leanup efforts in our Great Lakes, even in the most polluted areas, can lead to community and economic revitalization – that’s according to a new report released by the International Association for Great Lakes Research (IAGLR).
Cleanup efforts in our Great Lakes, even in the most polluted areas, can lead to community and economic revitalization – that’s according to a new report released by the International Association for Great Lakes Research (IAGLR).
The report, funded by the Fred A. and Barbara M. Erb Family Foundation, features case studies from 10 areas of concern, including three in Michigan: the Detroit River, Muskegon Lake and River Raisin.
The IAGLR states that the report provides a look at the “very tangible and often intangible benefits of Great Lakes cleanup” and provides a case for sustaining cleanup funding.
The three Michigan case studies examine the rise of industrialism, the devastating effects on the water quality and how the development of partnerships, increased collaboration, ongoing testing and cleanup efforts over the past three decades have resulted in significant improvements.
These improvements are not only apparent in the water quality but in the economic and community development that those areas are experiencing today. The report shares there is a clear connection between this work that has spanned decades and the economic benefits.
The economic impact:
Muskegon Lake
A $10 million Muskegon Lake restoration project was estimated to generate $60 million of economic benefits for the area over a 20-year period.
These economic benefits included:
A $12 million increase in property values.
More than $1 million in new recreational spending annually in Muskegon.
Nearly 65,000 additional visitors annually.
River Raisin
As part of revitalization efforts along the river, the city of Monroe established the River Raisin National Battlefield Park (RRNBP) which has consistently grown since it opened in 2013. The park attracted more than 238,000 visitors to the area in 2017 alone.
The economic impact in 2016 was estimated to be as high as $16.4 million.
Detroit River
The cleanup of the Detroit River has led to an engaging and vibrant waterfront which includes the 5.5-mile Detroit RiverWalk.
The $80 million investment in building the RiverWalk has led to $1 billion in public and private sector investments, with more than $1 billion expected over the next decade.
“These case studies demonstrate the critical importance of continuing to invest in the cleanup of our Great Lakes and the powerful impact these investments have on local communities,” Senator Debbie Stabenow said in a press release. “Working together, we will continue to tackle these challenges head-on, protecting our water and reviving communities across the region.”
Want more?
Read the full report.
