NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ACT (EXCERPT)
Act 451 of 1994
SOIL CONSERVATION, EROSION, AND SEDIMENTATION CONTROL
Part 91
SOIL EROSION AND SEDIMENTATION CONTROL


324.9101 Definitions; A to W.

Sec. 9101.

    (1) "Agricultural practices" means all land farming operations except the plowing or tilling of land for the purpose of crop production or the harvesting of crops.
    (2) "Authorized public agency" means a state agency or an agency of a local unit of government authorized under section 9110 to implement soil erosion and sedimentation control procedures with regard to earth changes undertaken by it.
    (3) "Conservation district" means a conservation district authorized under part 93.
    (4) "Consultant" means either of the following:
    (a) An individual who has a current certificate of training under section 9123.
    (b) A person who employs 1 or more individuals who have current certificates of training under section 9123.
    (5) "County agency" means an officer, board, commission, department, or other entity of county government.
    (6) "County enforcing agency" means a county agency or a conservation district designated by a county board of commissioners under section 9105.
    (7) "County program" or "county's program" means a soil erosion and sedimentation control program established under section 9105.
    (8) "Department" means the department of environmental quality.
    (9) "Earth change" means a human-made change in the natural cover or topography of land, including cut and fill activities, which may result in or contribute to soil erosion or sedimentation of the waters of the state. Earth change does not include the practice of plowing and tilling soil for the purpose of crop production.
    (10) "Gardening" means activities necessary to the growing of plants for personal use, consumption, or enjoyment.
    (11) "Local ordinance" means an ordinance enacted by a local unit of government under this part providing for soil erosion and sedimentation control.
    (12) "Municipal enforcing agency" means an agency designated by a municipality under section 9106 to enforce a local ordinance.
    (13) "Municipality" means any of the following:
    (a) A city.
    (b) A village.
    (c) A charter township.
    (d) A general law township that is located in a county with a population of 200,000 or more.
    (14) "Rules" means the rules promulgated pursuant to the administrative procedures act of 1969, 1969 PA 306, MCL 24.201 to 24.328.
    (15) "Seawall maintenance" means an earth change activity landward of the seawall.
    (16) "Sediment" means solid particulate matter, including both mineral and organic matter, that is in suspension in water, is being transported, or has been removed from its site of origin by the actions of wind, water, or gravity and has been deposited elsewhere.
    (17) "Soil erosion" means the wearing away of land by the action of wind, water, gravity, or a combination of wind, water, or gravity.
    (18) "State agency" means a principal state department or a state public university.
    (19) "Violation of this part" or "violates this part" means a violation of this part, the rules promulgated under this part, a permit issued under this part, or a local ordinance enacted under this part.
    (20) "Waters of the state" means the Great Lakes and their connecting waters, inland lakes and streams as defined in rules promulgated under this part, and wetlands regulated under part 303.


History: Add. 1995, Act 60, Imd. Eff. May 24, 1995 ;-- Am. 2000, Act 504, Imd. Eff. Jan. 11, 2001 ;-- Am. 2001, Act 227, Imd. Eff. Jan. 2, 2002 ;-- Am. 2005, Act 55, Imd. Eff. June 30, 2005
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA





324.9102, 324.9103 Repealed. 2000, Act 504, Imd. Eff. Jan. 11, 2001.


Compiler's Notes: The repealed sections pertained to definitions and soil erosion and sedimentation control program.
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA





324.9104 Rules; availability of information.

Sec. 9104.

    (1) The department, with the assistance of the department of agriculture, shall promulgate rules for a unified soil erosion and sedimentation control program, including provisions for the review and approval of site plans, land use plans, or permits relating to soil erosion control and sedimentation control. The department shall notify and make copies of proposed rules available to county enforcing agencies, municipal enforcing agencies, and authorized public agencies for review and comment before promulgation.
    (2) The department shall make available to county enforcing agencies, municipal enforcing agencies, and authorized public agencies educational information on soil erosion and sedimentation control techniques and the benefits of implementing soil erosion and sedimentation control measures. County enforcing agencies and municipal enforcing agencies shall distribute this information to persons receiving permits under a county program or a local ordinance and to other interested persons.


History: Add. 1995, Act 60, Imd. Eff. May 24, 1995 ;-- Am. 2000, Act 504, Imd. Eff. Jan. 11, 2001
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA
Admin Rule: R 323.1701 et seq. of the Michigan Administrative Code.





324.9105 Administration and enforcement of rules; resolution; ordinance; interlocal agreement; review; notice of results; informal meeting; probation; consultant; inspection fees; rescission of order, stipulation, or probation.

Sec. 9105.

    (1) Subject to subsection (6), a county is responsible for the administration and enforcement of this part and the rules promulgated under this part throughout the county except as follows:
    (a) Within a municipality that has assumed the responsibility for soil erosion and sedimentation control under section 9106.
    (b) With regard to earth changes of authorized public agencies.
    (2) Subject to subsection (3), the county board of commissioners of each county, by resolution, shall designate a county agency, or a conservation district upon the concurrence of the conservation district, as the county enforcing agency responsible for administration and enforcement of this part and the rules promulgated under this part in the name of the county. The resolution may set forth a schedule of fees for inspections, plan reviews, and permits and may set forth other matters relating to the administration and enforcement of the county program and this part and the rules promulgated under this part.
    (3) In lieu of or in addition to a resolution provided for in subsection (2), the county board of commissioners of a county may provide by ordinance for soil erosion and sedimentation control in the county. An ordinance adopted under this subsection may be more restrictive than, but shall not make lawful that which is unlawful under, this part and the rules promulgated under this part. If an ordinance adopted under this subsection is more restrictive than this part and the rules promulgated under this part, the county enforcing agency shall notify a person receiving a permit under the ordinance that the ordinance is more restrictive than this part and the rules promulgated under this part. The ordinance shall incorporate by reference the rules promulgated under this part that do not conflict with a more restrictive ordinance and may set forth such other matters as the county board of commissioners considers necessary or desirable. The ordinance may provide penalties for a violation of the ordinance that are consistent with section 9121.
    (4) A copy of a resolution or ordinance adopted under this section and all subsequent amendments to the resolution or ordinance shall be forwarded to the department for the department's review and approval. The department shall forward a copy to the conservation district for that county for review and comment.
    (5) Two or more counties may provide for joint enforcement and administration of this part and the rules promulgated under this part by entering into an interlocal agreement pursuant to the urban cooperation act of 1967, 1967 (Ex Sess) PA 7, MCL 124.501 to 124.512.
    (6) The department shall conduct a review of a county's program every 5 years. The review shall be conducted at least 6 months before the expiration of each succeeding 5-year period. The department shall approve a county's program if all of the following conditions are met:
    (a) The county has passed a resolution or enacted an ordinance as provided in this section.
    (b) The individuals with decision-making authority who are responsible for administering the county program have current certificates of training under section 9123.
    (c) The county has effectively administered and enforced the county program in the past 5 years or has implemented changes in its administration or enforcement procedures that the department determines will result in the county effectively administering and enforcing the county program. In determining whether the county has met the requirement of this subdivision, the department shall consider all of the following:
    (i) Whether a mechanism is in place to provide funding to administer the county's program.
    (ii) Whether the county has conducted adequate inspections to assure minimization of soil erosion and off-site sedimentation.
    (iii) The effectiveness of the county's past compliance and enforcement efforts.
    (iv) The adequacy and effectiveness of the applications and soil erosion and sedimentation control plans being accepted by the county.
    (v) The adequacy and effectiveness of the permits issued by the county and the inspections being performed by the county.
    (vi) The conditions at construction sites under the jurisdiction of the county as documented by departmental inspections.
    (7) Following a review under subsection (6), the department shall notify the county of the results of its review and whether the department proposes to approve or disapprove the county's program. Within 30 days of receipt of the notice under this subsection, a county may request and the department shall hold an informal meeting to discuss the review and the proposed action by the department.
    (8) Following the meeting under subsection (7), if requested, and consideration of the review under subsection (6), if the department does not approve a county's program, the department shall enter an order, stipulation, or consent agreement under section 9112(7) placing the county on probation. In addition, at any time that the department determines that a county that was previously approved by the department under subsection (6) is not satisfactorily administering and enforcing the county's program, the department shall enter into an order, stipulation, or consent agreement under section 9112(7) placing the county on probation. During the 6-month period after a county is placed on probation, the department shall consult with the county on how the county could change its administration of the county program in a manner that would result in its approval.
    (9) Within 6 months after a county has been placed on probation under subsection (8), the county may notify the department that it intends to hire a consultant to administer the county's program. If, within 60 days after notifying the department, the county hires a consultant that is acceptable to the department, then within 1 year after the county hires the consultant, the department shall conduct a review of the county's program to determine whether or not the county program can be approved.
    (10) If any of the following occur, the department shall hire a consultant to administer the county's program:
    (a) The county does not notify the department of its intent to hire a consultant under subsection (9).
    (b) The county does not hire a consultant that is acceptable to the department within 60 days after notifying the department of its intent to hire a consultant under subsection (9).
    (c) The county remains unapproved following the department's review under subsection (9).
    (11) Upon hiring a consultant under subsection (10), the department may establish a schedule of fees for inspections, review of soil erosion and sedimentation control plans, and permits for the county's program that will provide sufficient revenues to pay for the cost of the contract with the consultant, or the department may bill the county for the cost of the contract with the consultant. As used in this subsection, "cost of the contract" means the actual cost of a contract with a consultant plus the documented costs to the department in administering the contract, but not to exceed 10% of the actual cost of the contract.
    (12) At any time that a county is on probation as provided for in this section, the county may request the department to conduct a review of the county's program. If, upon such review, the county has implemented appropriate changes to the county's program, the department shall approve the county's program. If the department approves a county's program under this subsection, the department shall rescind its order, stipulation, or consent agreement that placed the county on probation.


