Southeast Michigan Beaches Some of Most Polluted in State; Great Lakes Region Most Frequently Contaminated

Macomb, MI - Pollution from stormwater runoff and sewage overflows continue to plague America's beaches, contributing to 119 closing and advisory days in Southeast Michigan (including beaches in Macomb, Monroe, Wayne, and St. Clair counties) and the second-highest number of closing and advisory days nationwide in more than two decades last year, according to the 21st annual beachwater quality report released today by the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC).

Michigan's unique water resources must be protected. They are essential to Michigan's tourism, agriculture, manufacturing and other industries. "Pure Michigan" is built upon a Great Lakes way of life.

Michigan is literally defined by its water - the Great Lakes and our many other water treasures. When we think of Pure Michigan, we picture clean beaches, safe drinking water, abundant habitat for fish and wildlife, healthy people, and energy choices that protect our water; we
picture a virtual water wonderland. But how can we be sure the foundation of our way of life is preserved now and for future generations at a time when some are calling for repeal of water protection regulations and extreme reductions in funding for environmental protections?