Michigan Water Strategy fall update

Highlights

Grant awarded to create new Twin Cities Harbor vision

The Michigan Office of the Great Lakes announced a grant award of $75,000 to support the creation of a shared vision and strategy for the Twin Cities Harbor with the Benton Harbor, St. Joseph and St. Joseph Charter Township communities. The Twin Cities Sustainable Harbor Project will invite conversation between community members, local governments and project partners on improvements they feel would best use and enhance the waterfront.

World’s first freshwater test site for ‘smart ships’ launched in Lake Superior

The OGL, Great Lakes - St. Lawrence Governors & Premiers and Michigan Technological University launched the Maritime Autonomy Research Site in the Keweenaw Peninsula at an Aug. 10 ceremony. 

2,000 pounds of illegal crayfish seized 

The DNR seized more than 2,000 pounds of live red swamp crayfish, a prohibited, invasive species. Assisted by customs officials and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, DNR conservation officers stopped a commercial hauler that was denied entry into Canada.   

Grants awarded for source water protection in 42 communities 

The Michigan DEQ awarded $477,000 in grants to 42 communities under the Source Water Protection Grant Program. Communities will use these grants to implement projects and programs to help protect their drinking water sources from contamination. These grants support proactive solutions to protect environmental and human health. 

New Beaver Island water trail opens opportunity for adventure paddling 

The Beaver Island Water Trail, a 42-mile trail that circumnavigates the island, officially opened in September 2018 with support from the MDNR and the OGL. The trail includes 18 safe landing points, rustic campsites and a guide available to help paddlers plan their trips. 

Taking strategic action on Lake Erie 

The OGL partnered with Southeast Michigan Council of Governments to submit a 2-year, $300,000 funding proposal to U.S. EPA to strategically implement green infrastructure and land restoration activities related to the Lake Erie Domestic Action Plan in Southeast Michigan's western Lake Erie Basin communities. 

Happening Now 

Help keep our beaches clean

On September 15th, the Alliance for the Great Lakes will hold its annual Adopt-a-Beach Day for the Great Lakes. Volunteers are needed to help clean up local beaches and collect data on beach litter. Join a local team or start your own! 

"Septic Smart Week" Sept. 17-21

Governor Snyder has declared the week of Sept. 17 – 21 “Septic Smart Week” with the U.S. EPA. Homeowners are encouraged to learn about proper septic system care and maintenance to minimize the risk of releasing harmful chemicals and avoid costly repairs. 

Public comment period open for proposed Great Lakes Compact procedures changes  

The Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin Water Resources Compact Council and Regional Body released revised procedures guidance for water diversion applications under the Great Lakes Compact for public notice Sept. 10. People may comment on the proposed procedures and a public hearing will be held on Oct. 3 in Indianapolis (webinar option available).  

Smithsonian and Water Heritage water exhibits to open in Big Rapids Sept. 29

Two exhibits on water are visiting six Michigan communities. The Smithsonian’s Water/Ways exhibit highlights world water while the Michigan Water Heritage Project adds a Great Lakes focus, sparking conversations about why healthy waters matter and recording people's water stories. The exhibit will open at the Big Rapids ArtWorks Sept. 29.