Understanding the economic importance of the water

This article was previously published in the Summer issue of Semscope, SEMCOG’s quarterly magazine.

A Southeast Michigan summer almost always includes some time on the water. No matter where we live in our region, no one is far from a lake, river, or stream to enjoy during the warm weather.

As part of the Great Lakes state, Southeast Michigan’s lakes, rivers, and wetlands define the region’s geography and are essential to its economic health, attracting visitors and enhancing the quality of life for residents.

SEMCOG is currently updating the Water Quality Management Plan for Southeast Michigan. Through its Water Resources Task Force, we are spending about 18 months developing policies and strategies related to the region’s water resources including infrastructure (water, sewer, roads), stormwater runoff, habitat protection, and restoration, invasive species, recreation and access, and the blue economy.

Since the last plan, the blue economy – a new term focusing on the economic importance of water – has come to play a significant role in Southeast Michigan and it is a part of the new water resources plan.

The blue economy includes the industries and jobs that rely on it, as well as the tourism, recreation, and placemaking opportunities it provides. To help identify the challenges and opportunities associated with Southeast Michigan’s blue economy, a stakeholder forum established priorities focused on promoting the region’s aquatic assets, including:

• supporting economic development, innovation, and water-dependent industries;
• expanding water placemaking efforts and access to water resources; and
• enhancing water recreation opportunities.

Southeast Michigan’s waterways significantly impact the region’s economy – as a location for commercial activity and as a resource to grow and produce goods. Together, these industries contribute more than 350,000 jobs and $21 billion in annual earnings to the region.

The region is a leader in technological innovation related to water resources, with education and research programs at the University of Michigan, Wayne State University, Lawrence Technological University, and Macomb Community College. According to a report from the Michigan Economic Center, communities that embrace water research and new water technologies can expect to see increases in highly educated talent, cutting-edge applications for water restoration, as well as new jobs and emerging industries.

Currently, more than 75 percent of the region’s water-related jobs are in industries that use the water to produce and grow goods, including manufacturing, agriculture, and utility services. The region’s second-largest share of water-related jobs is in recreation and tourism. As a result of vibrant tourism and recreation, waterfront communities are experiencing increased property values, and more reclamation and other development projects that have direct economic benefits.

Southeast Michigan also has access to the international Great Lakes shipping channels. Of the state’s 36 deep-water ports, six are located in Southeast Michigan. Shipping on the Great Lakes remains an efficient means of transportation for large volumes of materials. A single freighter has the capacity to carry 70,000 tons, which is equivalent to seven 100-car trains or 3,000 large trucks.

Water placemaking

Throughout Southeast Michigan, many of the places that people most like to live, work, and visit are becoming defined by their water resources. Community development initiatives are increasingly focusing on water as a natural asset that strengthens the quality of place.

These initiatives include connecting waterfront communities by developing water trails. Many waterfront areas have added new services and amenities, increasing opportunities to host events, festivals, and public gatherings that highlight the water. These efforts help build a community’s reputation as a place that values natural resources and encourages active lifestyles.

Southeast Michigan has 414 miles of designated water trails with 167 launching points. There are also several initiatives that promote places along these routes as trail towns and tourist destinations.

Access to the water

Ensuring that the region’s water resources are universally accessible is an important focus of SEMCOG’s new water resources plan. Waterfront communities have historically used their water resources for industry; those that are now redeveloping areas for public space are leading regional place-making efforts and providing a wider range of recreational opportunities.

Access to rivers and lakes across the region has increased as paddle sports become more popular. As waterways are more integrated into surrounding communities, access and opportunities for other recreation along the waterfront is further enhanced.

Water recreation

Water recreation is a primary way that Southeast Michigan residents and visitors connect to the region’s natural water resources. At parks, beaches, marinas, and boat launches, there are many opportunities.

Waterways appeal to a broad range of the region’s population through swimming or paddling, as well as watching waterfowl or picnicking nearby. Southeast Michigan’s unique geography offers opportunities to recreate not just in the summer, but all year long.

Next steps

Natural resources and infrastructure, including wetlands, woodlands, roads, drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater are also important elements of the Water Resources Plan. The blue economy successes are largely dependent on public and private stewardship of natural resources. From small actions such as cleaning up pet waste all the way to the construction of major infrastructure improvements, every citizen, public agency, private industry, and business plays a role in protecting the region’s water resources.

So, as you enjoy a beautiful summer day on the water, also know how important this asset is to the region’s economy and quality of life.