Michigan Environmental Report

The state is on a fast-track to developing a land plan required by the Michigan Legislature as a condition of potentially removing caps on acquiring more state-owned land. MEC's Brad Garmon has provided this helpful overview for MEC member organizations and others interested in tracking or influencing this process.

Since the late 1980s, Michigan's Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has been charged with running a permitting program for development and construction occurring within a narrow band of majestic sand dunes along lakes Michigan and Superior.

The "anti-biodiversity" Michigan Senate Bill 78 recently passed the state Senate and is now headed for a vote in the House of Representatives.

SB 78, the "Anti-Biodiversity Bill" passed the full Michigan Senate on March 5.

Another hearing on SB 78, the "anti-biodiversity bill," has been scheduled for Thursday, February 21. Last week's hearing was packed and those who were allowed to testify did a great job. Thank you League of Women Voters, Michigan Botanical Club and others! I have added some commentary below to explain and highlight some issues that were raised there.

Since we love energy efficiency and clean renewable power here at MEC, it is quite appropriate that today - Valentine's Day - is the first of seven public forums on Michigan's energy policy called for by Governor Rick Snyder.