Michigan’s 2026 budget slashes state funding for wetland restoration and acquisition by $2 million, leaving just $1 million for the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). This reduction follows $2 million in 2024 and $3 million in 2025, which built on a $10 million appropriation for Great Lakes watershed projects. Audubon Great Lakes expressed concern, emphasizing wetlands’ critical role in wildlife habitat, flood control, and water filtration.
Despite praising the funding’s continuation, Audubon labeled the cut a setback in conservation efforts, especially given Michigan’s historic loss of half its wetlands. Recent funding supported 14 projects covering over 1,300 acres statewide. Additionally, $2 million was allocated for local agency wetland banking through the Michigan Department of Transportation, utilizing gas tax funds to offset wetland loss from road projects.
Key projects funded include acquisitions and restorations across various counties, benefiting species like the endangered Black Tern. Despite the funding decrease, the DNR and Audubon stress the necessity of further investment to meet habitat and flood-resilience goals.
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