Skip to main content

Office of the Clean Water Public Advocate

A splash of clear blue water against a white background
Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy

Office of the Clean Water Public Advocate

The Office of the Clean Water Public Advocate (OCWPA) was created through Governor Whitmer’s Executive Order 2019-06. The Office operates as a type 1 agency within the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) to elevate concerns and has a direct connection to the Governor’s Office.

The OCWPA primarily serves as a resource and facilitator of communication between other offices, state agencies, community partners, and the public in issues related to drinking water. Exploring gaps and recommending potential improvements to policies, procedures, and regulations to support the continued improvement of Michigan’s drinking water response and regulation is part of what we do as well. The OCWPA also ensures that the public can report drinking water concerns through the statewide concerns reporting system and that those concerns are heard and investigated by the appropriate entity. 

Drinking Water Week

Michigan recognizes national Drinking Water Week May 5 – 11, 2024. EGLE’s Office of the Clean Water Public Advocate (OCWPA) collaborates with other state divisions and agencies in using this week to educate the public on where their drinking water comes from, how to learn about their water quality, and who to contact with questions. This year also marks a historic milestone – the 50th anniversary of the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). Celebrate the importance of safe drinking water and recognize the invaluable work our water professionals this Drinking Water Week!

Learn more about your drinking water
hand holding glass of water

Water Assistance

If you are having a hard time paying your water or other utility bills, there may be help. Michigan 2-1-1 is an easy way to connect with help of all kinds, right in your community. Need help with food, housing, or paying bills? Need support in a family crisis or community disaster? We're here for you. Any time. All the time. Just call, text, or search online and we'll get you connected.

Visit MI211.org
An overhead view of a woman typing on a laptop

Concerned about your drinking water?

The online drinking water concern system was developed to provide Michigan residents with an additional channel to submit their water quality concerns to EGLE or their Local Health Department (LHD).

Let us know
Clinton River Watershed Council volunteers and some of the trash they collected during one of the group's annual clean up events

Get Involved

Here are a few ways that you can lend your voice to improve water quality in Michigan.