Study targets effects, remedies of Spring Lake-area stormwater runoff

By: Deborah Johnson Wood

The GVSU Annis Water Resources Institute is spearheading a study, Rein in the Runoff, that will determine the effects of stormwater runoff from Spring Lake Village and Spring Lake Township on Spring Lake, the Grand River and Lake Michigan — and what can be done about it.

Stormwater runoff occurs when impervious surfaces—roadways, parking lots, rooftops — prevent stormwater from being absorbed into the soil. As the stormwater collects and runs off these surfaces it makes its way through drainpipes to a larger body of water, bringing with it pollutants that include fertilizers, oils, grease, road salt, bacteria from livestock, pet and human wastes, and sediment.

This generally causes water temperature and levels to rise, which in turn can cause environmental unbalance that damages habitat, wildlife, and the water.

But damage from runoff can adversely affect more than just the environment. Last year’s beach closings along the lakeshore meant economic losses due to reduced tourism, increased cost to taxpayers for cleanup, as well as rising costs associated with drinking water decontamination for countless communities whose water comes from Lake Michigan.

An open house and public information presentation is planned for June 25 at the Spring Lake Library, 123 E. Exchange Street. Open house runs 5 to 7 p.m.; the presentation from 7 to 7:30 p.m.

Source: Grand Valley State University Annis Water Resources Institute

Deborah Johnson Wood is the development news editor for Rapid Growth Media. She can be contacted at deborah@rapidgrowthmedia.com.