Water Resource Planning and Infrastructure in Southeast Michigan
Water resources are necessary for drinking and bathing, recreation and tourism, and to support the region’s diverse economy. From agriculture to mining and manufacturing, and electric utilities, water resources are vital for successful economic development in the region.
As the designated water quality management agency for Southeast Michigan, SEMCOG has been actively involved with water resource planning since the 1970s. SEMCOG recently completed the Southeast Michigan Water Infrastructure Planning Guide, an addendum to the 2018 Water Resources Plan for Southeast Michigan. The planning guide is an interactive site that provides background, priorities & policies, and resources for water infrastructure in the region.
Water Resources Plan for Southeast Michigan
As the designated water quality management agency for Southeast Michigan, SEMCOG has been actively involved with water resource planning since the 1970s. The Water Resources Plan for Southeast Michigan builds upon two prior plans – the 1978 and 1999 Water Quality Management Plans for Southeast Michigan. While this plan builds upon these plans and ongoing regional initiatives, its focus is on integrated water resources management, including advancing the blue economy, natural resource protection and enhancement, and water infrastructure systems. This integrated water resources management approach sets the framework for 28 regional policies that address the core challenges in the region, while supporting ongoing achievements in protecting and restoring Southeast Michigan’s water assets. To implement these policies and sustain this plan, 101 recommended actions are provided.
