Researchers at Michigan State University (MSU) reported March 13 that Michigan tourism experienced modest growth in 2005. Dr. Don Holocek, the spokesperson for the MSU research study, said at a recent team review of last year's tourism indicators with representatives from Travel Michigan, "We were all somewhat surprised by just how well the industry fared in 2005."

Despite spiking gas prices and negative overall economic conditions in the state, the researchers estimate that tourists spent 4 percent more in Michigan last year than they did in 2004.

Drawing upon recent findings relating tourism activity to prevailing weather conditions, the researchers concluded that the near ideal weather pattern that Michigan tourists encountered over much of last year was largely responsible for the boost in travel spending.