The following are brief descriptions of some of the important projects that McNALMS is working on. These are major efforts that, if successful, could have significant impacts upon Michigan’s water resources. If you have an interest in these issues, there may be a role for you. Let a board member know if you think you could lend a hand. Additionally, if you are working on an issue that would naturally come under the umbrella of the McNALMS vision, we may be able to work collaboratively with you to promote the project. The McNALMS board would need to approve any formal support and commitment of the organization’s time and funds.
Projects with Partners
Supporting the new Michigan Inland Lakes Partnership
Cooperation with Improving Michigan's Exotic Species Control program
Work with MSUE on the Be Phosphorus Smart campaign to reduce phosphorus in fertilizers
Work with the MDEQs Natural Shorelines Partnership to promote native shorelines
Value of Michigan Lakes - McNALMS has worked with others to gather information on the value of Michigan’s inland lakes. Summaries of two of the studies and a powerpoint are now available (see Value of Michigan Lakes and Streams and Value of Riparian Property on Michigan's Inland Lakes; ). Another recent study by Michigan State University graduate student Emily Norton focuses on Natural Features and Property Values of Michigan Lakes. Such studies have been done in New Hampshire, Minnesota and Maine and have been extremely helpful in the effort to inform policy makers about the importance of lakes to the state’s economic vitality. Recognition of this value makes it easier to fund and promote programs that protect and manage lake ecosystems and their watersheds. The meetings have been productive and we may be able to put together a coalition of interest groups and stakeholders to develop a research proposal to submit for funding. Until the research proposal can be funded McNALMS is collecting data and information to estimate the value of riparian properties in Michigan.
A Collaborative Partnership for Michigan’s Lakes - McNALMS sponsored two luncheon conferences to initiate discussion on the possibility of developing a collaborative partnership in Michigan to promote protection and management of the State’s lakes, similar to the Wisconsin Lakes Partnership. Given Michigan’s abundant water resources, it is unrealistic to expect any one agency or single entity to strategically manage the thousands of lakes in the State. The most realistic solution to this “commons dilemma” is the development of collaborative management relationships. McNALMS is now working with the DNR, DEQ, MSUE and other NGOs to define how the partnership should work.
Closing the Loophole in the Phosphorus Detergent Ban - Cleaning agents used in household dishwashers currently contain high levels of phosphorus. McNALMS believes that reducing the concentration of phosphorus in these products is technologically feasible and would greatly reduce the input of phosphorus to the septic system and then the lake. McNALMS is encouraging all concerned parties, such as lake property owners and lake users to express their support for legislation and research by the detergent industry to reduce phosphorus in these products.
Septic System Management - Recently the legislature has initiated Bills that would require that all septic systems be inspected when a property is transferred. A few counties already have this requirement but most do not. Septic systems can be a significant source of nutrients and bacterial contamination for lakes. The need for greater formal management of these systems has long been recognized by natural resource and public health agencies. Legislation should be passed that would be minimally intrusive on the homeowner and yet insure that systems are functional and that new owners are aware of the home’s waste treatment facilities. McNALMS is encouraging all concerned parties, such as lake property owners and lake users to express their support for legislation to better manage septic systems to their respective legislators.
| Native Lake Shorelines on State Lands - McNALMS members  have met with representative from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) about promoting native lake shorelines on state lands at facilities such as State Parks, Access Sites, and State Forest Campgrounds. Some of these facilities have serious shoreline erosion problems because of turf maintained down to the waters edge. The MDNR recognizes the problem and has already taken some initial steps to begin to address the issue. McNALMS may work with the MDNR to help promote more native lake shorelines and provide educational assistance to the MDNR.
Hydrilla - The exotic aquatic plant Hydrilla invaded the southern United States about 50 years ago. It quickly created massive problems across the southern part of our country. Florida alone spends about $30 million annually just to control the most serious infestations. In 2003, Hydrilla invaded and overran a lake in Maine proving it is capable of surviving and flourishing in Michigan’s climate. In 2006 Hydrilla was found in a lake in northern Indiana, 60 miles from Michigan’s southern border and in 2007 in showed up in a pond in northern Wisconsin. Very soon we could be looking at the beginning of a massive problem for Michigan’s recreational industry. McNALMS has been working with others to prepare for the arrival of Hydrilla in Michigan. At this time we are urging policy makers to create a program and commitment the funds to the program to “control” this serious nuisance.
DEQ Phosphorus Committee Report - In 2006, the Department of Environmental Quality requested the participation of a wide range of stakeholders on the Departments Phosphorus Policy Advisory Committee. The charge to the Advisory Committee was to identify the major source categories of phosphorus loadings to Michigan’s surface waters, and for each of these categories, to review and compile the voluntary and regulatory management approaches that are being or could be used to control phosphorus. McNALMS was represented on this advisory committee. The Advisory Committee held six meetings from August of 2006 through January of 2007. The findings and recommendations of the Advisory Committee are compiled in a final report of the Committee. McNALMS is now working to promote implementation of the reports recommendations.
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