$1 billion in loans help upgrade water infrastructure

$1 billion in loans help upgrade water infrastructure

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 25, 2004
EGLE Media Office, [email protected], 517-284-9278

More than $1 billion in low-interest loans help Michigan communities upgrade water infrastructure, protect health, environment

Critical water system upgrades are in the works in dozens of Michigan communities thanks to $1.05 billion in low-interest loans from the state revolving funds. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) issued financing agreements to 72 projects in the Drinking Water and Clean Water state revolving funds across the state in fiscal year 2024.

These projects ensure safe drinking water is available for residents and reduce the risk of contaminants entering surface water and ground water. Funds for these low interest financing programs come from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund and the Clean Water State Revolving Fund – mixes of federal and state dollars dedicated to financing community water infrastructure projects.

Requests for loan dollars were overwhelming, as cities, villages, and towns across Michigan struggle to maintain deteriorating water infrastructure. Properly functioning water systems are crucial to Michiganders’ quality of life – from the water flowing from taps to the numerous lakes and streams that provide amazing recreational opportunities and flood control. Infrastructure is often taken for granted until it fails, impacting the well-being of people and the environment.

State Revolving Fund (SRF) interest rates are well below market rate and occasionally provide the opportunity for communities to secure principal forgiveness – a portion of the loan that does not have to be repaid. In fiscal year 2024, $147.3 million in loan dollars were forgiven for communities with financial hardships.

Demand has outpaced available funds, however, with community requests for project financing totaling nearly three times available funding.

“These long-term, low-interest loans help protect public health and the environment, reduce pressure on communities to raise funds quickly for essential upgrades, and minimize the need for large user rate increases,” said Paul McDonald, EGLE’s chief financial officer. “We’ve seen historic demand for assistance from the state revolving funds. While we’ve been unable to meet the entire demand, it is gratifying to see projects come to life in communities large and small.”

“The state revolving funds have provided financing for communities undertaking water infrastructure improvements over the past 30 plus years,” said Kelly Green, administrator of EGLE’s SRF programs. “It’s a proven program with long term financing options at very low interest rates that help communities and infrastructure users meet their needs and set the table for long-term success.”

Detailed information on the low-interest loans issued to communities this year can be found by accessing the SRF visual dashboard. The dashboard also contains information on every loan issued under the SRF programs.

Those interested in hearing more about EGLE grants and loans may subscribe to “EGLE grant and loan opportunities” communications and others at EGLE’s email update sign-up webpage.

Descriptions of funding sources

Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF): Low-interest loan program to help public water systems finance the costs of replacement and repair of drinking water infrastructure to protect public health and achieve or maintain compliance with federal Safe Drinking Water Act requirements. As water systems repay their loans, the repayments and interest flow back into the DWSRF to support new loans.

Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF): Used by local municipalities to finance construction of water pollution control projects. These projects include wastewater treatment plant upgrades and expansions, combined or sanitary sewer overflow abatement, new sewers designed to reduce existing sources of pollution, and other publicly owned wastewater treatment efforts that improve water quality. The CWSRF can also finance stormwater infrastructure projects to reduce nonpoint sources of water pollution caused by runoff to lakes, streams, and wetlands.

Michigan Ranks 6th Nationally for Clean Energy Jobs

Michigan Ranks 6th Nationally for Clean Energy Jobs

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 23, 2024

Contact: [email protected]

 

ICYMI New Report: Michigan Ranks 6th Nationally for Clean Energy Jobs 

State home to nearly 128,000 clean energy jobs, clean energy jobs growing twice as fast as economy-wide employment

 

LANSING, Mich. — The 2024 Clean Jobs America Report from E2, based on an analysis of the U.S. Department of Energy’s 2024 Energy and Employment Report (USEER), shows Michigan continues to lead the race for clean energy jobs.

 

“Michigan is committed to leading the future of clean energy, lowering utility costs for families, creating good-paying jobs, and growing our advanced manufacturing economy,” said Governor Whitmer. “Thanks to the Biden-Harris administration’s investments in American manufacturing and the game-changing clean energy package we passed last year, Michigan is a leader in creating high-skilled, good-paying jobs, bringing supply chains home, and reducing our reliance on foreign oil. We are making more clean, American energy here in Michigan, protecting our precious air, land, and lakes, and strengthening the future of our economy. Let’s keep getting it done to build a brighter future for Michigan.”

