The first ever AuSable expo is showcasing Grayling recreation in hopes of helping the local economy.
GRAYLING -- It's all about the outdoors...from fly fishing to boating on northern Michigan's rivers and even hunting.
The first ever AuSable River Recreation Expo is showcasing it all at the Ramada Inn in Grayling this weekend. Although the expo focuses on Grayling, it's main point is to highlight the beauty of northern Michigan and attract people to our outdoor recreation.
"The purpose is to call attention to all of the recreational opportunities that exist in the Grayling area. We're well known for trout fishing and today of course is opening day for that," says Crawford County economic development director, Gaila Gilliland.
More than 50 exhibits are set up with outdoor sporting information, and the AuSable Expo also features informative workshops all relating to enjoying and caring for the area's wilderness.
"We have some boat makers here. We have manufacturers of different kinds of outdoor equipment, whatever it is you'd need for your outdoor recreation," says Gilliland.
"I think it's important for Grayling because the rivers are so important to the people here in Grayling," says river boat manufacturer, Jay L. Stephan Senior.
Organizers say besides promoting the natural resources around Grayling, they hope the expo will benefit the local economy.
"All of those people I'll say in the woods and have their businesses out there. It might be a fly shop, a canoe delivery service. All of kinds of people locally will benefit from the exposure that this expo will bring," says Gilliland.
"It's a good thing for Grayling to promote it and the tourism and we need that here," says fly fishing demonstrator, Jerry Regan.
It's this combination of tourism and various outdoor activities that the expo is aiming to highlight, and ultimately attract visitors and locals alike.
"Grayling has been known for it's fishing for 100 years and still is," says Stephan.
"We wanted to capitalize on that rich heritage and bring the attention of a lot of people who maybe pass through Grayling but never stop," says Gilliland.
There are more events coming up Sunday morning. At 10:30 you can learn about the impact invasive species are having on northern Michigan.
An hour later get some advice from a fly fishing professional. Later at 2:15 get some tips on bird watching up north, and at 3:00 p.m. take a course on making your property more wildlife friendly.
