MBIA & BAM: Working together

The Michigan Boating Industries Association and the Boaters’ Association of Michigan Work to advance the boating industry

By Van W. Snider, Jr., CAE
President, Michigan Boating Industries Association

I am often asked to describe the Michigan Boating Industries Association (MBIA) and what the association does. My simple response is the MBIA is a trade association representing the interests of the recreational boating industry in Michigan.

But many boaters may not realize that there are two important groups in Michigan that work year-round to preserve, promote and generally improve the boating experience on their behalf.

The Michigan Boating Industries Association (MBIA) represents nearly 400 boat dealers, marinas, and other marine businesses in Michigan. It also produces the Detroit Boat Show and the Spring Boating Expo as a service to its members and as an important event to all boaters in Michigan and surrounding states. It is important to know the proceeds from all MBIA events go back to boating in Michigan through MBIA programs and services — including significant lobbying efforts in Lansing.

The Boaters’ Association of Michigan (BAM) serves as the voice for Michigan boaters and boating enthusiasts and works to protect boating, Michigan’s water resources and access to them. Membership allows boaters to support their passion and to stay informed and involved with boating issues important to their favorite recreational pastime.

BAM members are diverse in their boating interest, yet all share a deep commitment to the stewardship of boating and to the preservation of Michigan’s waters. BAM educates members and the public on important issues related to boating and fishing in Michigan and advocates for the wise and scientific management of Michigan’s water resources through public policy, coalition building and responsible boater actions.To facilitate these goals, BAM maintains working relationships with boaters, the media, state and federal agencies, legislators and other key leaders to influence the direction of boating issues.

The success of each of these associations relies on the strength of their membership.

— If you are a business that supports or is supported by the marine industry in Michigan, you need to become a member of MBIA.  
— If you are a boating enthusiast in Michigan, you need to join BAM. 

In addition to adding your voice, you will receive member discounts, important communications and peace of mind that you are helping to create a better boating environment for all boating enthusiasts.

To join the MBIA, please visit www.mbia.org. To join BAM, please visit www.boatmichigan.org, or call these sssocations at (800) 932-2628.

Michigan Boating 2010 » MBIA & BAM: Working together