Michigan lawmakers finish approving water rules
July 2008
U.S. Water News Online
LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Legislature has finished approving bills to strengthen regulation of large-scale water withdrawals in the state.
The final bills have been passed by the House and now are headed to Gov. Jennifer Granholm, who is expected to sign them.
Approval of the regulations means Michigan also OKs a regional compact preventing Great Lakes water from being diverted elsewhere.
Business and environmental groups are supporting the regulations, which represent a compromise from earlier proposals.
Farms and businesses will use a point-and-click computer tool to measure when and where they can withdraw water. They will need state permits for big withdrawals or those that will hurt lakes, rivers and streams.