To the Editor:

In economically challenging times our thoughts turn, among other things, to the needs of people in our communities and the needs of local charities. Some people have acute needs for food, shelter, and other basics. Then there are larger community needs for stability and promoting the kind of local economy that will provide opportunities, maintain a healthy economy, and provide jobs.

When it comes to ensuring that we maintain a healthy community that provides opportunities, jobs, and a good quality of life, I would like to suggest that people continue to support the Little Traverse Conservancy.

In a resort and tourism-oriented economy, along with strong communities and quality health care, the Conservancy's work is vital. Our businesses, jobs, and prosperity depend upon maintaining a high quality of life with beautiful scenery, abundant wildlife, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Not only do our area's visitors benefit from these resources, so do those of us who live here full time.

I have been coming to the Les Cheneaux region for more than 30 years, captured by its natural beauty. It is one of my most favorite places on earth. Yet without mindful watch over them, even lands "north of the bridge" are at risk of overdevelopment. Many of you have already seen the changes, and this region simply isn't exempt. Conservancy-protected land is more secure and more enduring than any other form of land protection currently available to us. Even stateprotected land is not guaranteed.

It's the classic story of protecting the goose that lays the golden eggs. Natural land, scenic beauty, wildlife, and recreational opportunities are the essential attributes that make our area attractive for the resort and tourist trades. Without these, our economy and environment would suffer and our employment base would wither away. However, by maintaining a healthy balance between land development and land conservation, we can have the best of both worlds: resorts and vacation homes, a lively tourism industry, healthy businesses, and a flourishing economy.

Think about the impact if your favorite scenic view were to be blocked, your favorite trail suddenly not available, or natural areas closed to our children for learning about nature in the great outdoors. These are important elements in our quality of life. More than 100,000 children have participated in a Conservancy environmental education program offered at no charge. Individuals have even contributed to a bus fund that helps reimburse schools that are struggling to offer field trips to their students.

All nonprofits need some extra help in times of an economic downturn. I know from my work in the investment business that times are tight right now. But I also know that the long term health of our part of Michigan and the continuing vitality of our economy depend on ensuring that future generations will be able to enjoy the same quality resort life in northern Michigan that we have to offer today.

We will do ourselves and our children a great favor by remembering to help protect the natural assets of our area even as we work to build a larger and healthier business climate.

So, I urge everyone to consider an investment in the long term future of our community, our economy, and our quality of life through a gift to the Little Traverse Conservancy. George Covington Cedarville