Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Michigan Great Lakes Restoration Initiative Grants

U.S. Environmental Protection will provide more than $2 million in grants to three southeast Michigan organizations under the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. A total of 99 grants for an estimated $63 million are expected to be awarded in Michigan. Funded projects advance the goals and objectives of the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative Action Plan which released in February.

Southeast Michigan Council of Governments was awarded $500,000 for its "Restoring the Lake Erie Corridor Through Green Streets" program. The funds will pay for construction of bioswales, tree trenches and grow zones to manage road runoff; reduction of annual stormwater runoff volumes, sediment and nutrient loading by approximately 50 percent; development of a Great Lakes Green Streets Guidebook transferable to municipalities; and installation of Green Streets signage for public education benefits.

Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment will receive $1,028,548 for "Rapid Response to Invasive Species." This project will use the best known methods to eradicate and control several invasive aquatic plant species that harm the Great Lakes. The program will help direct future resources for invasive species control to the most cost-effective, strategic and highest threat locations.

Wayne State University was awarded $519,564 for "Verification of Ballast Water Treatment Technology." This project is designed to develop technology that will help assess the effectiveness and durability of shipboard ballast water treatment systems.

Caltha LLP provides expert consulting services to public and private sector clients nationwide to address water quality standards, wastewater permitting and assessing potential impacts of chemicals in the aquatic environment.

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