LANSING – State Representative Dan Scripps (D-Leland) today applauded the signing of bipartisan, bicameral legislation to protect Michigan's wetlands for future generations. The Governor had originally proposed transferring supervision of Michigan's wetlands to the federal government, but relented in the face of overwhelming bipartisan support for keeping oversight of Michigan's wetlands with the people of Michigan.
"The plan originally proposed by the Governor would have left Michigan as one of just two Great Lakes states without any state wetlands protections," said Scripps, a member of the House Great Lakes and Environment Committee and House sponsor of the wetlands bill signed today. "We are the guardians of more than 5.5 million acres of wetlands, 20 percent of the world's fresh water and Michigan's other bountiful natural resources. By being responsible stewards of our air, land and water, this plan will ensure those resources remain protected by the people who know them best: the people of the state of Michigan."
Scripps worked extensively with a bipartisan, bicameral coalition of lawmakers to come together on a plan that 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.
One of the features of Scripps' plan is to identify 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 generate $153 million dollars and put more than 1,000 Michigan residents back to work.
"I'm very pleased that we could work across party lines to do what's best for the people of Michigan," Scripps said. "From tourism to agriculture, Michigan's natural resources will serve as the foundation of our economic recovery. In these tough economic times, we cannot turn our back on proven job-creators."