April 2023: Safe Digging Month

WHEREAS, April is traditionally the month when spring weather encourages Michiganders, excavators, and farmers to begin many small and large digging projects; and,

WHEREAS, each year, these projects result in unintentional damage to underground utilities and pipelines by those who fail to contact MISS DIG 811 to have underground utilities located; and,

WHEREAS, failure to contact MISS DIG 811 by calling 811 or visiting the organization’s website at MISSDIG811.org before digging is the number one reason why Michigan residents cause unintended damages to underground utilities; and,

WHEREAS, damages to underground utilities can cause service interruption, environmental harm, and personal injury, and even death; and,

WHEREAS, construction to improve the safety and reliability of state infrastructure is creating more excavating projects which makes contacting MISS DIG 811 and following safe digging procedures vital; and,

WHEREAS, MISS DIG 811 Inc. and Dig Safely coalition partners Consumers Energy, DTE Energy, SEMCO Energy, TransCanada Pipeline along with the Michigan Public Service Commission and Michigan legislators work year round to promote 811 and the MISSDIG811.org website to raise dig awareness and reduce underground utility damages; and, 

WHEREAS,  by calling 811 three working days in advance of any digging project; waiting three business days for utility marks to be made; respecting marked lines by visually siting the line throughout the course of excavation; and hand digging to verify location of marked lines before using power equipment with care within four feet of marks to protect underground utilities, excavators and homeowners can save time, money, and keep themselves safe; and, 

WHEREAS, with the ongoing partnership with utilities, one call centers, the national Common Ground Alliance organization, and state and local governments, all parties agree that safety is a shared responsibility;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim April 2023 as Safe Digging Month in Michigan.