For Immediate Release
Contact: Dave Nyberg
517.346.6462 (Office)
517.230.1738 (Mobile)

MUCC Applauds Senate’s Water Protection Milestone

The Michigan United Conservation Clubs (MUCC) today congratulates the Michigan Senate for its passage of the Great Lakes Regional Compact along with a critical water assessment tool that will protect Michigan’s fisheries from excessive water withdrawals.

While Senate Bill 860 has been the most contentious bill out of the withdrawal package, it will give Michigan the absolute best groundwater protection in the world, which is something the conservation community should be applauding loudly. In fact, the water assessment tool included in Senate Bill 860 is already being recognized as a model regulation by the international scientific community. “Some are viewing this legislation as the glass half empty but in reality, Senate Bill 860 ensures that Michigan’s rivers and streams will forever be full,” said MUCC Policy Director Donna Stine.

“For over 200 years people have pulled water out of Michigan’s rivers and streams without regard to its impact on Michigan’s fisheries and other water-dependant natural resources - no more can that occur. Senate Bill 860 ensures that Michigan’s fishery population will continue to thrive, while still allowing for reasonable use and consumption of our water.”

Fortunately, Sen. Patty Birkholz and Sen. Ray Basham displayed bi-partisan leadership by recognizing the importance of this legislation on Michigan’s future. They listened to the concerns of every stakeholder and crafted legislation that puts protection of Michigan's natural resources first, but also recognizes the needs of the agriculture industry, local communities, and Michigan businesses. MUCC appreciated the opportunity to help craft this landmark legislation and will look forward to working with the House to speed up its implementation for the sake of protecting Michigan’s world class fishery and the economic utilization of our water and natural resources.