History: Add. 1995, Act 60, Imd. Eff. May 24, 1995 ;-- Am. 2000, Act 504, Imd. Eff. Jan. 11, 2001 ;-- Am. 2005, Act 55, Imd. Eff. June 30, 2005
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA
Admin Rule: R 323.1701 et seq. of the Michigan Administrative Code.





324.9106 Ordinances; written interlocal agreement.

Sec. 9106.

    (1) Subject to subsection (4), a municipality by ordinance may provide for soil erosion and sedimentation control on public and private earth changes within its boundaries except that a township ordinance is not applicable within a village that has in effect such an ordinance. An ordinance may be more restrictive than, but shall not make lawful that which is unlawful under, this part and the rules promulgated under this part. If an ordinance adopted under this section is more restrictive than this part and the rules promulgated under this part, the municipal enforcing agency shall notify a person receiving a permit under the ordinance that the ordinance is more restrictive than this part and the rules promulgated under this part. The ordinance shall incorporate by reference the rules promulgated under this part that do not conflict with a more restrictive ordinance, shall designate a municipal enforcing agency responsible for administration and enforcement of the ordinance, and may set forth such other matters as the legislative body considers necessary or desirable. The ordinance shall be applicable and shall be enforced with regard to all private and public earth changes within the municipality except earth changes by an authorized public agency. The municipality may consult with a conservation district for assistance or advice in the preparation of the ordinance. The ordinance may provide penalties for a violation of the ordinance that are consistent with section 9121.
    (2) An ordinance related to soil erosion and sedimentation control that is not approved by the department as conforming to the minimum requirements of this part and the rules promulgated under this part has no force or effect. A municipality shall submit a copy of its proposed ordinance or of a proposed amendment to its ordinance to the department for approval before adoption. The department shall forward a copy to the county enforcing agency of the county in which the municipality is located and the appropriate conservation district for review and comment. Within 90 days after the department receives an existing ordinance, proposed ordinance, or amendment, the department shall notify the clerk of the municipality of its approval or disapproval along with recommendations for revision if the ordinance, proposed ordinance, or amendment does not conform to the minimum requirements of this part or the rules promulgated under this part. If the department does not notify the clerk of the local unit within the 90-day period, the ordinance, proposed ordinance, or amendment is considered to have been approved by the department.
    (3) Two or more municipalities may provide for joint administration and enforcement of this part and the rules promulgated under this part by entering into a written interlocal agreement pursuant to the urban cooperation act of 1967, 1967 (Ex Sess) PA 7, MCL 124.501 to 124.512. However, if all of the municipalities are not located, in whole or in part, in the same county, the agreement does not take effect unless the department approves the agreement in writing. The department shall approve the agreement if the department determines that the agreement will promote the effective administration and enforcement of this part and rules promulgated under this part.
    (4) A municipality shall not administer and enforce this part or the rules promulgated under this part or a local ordinance unless the department has approved the municipality. An approval under this section is valid for 5 years, after which the department shall review the municipality for reapproval. At least 6 months before the expiration of each succeeding 5-year approval period, the department shall complete a review of the municipality for reapproval. The department shall approve a municipality if all of the following conditions are met:
    (a) The municipality has enacted an ordinance as provided in this section that is at least as restrictive as this part and the rules promulgated under this part.
    (b) The individuals with decision-making authority who are responsible for administering the soil erosion and sedimentation control program for the municipality have current certificates of training under section 9123.
    (c) The municipality has submitted evidence of its ability to effectively administer and enforce a soil erosion and sedimentation control program. In determining whether the municipality has met the requirements of this subdivision, the department shall consider all of the following:
    (i) Whether a mechanism is in place to provide funding to administer the municipality's soil erosion and sedimentation control program.
    (ii) The adequacy of the documents proposed for use by the municipality including, but not limited to, application forms, soil erosion and sedimentation control plan requirements, permit forms, and inspection reports.
    (iii) If the municipality has previously administered a soil erosion and sedimentation control program, whether the municipality effectively administered and enforced the program in the past or has implemented changes in its administration or enforcement procedures that the department determines will result in the municipality effectively administering and enforcing a soil erosion and sedimentation control program in compliance with this part and the rules promulgated under this part. In determining whether the municipality has met the requirement of this subparagraph, the department shall consider all of the following:
    (A) Whether the municipality has had adequate funding to administer the municipality's soil erosion and sedimentation control program.
    (B) Whether the municipality has conducted adequate inspections to assure minimization of soil erosion and off-site sedimentation.
    (C) The effectiveness of the municipality's past compliance and enforcement efforts.
    (D) The adequacy and effectiveness of the applications and soil erosion and sedimentation control plans being accepted by the municipality.
    (E) The adequacy and effectiveness of the permits issued by the municipality and the inspections being performed by the municipality.
    (F) The conditions at construction sites under the jurisdiction of the municipality as documented by departmental inspections.
    (5) If the department determines that a municipality is not approved under subsection (4) or that a municipality that was previously approved under subsection (4) is not satisfactorily administering and enforcing this part and the rules promulgated under this part, the department shall enter an order, stipulation, or consent agreement under section 9112(7) denying the municipality authority or revoking the municipality's authority to administer a soil erosion and sedimentation control program. Upon entry of this order, stipulation, or consent agreement, the county program for the county in which the municipality is located becomes operative within the municipality.
    (6) A municipality that elects to rescind its ordinance shall notify the department. Upon rescission of its ordinance, the county program for the county in which the municipality is located becomes operative within the municipality.
    (7) A municipality that rescinds its ordinance or is not approved by the department to administer the program shall retain jurisdiction over projects under permit at the time of the rescission or disapproval. The municipality shall retain jurisdiction until the projects are completed and stabilized or the county agrees to assume jurisdiction over the permitted earth changes.


History: Add. 1995, Act 60, Imd. Eff. May 24, 1995 ;-- Am. 2000, Act 504, Imd. Eff. Jan. 11, 2001 ;-- Am. 2005, Act 55, Imd. Eff. June 30, 2005 ;-- Am. 2018, Act 419, Eff. Mar. 20, 2019
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA





324.9107 Notice of violation.

Sec. 9107.