 

According to the report, Michigan is home to 127,690 clean energy jobs, outpacing 44 states’ job numbers, with clean energy jobs continuing to grow nearly twice as fast as economy-wide employment. The 2024 EER report also highlighted Michigan’s position as a leader in overall energy sector job growth, behind only Texas and California. In addition to Michigan’s overall success, the city of Detroit was recognized as a top 10 city for clean energy jobs nationwide.

 

The ninth annual Clean Jobs America report found that the total number of U.S. clean energy workers is now nearly 3.5 million, with clean energy jobs growing 200 percent faster than job growth economy wide across the nation. Since last year, clean energy jobs in the U.S. have grown 4.5 percent, adding nearly 150,000 jobs, driven by the Biden-Harris Investing in America Agenda. Clean energy jobs now encompass more than half of the jobs in the overall energy sector, outpacing the traditional energy sector. Energy efficiency jobs continue to account for the majority of clean energy jobs, followed by renewable energy and clean vehicle jobs.

 

“Clean energy jobs are not only essential to building a more sustainable future for Michigan, but they are also fueling our state’s economy and creating opportunities for our workers,” said Susan Corbin, Director of Michigan Labor and Economic Opportunity. “These jobs are growing at twice the rate of overall employment, ensuring Michiganders are at the forefront of the clean energy transition. By continuing to invest in these sectors, we’re driving innovation, protecting our environment and securing good-paying jobs that will benefit generations to come.

 

For additional insight into the 2024 Clean Jobs America report, including exploring the data via an interactive map, visit cleanjobsamerica.e2.org.

 

Governor Whitmer’s Clean Energy Wins    In 2023, Governor Whitmer signed historic clean energy legislation making Michigan a national leader in the fight against climate change. These laws lower household utility costs, create tens of thousands of good-paying jobs, and protect Michigan’s precious air, water, and public health. The clean energy bills deliver on the vision put forth in the governor’s MI Healthy Climate Plan, which lays out a roadmap for Michigan’s clean energy future. These laws are expected to create thousands of jobs, drive household energy bills down by $297 a year, secure $15.6 billion in federal funding, and save $7.3 billion in public health costs.

 

Other accomplishments include:

  • Launched the MI Healthy Climate Plan, to lower costs, create jobs, and make Michigan 100% carbon neutral by 2050.
  • Made Michigan the No. 1 state in landing clean energy projects from the Inflation Reduction Act, leveraging $26 billion and supporting over 21,000 jobs.
  • Led by example by deploying clean energy at state facilities and powering state government with 100% renewable energy.
EGLE announces $267 million in MI Clean Water grants

EGLE announces $267 million in MI Clean Water grants

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 19, 2024
EGLE Media Office, [email protected], 517-284-9278


EGLE announces $267 million in MI Clean Water grants to rebuild Michigan’s water infrastructure

State invests in dozens of local governments and water systems, protecting public health and the environment

New storm sewers and green infrastructure in Oakland County, lead water service line replacements in Marquette, and water main replacements in South Haven are among more than $267 million in state grants recently awarded to Michigan cities, villages, and townships to protect public health and Michigan’s world-class water resources.

“Every Michigander deserves access to clean, safe water and as our state’s most precious natural resource, we have to do more to protect it,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “Since I took office, we have made the largest investments ever to build or fix water infrastructure. Together, we replaced tens of thousands of lead pipes, upgraded sewer systems to reduce flooding, and protected our lakes, streams, and waterways. Today’s grants will upgrade water infrastructure in cities and towns across the state, from West and Southeast Michigan all the way to the U.P. We will keep making tangible investments in infrastructure that make a real difference in people’s lives so parents can give their kids a glass of water from the tap and know that it is safe.”

Seventy percent of Michiganders are served by more than 1,000 community wastewater systems and a similar percentage get drinking water from community water systems. Those systems often struggle to find resources to address legacy issues like aging drinking water and storm water facilities and emerging challenges like per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) “forever chemicals.” The MI Clean Water Plan offers support to communities and water systems through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF), Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF), and the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) to address those issues, ensuring healthy drinking water and protection of Michigan’s environment.

