14 Jun 2025
Travel Marquette Awarded for Sustainability Initiatives
Respect Marquette County Program Continues To Be an Industry Leader in Responsible Travel
MARQUETTE, Mich. – Travel Marquette was recognized at the Pure Michigan Governor's Conference with the Education Award in Innovative Tourism Collaboration for its Respect Marquette County initiative in partnership with Leave No Trace. The Respect Marquette County program was highlighted as a successful example of how a destination can support sustainable travel in their own community. Through its Respect Marquette County Coalition, Marquette County encourages both locals and visitors to responsibly enjoy the local culture and natural resources of the area through a number of accessible strategies.
“We are honored to be recognized at the Pure Michigan Governor's Conference on tourism,” says Susan Estler, CEO of Travel Marquette. “The continued success of our Respect Marquette County Coalition is the direct result of our entire community's hard work and passion for sustainability. We are excited to see the Leave No Trace and Respect Marquette County pledge continue to shape the way people travel to our nature-filled destination in the Upper Peninsula.”
Comprised of seven principles in total, this partnership was the first of its kind in the state of Michigan. When it was first established in 2022, the coalition featured 20 partners. Today, it has 40 coalition partners across Marquette County, including Northern Michigan University, hotels, motorized and non-motorized trail groups, economic development groups, local business owners and many more. Holding quarterly meetings, the coalition aims to gather valuable input from the community and its partners through collaborative group discussions. Collectively the group works to promote a sense of stewardship among travelers and residents.
With a goal of reaching both in-state and out-of-state travelers, Respect Marquette County provides guidance on responsible and sustainable tourism practices. The program has created a free and public educational resource on a variety of topics from how to enjoy and support the area's trail systems to camping etiquette and fire ethics. Furthermore, they have joined forces with NMU University to educate incoming students on the importance of showing respect to the community. Thanks to Respect Marquette County, visitors as well as residents are now well equipped with Leave No Trace environmental and sustainability skills and information when they enjoy public lands.
“While we promote the Marquette area as a destination for travel and tourism, it is also our responsibility to protect our community and preserve its natural offerings. Partnering with Leave No Trace was the perfect next step in this commitment, and we look forward to continuing to shape the way people explore our many outdoor landscapes with sustainability at the forefront,” shared Estler.
Located on Michigan's Upper Peninsula, where the clear waters of Lake Superior lap the stone cliffs and sandy beaches, Marquette County harbors a community distinguished by its natural surroundings – from rushing waterfalls and rock formations to scenic vistas and dense hardwoods. Spanning 1,872 square miles, Marquette County is comprised of many small communities such as Ishpeming, Negaunee, Big Bay, Harvey, Gwinn and Michigamme Township, in addition to the City of Marquette. A haven for outdoor recreation, Marquette has gained national acclaim as a premier biking destination, offers numerous foot trails for hikers of all skill levels, boasts 83 miles of Lake Superior shoreline, is a beloved ski, snowshoe and winter sports destination and much more.
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Travel Marquette
On the shores of Lake Superior, Marquette, Michigan is a community where nature's assets are on display through scenic vistas, rugged trails and rushing waterfalls. Marquette's historic downtown pays homage to the rich mineral deposits, dense forests, and maritime markers that have helped to shape its story. From unique dining experiences, award-winning craft breweries and a thriving art scene, Marquette embraces a culture anchored in artisanship and ingenuity. For more information, visit travelmarquette.com or call 1-906-228-7749.
Contact:
Halley Autry / Hartley Inge
Lou Hammond Group
843.647.7358 / 843.647.7389
