The Water Withdrawal Assessment Tool is intended for use prior to installing a new or increased large quantity withdrawal for the purpose of determining the potential impact to nearby water resources. Beginning February 28, 2006 all new withdrawals are prohibited from causing an adverse resource impact to the waters of the state. The Water Withdrawal Assessment Tool is currently in an evaluation period where its use is optional. Beginning July 9, 2009 use of the assessment tool will be required of all new withdrawals prior to installation.

Michigan's Water Withdrawal Assessment Tool

The Water Withdrawal Assessment Tool is the central component of the Water Withdrawal Assessment Process- the means by which Michigan regulates large quantity withdrawals in the management of our water resources. A brief summary of the fundamental basis of this process, and how it operates is available here:

Considering aquatic ecosystems: The basis for Michigan's new
Water Withdrawal Assessment Process