Michigan Water Strategy summer update

Highlights

Upper Peninsula makes progress in battle against invasive phragmites 

The UP Phragmites Coalition, with support from the Michigan Invasive Species Grant Program, has eradicated towering, invasive phragmites plants in the majority of Upper Peninsula locations along Lake Michigan. The stands now only require maintenance treatments. 

Water quality asset management pilot program 

A pilot grant program for developing Water Asset Management Plans has been developed by the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality and $9.5 million in grants will be awarded in summer 2018. 

Research project started to evaluate methods for reducing nutrient runoff

The Michigan Departments of Agriculture and Rural Development and Environmental Quality started a five-year research project (video) to determine the effectiveness of methods for reducing farm nutrient runoff and to assess the impact of drainage practices on crop yields.  

Designating Michigan water trails 

The Department of Natural Resources and Office of the Great Lakes are working on a pilot State Water Trails Program with a goal to have the first trails designated during Michigan Trails Week, September 22-29, 2018.

Upper Peninsula autonomous vehicle technology 

The State of Michigan is working with partners including the Michigan Technological University to designate a first-of-its-kind test bed for developing and testing autonomous surface and underwater vessels. 

Great Lakes Water Literacy Workshop

Educators participated in a June hands-on science cruise with environmental and university partners, gaining resources for the classroom to connect students with Great Lakes Literacy principles. 

Get the latest

Explore water and the Great Lakes with traveling exhibits

Two exhibits on water have launched in Michigan and will visit six communities starting with Beaver Island. The Smithsonian’s Water/Ways exhibit highlights water in environment, history, economy and culture. The Michigan Water Heritage Project adds a Great Lakes focus and will spark discussion about why healthy waters matter and record individuals' water stories. 

Healthy Coast Grant Funding Opportunity

The OGL Coastal Management Program announced a special Healthy Coast grant funding opportunity for planning projects to support coastal waters, habitats and communities. The application deadline is Sept. 4, 2018.

Southeast Michigan Water Resources Plan 

The Southeast Michigan Council of Governments developed a regional plan that integrates water resources management into a framework for policies that address core challenges in the region while supporting ongoing activities to protect and restore Southeast Michigan’s water resources.