LANSING, Mich. — State Sen. Rick Outman, R-Six Lakes, on Friday congratulated the Montcalm Conservation District on receiving funding to clean up and maintain water systems and improve overall environmental quality.
“The Montcalm Conservation District is a great asset to have and if anyone deserves this funding, it’s them,” said Outman, who chairs the Senate Committee on Environmental Quality. “These funds will help restore the overall health of the environment and help put into action preventative measures to ensure the health and longevity of Montcalm County’s natural resources.”
The grant includes $370,495 to implement agricultural best management practices, restore 97 feet of natural shoreline, distribute educational materials on proper septic system care, work with local officials to update local ordinances to protect river corridors, and protect a 50-acre property in the Flat River Watershed.
The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (MDEGLE) recently awarded $3.9 million in grants for projects that protect and improve water quality in Michigan. The funds are meant to help implement watershed management plans, restore impaired waters, and protect healthy waters.
“As the state continues evaluating water quality issues, we cannot let our healthy waters fall by the wayside,” Outman said. “This money will surely help ensure the health and well-being of Montcalm County waterways, along with areas from every corner of the state.”
The grants are funded under the federal Clean Water Act and the Clean Michigan Initiative – Nonpoint Source Pollution Control Grants Program. Grants are offered via an annual request for proposals. The next request for proposals will be available in mid-July at Michigan.gov/NPS.
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