Land Use Planning

Michigan Trout Unlimited supports efforts at regional and watershed based land use planning efforts which result in the recognition of the role and function of coldwater systems and undertake efforts to protect those systems.

• TU Land Conservancy Initiative

Landowners who live on streams can take several steps to protect stream habitat and water quality. Here are a few suggestions:

1. 1. Plant vegetation: Streamside vegetation, such as trees, shrubs, and grasses, can help to stabilize stream banks, reduce erosion, and filter pollutants. Landowners can consider planting native vegetation along the stream to create a buffer zone that protects the water quality and habitat.
   2. Limit pesticide and fertilizer use: Chemicals applied to lawns and gardens can be carried by rainwater and runoff into nearby streams, causing water pollution. Landowners can reduce the use of pesticides and fertilizers by using natural alternatives, such as compost and organic fertilizers, and by properly disposing of household hazardous waste.
   3. Maintain septic systems: Septic systems that are not functioning properly can release harmful bacteria and nutrients into streams. Landowners can properly maintain their septic systems by having them inspected and pumped regularly.
   4. Limit impervious surfaces: Impervious surfaces, such as pavement and concrete, can increase the amount of runoff that enters streams, causing erosion and pollution. Landowners can reduce the amount of impervious surfaces on their property by using permeable materials, such as gravel or pervious concrete, for driveways and walkways.
   5. Participate in stream cleanups: Landowners can participate in local stream cleanups and volunteer programs to remove trash and debris from streams and surrounding areas.

By taking these steps, landowners can help to protect the health and biodiversity of their local streams and waterways.

City planners can take several steps to protect Michigan streams. Here are a few suggestions:

1. 1. Implement low-impact development (LID) practices: LID practices, such as green roofs, rain gardens, and permeable pavements, can help to manage stormwater runoff and reduce the amount of pollutants that enter streams. City planners can require or incentivize developers to incorporate LID practices into their projects.
   2. Adopt and enforce stream setback ordinances: Stream setback ordinances establish buffer zones along streams that are free from development or disturbance, protecting stream banks and water quality. City planners can adopt and enforce setback ordinances to protect streams from encroachment and disturbance.
   3. Protect wetlands: Wetlands play an important role in filtering pollutants and maintaining stream flow. City planners can protect wetlands by adopting and enforcing wetland protection ordinances and encouraging conservation easements.
   4. Preserve and restore natural stream channels: Natural stream channels provide important habitat for fish and other aquatic species. City planners can preserve and restore natural stream channels by requiring stream channel restoration as a condition of development permits.
   5. Monitor and report water quality: City planners can work with local and state agencies to monitor and report on water quality in streams, identifying sources of pollution and working to address them.

By taking these steps, city planners can help to protect the health and biodiversity of Michigan streams and waterways.