Michigan's spectacular natural history is the foundation of our second largest industry, tourism. For the past century and beyond, road building in Michigan has unveiled our spectacular glacial architecture drenched in fresh inland waters and surrounded by the very great lakes.

But a look about our peninsulas exposes Michigan's vast beauty partially shrouded by 14,000 billboards.

Some once thought that billboards improved prosperity. That we had to choose between breathtaking scenery and economic well-being. This was a false choice. We are still looking for that elusive tourist who has come to Michigan to see more billboards.

Legislation is now being introduced to awaken us to this new reality. Fourteen thousand billboards are enough. Under this legislation, these distraction-boards will not come down. However, their proliferation will cease. Current unblemished viewsheds will endure.

The legislation will also allow affordable information on recreation and tourism at exit ramps. This will add to the existing helpful logo information on accommodations, gas, camping and restaurants.

Today, Michigan will defend opportunities by respecting our heritage. When a trip down the street resembles a walk through the yellow pages, no one wins.

Scenic Michigan is ready to roll up its sleeves in perpetuating Michigan's legacy and thanks Sen. Tom George (R-Kalamazoo) for sponsoring the key bill in the legislative package, SB 901, which imposes a billboard moratorium.

Although the legislation is urgently needed, and the citizens of our state and the Michigan Land Use Leadership Council support better management of billboards in Michigan, the legislation will face great opposition by the deep pockets of the billboard industry. Please register your support by completing the online form at: http://www.scenicmichigan.org/campaignsignon.html.