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Coastal management

The Big Sable Lighthouse after a storm with impressive clouds
Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy

Coastal management

Michigan is the steward of the nation’s longest freshwater coastline, surrounded by four of the five Great Lakes and making up 62% of the total Great Lakes basin shoreline. From sandy beaches and dunes to rocky bluffs and wetlands, Michigan's coast is diverse and dynamic – but also vulnerable to erosion, fluctuating lake levels, and climate impacts.

  • Program administration and policy

    The program guides coastal policy and coordination, ensuring consistent management, regulatory updates, and public involvement in protecting Michigan’s coastal resources.

  • Technical assistance

    Michigan’s Great Lakes coast faces increasing risks from changing water levels and storms, making community resilience critical. EGLE provides the tools and training communities need to plan for and adapt to these challenges.

  • Grants and funding

    The program provides annual grant funding to help coastal communities strengthen natural resources, enhance public access, and improve resilience to climate impacts.

Focus areas

Coastal communities

Coastal habitat

Learn about:

Coastal hazards

Coastal waters

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Public access

Our mission

Established in 1978, the Michigan Coastal Management Program (MCMP) supports coastal communities through: 

  • Technical assistance and strategic grant funding
  • Tools to assess and reduce coastal hazards
  • Habitat protection and restoration projects
  • Sustainable public access and eco-tourism initiatives
  • Research and collaboration for resilient coastlines

Why coastal management matters

Michigan’s coastal zone is home to millions of residents, key industries, and unique ecosystems. Managing this shared resource requires science-based planning, innovative design, and public participation.

Michigan coastal management program logo - Fresh coast, Best coast.

Fresh coast, best coast.

The Michigan Coastal Management Program works to balance environmental protection, community needs, and economic vitality for a sustainable future.

Contact us

Ronda Wuycheck, Program Manager, Michigan Coastal Management Program

WuycheckR@Michigan.gov or 517-420-5921

Coastal resources and tools