“As we invest in local water infrastructure projects, we’re not just upgrading pipes and pumps; we’re revitalizing communities, ensuring access to clean water, and reducing costs for residents,” said Phil Roos, EGLE director. “The MI Clean Water Plan provides unprecedented resources to help communities modernize their water systems. Today’s $267 million investment supports dozens of communities from the rural reaches of the Upper Peninsula to urban centers downstate helping them remove lead service lines, upgrade water mains, and more. We’re proud to continue to make progress on rebuilding and modernizing Michigan’s water infrastructure.” Governor Gretchen Whitmer, the Michigan Legislature, and the Biden-Harris Administration and their federal agencies have ramped up funding for aging water infrastructure. Since Governor Whitmer took office, the State of Michigan has invested over $4 billion to upgrade drinking water, storm water, and wastewater facilities across the state, supporting over 57,000 jobs.

More than half of EGLE’s budget has traditionally passed through to Michigan cities, towns, villages, and other local government agencies to finance critical improvements that help them better protect residents and our natural resources.

Grant roundup

Grants through the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF): 

  • County of Oakland for $933,750. The project is for rehabilitation of approximately 46,000 feet of sanitary sewer mains and repair/rehabilitation of approximately 267 manholes.
  • City of Owosso for $2,600,000. The project consists of improvements to the secondary clarifier at the city’s wastewater treatment plant.
  • Great Lakes Water Authority for $14,011,908. The project consists of installation of an estimated 12,500 feet of storm sewer, 200 storm sewer manholes, catch basins, inlets, two water quality systems, 2,500 feet of 24-inch diameter sanitary sewer, 10 sanitary sewer manholes, and green infrastructure bioswale and bioretention areas in the City of Detroit’s West Chicago South residential neighborhood.
  • City of Inkster for $20,000,000. This project focuses on work to eliminate eastern Rouge outfalls. This includes new combined sewer pump station and sanitary sewers to reroute flows to a retention treatment basin and provide relief capacity.
  • Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA) for $20,000,000. For GLWA’s Northwest Interceptor to Oakwood combined sewer overflow sewer project consisting of an approximately 3,600 linear foot combined relief sewer and a permanent diversion structure in Detroit’s southernmost neighborhoods (Boynton and Oakwood Heights).
  • Charter County of Wayne for $2,922,300. For approximately 21,000 linear feet of sewer rehabilitation of existing large diameter pipe from Beech Daly Road to Telegraph Road and from Warrendale Drive to Outer Drive. Red Run Sewer is an estimated 1,040 lineal feet of sanitary sewer pipe relocation. Includes asset management inspection of an estimated 200,000 linear feet of sanitary sewer pipe along the Middle and Lower Rouge interceptors.
  • City of Sault Ste. Marie for $17,512,500. This project consists of disconnection of storm and sanitary sewer lines in the Peck and Meridian streets service area. Approximately 3,000 linear feet of sanitary sewer will be replaced, and sections of existing storm sewer would be reutilized. New storm sewers will be installed in areas without existing sewers. The city will also complete wastewater treatment plant improvements including replacement of influent pumping and screening system equipment; upgrades to grit removal system and scum handling concentration tank; replacement of chemical storage and feed system; replacement of secondary clarifier mechanisms, rotating biological contactor components, and various pumps; installation of new sodium hypochlorite disinfection system and chlorine contact tank; and complete Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition System, electrical distribution system, and other upgrades.
  • City of Flint for $20,000,000. This project involves the Avon Pump Station demolition, Third Avenue Pump Station force main upgrades, and electrical improvements.

 

Grants through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund:

