Governor Snyder signs bill enhancing Michigan stream, lake management

On Monday, Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder signed legislation allowing for better management of invasive and native nuisance plants in lakes, ponds and streams. "Our lakes and streams are some of Michigan's greatest resources," Snyder said. "This legislation will help ensure we are keeping them healthy and well-managed in the most efficient way possible." Senate Bill 444, sponsored by state Sen. Tom Casperson, improves the Aquatic Nuisance Control permit process. The bill streamlines the permitting process by making control permits valid for three years instead of one year, and providing for electronic permit submittal and payments. The bills moves the yearly application deadline from May 1 to April 15 allowing more time for property owners to effectively treat lakes, ponds and streams in time for summer. Importantly, the legislation establishes registry of water bodies infested by aquatic invasive species and which species are in those lakes. This allows for better monitoring and management of aquatic invasive species. The bill is now Public Act 253 of 2014. For more information on legislation, visit legislature.michigan.gov. Published: Wed, Jul 02, 2014