Who We Are

The Surfrider Foundation is a grassroots, non-profit, environmental organization that works to protect our oceans, waves and beaches. Founded in 1984, the Surfrider Foundation’s most important coastal environmental work is carried out by more than 70 chapters located across the United States and around the world.

The Surfrider Foundation Lake Michigan Chapter was formed in 2007 by a group of freshwater surfers who are committed to the protection of our freshwater waves and beaches. Local Chapter volunteers:

  • Serve the community by teaching residents and visitors how to be safe in the water by hosting free surf clinics and teaching swimmers about how to escape rip currents.
  • Commit to keeping the water and beaches clean by hosting Beach Clean-Ups and performing local water quality testing.
  • Increase public awareness on environmental issues affecting the Great Lakes by tabling at area concerts, festivals and sporting events.
  • Preserve local surf spots and stay up to date on legislation affecting the Great Lakes, particularly Lake Michigan.

 

What is a Great Lakes Surfer?

Surfing the Great Lakes?  Is it possible? Indeed, it is.

People have been surfing the Great Lakes for many years.  Local surfers in the Grand Haven area have been surfing for approximately 40 years.
Freshwater surfers are often found surfing in strong winds, chilly air, overhead waves and extreme rip currents, but it’s a passion that some cannot seem to shake… once you’re in, there’s no turning back.

Freshwater surfing also means taking care of the water and beaches that we love, so being responsible and leaving things better than the way we found them is the guiding principal for SFLMC.