  • Oakland County/City of Pontiac for $18,704,420. Approximately 28,600 linear feet of water main will be replaced and rehabilitated in the Indian Village and Ottawa Hills neighborhoods. Additionally, approximately 266 lead service lines will be replaced, primarily in the Fairview neighborhood.
  • City of St. Louis for $16,825,000. The project consists of water main, lead service line, and valve replacement in various locations throughout the city. Watermain work consists of replacing 21,500 feet of existing water mains with larger, 8-inch and 12-inch ductile iron pipe. An additional 1,400 feet of water main will be constructed to loop dead-end water mains. A total of 12 lead service lines and 10 valves will be replaced throughout the city.
  • City of Eastpointe for $8,624,750. The project is for replacement of approximately 28,000 feet of water main and approximately 132 lead service lines alongside the proposed water main replacement.
  • City of Marine City for $11,363,586. The project includes replacement of approximately 210 lead services lines and 27,750 feet of water main, as well as looping of approximately 10,150 feet of water main. Improvements will be made to the water treatment plant, source water intake pipe, and storage tower.
  • City of Bessemer for $1,940,000. The project consists of replacement of approximately 2,920 feet of water main pipe and installation of a new steel storage tank. Approximately 2,006 feet of transmission main will be installed for the new storage tank.
  • County of Marquette/K.I. Sawyer for $3,367,500. This project consists of watermain and lead service line replacement, tank upgrades, and wellhouse improvements.
  • City of Ithaca for $1,228,458. This project includes the replacement of approximately 5,900 feet of water main, the extension of the existing water main on Barnes Street to complete loops to Center Street and North Street, and replacement of lead service lines.
  • City of Kalamazoo for $2,325,057. This project includes water main replacement, lining, and lead service line replacement.
  • City of Springfield for $3,533,250. The project includes approximately 16,000 feet of water main replacement, looping, lead service line replacement, and three pressure reducing valves. Additionally, there is minor sewer work in conjunction with replacement of a water main that runs through an existing sanitary sewer manhole.
  • South Haven Area Water-Sewer Authority for $9,158,291. The project includes the construction of a new elevated storage tank, booster station, water main replacement, and the replacement of approximately 2,100 lead service lines. The existing standpipe and booster station will be decommissioned once construction is complete.
  • City of Croswell for $3,118,400. This project includes replacement of water main pipe and installation of water main looping to remove dead ends. The project includes completing an estimated 213 lead service line replacements and installing a water storage tower mixer system.
  • City of Muskegon for $539,000. This project includes replacement of approximately 1,315 public and private lead and galvanized water service lines throughout the Oakview and Sheldon Park neighborhoods. Muskegon is also completing recommended repairs and improvements to the elevated storage tank. 
  • Village of Breckenridge for $1,395,540. This project includes replacement of water main pipe and installation of water main looping to remove dead ends. The project also includes water storage tank rehabilitation including installing a mixing system and a new screen, replacement of approximately 100 water meters and six lead service lines, water treatment plant building rehabilitation including installing a new roof, insulation, and steel siding, installation of a new bulk brine tank, replacing approximately six inoperable valves, drilling a new drinking water supply well, installing a new well pump, installing a supervisory control and data acquisition system, and abandoning Well No. 3.
  • City of Alma for $5,157,900. This project includes replacement of water main and looping to remove dead ends. The project also consists of water storage tank rehabilitation, installing a check valve, replacing the 30-inch diameter wet interior roof hatch, abrasive blast cleaning the tank exterior and repainting, and various interior infrastructure improvements and safety upgrades. The project also consists of replacing the existing water storage tower control building with a similarly sized building consisting of a split-faced masonry structure on top of a concrete slab and replacement of approximately 2,695 water meters and 112 lead service lines.
  • Village of Hesperia for $14,680,950. The project includes construction of a new water treatment plant, improvements to two well houses including the installation of a water main to connect them, demolition of Well House 3, and the abandonment and replacement of Well 3 at a new site. Also included is replacement of approximately 15,000 linear feet of water main, replacement of approximately 386 public and private side lead and galvanized water service lines, replacement of outdated water meters, and completing repairs and improvements to the elevated storage tank.
  • Village of Pentwater for $1,853,000. This project includes the construction of a new municipal well house, including a new municipal well pump, piping, chemical feed system, and related components. This includes construction of approximately 650 linear feet of transmission main under Pentwater channel. Additionally, this project will include replacing and adding approximately 10,350 linear feet of water main and replacing approximately 200 public and private lead and galvanized water service lines throughout the village.
  • City of Albion for $7,131,512. The project includes the construction of a new one-million-gallon elevated water storage tank, replacement of approximately 19,800 linear feet of water main, and replacement of lead and brass service lines. Existing pumps, valves, and filters will be replaced at the water treatment plant as well as upgrades, laboratory space, building rehab, and installation of flow meters.
  • City of Mount Clemens for $7,149,520. The project connects the City of Mount Clemens’ drinking water system to the regional GLWA drinking water system as well as the replacement of lead service lines. Mount Clemens’ existing water filtration plant (WFP) and water intake will be abandoned, decommissioned from use, and demolished along with the abandonment of water mains. Mount Clemens will replace approximately 44 lead service lines located south of Cass Avenue.
  • Village of Capac for $4,131,500. The project includes replacement of approximately 768 lead service lines and 100 mainline valves and water meters along with approximately 16,000 feet of water main replacement and looping. Improvements to the elevated storage tank and arsenic removal plant as well as constructing a replacement well and conducting well house improvements is part of the project.
  • City of Corunna for $7,046,955. The project consists of improvements to the M-71 booster station, construction of an elevated storage tank, replacement and upsizing of the Shiawassee Street transmission main, water main replacement and associated lead service line replacements, water main looping, and the construction of the Caledonia Connection booster pump station are part of the project.
  • City of Dearborn Heights for $10,373,000. The project consists of replacement of approximately 16,000 linear feet of water main along Warren Road, Pennie Street, Gulley Road, Berwyn Road, and Jackson Street. Additionally, replacement of approximately 22,100 water meters and 1,750 lead service lines will take place throughout the city.
  • City of Kingsford for $3,658,706. The project consists of replacement of approximately 23,000 linear feet of water main pipe, installation of two water main looping locations, and replacement of approximately 335 lead and galvanized water service lines on public and private property in the Heights and Ford Addition neighborhoods.
  • Charter Township of Oscoda for $1,565,065. This project will remove and replace old, undersized water main, complete water main loops for reliability, and remove and replace hydrants on the former Air Force Base subject to cross-contamination from PFAS substances.
  • City of Newaygo for $689,500. Replacement of approximately 250 public and private side lead and galvanized water service lines throughout the city. The project also includes replacing approximately 2,000 linear feet of water main located on Wood Street, including corresponding hydrants, valves, and taps.
  • City of Jackson for $2,772,500. This project includes the replacement of approximately 6,369 linear feet of water main and the replacement of associated lead service lines.
  • Township of Standish for $2,332,500. This project consists of a water main extension from City of Pinconning Water Treatment Plant to the Whites Beach area of Standish Township.
  • City of Reed City for $3,787,920. This project includes the demolition, abandonment, and replacement of two water wells. This includes consolidation of the White Birch Estates mobile home park to the municipal system and the abandonment of their onsite wells. Additionally, this project includes replacing approximately 8,500 linear feet of water main, replacing approximately 170 public and private side lead and galvanized water service lines, installing new water meters throughout the city, and making repairs and improvements to the elevated storage tank on 225th Avenue.
  • City of Wakefield for $4,000. This project consists of replacement of 40 lead or galvanized service lines.
  • City of Ishpeming for $9,896,800. This project consists of water main replacement, lead service line replacement, and water tank security.
  • Bessemer Township for $5,000 for replacement of approximately 35 lead drinking water service lines.