     If a local unit of government has notice that a violation of this part has occurred within the boundaries of that local unit of government, including but not limited to a violation attributable to an earth change by an authorized public agency, the local unit of government shall notify the appropriate county enforcing agency and municipal enforcing agency and the department of the violation.


History: Add. 1995, Act 60, Imd. Eff. May 24, 1995 ;-- Am. 2000, Act 504, Imd. Eff. Jan. 11, 2001
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA





324.9108 Permit; deposit as condition for issuance.

Sec. 9108.

     As a condition for the issuance of a permit, the county enforcing agency or municipal enforcing agency may require the applicant to deposit with the clerk of the county or municipality in the form of cash, a certified check, or an irrevocable bank letter of credit, whichever the applicant selects, or a surety bond acceptable to the legislative body of the county or municipality or to the county enforcing agency or municipal enforcing agency, in an amount sufficient to assure the installation and completion of such protective or corrective measures as may be required by the county enforcing agency or municipal enforcing agency.


History: Add. 1995, Act 60, Imd. Eff. May 24, 1995 ;-- Am. 2000, Act 504, Imd. Eff. Jan. 11, 2001
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA





324.9109 Agreement between public agency or county or municipal enforcing agency and conservation district; purpose; reviews and evaluations of agency's programs or procedures; agreement between person engaged in agricultural practices and conservation district; notification; enforcement.

Sec. 9109.

    (1) An authorized public agency, county enforcing agency, or municipal enforcing agency may enter into an agreement with a conservation district for assistance and advice in overseeing and reviewing compliance with soil erosion and sedimentation control procedures and in reviewing existing or proposed earth changes, earth change plans, or site plans with regard to technical matters pertaining to soil erosion and sedimentation control. In addition to or in the absence of such agreements, conservation districts may perform periodic reviews and evaluations of the authorized public agency's, county enforcing agency's, or municipal enforcing agency's programs or procedures pursuant to standards and specifications developed in cooperation with the respective districts and as approved by the department. These reviews and evaluations shall be submitted to the department for appropriate action.
    (2) A person engaged in agricultural practices may enter into an agreement with the appropriate conservation district to pursue agricultural practices in accordance with and subject to this part, the rules promulgated under this part, and any applicable local ordinance. If a person enters into an agreement with a conservation district, the conservation district shall notify the county enforcing agency or municipal enforcing agency or the department in writing of the agreement. Upon entering into the agreement under this subsection, a person is not subject to permits required under this part, but is required to develop project specific soil erosion and sedimentation control plans and is subject to the remedies provided for in this part for violations of this part.


History: Add. 1995, Act 60, Imd. Eff. May 24, 1995 ;-- Am. 2000, Act 504, Imd. Eff. Jan. 11, 2001
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA





324.9110 Designation as authorized public agency; application; submission of procedures; variance; approval.

Sec. 9110.

    (1) Subject to subsection (4), a state agency or an agency of a local unit of government may apply to the department for designation as an authorized public agency by submitting to the department the soil erosion and sedimentation control procedures governing all earth changes normally undertaken by the agency. If the applicant is an agency of a local unit of government, the department shall submit the procedures to the county enforcing agency and the appropriate conservation district for review. The county enforcing agency and the conservation district shall submit their comments on the procedures to the department within 60 days. If the applicant is a state agency, the department shall submit the procedures to the department of agriculture for review, and the department of agriculture shall submit its comments on the procedures to the department within 60 days.
    (2) Subject to subsection (4), if the department finds that the soil erosion and sedimentation control procedures of the state agency or the agency of the local unit of government meet the requirements of this part and rules promulgated under this part, the department shall designate the agency as an authorized public agency.
    (3) Subject to subsection (4), after approval of the procedures and designation as an authorized public agency pursuant to subsection (2), all earth changes maintained or undertaken by the authorized public agency shall be undertaken pursuant to the approved procedures. If determined necessary by the department and upon request of an authorized public agency, the department may grant a variance from the provisions of this subsection.
    (4) A state agency or an agency of a local unit of government shall not administer and enforce this part and the rules promulgated under this part as an authorized public agency unless the department has approved the agency under this section. An approval under this section is valid for 5 years, after which the department shall review the agency for reapproval. At least 6 months before the expiration of each succeeding 5-year period, the department shall complete a review of the authorized public agency for reapproval. The department shall approve a state agency or an agency of a local unit of government if all of the following conditions are met:
    (a) The agency has adopted soil erosion and sedimentation control procedures that are at least as restrictive as this part and the rules promulgated under this part.
    (b) The individuals with decision-making authority who are responsible for administering the soil erosion and sedimentation control procedures have current certificates of training under section 9123.
    (c) The agency has submitted evidence of its ability to effectively administer soil erosion and sedimentation control procedures. In determining whether the agency has met the requirement of this subdivision, the department shall consider all of the following:
    (i) Funding to administer the agency's soil erosion and sedimentation control program.
    (ii) The agency's plans for inspections to assure minimization of soil erosion and off-site sedimentation.
    (iii) The adequacy of the agency's soil erosion and sedimentation control procedures.
    (iv) If the agency has previously administered soil erosion and sedimentation control procedures, the agency has effectively administered these procedures or has implemented changes in their administration that the department determines will result in the agency effectively administering the soil erosion and sedimentation control procedures. In determining whether the agency has met the requirement of this subparagraph, the department shall consider all of the following:
    (A) Whether the agency has had adequate funding to administer the agency's soil erosion and sedimentation control program.
    (B) Whether the agency has conducted adequate inspections to assure minimization of soil erosion and off-site sedimentation.
    (C) The effectiveness of the agency's past compliance and enforcement efforts.
    (D) The adequacy of the agency's soil erosion and sedimentation control plans and procedures as required by rule.
    (E) The conditions at construction sites under the jurisdiction of the agency as documented by departmental inspections.
    (5) If the department determines that a state agency or an agency of a local unit of government is not approved under subsection (4) or that a state agency or an agency of a local unit of government that was previously approved under subsection (4) is not satisfactorily administering and enforcing this part and the rules promulgated under this part, the department shall enter an order, stipulation, or consent agreement under section 9112(7) denying or revoking the designation of the state agency or agency of a local unit of government as an authorized public agency.


History: Add. 1995, Act 60, Imd. Eff. May 24, 1995 ;-- Am. 2000, Act 504, Imd. Eff. Jan. 11, 2001 ;-- Am. 2005, Act 55, Imd. Eff. June 30, 2005
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA





324.9111 Repealed. 2000, Act 504, Imd. Eff. Jan. 11, 2001.


Compiler's Notes: The repealed section pertained to statements and certificates relating to plats.
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA





324.9112 Earth change; permit required; effect of property transfer; violation; notice; hearing; answer; evidence; stipulation or consent order; final order of determination.

Sec. 9112.

