LANSING – State Representative Joan Bauer (D-Lansing) on Thursday voted for a plan to protect Michigan's wetlands and ensure that their oversight remains the responsibility of the people of Michigan. The plan, which passed the House, comes in the face of proposals by the Governor to transfer the supervision of Michigan's wetlands to the federal government.
"We have an obligation to be responsible stewards of the environment and protect our natural resources for generations to come," Bauer said. "The Lansing area has long led the way in protecting our wetlands and the integral role they play in Michigan's ecosystem and our quality of life, and that plan ensures we remain the stewards of that proud tradition. We've got to keep responsibility for our natural resources right here in Michigan, not farm these important decisions out to people who live on the other side of the country and have no idea of the local impact."
The Governor has proposed eliminating the 30-year-old Wetland Protection Act and shifting oversight of Michigan's 5.5 million acres of wetlands from the Department of Environmental Quality to the federal government – a move that would leave Michigan as one of just two Great Lakes states without any wetlands protection.
The plan that Bauer voted for will:
- Affirm that Michigan retains responsibility for oversight of its wetlands.
- Increase local governments' and conservation districts' involvement in wetlands protection.
- Establish a Wetlands Advisory Council with representatives from government, business and conservation groups to improve efficiency and effectiveness.
The plan also requires the identification of 2,500 acres for cranberry production, a move that will create 383 permanent jobs and generate nearly $30 million annually. In addition, the construction of these new cranberry bogs is expected to generate $153 million dollars and put more than 1,000 Michigan residents back to work.