In the 1970s, Michigan enacted three important land use laws which now have been significantly weakened or simply are not enforced. In addition, serious problems with two other laws, the Drain Code and the Right to Farm Act, are contributing to the flow of pollutants into water. Here is a summary of these laws and what needs to be done to make them work. Builders must specify how they will control erosion. Soil and sediments are prohibited from leaving the construction site.
Enforcement is spotty.
Local erosion control officers need better training and more technical support. There are no provisions to require setbacks or natural buffers to protect steep slopes, wetlands, streams, and other sensitive resources. Increase the number of DEQ erosion control staff to improve oversight and training for local programs. Require 150-foot natural buffer zones to protect sensitive sites. Require golf courses and other large projects to be built in stabilized 30-acre increments.