    (1) A person shall not maintain or undertake an earth change governed by this part, the rules promulgated under this part, or an applicable local ordinance, except in accordance with this part and the rules promulgated under this part or with the applicable local ordinance, and except as authorized by a permit issued by the appropriate county enforcing agency or municipal enforcing agency pursuant to part 13.
    (2) The owner of property that is subject to a permit under this part is responsible for compliance with the terms of the permit that apply to that property.
    (3) Except as provided in subsection (4), if property subject to a permit under this part is transferred, both of the following are transferred with the property:
    (a) The permit, including the permit obligations and conditions.
    (b) Responsibility for any violations of the permit that exist on the date the property is transferred.
    (4) If property is subject to a permit under this part and a parcel of the property, but not the entire property, is transferred, both of the following are transferred with the parcel:
    (a) The permit obligations and conditions with respect to that parcel, but not the permit itself.
    (b) Responsibility for any violations of the permit with respect to that parcel that exist on the date the parcel is transferred.
    (5) If property subject to a permit under this part is proposed to be transferred, the transferor shall notify the transferee of the permit in writing on a form developed by the department and provided by the county enforcing agency or municipal enforcing agency. The notice shall inform the transferee of the requirements of subsection (2) and, as applicable, subsection (3) or (4). The notice shall include a copy of the permit. The transferor and transferee shall sign the notice, and the transferor shall submit the signed notice to the county enforcing agency or municipal enforcing agency before the property is transferred.
    (6) A county enforcing agency or municipal enforcing agency may charge a fee for the transfer of a permit under subsection (3) or (4). The fee shall not exceed the administrative costs of transferring the permit. Fees collected under this subsection shall only be used for the enforcement and administration of this part by the enforcing agency.
    (7) If in the opinion of the department a person, including an authorized public agency, violates this part, the rules promulgated under this part, or an applicable local ordinance, or a county enforcing agency or municipal enforcing agency fails to enforce this part, the rules promulgated under this part, or an applicable local ordinance, the department may notify the alleged offender in writing of its determination. If the department places a county on probation under section 9105, a municipality is not approved under section 9106, or a state agency or agency of a local unit of government is not approved under section 9110, or if the department determines that a municipal enforcing agency or authorized public agency is not satisfactorily administering and enforcing this part and rules promulgated under this part, the department shall notify the county, municipality, state agency, or agency of a local unit of government in writing of its determination or action. The notice shall contain, in addition to a statement of the specific violation or failure that the department believes to exist, a proposed order, stipulation for agreement, or other action that the department considers appropriate to assure timely correction of the violation or failure. The notice shall set a date for a hearing not less than 4 nor more than 8 weeks from the date of the notice of determination. Extensions of the date of the hearing may be granted by the department or on request. At the hearing, any interested party may appear, present witnesses, and submit evidence. A person who has been served with a notice of determination may file a written answer to the notice of determination before the date set for hearing or at the hearing may appear and present oral or written testimony and evidence on the charges and proposed requirements of the department to assure correction of the violation or failure. If a person served with the notice of determination agrees with the proposed requirements of the department and notifies the department of that agreement before the date set for the hearing, disposition of the case may be made with the approval of the department by stipulation or consent agreement without further hearing. The final order of determination following the hearing, or the stipulation or consent order as authorized by this section and approved by the department, is conclusive unless reviewed in accordance with the administrative procedures act of 1969, 1969 PA 306, MCL 24.201 to 24.328, in the circuit court of Ingham county, or of the county in which the violation occurred, upon petition filed within 15 days after the service upon the person of the final order of determination.


History: Add. 1995, Act 60, Imd. Eff. May 24, 1995 ;-- Am. 2000, Act 504, Imd. Eff. Jan. 11, 2001 ;-- Am. 2004, Act 325, Imd. Eff. Sept. 10, 2004 ;-- Am. 2004, Act 565, Imd. Eff. Jan. 3, 2005
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA





324.9113 Injunction; inspection and investigation.

Sec. 9113.

    (1) Notwithstanding the existence or pursuit of any other remedy, the department or a county enforcing agency or municipal enforcing agency may maintain an action in its own name in a court of competent jurisdiction for an injunction or other process against a person to restrain or prevent violations of this part.
    (2) At any reasonable time, an agent appointed by the department, a county enforcing agency, or a municipal enforcing agency may enter upon any private or public property for the purpose of inspecting and investigating conditions or practices that may be in violation of this part. However, an investigation or inspection under this subsection shall comply with the United States constitution and the state constitution of 1963.


History: Add. 1995, Act 60, Imd. Eff. May 24, 1995 ;-- Am. 2000, Act 504, Imd. Eff. Jan. 11, 2001 ;-- Am. 2005, Act 55, Imd. Eff. June 30, 2005
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA





324.9114 Additional rules.

Sec. 9114.

     In order to carry out their functions under this part, the department and the department of agriculture may promulgate rules in addition to those otherwise authorized in this part.


History: Add. 1995, Act 60, Imd. Eff. May 24, 1995
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA
Admin Rule: R 323.1701 et seq. of the Michigan Administrative Code.





324.9115 Logging, mining, or land plowing or tilling; permit exemption; "mining" defined.

Sec. 9115.

    (1) Subject to subsection (2), a person engaged in the logging industry, the mining industry, or the plowing or tilling of land for the purpose of crop production or the harvesting of crops is not required to obtain a permit under this part. However, all earth changes associated with the activities listed in this section shall conform to the same standards as if they required a permit under this part. The exemption from obtaining a permit under this subsection does not include either of the following:
    (a) Access roads to and from the site where active mining or logging is taking place.
    (b) Ancillary activities associated with logging and mining.
    (2) This part does not apply to a metallic mineral mining activity that is regulated under a mining and reclamation plan under part 631 or 634 or a mining, reclamation, and environmental protection plan under part 632, if the plan contains soil erosion and sedimentation control provisions and is approved by the department.
    (3) A person is not required to obtain a permit from a county enforcing agency or a municipal enforcing agency for earth changes associated with well locations, surface facilities, flowlines, or access roads relating to oil or gas exploration and development activities regulated under part 615 or mineral well exploration and development activities regulated under part 625, if the application for a permit to drill and operate contains a soil erosion and sedimentation control plan that is approved by the department under part 615 or 625. However, those earth changes shall conform to the same standards as required for a permit under this part. This subsection does not apply to a multisource commercial hazardous waste disposal well as defined in section 62506a.
    (4) As used in this section, "mining" does not include the removal of clay, gravel, sand, peat, or topsoil.


History: Add. 1995, Act 60, Imd. Eff. May 24, 1995 ;-- Am. 2000, Act 504, Imd. Eff. Jan. 11, 2001 ;-- Am. 2011, Act 214, Imd. Eff. Nov. 8, 2011 ;-- Am. 2017, Act 40, Eff. Aug. 21, 2017
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA





324.9115a Earth change activities not requiring permit; violations.

Sec. 9115a.

    (1) Notwithstanding any other provision of this part, a person is not required to obtain a permit from a county or municipal enforcing agency for earth changes associated with the following agricultural practices if the earth change activities do not result in or contribute to soil erosion or sedimentation of the waters of the state or a discharge of sediment off-site:
    (a) The construction, maintenance, or removal of fences and fence lines.
    (b) The removal of tree or shrub stumps or roots.
    (c) The installation of drainage tile, irrigation, or electrical lines.
    (d) The construction or maintenance of 1 or more ponds that meet all of the following:
    (i) The earth change associated with the construction or maintenance is less than 5 acres.
    (ii) The earth change associated with the construction or maintenance does not result in a discharge of storm water into the waters of the state.
    (iii) The earth change associated with the construction or maintenance is not part of a larger plan of development. As used in this subparagraph, "larger plan of development" means a contiguous area where multiple separate and distinct construction activities are occurring under a single plan as identified in documentation or physical demarcation indicating where construction activities may occur.
    (2) Notwithstanding any other provision of this part, a residential property owner who causes the following activities to be conducted on individual residential property owned and occupied by him or her is not required to obtain a permit under this part if the earth change activities do not result in or contribute to soil erosion or sedimentation of the waters of the state or a discharge of sediment off-site:
    (a) An earth change of a minor nature that is stabilized within 24 hours of the initial earth disturbance.
    (b) Gardening, if the natural elevation of the area is not raised.
    (c) Post holes for fencing, decks, utility posts, mailboxes, or similar applications, if no additional grading or earth change occurs for use of the post holes.
    (d) Removal of tree stumps, shrub stumps, or roots resulting in an earth change not to exceed 100 square feet.
    (e) All of the following activities, if soil erosion and sedimentation controls are implemented, the earth change is stabilized within 24 hours of the initial earth disturbance, and soil erosion or sedimentation to adjacent properties or the waters of the state has not or will not reasonably occur:
    (i) Planting of trees, shrubs, or other similar plants.
    (ii) Seeding or reseeding of lawns of less than 1 acre if the seeded area is at least 100 feet from the waters of the state.
    (iii) Seeding or reseeding of lawns closer than 100 feet from the waters of the state if the area to be seeded or reseeded does not exceed 100 square feet.
    (iv) The temporary stockpiling of soil, sand, or gravel not greater than a total of 10 cubic yards on the property if the stockpiling occurs at least 100 feet from the waters of the state.
    (v) Seawall maintenance that does not exceed 100 square feet.
    (3) Exemptions provided in this section shall not be construed as exemptions from enforcement procedures under this part or the rules promulgated under this part if the exempted activities cause or result in a violation of this part or the rules promulgated under this part.


