FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

CONTACT:

Terry Swier, President of Michigan Citizens for Water Conservation – 231-972-8856

The environment and citizens of Michigan and the Great Lakes Basin received a boost when Michigan Citizens for Water Conservation was awarded two grants from the Great Lakes Aquatic Habitat Network and Fund. A $350 Special Opportunity Grant is to upgrade Michigan Citizens for Water Conservation’s computer system and the $3,100 grant is to help safeguard the commons and public trust in Michigan’s waters.

The Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council located in Petoskey, Michigan coordinates the Great Lakes Aquatic Habitat Network and Fund. The Network and Fund are designed to provide financial and informational support to citizen efforts to protect wetlands, lakes, and rivers across the Great Lakes Basin.

"Michigan Citizens for Water Conservation was one of 15 projects that received funding," said Jill Ryan, Director of the Network and Fund. "Because of the excellent proposals with diverse and interesting project ideas, the decision-making process was extremely difficult. Fifty-eight unique project proposals provided many local opportunities to make a difference for our rivers, lakes and wetlands throughout the Great Lakes Basin," said Ryan.

With this grant, Michigan Citizens for Water Conservation will continue its efforts before the Appeals Court to uphold the important victory given to it in the epic decision by Judge Larry Root in the case of Michigan Citizens for Water Conservation v Nestlė Waters North America and will set a positive precedent for the world’s waters and the people and life who depend on it. "The project goal is to preserve the state’s and citizens’ claims to their water rights", said Terry Swier, President of Michigan Citizens for Water Conservation.

If you would like more information on MCWC’s projects, contact Terry Swier 231 972-8856, tswier@centurytel.net or visit MCWC’s web site at www.saveMIwater.org.

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