Technical, Managerial, and Financial grants:

Eight water systems received grants for work in identifying or verifying lead service lines in preparation for replacement. The process to accomplish this effort includes hydrovacing on either side of each curb stop and performing in-building investigation to document service line materials. These projects include restoration to original condition of hydrovaced locations. Hydrovacing involves a piece of equipment using high-pressure water to cut and liquefy the soil, while simultaneously using a high-volume vacuum to remove the soil from the excavation.

Recipients and their respective amounts:

  • City of Clio: $193,004
  • City of Wakefield: $338,690
  • City of Owosso: $600,000
  • Village of Freeport: $39,500
  • City of Three Rivers: $600,000
  • City of Algonac: $159,400
  • City of Hancock: $584,885
  • Village of Breckenridge: $122,200
  • City of East Lansing: $600,000
  • Village of Thompsonville: $28,776
  • City of Iron Mountain: $595,604
  • City of Menominee: $204,790
  • City of Bay City: $26,874
  • Charter Township of Royal Oak: $354,280
  • Village of Central Lake: $311,150

Click on the links for more information about the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, the Clean Water State Revolving Fund, the Technical, Managerial and Financial grants, and EGLE’s Grants and Loans Dashboard.

Register for EGLE’s Great Lakes Drinking Water Conference, September 25-26 in Novi.

 

