From intensified storms and floods that wash out roads and bridges to disappearing winters that limit ice fishing and alter deer habitat ranges, Michigan is feeling the impact of climate change. The MI Healthy Climate Plan lays out a clear path with immediate, aggressive and necessary actions to limit such effects and reach carbon neutrality by 2050.

Climate change also affects how we fulfill our commitment to conserve, protect, and manage our state’s natural resources for current and future generations. With DNR Climate News, we’ll share department initiatives, programs and other milestones that show how the DNR is adapting to this reality in alignment with the statewide plan.

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In 2021, the DNR received funding to install solar arrays at five fish hatcheries, which are the department’s highest energy users due to the equipment required for fish rearing. These arrays produced a whopping 652,131 kilowatt-hours between June 2023 and March 2024. The cost savings are equally impressive: an expected $89,000 in the first year of production and $2.5 million over 25 years!

The DNR also has led the redevelopment of a brownfield site to a solar field. Brownfields are lands that are contaminated from industrial use and often sit abandoned or unused. The site, Groveland Mine, a decommissioned mine in Dickinson County, is a prime example of giving a formerly contaminated site a new use with solar. The solar arrays planned for this site will generate 120 megawatts of electricity, enough to power 17,600 homes annually and provide $12 million in local property tax benefits. Check out the full story.

Under the Lake Michigan Circuit proposal, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer called for an EV-friendly route along the Lake Michigan coast. After scouting state parks to host this EV infrastructure, we expanded beyond the original circuit and into the busy I-75 corridors and east toward Lake Huron by forming partnerships among the Consumers Energy “Power MI Drive” campaign, Rivian’s commitment to EV installation and technical support by Adopt-A-Charger. This partnership allowed for free installation of Rivian Level 2 charging stations, courtesy of the Consumers Energy rebate program. In addition, the stations offer free charges for drivers, courtesy of the ITC, International Transmission Company’s donation to break down the cost barrier that often accompanies greener energy options. We are seeking additional funding to continue this no-cost-to-drivers service.

These charging stations promote a cleaner environment by encouraging EV travel to recreation destinations across the state while alleviating range anxiety – the fear of running out of battery charge before reaching your destination – that some drivers experience. Eight locations are ready for use, with another 22 locations to come. Additionally, 15 sites across both peninsulas are in the planning process.

The DNR is transitioning our own fleet to align with the Governor’s Executive Directive and the MI Healthy Climate Plan. Four EV trucks and two EV SUVs already are operating in parks, and six more are on the way! To keep up with fleet changes, we’re adding EV charging stations at DNR office buildings, too.

Although there’s much work to be done to reach our MI Healthy Climate Plan goals, Michigan is making strides:

• The MI Healthy Climate Corps has 30 people stationed across the state from local nonprofits to city and state government, ready to create climate solutions at all levels. If you’re interested in helping, applications are open (through Sept. 8) for the second cohort!

• The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy released an environmental justice tool (MiEJ Screening) to ensure communities disproportionately affected by climate burdens are not left behind in the state’s green transition.

• Gov. Whitmer joined the White House’s America the Beautiful Freshwater Challenge, aiming to conserve and restore our freshwater resources, both Great and small.

• The DNR partnered with Saugatuck Brewing Co. to raise awareness and funds for aquatic habitat restoration efforts across the state through a popular Michigan beer, Rainbow Rodeo IPA. Proceeds will help keep our rivers and streams healthy by supporting evaluations, protecting fish spawning grounds and restoring natural water flow patterns. Learn how to support this effort.