuss how state leaders are protecting and preserving Michigan’s natural beauty.
“I’m always excited to join constituents outside and enjoy the beautiful parks our district has to offer,” said Sen. Shink, Chair of the Senate Committee on Natural Resources. “Learning about our state’s unique plants, wildlife, and ecosystems can help us all understand how important it is to protect Michigan’s great outdoors.”
During the event, Sen. Shink provided updates on her work to fund outdoor recreation in District 14, as well as preserving Michigan’s farmland and historical sites. Residents voiced their concerns about environmental issues facing their community, particularly a proposed aggregate mine in Norvell Township that is planning to mine next to the park.
As Chair of the Senate Committee on Natural Resources, Sen. Shink has championed a slate of bold legislation to safeguard Michigan’s fresh water, air, and natural resources. Read more about this work here.
For more information about upcoming events, visit Sen. Shink’s Facebook page. If you need help with state services or want to share your thoughts, questions, or concerns about legislation, you can reach Sen. Shink’s office by calling (517) 373-2426 or emailing SenSShink@senate.michigan.gov.
Sen. Shink connects with community members at Watkins Lake State Park. Photo Credit: Jose Romero, Michigan Senate Democrats
Sen. Shink is proud to serve Michigan’s 14th Senate District, which includes parts of Ann Arbor and all of Dexter, Chelsea, and Jackson City, among many townships.