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What they are saying

State legislators praise water infrastructure support for Michigan communities 

  • State Rep. Joey Andrews (D-St. Joseph): “These grants will greatly help provide necessary upgrades to our community’s water infrastructure and ensure every household has access to clean drinking water while reducing its cost. Access to safe drinking water is a human right, and this is a step in the right direction to make sure our infrastructure remains up to date to provide this essential resource to our residents.”
  • State Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette):  “These grants are vital to the Upper Peninsula and will ensure we can fix aging infrastructure and secure clean, safe water for generations to come. These critical upgrades will not only improve public health and safety, but they will also support long-term economic growth in our region. I’m grateful to see these much-needed funds invested in the central U.P.”
  • State Rep. Will Snyder (D-Muskegon): “I’m thrilled to see these much-needed water infrastructure upgrades in our community. Water infrastructure is the backbone of our communities, and our residents deserve to know that they are receiving safe, clean drinking water. This project not only ensures quality water, but also brings down costs.”
  • State Sen. Veronica Klinefelt (D-Eastpointe):  “Since 2020, the City of Eastpointe has prioritized its water quality and has already replaced 805 lead service lines. The grant received through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund will help the city continue its mission to ensure residents can access water that is both healthy and affordable.”
  • State Rep. Denise Mentzer (D-Mt. Clemens):  “This upgrade of Mount Clemens’ water infrastructure is essential in ensuring our community will continue to receive safe, clean water for years to come. Mount Clemens residents have been forced to deal with rising costs for aging infrastructure for far too long, and I am thrilled to see these critical renovations being implemented. Investing in the health and well-being of our residents will always be my top priority.”
  • State Sen. Sue Shink (D-Northfield Twp.): “To ensure safe, clean drinking water for its residents, the City of Jackson has been working proactively to replace all of its lead service lines. This grant will help Jackson continue its lead pipe replacement efforts. By investing in these infrastructure improvements now, the city is safeguarding the health and well-being of its residents for years to come.”
  • State Sen. Kevin Hertel (D-St. Clair Shores): “Access to clean drinking water is not just a priority, it’s a necessity. “Securing this grant for the communities of Mount Clemens and Algonac is a critical first step towards ensuring every resident can count on the water coming out of their faucet at home being clean and safe for consumption. By modernizing outdated water systems, identifying old lead service lines, and connecting local communities to regional resources, this funding is helping to protect the health and well-being of our lakeshore district for generations to come.”
Michigan tribes receive $38 million

Michigan tribes receive $38 million

 
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 16, 2024
EGLE Media Office, [email protected], 517-284-9278

Michigan tribes receive $38 million from the Biden-Harris administration to take climate action, implement community-driven clean energy projects

Tribes to install solar, improve energy efficiency, upgrade housing, and more with new resources from the EPA’s Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has selected four tribes in Michigan to receive more than $38 million in Climate Pollution Reduction Grants (CPRG) made available by the Biden-Harris Administration’s Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). The awards to these four tribes in Michigan make up nearly 10 percent of the CPRG tribal award dollars nationally.

These awards will empower tribes across the state to implement community-driven climate solutions, supporting their efforts to lower costs, upgrade infrastructure, reduce air pollution, advance environmental justice, and accelerate clean energy solutions. Projects will support solar installations, energy efficiency and electrification improvements, recycling services, electric vehicle infrastructure, and more.

“Michigan is committed to working with our tribal communities to drive projects and investments that lower energy costs, create good-paying jobs, protect our natural resources, and help achieve the goals of the MI Healthy Climate Plan,” said Phil Roos, director of the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE). “Tribes in Michigan have been long-standing leaders in climate action. These investments from the Biden-Harris Administration’s Inflation Reduction Act will accelerate their efforts and further position Michigan as a national leader in clean energy, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for all.”

  • Bay Mills Indian Community will receive $17.3 million to install a ground-mounted solar farm and battery storage system that will provide Tribal citizens in the Eastern Upper Peninsula of Michigan with clean, affordable, and reliable electricity. The award also creates a workforce development program to train Tribal members to fill new high-quality clean energy jobs.
  • Lac Vieux Desert Band of Lake Superior Chippewa will receive $14.9 million to undertake energy efficiency assessments and upgrade low-income Tribal housing units and businesses. The award also supports the solar arrays on residential and commercial buildings, allowing the tribe to meet a majority of their energy needs with renewable energy.
  • Nottawaseppi Huron Band of Potawatomi will receive $1.2 million to take climate action across multiple sectors, including expanding Tribal recycling programs, converting the commercial vehicle fleet to electric vehicles, promoting energy-efficient lighting fixtures in the local greenhouse, and supporting habitat restoration efforts.
  • Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians will receive $5 million to install solar, retrofit buildings with HVAC Air-source and ground source heat pumps, and develop and install electric vehicle charging stations across the Tribal government campus.

These four awards are among 34 applications and $300 million in funding from the CPRG program that will cumulatively reduce greenhouse gas pollution nationally by over seven million metric tons of carbon dioxide by 2050—equivalent to the carbon dioxide emitted from nearly 1.4 million homes’ electricity use for one year. More information on CPRG tribal awards can be found on the EPA’s website.

