ABSTRACT
Michigan is fortunate in having a diverse natural environment consisting of a variety of lakes, rivers, forests, soil types, minerals, and landforms. The degree of environment change and the character of the resulting problems vary considerably in the state. The overall environment quality is particularly serious in the densely populated southeastern parts of Michigan due to the extreme population pressure on the air, land, and water resources. Water, a major natural resource in Michigan, generally is good in quality. The control of toxic and hazardous materials is the major problem in maintaining high water-quality standards. Michigan enjoys a variety of physical environments and cultural heritages that form the background and context for the activities of the citizens of the state. Contrasts in life-style are extreme—from the totally urban environment of the central city to the forested and wilderness areas of certain northern portions of Michigan.
