Groups use state grants to clean up waterways [Video]

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy has announced more than $100,000 in grants to for local governments and nonprofits across the state to clean up small waterways.

The Michigan Clean Water Corps Program, known as MiCorps, has allocated 27 grants worth a total of $102,273. Four organizations got the largest grants — worth $5,000 — including the city of Ecorse near Detroit, the city of Lansing, the Newaygo Conservation District and the Shiawassee County Health Department.

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“If we were to try to do all the work we’re doing without grants, it just wouldn’t even be possible,” said Luke Cotton, executive director of the Newaygo Conservation District.

Conservation districts were put in place during the Dust Bowl era to help farmers find new sustainability practices.

“Since that time, conservation districts have branched out to a lot of different things, including this grant,” Cotton said.

It’s the second year …