EGLE is committed to working with Michigan’s federally-recognized tribes to advance the goals of the MI Healthy Climate Plan. In August, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced that EGLE had received $129.1 million from the EPA under the CPRG program to launch the Renewable Ready Communities (RRC), a program that will provide financial incentives, technical assistance, and more to support the deployment of utility-scale renewable energy and energy storage that is permitted through local processes. The state’s award reserved at least $10 million for projects and support for tribal communities.

Michigan Leads on Clean Energy

Two years after the passage of the Biden-Harris Administration’s IRA, Michigan continues to secure funding to create a brighter future for Michiganders. According to a recent report, Michigan is No. 1 in the nation for winning IRA-funded projects, resulting in more than $26 billion in new investments across the state, supporting over 21,000 good-paying jobs. The investments, along with Governor Whitmer’s clean energy laws and bipartisan economic development tools, are growing the middle class, creating good-paying jobs, bringing supply chains home, lowering energy costs for families, and positioning Michigan to achieve the goals of the MI Healthy Climate Plan.

“Michigan continues to lead the way in drawing down billions of dollars in federal funding through the Inflation Reduction Act to support our climate goals and create a more sustainable future,” said Zachary Kolodin, chief infrastructure officer and director of the Michigan Infrastructure Office. “This funding is driving investments that will be felt for generations by lowering energy costs, protecting our water and air, creating good-paying jobs, and reshoring our supply chain to ensure Michigan remains a key hub for clean energy innovation and infrastructure development.”

For more information on Michigan’s success in leveraging IRA funds, check out this press release.

About the CPRG Program

The EPA’s CPRG program provides $5 billion in grants to states, local governments, tribes, and territories to develop and implement ambitious plans for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and other harmful air pollution. Authorized under the IRA, this two-phase program provides $250 million for noncompetitive planning grants and approximately $4.6 billion for competitive implementation grants.

$3.6 million in grants for invasive species projects

$3.6 million in grants for invasive species projects

 
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News Release

Sept. 3, 2024
Contact: Joanne Foreman, 517-284-5814 or Erin Campbell, 269-300-9698

$3.6 million in grants available for invasive species projects in Michigan

Proposals accepted through Nov. 1

Michigan’s Invasive Species Grant Program is now accepting proposals for the 2024 funding cycle, with an anticipated $3.6 million available to applicants.

The program – a joint effort of the Michigan departments of Natural Resources; Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy; and Agriculture and Rural Development – is celebrating the 10th year of the statewide initiative launched in 2014 to help prevent, detect and control invasive species in Michigan.

The handbook cover featuring a photo of beachfront dunes with insets of phragmites, lesser celandine and a crayfish.Invasive species are those that are not native and whose introduction causes harm to Michigan’s economy, environment or human health.

“The challenge of harmful invasive species in Michigan is bigger than any one department in state government,” said EGLE Director Phil Roos. “It takes cooperation, education, and effective tools like the Michigan Invasive Species Grant to counter the threat these invaders pose to our environment, economy, and well-being – on land and in our waters.”

Program handbook, webinar

The 2024 grant program handbook outlines program priorities and application guidelines. Applicants also can take advantage of a webinar on Tuesday, Sept. 10, at 9 a.m. to learn more about general grant information, the application process and 2024 priorities.

Both the handbook and webinar registration information are available at Michigan.gov/MISGP. A recorded version of the webinar will be available on that webpage after Sept. 10.

2024 priorities

This year, the program is seeking proposals for projects to address the following priorities.

A woman with a backpack sprayer treats invasive plants near a chain-link fence.

  • Improving public adoption of decontamination practices like cleaning recreation equipment between uses or purchasing local firewood.
  • Detecting and responding to watch list species in high-risk areas.
  • Improving understanding and developing response plans for watch list species or others that may pose future risks to Michigan.
  • Implementing and evaluating control projects for high-priority invasive species.
  • Finding innovative and efficient control methods.
  • Increasing biological and ecological understanding of invasive species to improve detection and control.
  • Developing or improving risk assessments, best control practices and other resources to inform management decisions.
  • Supporting Michigan’s 22 cooperative invasive species management areas, or CISMAs, in implementing strategic plans for outreach, detection and control of regional priority species.

Applicants should review the full list of priorities provided in the MISGP Handbook and communicate with technical contacts if questions arise.