History: Add. 2005, Act 56, Imd. Eff. June 30, 2005 ;-- Am. 2016, Act 2, Eff. Feb. 25, 2016
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA





324.9116 Reduction of soil erosion or sedimentation by owner.

Sec. 9116.

     A person who owns land on which an earth change has been made that may result in or contribute to soil erosion or sedimentation of the waters of the state shall implement and maintain soil erosion and sedimentation control measures that will effectively reduce soil erosion or sedimentation from the land on which the earth change has been made.


History: Add. 1995, Act 60, Imd. Eff. May 24, 1995
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA





324.9117 Notice of determination.

Sec. 9117.

     If the county enforcing agency or municipal enforcing agency that is responsible for enforcing this part and the rules promulgated under this part determines that soil erosion or sedimentation of adjacent properties or the waters of the state has or will reasonably occur from land in violation of this part or the rules promulgated under this part or an applicable local ordinance, the county enforcing agency or municipal enforcing agency may seek to enforce a violation of this part by notifying the person who owns the land, by mail, with return receipt requested, of its determination. The notice shall contain a description of the violation and what must be done to remedy the violation and shall specify a time to comply with this part and the rules promulgated under this part or an applicable local ordinance.


History: Add. 1995, Act 60, Imd. Eff. May 24, 1995 ;-- Am. 2000, Act 504, Imd. Eff. Jan. 11, 2001
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA





324.9118 Compliance; time.

Sec. 9118.

     Within 5 days after a notice of violation has been issued under section 9117, a person who owns land subject to this part and the rules promulgated under this part shall implement and maintain soil erosion and sedimentation control measures in conformance with this part, the rules promulgated under this part, or an applicable local ordinance.


History: Add. 1995, Act 60, Imd. Eff. May 24, 1995 ;-- Am. 2000, Act 504, Imd. Eff. Jan. 11, 2001
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA





324.9119 Entry upon land; construction, implementation, and maintenance of soil erosion and sedimentation control measures; cost.

Sec. 9119.

     Except as otherwise provided in this section, not sooner than 5 days after notice of violation of this part has been mailed under section 9117, if the condition of the land, in the opinion of the county enforcing agency or municipal enforcing agency, may result in or contribute to soil erosion or sedimentation of adjacent properties or to the waters of the state, and if soil erosion and sedimentation control measures in conformance with this part and the rules promulgated under this part or an applicable local ordinance are not in place, the county enforcing agency or municipal enforcing agency, or a designee of either of these agencies, may enter upon the land and construct, implement, and maintain soil erosion and sedimentation control measures in conformance with this part and the rules promulgated under this part or an applicable local ordinance. However, the enforcing agency shall not expend more than $10,000.00 for the cost of the work, materials, labor, and administration without prior written notice in the notice provided in section 9117 for the person who owns the land that the expenditure of more than $10,000.00 may be made. If more than $10,000.00 is to be expended under this section, then the work shall not begin until at least 10 days after the notice of violation has been mailed.


History: Add. 1995, Act 60, Imd. Eff. May 24, 1995 ;-- Am. 2000, Act 504, Imd. Eff. Jan. 11, 2001
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA





324.9120 Reimbursement of county or municipal enforcing agency; lien for expenses; priority; collection and treatment of lien.

Sec. 9120.

    (1) All expenses incurred by a county enforcing agency or a municipal enforcing agency under section 9119 to construct, implement, and maintain soil erosion and sedimentation control measures to bring land into conformance with this part and the rules promulgated under this part or an applicable local ordinance shall be reimbursed to the county enforcing agency or municipal enforcing agency by the person who owns the land.
    (2) The county enforcing agency or municipal enforcing agency shall have a lien for the expenses incurred under section 9119 of bringing the land into conformance with this part and the rules promulgated under this part or an applicable local ordinance. However, with respect to single-family or multifamily residential property, the lien for such expenses shall have priority over all liens and encumbrances filed or recorded after the date of such expenditure. With respect to all other property, the lien for such expenses shall be collected and treated in the same manner as provided for property tax liens under the general property tax act, 1893 PA 206, MCL 211.1 to 211.157.


History: Add. 1995, Act 60, Imd. Eff. May 24, 1995 ;-- Am. 2000, Act 504, Imd. Eff. Jan. 11, 2001
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA





324.9121 Violations; penalties.

Sec. 9121.

    (1) A person who violates this part is responsible for either of the following:
    (a) If the action is brought by a county enforcing agency or a municipal enforcing agency of a local unit of government that has enacted an ordinance under this part that provides a penalty for violations, the person is responsible for a municipal civil infraction and may be ordered to pay a civil fine of not more than $2,500.00.
    (b) If the action is brought by the state or a county enforcing agency of a county that has not enacted an ordinance under this part, the person is responsible for a state civil infraction and may be ordered to pay a civil fine of not more than $2,500.00.
    (2) A person who knowingly violates this part or knowingly makes a false statement in an application for a permit or in a soil erosion and sedimentation control plan is responsible for the payment of a civil fine of not more than $10,000.00 for each day of violation.
    (3) A person who knowingly violates this part after receiving a notice of determination under section 9112 or 9117 is responsible for the payment of a civil fine of not less than $2,500.00 or more than $25,000.00 for each day of violation.
    (4) Civil fines collected under subsections (2) and (3) shall be deposited as follows:
    (a) If the state filed the action under this section, in the general fund of the state.
    (b) If a county enforcing agency or municipal enforcing agency filed the action under this section, with the county or municipality that filed the action.
    (c) If an action was filed jointly by the state and a county enforcing agency or municipal enforcing agency, the civil fines collected under this subsection shall be divided in proportion to each agency's involvement as mutually agreed upon by the agencies. All fines going to the department shall be deposited into the general fund of the state.
    (5) A default in the payment of a civil fine or costs ordered under this section or an installment of the fine or costs may be remedied by any means authorized under the revised judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.101 to 600.9948.
    (6) In addition to a fine assessed under this section, a person who violates this part is liable to the state for damages for injury to, destruction of, or loss of natural resources resulting from the violation. The court may order a person who violates this part to restore the area or areas affected by the violation to their condition as existing immediately prior to the violation.
    (7) This section applies to an authorized public agency, in addition to other persons. This section does not apply to a county enforcing agency or a municipal enforcing agency with respect to its administration and enforcement of this part and rules promulgated under this part.


History: Add. 1995, Act 60, Imd. Eff. May 24, 1995 ;-- Am. 1996, Act 173, Imd. Eff. Apr. 18, 1996 ;-- Am. 2000, Act 504, Imd. Eff. Jan. 11, 2001
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA





324.9122 Severability.

Sec. 9122.

     If any provision of this part is declared by a court to be invalid, the invalid provision shall not affect the remaining provisions of the part that can be given effect without the invalid provision. The validity of the part as a whole or in part shall not be affected, other than the provision invalidated.


History: Add. 1995, Act 60, Imd. Eff. May 24, 1995
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA





324.9123 Training program; certificate; fees.

Sec. 9123.

    (1) Beginning 3 years after the effective date of the 2000 amendments to this section, each individual who is responsible for administering this part and the rules promulgated under this part or a local ordinance and who has decision-making authority for soil erosion and sedimentation control plan development or review, inspections, permit issuance, or enforcement shall be trained by the department. The department shall issue a certificate of training to individuals under this section if they do both of the following:
    (a) Complete a soil erosion and sedimentation control training program sponsored by the department.
    (b) Pass an examination on the subject matter covered in the training program under subdivision (a).
    (2) A certificate of training under subsection (1) is valid for 5 years. For recertifications, the department may offer a refresher course or other update in lieu of the requirements of subsection (1)(a) and (b).
    (3) The department may charge fees for administering the training program and the examination under this section that are not greater than the department's cost of administering the training program and the examination. All fees collected under this section shall be deposited into the soil erosion and sedimentation control training fund created in section 9123a.


