Incoming EPA Administrator Christine Todd Whitman needs to pay attention to the same principle. Michigan business leaders often commend Mr. Harding for streamlining the state's permitting system. But Michigan's environmental and grassroots organizations say Mr. Harding's tenure is marked by a consistent pattern of violating, skirting, and undermining Michigan's environmental laws. The Institute has closely covered Michigan's weakening resolve to safeguard resources, protect public health, and enforce environmental law. No journalist has documented the story and its consequences more thoroughly than Keith Schneider, the Institute's program director.
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.