Become a member of the Institute. We the People is an interactive section of the Michigan Land Use Institute Web site designed to help people encourage state government to enforce Michigan's environmental laws.
Wetlands are North America's most productive habitat.
They serve as filters, sponges, shelters, pantries, nurseries, and areas for recreation and inspiration. Wetlands also are recognized as having significant economic value. These include controlling sediment and cleansing water by trapping and filtering harmful pollutants, and reducing the amount of sediment that flows into lakes, rivers, and streams. Under Gov. Engler, the Department of Environmental Quality has come under severe criticism for failing to uphold the state Wetland Protection Act. As a result 36 townships in 14 counties approved local wetland protection ordinances.