Upper Peninsula Policy & Environmental Research Center

Welcome to the Upper Peninsula Policy & Environmental Research Center (UPPER Center)! We are a collaborative research group dedicated to addressing environmental policy issues in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula with a focus on coupled human-natural systems. The Upper Peninsula faces many climate-related impacts, such as extreme weather events, declining snowfall, and spreading invasive species. The UPPER Center aims to help state, tribal, and local governments better respond to environmental changes and address environmental issues through effective policies in the region.

Impact Pillars

Resilient Community

Communities in U.P. Michigan have proved the capacity to absorb disturbance and bounce back from shocks to the built and natural environments.

Regional Governance

Environmental management in U.P. Michigan is governed by the combination of authorities and sectors of the economy that provide direction for communities.

Rural Leadership

Rural leaders have been the head and heart of vibrant, strong, and resilient communities in U.P. Michigan. Rural leaders have also ensured the balance between rural economic development and responsible natural resources management.

Theory of Change graphic, the UPPER Center is based on three impact pillars in driving innovations forward.

The UPPER Center is based on three impact pillars in driving innovations forward.

Potential Research Topics

  • Issues and impacts related to recreation and tourism
  • Attitudes and adoption of renewable energy technology
  • Climate change impacts on our region, government, and economy
  • Federal and state funding opportunities for regional and environmental research

History of the UPPER Center

Launched on May 6, 2024
Currently in the development stage