History: Add. 1995, Act 60, Imd. Eff. May 24, 1995 ;-- Am. 2000, Act 504, Imd. Eff. Jan. 11, 2001
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA





324.9123a Soil erosion and sedimentation control training fund; creation; disposition of funds; lapse; expenditures.

Sec. 9123a.

    (1) The soil erosion and sedimentation control training fund is created within the state treasury.
    (2) The state treasurer may receive money or other assets from any source for deposit into the soil erosion and sedimentation control training fund. The state treasurer shall direct the investment of the soil erosion and sedimentation control training fund. The state treasurer shall credit to the soil erosion and sedimentation control training fund interest and earnings from fund investments.
    (3) Money in the soil erosion and sedimentation control training fund at the close of the fiscal year shall remain in the fund and shall not lapse to the general fund.
    (4) The department shall expend money from the fund, upon appropriation, only to administer the soil erosion and sedimentation control training program and examination under section 9123.


History: Add. 2000, Act 504, Imd. Eff. Jan. 11, 2001
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA



Part 93
SOIL CONSERVATION DISTRICTS


324.9301 Definitions.

Sec. 9301.

    As used in this part:
    (a) "Agency of this state" includes the government of this state and any subdivision, agency, or instrumentality, corporate or otherwise, of the government of this state.
    (b) "Board" or "conservation district board" means the governing body of a conservation district.
    (c) "Compliance assistance agent" means an individual who provides technical assistance to individuals, organizations, agencies, or others to aid them in complying with federal and state laws and local conservation ordinances.
    (d) "Conservation species" means those plant species beneficial for conservation practices as included on the list prepared under section 9304a by the conservation species advisory panel.
    (e) "Conservation species advisory panel" means the conservation species advisory panel created in section 9304a.
    (f) "Department" means the department of agriculture and rural development.
    (g) "Director" means 1 of the members of the conservation district board, elected or appointed in accordance with this part.
    (h) "District" or "conservation district" means a governmental subdivision of this state, and a public body corporate and politic, organized in accordance with this part, for the purposes, with the powers, and subject to the restrictions set forth in this part.
    (i) "Government" or "governmental" includes the government of this state, the government of the United States, and any subdivision, agency, or instrumentality, corporate or otherwise, of either of them.
    (j) "Landowner" includes any person who holds title to or has contracted to purchase any land lying within a district organized under this part or former 1937 PA 297.
    (k) "Person" means an individual, partnership, or corporation.
    (l) "Plant rescue" means to physically move native conservation species of plants from 1 location in Michigan to another location in Michigan for the purpose of reestablishing the native conservation species.
    (m) "Qualified forester" means that term as defined in section 51301.
    (n) "Resident" means a person who is of legal age to vote and can demonstrate residency in the district with 1 piece of identification.
    (o) "State" means this state.
    (p) "United States" or "agencies of the United States" includes the United States of America, the natural resources conservation service of the United States department of agriculture, and any other agency or instrumentality, corporate or otherwise, of the United States of America.


History: Add. 1995, Act 60, Imd. Eff. May 24, 1995 ;-- Am. 1998, Act 463, Imd. Eff. Jan. 4, 1999 ;-- Am. 2013, Act 45, Imd. Eff. June 6, 2013
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA





324.9302 Declaration of policy.

Sec. 9302.

    It is the policy of the legislature to provide for the conservation of the natural resources of the state, including soil, water, farmland, forestland, and other natural resources, and to provide for the control and prevention of soil erosion, and thereby to conserve the natural resources of this state, control floods, prevent impairment of dams and reservoirs, assist in maintaining the navigability of rivers and harbors, preserve wildlife, protect the tax base, protect public lands, and protect and promote the health, safety, and general welfare of the people of this state.


History: Add. 1995, Act 60, Imd. Eff. May 24, 1995 ;-- Am. 1998, Act 463, Imd. Eff. Jan. 4, 1999 ;-- Am. 2013, Act 45, Imd. Eff. June 6, 2013
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA





324.9303 Conducting business at public meeting; notice; availability of writings to public.

Sec. 9303.

    (1) The business that a conservation district board may perform shall be conducted at a public meeting of the board held in compliance with the open meetings act, 1976 PA 267, MCL 15.261 to 15.275. Public notice of the time, date, and place of the meeting shall be given in the manner required by the open meetings act, 1976 PA 267, MCL 15.261 to 15.275, in addition to any other notice prescribed in this part.
    (2) A writing prepared, owned, used, in the possession of, or retained by a conservation district board in the performance of an official function shall be made available to the public in compliance with the freedom of information act, 1976 PA 442, MCL 15.231 to 15.246.


History: Add. 1995, Act 60, Imd. Eff. May 24, 1995 ;-- Am. 1998, Act 463, Imd. Eff. Jan. 4, 1999
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA





324.9304 Additional duties and powers of department.

Sec. 9304.

    In addition to the other duties and powers conferred upon the department under this part, the department has the following duties and powers:
    (a) To offer such assistance as may be appropriate to the directors of conservation districts in implementing any of their responsibilities under this part and as otherwise provided by law.
    (b) To keep the directors of each of the districts informed of the activities and experience of all other districts and to facilitate cooperation and sharing of advice and experience between the districts.
    (c) To approve and coordinate the programs of all conservation districts.
    (d) To secure the cooperation and assistance of the United States and any of its agencies, and the state and any of its agencies, in the work of the districts, and to formulate policies and procedures as the department considers necessary for the extension of aid in any form from federal or state agencies to the districts.
    (e) To disseminate information throughout the state concerning the activities and programs of the conservation districts and to encourage the formation of districts in areas where their organization is desirable.
    (f) To review district budgets and financial information, including audit reports.


History: Add. 1995, Act 60, Imd. Eff. May 24, 1995 ;-- Am. 1998, Act 463, Imd. Eff. Jan. 4, 1999 ;-- Am. 2013, Act 45, Imd. Eff. June 6, 2013
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA





324.9304a Conservation species advisory panel; creation; membership; establishment of conservation species list.

Sec. 9304a.

    (1) The conservation species advisory panel is created within the department. The conservation species advisory panel shall consist of the following members selected by the director of the department and approved by the commission of agriculture:
    (a) Two representatives of the department as follows:
    (i) One individual from the pesticide and plant management division or its successor agency.
    (ii) One individual from the environmental division or its successor agency.
    (b) One individual representing the department of natural resources.
    (c) One individual representing the natural resource conservation service.
    (d) Two representatives from Michigan state university as follows:
    (i) One individual from the department of horticulture or its successor department.
    (ii) One individual from the department of forestry or its successor department.
    (e) One individual representing conservation districts.
    (f) One individual from a statewide organization representing nursery and landscaping interests in the state.
    (g) One individual from a statewide organization representing seedling growers' interests in the state.
    (2) By December 1 of each year, the conservation species advisory panel shall establish a list of conservation species for the following calendar year that may be propagated, planted, harvested, sold, or rescued as part of a plant rescue operation. However, conservation species on this list that are propagated, planted, or rescued during that calendar year may be sold, removed, or reestablished in subsequent years even if the species is removed from the list in a subsequent year.


History: Add. 1998, Act 463, Imd. Eff. Jan. 4, 1999
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA





324.9305 Boundaries; petition to change district's name.

Sec. 9305.

    (1) Boundaries of conservation districts shall include cities, townships, and incorporated villages.
    (2) A conservation district's board may petition the department to change the district's name. The petition form shall be provided by the department. The department shall give due consideration to the petition and, if the request is determined to be needed and practical, shall approve the change in name and request the secretary of state to enter the new name in the secretary of state's official records of the district.


History: Add. 1995, Act 60, Imd. Eff. May 24, 1995 ;-- Am. 1998, Act 463, Imd. Eff. Jan. 4, 1999
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA





324.9306 Repealed. 1998, Act 463, Imd. Eff. Jan. 4, 1999.


Compiler's Notes: The repealed section pertained to election of district directors.
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA





324.9307 Conservation district board; directors; chairperson; terms; annual meeting; election; notice; vacancies; certification; special election; quorum; expenses; employees; legal services; delegation of powers and duties; copies of documents; duties of board; eligibility for grant; duties of professional forester; rules; duties of conservation district; removal of director; designation and function of legislative representative.

