LANSING – State Representative Dan Scripps (D-Leland) today hailed Thursday's passage of a stable funding source to protect Michigan's wetlands for the next three years. The funding will support bipartisan legislation that Scripps sponsored in the House that was signed by the Governor last month.
"Strengthening oversight and ensuring stable funding are absolutely necessary to protect this vital resource," Scripps said. "This action will create more than a thousand immediate jobs and give a boost to the industries that rely on our natural resources – agriculture, manufacturing and tourism – and help our working families who are struggling in this tough economy. This is an investment that will benefit our workers and build a stronger Michigan for future generations."
On Thursday, the House overwhelmingly approved $6 million in funds for Michigan's wetlands protection program, an amount that will help support the initiative for three years. The plan, backed by a bipartisan group of lawmakers, will:
- Affirm that Michigan will retain responsibility for oversight of its wetlands.
- Increase the involvement of local governments and conservation districts in wetlands protection.
- Establish a Wetlands Advisory Council with representatives from government, business and conservation groups to improve efficiency and effectiveness.
Scripps' plan also identifies 2,500 acres for cranberry production, a move that will create 383 permanent jobs and generate nearly $30 million annually. In addition, the construction of these new cranberry bogs is expected to create $153 million in economic activity and put more than 1,000 Michigan residents back to work.