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Wetland Restoration

Contact

EGLE VWR Coordinator: Michael Van Loan 517-899-7004

DNR VWR Coordinator: Randy Knapik 517-282-7783

VWR Floodplain Engineer: Donna Cervelli 517-243-6951

Sandhill crane in managed Hemi marsh wetland in Shiawassee River State Game Area
Managed Hemi marsh wetland in Shiawassee River State Game Area

Who can apply under the VWR Program?

  • A state, federal, or tribal agency.
  • A non-governmental organization whose stated primary purpose includes wetland conservation.
  • A Person in partnership through a written agreement with any of the above.

Entities listed above can request a meeting with VWR staff to discuss a potential project prior to submission of a permit application at no cost. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the proposed project, identify if EGLE permits are required, and if so, discuss potential permitting issues and ways to maximize net increases in wetland functions and services. To request a VWR Pre-Application meeting, submit an electronic request via our online permitting system, MiEnviro.

VWR Virtual Training Sessions

The VWR team has provided training on different aspects of the VWR program since the program's creation in 2019.  Recordings of those training sessions can be found at the links below:

Introduction to the MI VWR Program

VWR and EGLE's Resource Program (Regulations)

VWR and Part 315 - Dam Safety

Potential Funding Opportunities

Assistance may be available for voluntary wetland restoration projects through a variety of wetland restoration programs designed to help landowners who wish to restore or enhance wetlands on their property. Partners that have established wetland restoration programs in Michigan include:

Grand funds may also be available to conduct wetland restoration projects from:

Technical Resources

The following are links to technical resources regarding wetland restoration:

The Voluntary Wetland Restoration program is interested in establishing new partnerships and working relationships with individuals, watershed groups, conservation organizations, governmental agencies, and businesses involved with or interested in wetland restoration. If you have questions about EGLE's Voluntary Wetland Restoration Program or would like additional information on restoring wetlands, please contact the EGLE VWR Coordinator Michael Van Loan at 517-899-7004 or VanLoanM@Michigan.gov; or the DNR VWR Coordinator Randy Knapik at 517-282-7783 or KnapikR2@Michigan.gov.