Helping Coastal Communities Evaluate Wind Energy Options
Michigan is recognized as a state with strong wind energy development potential. As a result, coastal communities are likely to face pressure to develop wind farms. Currently, there is limited information about how coastal wind turbines might impact communities, businesses and the environment. Many towns are not prepared to evaluate future wind energy proposals.

R/CCD-10, dates: 2009-2012
Soji Adelaja, Michigan State University – Land Policy Institute

See: Factsheet (PDF)

Restoring Natural Flows in the Clinton River Watershed
The 80-mile long Clinton River has its headwaters in rural and urbanizing areas and then flows through heavily urbanized sections of southern Oakland and Macomb counties before eventually draining into Lake St. Clair in southeast Michigan. Although water quality in the Clinton River has improved over the last 30 years, the river faces a number of environmental challenges, including extreme fluctuation of water flow.

R/CGLH-3, dates: 2009-2012
Don Carpenter, Lawrence Technological University

See: Factsheet (PDF) | Project Website

Charting the Course for the Bluewater Coast
The declining recreational Chinook salmon fishery has negatively impacted the coastal economies of communities located in Michigan’s “Thumb” area, from Tuscola county to Port Huron in St. Clair county. Historically, individual port towns and coastal businesses in the thumb area have worked in isolation. However, a regional assessment could help communities work collaboratively to adapt to these changes and challenges.

M/PD-44, Dates: 2009-2012
Christine Vogt, Michigan State University

See: Project Website | Factsheet (PDF)

West Michigan Wind Assessment
Wind power has the potential to reduce Michigan’s reliance on fossil fuels and help meet state mandated renewable energy targets. However, all forms of electricity generation have some impact. The intent of this project is to comprehensively analyze the benefits and challenges to wind energy development in one particular region of coastal West Michigan, including Oceana, Muskegon, Ottawa and Allegan counties. By combining science and public participation, this integrated assessment will empower citizens and local governments to make informed decisions about wind energy facilities in their communities.

R/CCD-11, dates: 2009-2012
Erik Nordman, Grand Valley State University

See: Project factsheets and briefs | Project Overview (PDF)

Rein in the Runoff

R/WQ-1, dates: 2007-2009
Alan Steinman and Elaine Sterrett-Isely, Grand Valley State University - Annis Water Resources Institute

See: Project results

Detroit River Fish Consumption Advisories

R/WQ-2, dates: 2007-2009
Donna Kashian, Wayne State University

See: Project results

Coastal Brownfield Redevelopment in Michigan

R/CCD-1, dates: 2007-2009
William Welsh and Robert Jones, Eastern Michigan University

See: Project results

Northeast Michigan Integrated Assessment (NEMIA)

M/PM-29, dates: 2006-2008
Jennifer Read and Brandon Schroeder, Michigan Sea Grant

See: Project results