Macomb Today

State Representative Alicia St. Germaine (R-Harrison Township) has announced that the final state budget includes $800,000 to address the spread of Microseira wollei, also known as “muck,” in Lake St. Clair.

“This is a huge win,” said St. Germaine. “This achievement marks a significant milestone for Michigan. This funding is also a crucial step for the Save Lake St. Clair Advocacy Group and its more than 31,000 followers, who have tirelessly pushed for action and funding from elected officials and the state to address the pressing issue of this smelly, harmful algae that is known to contain E. coli. As the heart of the Great Lakes community, we must continue to work together to protect our environment, recreation, and blue economy. I’ve worked diligently to ensure this project’s inclusion in the state budget, and I’m proud to announce its success.”

The allocated funds will support a partnership between the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Macomb County Public Works Office over three years to remove and treat benthic algae from Lake St. Clair. The algae forms dense mats along the lakebed which can damage fish habitats, block boating access, and threaten one of Michigan’s key natural resources.

Lake St. Clair plays an important role in supporting over 50 marinas and thousands of boat slips as part of a busy lakefront economy. The unchecked spread of muck could limit access to these facilities, increase costs for local boaters and businesses, and negatively impact property values.

“The people of Macomb County deserve results,” said St. Germaine. “By securing this funding, we are taking real action to protect Lake St. Clair, safeguard our lake-based economy, and ensure families, boaters, and businesses can continue to enjoy this resource for generations to come.”