Michigan Water School: Essential Resources for Local Officials

Session: 17. - Great Lakes Outreach and Education

Mary Bohling, Michigan State University Extension, [email protected]
Heather Triezenberg, [email protected]
Bindu Bhakta, Michigan State University Extension, [email protected]
Terry Gibb, Michigan State University Extension, [email protected]

Abstract

While the Great Lakes state is endowed with abundant ground and surface water resources, local water issues from diverse land uses, changing climate patterns and nonpoint source pollution has shown a need for stronger governance to protect these resources. Lack of available information, public support, and resources have been identified as barriers to implementing community water management improvements. Michigan State University Extension and Michigan Sea Grant are addressing these challenges through a new policy-neutral, fact-based program. The objective of the two day program is to provide local decision makers with critical, relevant information needed to understand Michigan’s water resources, including the fundamentals of water science, in order to support sound water management decisions and increase awareness of current and future local and state water issues. It supports recommendations in the Michigan Water Strategy to improve statewide water literacy and understanding of water management at the local level.  This interactive program, features in-class presentations, interactive learning demonstrations, and a field experience around the topics of water quantity; water quality; economics, finance, and planning; and water policy. This session will explore the program and evaluation results of the pilot program offered in May 2017.

1. Keyword
education

2. Keyword
watersheds

3. Keyword
water quality

4. Additional Keyword
Elected Officials