Michigan Commits $89 Million to Clean Up and Restore Waterways
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced an $89 million commitment to clean up and restore the Detroit River, Kalamazoo River, and other waterways across the state. This initiative, named 'Reclaim the Rivers,' is led by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The funding aims to address pollution, restore habitats, and support healthier fish and wildlife, while also creating new opportunities for recreation and waterfront communities. A significant portion, nearly $50 million, is allocated for polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) remediation in the Detroit River, including sediment cleanup and habitat restoration. Another $25 million is designated for river restoration projects within the Kalamazoo River watershed, and over $14 million will form a strategic fund for other river restoration projects statewide. This investment builds upon previous efforts to restore Michigan's lakes and rivers, which have been impacted by ...