Community Engagement, Outreach, and Education - A core foundation of the Michigan Geological Survey

Presented on April 3, 2024 by Dr. Autumn Haagsma - Director of the Michigan Geological Repository for Research and Education and Assistant Director of the Michigan Geological Survey & John Yellich - Director of the Michigan Geological Survey
Abstract: The Michigan Geological Survey and Michigan Geological Repository for Research and Education serves the diverse communities and stakeholders across the state through impactful research in natural resources, water resources, critical minerals, energy, and climate resilience. In order for our research to be successful, engagement with communities and stakeholders is pivotal. In this presentation, we will review our active outreach and education programs, provide case studies of successful community engagement, and discuss strategies for developing long-lasting and meaningful relationships.
Biographies: Dr. Autumn Haagsma is the Director of the Michigan Geological Repository for Research and Education and Assistant Director of the Michigan Geological Survey. She leads carbon sequestration research and other energy and climate resilience related research. She has developed community benefits plans, interacted with communities and stakeholders in multiple settings, and helped develop a strong social media platform for broader outreach and education.
John Yellich is the Director of the Michigan Geological Survey. He leads multiple mapping programs including glacial and groundwater mapping, critical mineral mapping, and aggregates mapping. He regularly interacts with communities, regulators, legislators, and Michigan’s Sovereign Tribes. Through his efforts, he has gained substantial support for MGS and built meaningful relationships with multiple communities and stakeholders.