Michigan’s Coastal Communities
Managing unprecedented growth along the Michigan shoreline, revitalizing urban waterfronts, and supporting coastal-dependent businesses are all part of Sea Grant’s statewide efforts.
Sea Grant specialists work with land use planners, citizens and local government leaders in Michigan. These leaders are taking steps to revitalize Michigan’s riverfronts and coastal areas to attract business, and enhance quality of life. Educational materials about soft engineering, habitat protection and restoration provide community leaders with information to develop and implement solutions that recognize the close ties between a healthy ecosystem and a vital economy.
Sea Grant efforts encourage sound land use decisions that foster economic growth, protect coastal habitat and ensure access to clean water for future generations. Viable working waterfronts are an essential part of Michigan’s economic future. Focused efforts include:
- Assist with planning, implementing, evaluating and improving ecosystem-based approaches to managing Great Lakes coastal resources.
- Facilitate the application of best practices at marinas through the Michigan Clean Marina Program
- Provide information about Great Lakes environments and the need for stewardship of healthy ecosystems.
- Michigan Sea Grant was awarded more than $1.5 million, for restoration efforts to focus on endangered fish, invasive species, beach contamination, sound boating and marina operations, and water pollution.
- Support opportunities for coastal tourism.
- Encourage land use decision-making to preserve options for multiple, long-term uses of waterfronts (e.g., public access).
- Support the maintenance of small harbors.
- Assist coastal communities with developing inventories and assessing the value of natural resourced; assist with developing strategies to enhance the use and protection of resources.
Citizens can do their part by supporting Michigan businesses and pledging to be a Coastal Steward.
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