Sec. 9307.

    (1) A conservation district board shall consist of 5 directors elected or appointed as provided in this part. The board shall designate a chairperson annually.
    (2) Except as provided in subsection (6), the term of office of each director is 4 years. Except as otherwise provided in this section, all directors shall be elected at an annual meeting by residents of the district. The election shall be nonpartisan and the directors shall be elected by the residents of the district at large. To become a candidate for director, at least 60 days prior to the annual meeting, an individual shall file at the district office a petition signed by 5 residents of the district. A candidate must be a resident of the district. The annual meeting shall be held at a date determined by the board. Notice of the annual meeting shall be published in the official newspaper of record for the area in which the district is located at least 45 days prior to the date of the annual meeting. This notice shall include the date, time, and location of the annual meeting, an agenda of items to be considered at the meeting, and a list of all candidates for directors of the district. A resident of a district who is unable to attend the annual meeting may vote for the directors of the district by absentee ballot as follows:
    (a) In person at the district office, during regular business hours of the district office, at any time after publication of the notice and prior to the annual meeting.
    (b) By mail received at the district office at any time after publication of the notice and prior to the annual meeting.
    (3) Following the annual meeting, director elections shall be certified by the department. A director shall hold office until a successor has been elected and qualified. Vacancies shall be filled by appointment by the board until the next annual meeting.
    (4) The department shall notify the district of its determination on election certification within 90 days after the election. If the department does not certify the director election, the board shall call a special election. The procedures for the special election shall be the same as those for an election at the annual meeting. However, if the board received notification that the department would not be able to certify the director elections from a special election at least 120 days before the next annual meeting, the vacancies shall be filled at the next annual meeting.
    (5) A majority of the directors constitutes a quorum of the board, and the concurrence of a majority in any matter within their duties is required for the board's determination. A director is entitled to expenses, including traveling expenses necessarily incurred in the discharge of his or her duties. A director may be paid a per diem for time spent undertaking his or her duties as a director.
    (6) If at any time the board has an insufficient number of directors to constitute a quorum, the department shall appoint directors to fill the vacancies on the board. The appointed directors shall serve until new directors are elected as provided for in this section at the next annual meeting and the election is certified by the department. However, new directors who are elected to fill vacancies shall serve for the remainder of the vacated terms.
    (7) The board may employ a secretary, technical experts, and such other officers, agents, and employees, permanent and temporary, as the board may require, and shall determine their qualifications, duties, and compensation. Upon request of the board, the attorney general may, at his or her discretion, provide legal services to the district. The board may delegate to its chairperson, to 1 or more directors, or to 1 or more agents or employees any powers and duties that the board considers proper. The board shall furnish to the department, upon request, copies of ordinances, rules, regulations, orders, contracts, forms, and other documents that the board adopts or utilizes and any other information concerning the board's activities that the department may require in the performance of its duties under this part.
    (8) The board shall do all of the following:
    (a) Provide for the execution of surety bonds for all district employees and officers who are entrusted with funds or property.
    (b) Provide for the keeping of a full and accurate record of all proceedings and of all resolutions, regulations, and orders issued or adopted.
    (c) Determine the fiscal year of the district.
    (9) To be eligible for a grant of $50,000.00 or more from the department, a district shall do all of the following:
    (a) Annually submit to the department a budget setting forth the purpose and amount of the expenses expected to be incurred and the source and amount of revenue expected to be received during the ensuing fiscal year.
    (b) Maintain accurate financial records of receipts and disbursements and uniform accounting in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles under procedures prescribed by the department.
    (c) Provide for a biennial independent certified audit by a certified public accountant of the financial records, accounts, and procedures of the district. The audit report shall show profits and losses and the financial condition of the district.
    (d) Agree to comply with subsection (10), and agree to return any grant funds received if subsection (10) is violated.
    (10) A professional forester employed under a grant described in subsection (9) shall not use his or her position to do either or both of the following:
    (a) Compete with a private sector business.
    (b) Develop a client base for forestry consultation during hours when he or she is not employed by the district.
    (11) The department may promulgate rules to implement subsection (9). However, rules promulgated under this subsection shall remain in effect not later than June 11, 2016.
    (12) The board is responsible for the exercise of the powers and the performance of the duties of a conservation district under this part.
    (13) Any director may be removed by the department upon notice and hearing for neglect of duty or malfeasance in office, but for no other reason.
    (14) The board may invite the legislative body of any municipality or county located near the territory comprised within the district to designate a representative to advise and consult with the board on all questions of program and policy that may affect the property, water supply, or other interests of the municipality or county.


History: Add. 1995, Act 60, Imd. Eff. May 24, 1995 ;-- Am. 1998, Act 463, Eff. June 1, 1999 ;-- Am. 2002, Act 107, Imd. Eff. Mar. 27, 2002 ;-- Am. 2004, Act 439, Imd. Eff. Dec. 21, 2004 ;-- Am. 2013, Act 45, Imd. Eff. June 6, 2013 ;-- Am. 2013, Act 114, Imd. Eff. Sept. 24, 2013
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA





324.9308 Powers of district and board generally; restrictions.

Sec. 9308.

