Echo
Burning trash powers Michigan cities, fuels debate
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While some don’t consider burning trash as green, Michigan is exploring waste-to-fuel plants as an alternative energy source.
Wildlife
Michigan bill would change oversight of deer farms
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Two Michigan departments regulate fenced in deer farms.
Some farmers are unhappy with the DNR’s role, and a new bill would make the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development solely responsible for the farms.
Echo
State says fracking regulated but bills would add requirements
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House Democrats in Michigan are pushing bills to protect the state’s waters by regulating fracking, a process that injects water and chemicals deep into the ground to fracture rocks and force out natural gas.
Echo
Michigan cuts investment in brownfield redevelopment
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Despite attracting $14.4 billion in investments for developing contaminated properties the past 11 years, Michigan’s brownfield redevelopment program faces a cut.
Echo
New Michigan state parks permit brings in more cars, money
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Michigan residents are paying less for yearly passes to state parks but the program has generated more funds than in prior years.
Michigan Recreation Passports, available at the Secretary of State for the past year, now allow almost 2 million vehicles access to all Michigan state parks.
Echo
Michigan farmers markets stretch food dollars for poor
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Michigan residents on food assistance are doubling their purchasing power at farmers markets in a program that encourages healthier eating while supporting farmers.
Echo
Renewable energy powers up Michigan manufacturing
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Michigan companies have hopped on the renewable energy bandwagon, which some state officials and company executives say is reviving the state’s manufacturing industry.
Wildlife
Economic fallout from deer bait ban continues three years later
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In 2008, the Michigan Natural Resources Commission prohibited hunters from baiting deer.
Some three years later northeast Michigan residents still blame a ban on deer baiting for harming the local economy.
Echo
Sharing Michigan wind royalties may ease local opposition
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Energy companies that want more Michigan wind farms have come up with a solution to placate neighboring property owners: sharing some of the cold hard cash they generate.
Echo
Great Lakes offshore wind development stalled in Michigan Legislature
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A year after state energy experts recommended developing offshore wind energy in the Great Lakes, lawmakers have not passed legislation needed to implement it.