Dempsey’s talk is part of the library’s White Lake Environmental History Project.

Dempsey, who was born and spent most of his life in Michigan, has worked on behalf of Great Lakes conservation for more than 25 years. Currently living in St. Paul, Minnesota, he is the author of the only full-length environmental history of Michigan, “Ruin and Recovery: Michigan’s Rise as a Conservation Leader.”

He is also the author of “On the Brink: The Great Lakes in the 21st Century” and a biography of Governor Milliken, as well as a winner of the 2009 Michigan Author Award. His most recent book, “Ink Trails: Michigan’s Famous and Forgotten Authors,” co-authored with his brother, Jack Dempsey, has been selected for inclusion on the 2013 list of Michigan Notable Books.

Dempsey has also held numerous administrative, policy and consulting positions for nonprofit conservation and environmental organizations in Michigan and Minnesota. He is currently a policy advisor for the International Joint Commission, which monitors environmental agreements between the U.S. and Canada.

The speaking event will also feature an update on the White Lake Environmental History Project at the speaker event. A new traveling display will be made available for public viewing.

The goal of the White Lake Environmental History Project is for residents and visitors of the area to learn about and understand the impact of White Lake’s environmental history, including its historical industrial era and community restoration efforts. There is no cost for the event. Call (231) 981-0016 or visit www.restoringwhitelake.com for more information.