Harbor Maintenance and Upstream Sediment Reduction

About this grant

Rivers, lakes, and wetlands are designed to incorporate a certain amount of soil, sand, and rock deposited by rainwater and snow melts. Reductions in the density of trees and plants that help keep soil in place have led to increased quantities of soil and sediments that run off into Great Lakes’ waterways. More frequent and intense storms also exacerbate soil erosion. With Mott support, the Delta Institute will research strategies for reducing sediment runoff into Michigan’s harbors and marinas. The grantee will examine how new funding approaches could reduce harbor maintenance costs, promote upstream conservation efforts, and employ urban best management practices. With offices in Chicago and Michigan, the grantee is a nonprofit organization with a mission to work with business, government, and communities in the Great Lakes’ region to develop market-driven solutions that build environmental resilience, economic vitality, and healthy communities.