Program progress

The Michigan Invasive Species Grant Program supports projects throughout the state that prevent, detect, manage and eradicate invasive species on the ground and in the water. Total program funding is set by the Legislature and the governor during the annual budget cycle.

In the last 10 years, the program has awarded over $36 million to 269 projects, resulting in education, identification and management of invasive species including hemlock woolly adelgid insects, European frog-bit plants and mile-a-minute weed. Because of this program, more than 664,000 acres of land and water have been surveyed and approximately 53,000 acres have been treated for invasive species.

Highlights of the 2023 invasive species program are available in the Michigan Invasive Species Program Annual Report, which includes program-funded projects.

Regional CISMAs operate in all of Michigan’s 83 counties, assisting the public in identifying and managing invasive species. Contact information for individual CISMAs can be found at Michigan.gov/Invasives in the Take Action section.

Important program dates and information

Local, state, federal and tribal units of government, nonprofit organizations and universities may apply for funding to support invasive species projects in Michigan. Full project proposals are due Nov.1. The award announcement is anticipated in March 2025.

Grant requests for general projects can range from a minimum of $25,000 to a maximum of $400,000. CISMAs can request up to $70,000 for annual implementation of prevention, detection and control activities and up to $40,000 for specific outreach and/or survey and treatment projects.

There are no match requirements for the program, and match documentation will not be accepted as part of the application.

Competitive applications will outline clear objectives, propose significant ecological benefits, demonstrate diverse collaboration and show strong community support.

All applications must be submitted through the MiGrants online system. Applicants can access the system at MiGrants.Intelligrants.com or follow the link at Michigan.gov/MISGP.


Michigan’s Invasive Species Program is cooperatively implemented by the Michigan departments of Agriculture and Rural Development; Environment, Great Lakes and Energy; and Natural Resources.


Note to editors: Accompanying photos are available below for download. Caption information follows.

Handbook: The 2024 Michigan Invasive Species Program handbook is available at Michigan.gov/MISGP.

Spraying stiltgrass: Jena Johnson of Southwest by Southwest CISMA treats a patch of invasive stiltgrass. Photo courtesy of SWxSW CISMA.

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OC Achieves LEED Gold in Environmental Leadership

OC Achieves LEED Gold in Environmental Leadership

Oakland County Achieves LEED Gold in Environmental Leadership

Post Date:08/28/2024 3:40 PM
  • Oakland County earned LEED Gold® certification from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).
  • The USGBC recognizes the county’s commitment to social, economic and environmental sustainability practices.
  • Oakland County is part of a growing group of governments certified using the LEED for Cities & Communities rating system.

Pontiac, Mich. – The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) has certified all of Oakland County as LEED® Gold because of its commitment to improving holistic, county-wide sustainability practices.

The LEED Gold recognition means Oakland County earned high scores countywide for its green spaces, natural resource conservation and restoration efforts, as well as resilience and emergency planning. Many other factors are included in the measurement such as quality of life aspects including low unemployment rates, high education completion rates, favorable median air quality index numbers and low incidences of violent crimes.

Environmental sustainability is one of eight strategic goals by County Executive Dave Coulter’s administration that guide Oakland County.

“Oakland County’s achievement of LEED Gold certification underscores our deep commitment to sustainability and reflects County Executive Dave Coulter’s vision of fostering healthier, more resilient communities,” Chief Sustainability Officer Erin Quetell said. “This recognition is a testament to the county and its communities driving real, measurable change in environmental stewardship and quality of life for our residents.”

Local governments and communities achieve the certification by implementing practical and measurable strategies and solutions aimed at improving sustainability and the standard of living for residents. LEED is designed to help buildings, communities and cities achieve high performance in key areas of social, economic and environmental sustainability.

During certification, communities implement plans to reduce their energy consumption, carbon emissions, and more to improve air and water quality, foster better health outcomes, and create green jobs. LEED also helps communities track and measure their efforts against key quality of life metrics, such as education, safety, prosperity and equitability.

Oakland County also earned gold certification for its environmental leadership from the statewide Michigan Green Communities (MGC) program in May.

About the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC)

The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is committed to transforming how buildings and communities are designed, built and operated to create thriving, healthy, equitable and resilient places that advance human and environmental wellbeing. USGBC leads market transformation through its LEED green building program, robust educational offerings, an international network of local community leaders, the annual Greenbuild International Conference & Expo, the Center for Green Schools, and advocacy in support of public policy that encourages and enables green buildings and communities. For more information, visit usgbc.org and connect on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.