    (1) A conservation district organized under this part constitutes a governmental subdivision of this state and a public body corporate and politic, exercising public powers, and a conservation district and the conservation district board has all of the following powers, in addition to powers otherwise granted in this part:
    (a) To conduct surveys, investigations, and research relating to the conservation of farmland, forestland, and natural resources, to publish the results of the surveys, investigations, or research, and to disseminate that information upon obtaining the consent of the landowner or the necessary rights or interest in the lands. In order to avoid duplication of research activities, a district shall not initiate any research program except in cooperation with the government of this state or any of its agencies or with the United States.
    (b) To conduct demonstrational projects within the district on lands owned or controlled by this state or any of its agencies, with the cooperation of the agency administering and having jurisdiction of the lands, and on any other lands within the district upon obtaining the consent of the owner of the lands or the necessary rights or interest in the lands, to demonstrate by example the means, methods, and measures by which farmland, forestland, and natural resources may be conserved and soil erosion in the form of soil blowing and soil washing may be prevented and controlled.
    (c) To carry out preventive and control measures within the district including, but not limited to, engineering operations, methods of cultivation, the growing of vegetation, changes in use of land, and other measures to achieve purposes listed in declaration of policy, on lands owned or controlled by this state or any of its agencies, with the cooperation of the agency administering and having jurisdiction of the lands, and on any other lands within the district upon obtaining the consent of the landowners or the necessary rights or interests in the lands.
    (d) To cooperate or enter into agreements with and, within the limits of appropriations made available to it by law, to furnish financial or other aid to any agency, governmental or otherwise, or any landowner within the district or his or her designated representative, in the conducting of erosion-control and prevention operations within the district, subject to conditions as the directors consider necessary to advance the purposes of this part.
    (e) To obtain options upon and to acquire, by purchase, exchange, lease, gift, grant, bequest, devise, or otherwise, any property, real or personal, or rights or interests in property; to maintain, administer, and improve any properties acquired, to receive income from the properties, and to expend income in carrying out the purposes and provisions of this part; and to sell, lease, or otherwise dispose of any of its property or interests in property in furtherance of the purposes and provisions of this part.
    (f) To make available, on the terms it prescribes, to landowners or their designated representatives within the district and to other conservation districts, agricultural and engineering machinery and equipment, fertilizer, seeds, and seedlings, and other material or equipment that will assist landowners or their designated representatives to carry on operations upon their lands for the conservation of farmland, forestland, and natural resources and for the prevention and control of soil erosion.
    (g) To engage in plant rescue operations and to propagate, plant, harvest, and, subject to section 9304a, sell only conservation species. A conservation district that violates this subdivision is subject to a civil fine of not more than $100.00 per day of violation. An action to enforce this subdivision may be brought by the state or a county in the circuit court for the county in which the conservation district is located or in which the violation occurred.
    (h) To provide technical assistance to other conservation districts.
    (i) To construct, improve, and maintain structures as may be necessary or convenient for the performance of any of the operations authorized in this part.
    (j) To develop comprehensive plans for the conservation of farmland, forestland, and natural resources and for the control and prevention of soil erosion within the district or other conservation districts. The plans shall specify, in such detail as is possible, the acts, procedures, performances, and avoidances that are necessary or desirable for the effectuation of the plans, including the specification of engineering operations, methods of cultivation, the growing of vegetation, cropping programs, tillage practices, and changes in use of land; and to publish the plans and information described in this subdivision and bring them to the attention of residents of the district.
    (k) To take over, by purchase, lease, or otherwise, and to administer any farmland, forestland, or natural resource conservation project located within its boundaries undertaken by the United States or any of its agencies or by this state or any of its agencies; to manage, as agent of the United States or any of its agencies or of this state or any of its agencies, any farmland, forestland, or natural resource conservation project within its boundaries; to act as agent for the United States or any of its agencies or for this state or any of its agencies in connection with the acquisition, construction, operation, or administration of any farmland, forestland, or natural resource conservation project within its boundaries; to accept donations, gifts, and contributions in money, services, materials, or otherwise, from the United States or any of its agencies or from this state or any of its agencies, and to use or expend the money, services, materials, or other contributions in carrying on its operations; and to accept money, gifts, and donations from any other source not specified in this subdivision.
    (l) To sue and be sued in the name of the district; to have a seal that is judicially noticed; to have perpetual succession unless terminated as provided in this part; to make and execute contracts and other instruments necessary or convenient to the exercise of its powers; and to make, and from time to time amend and repeal, rules and regulations in a manner that is not inconsistent with this part to carry into effect its purposes and powers.
    (m) To borrow money for facilities or equipment for conservation purposes and pledge the assets of the district as collateral against loans. Any money borrowed shall be solely the obligation of the conservation district and not the obligation of the state or any other public entity in the state.
    (n) As a condition to the extension of any benefit under this part to, or the performance of work upon, any lands not owned or controlled by this state or any of its agencies, the directors may require contributions in money, services, materials, or otherwise to any operation conferring the benefits, and may require landowners to enter into and perform agreements or covenants as to the permanent use of the lands that will tend to prevent or control erosion on those lands.
    (o) To act as a compliance assistance agent for other federal, state, and county laws.
    (p) To act as the enforcing agency for a county if designated under section 9105.
    (q) To collaborate with the department in reviewing applications for exemption as qualified forest property under section 7jj of the general property tax act, 1893 PA 206, MCL 211.7jj[1].
    (r) Subject to subsection (2), in cooperation with the department, to evaluate nonindustrial private forestlands.
    (s) Subject to subsection (3), to provide landowners any of the following:
    (i) Technical assistance regarding potential environmental, ecological, and economic benefits of forestry, wildlife habitat, and wetland development and restoration.
    (ii) Contact information for qualified foresters.
    (iii) Contact information for other forest resource professionals that may have voluntarily provided information to the department.
    (2) Except as otherwise provided in this subsection, a conservation district shall not develop management plans for nonindustrial private forestlands. A district shall provide a landowner upon request with a list of qualified foresters to develop management plans. The list shall be developed and maintained by the department. If requested by a landowner, the conservation district shall post on its website notice that the landowner is seeking forest management plan preparation; timber harvesting, marketing, or thinning; or similar services. If, after the notice is posted for at least 30 days on the conservation district's website, a landowner is unable to identify a private forester willing to develop a forest management plan, the conservation district may, upon approval by the department, prepare a forest management plan for the landowner.
    (3) The exercise of powers under subsection (1)(s) does not affect the regulatory authority of any state department.
    (4) Unless authorized by the county board of commissioners of each county in which a conservation district is located, a conservation district shall not enforce state or federal laws.
    (5) Unless otherwise specifically provided by law, provisions with respect to the acquisition, operation, or disposition of property by other public bodies are not applicable to a district organized under this part.


History: Add. 1995, Act 60, Imd. Eff. May 24, 1995 ;-- Am. 1998, Act 463, Imd. Eff. Jan. 4, 1999 ;-- Am. 2013, Act 45, Imd. Eff. June 6, 2013
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA





324.9309 Cooperation between districts.

Sec. 9309.

     The directors of any 2 or more districts organized under this part may cooperate with one another in the exercise of any or all powers conferred in this part.


History: Add. 1995, Act 60, Imd. Eff. May 24, 1995
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA





324.9310 Cooperation of state agencies; agreements.

Sec. 9310.

    (1) Agencies of this state that have jurisdiction over, or are charged with the administration of, any state owned lands, and agencies of any county or other governmental subdivision of the state that have jurisdiction over, or are charged with the administration of, any county owned or other publicly owned lands, lying within the boundaries of any conservation district, shall cooperate to the fullest extent with the district in the effectuation of programs and operations undertaken by the district under this part. Agents of the district shall be given free access to enter and perform work upon such publicly owned lands.
    (2) A conservation district may cooperate with and enter into agreements with a county, township, municipality, or other subdivision of state government in implementing soil, water, forestland, and related land-use projects. A county, township, municipality, or other subdivision of state government through its governing body may cooperate with and enter into agreement with a conservation district in carrying out this part and may assist a district by providing it with such materials, equipment, money, personnel, and other services.


History: Add. 1995, Act 60, Imd. Eff. May 24, 1995 ;-- Am. 1998, Act 463, Imd. Eff. Jan. 4, 1999 ;-- Am. 2013, Act 45, Imd. Eff. June 6, 2013
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA





324.9311 Repealed. 1998, Act 463, Imd. Eff. Jan. 4, 1999.


Compiler's Notes: The repealed section pertained to termination of district.
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA





324.9312 Revision of boundaries; procedure.

Sec. 9312.

    (1) One or more conservation districts may petition the department for a revision in the boundaries of 1 or more conservation districts. The department shall not take action on the petition unless it is signed by a majority of the directors of each of the districts involved in the proposed revision. Within 30 days after receipt of a proper petition, the department shall cause notice of hearing to be given to the residents in the area or areas affected by the proposed revision as identified by the directors of a district and within 60 days hold a hearing to receive comments relative to the proposed change.
    (2) The department shall determine if the proposed revision as petitioned for is desirable. If it finds in the affirmative, the department shall issue an order that states that the boundaries of the districts are to be moved, merged, consolidated, or separated at a date specified in the order and includes the name and the revision of the boundaries of the revised district or districts.
    (3) Upon transmission of the order to the secretary of state, a certificate of due organization under seal of the state shall issue, if necessary, to the directors of the district as provided in this part. The revised district or districts shall have the same powers, duties, and functions as other districts organized under this part.
    (4) The department shall appoint the first board of directors of the revised district, 1 of whom shall be appointed for a term of 1 year, 2 for a term of 2 years, and 2 for a term of 3 years. Thereafter, directors shall be elected as provided in section 9307.
    (5) All assets, liabilities, records, documents, writings, or other property of whatever kind of the districts of which the consolidated district is composed shall become the property of the consolidated district, and all agreements made by, and obligations of, the former districts shall be binding upon and enforceable by the consolidated district. At the date specified in the department's order, the districts of which the consolidated district is composed shall cease to exist, and their powers and duties shall cease after that date. The consolidated district shall be governed by this part.


History: Add. 1995, Act 60, Imd. Eff. May 24, 1995 ;-- Am. 1998, Act 463, Imd. Eff. Jan. 4, 1999
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA





324.9313 Appropriations.

Sec. 9313.

     The necessary expenses of any conservation districts shall be made from appropriations made for those purposes.


History: Add. 1995, Act 60, Imd. Eff. May 24, 1995 ;-- Am. 1998, Act 463, Imd. Eff. Jan. 4, 1999
Popular Name: Act 451
Popular Name: NREPA



Rendered 8/16/2025 6:05 PM
Michigan Compiled Laws Complete Through PA 5 of 2025
Courtesy of legislature.mi.gov