💦 Protecting Lake St. Clair (Plus Seasonal Resources!)

Dear Neighbor, 

From Grosse Pointe to Harsens Island — Lake St. Clair is what binds each and every one of our communities together. As costal residents, we know the importance of clean water. Not only do we depend on the lake for drinking water, but also for the economic development it drives and the recreational benefits it provides. 

The lake is also a source of memories, both old and new. Growing up in Grosse Pointe, my father would take my siblings and me fishing on Lake St. Clair during the summertime. Now, I enjoy keeping that tradition alive with my two sons, and I know many across our community look forward to making new memories with their families too. 

Because of this, representing our lakeshore district is a responsibility I take seriously. As we see an increasing number of extreme weather events that strain our aging infrastructure’s capabilities and send pollution into the water, it’s important for all of us — residents, local leaders, legislators — to work together to ensure the health of Lake St. Clair is protected for generations to come.  

In this special edition newsletter, I am excited to share some legislation and budget wins that will equip our state and local communities to improve our water infrastructure and protect one of our most important natural resources. Additionally, as boating and fishing season kicks into full swing, I have included some resources to help you navigate the waters legally and safely.  

As always, I’d love to hear from you about proactive ways we can work together to protect our unmatched water resources. Please feel free to reach out to my office to share your perspective on this or any issue — we are here to serve you. You can reach my office by calling (517) 373-7315 or emailing SenKHertel@senate.michigan.gov.  

Whether out on the water or at a coffee hour in the district, I hope to connect with you soon! 

Sincerely, 

Kevin Hertel
State Senator
District 12

Included in This Newsletter 

• Taking Action to Protect Lake St. Clair 
• Resources to Help You Enjoy the Lake 
• Upcoming Events 
• Contact Us 

Taking Action to Protect Lake St. Clair  

Investments in Clean Water Infrastructure 

Water is essential to our identity and way of life in our lakeshore community. As I mentioned before, Lake St. Clair is vital source of drinking water, economic prosperity and recreational opportunities.   

Unfortunately, though, our state’s water infrastructure is outdated, poorly rated, and in need of repair. As a result, communities along the shoreline have experienced a slew of negative effects including basement flooding and beach closures.  

Throughout my time in State Legislature, I’ve been focused on driving targeted investments to our community to make much-needed improvements to our clean water infrastructure. Among the nearly $600 million statewide dollars we secured in the 2024 budget to replace lead service lines, rebuild sewers and more around the state, $12 million was earmarked for projects here in District 12. This funding includes: 

• $5 million for the Chesterfield Interceptor to proactively address aging infrastructure in order to avoid catastrophes like sinkholes. 
• $5 million for the Saint Clair Shores Martin Drain District to address combined sewer overflows and prevent millions of gallons of wastewater from flowing into Lake St. Clair which contributes to beach closures and harmful algae blooms. 
• $2 million for Harsens Island to make critical updates to their batch wastewater treatment plant that will protect waterways, improve residents’ quality of life, and allow small businesses in the Sans Souci community to thrive.

Legislative Action to Preserve Our Water and Environment 

The health of our lakes and streams is intertwined with the overall health of our environment. As we continue to see an increasing number of severe weather events and extreme temperatures, my legislative colleagues and I have been working to pass innovative, evidence-based policies to combat the disastrous effects of climate change and preserve our state’s unmatched natural resources for generations to come. Some of this legislation includes:  

• The Clean Energy Future plan sets clean energy standards, promotes energy efficiency and creates the Office of Community and Worker Economic Transition. 
• Senate Bills 605–611 would require environmental protection and cleanup standards to ensure bad actors pay to clean up their pollution, rather than having taxpayers foot the bill. 
• Senate Bill 398 would strengthen the authority of the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) to protect Michigan’s water and natural resources from damage by dam operators and others. 
   

Resources to Help You Enjoy the Lake  

Stay Safe While Boating 

Living in Michigan, you’re never far from a lake. If you are going out on a boat or personal watercraft to enjoy the Michigan summer or go fishing, then you are likely going to need a Boating Safety Certificate. Fortunately, they are widely available and easy to get.  

Boaters born on or after July 1, 1996, will need a boater education card or boating safety certificate. While it’s not required that all residents obtain the safety certificate, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) encourages it for all boaters. There are a few ways to earn your boating safety certificate:  

• Online: Take a boating safety class at BoatEd.com. After you finish the class, you must pay the course fee and pass the final exam to print off your permanent Michigan boating safety certificate.  
• Classroom/In-Person: The DNR’s Recreational Safety Education Class Database has in-person classes available throughout the year and across the state. The Boater Safety Education classes are a few hours long and you will get your boating safety certificate upon successful completion of the final exam.  
• Other Options: The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and U.S. Power Squadron provide fundamental and advanced boating safety classes for residents. Some of the classes will provide the knowledge required to obtain a boating safety certificate. Visit cgaux.org/BoatingEd for more information and to enroll.  

For more information on boating in Michigan visit Michigan.gov/Boating. 

Watercraft Registration Renewal  

Online Self-Service Stations 

Watercraft owners can now renew their registration at Michigan.gov/SOS or by visiting one of the 160 conveniently located self-service stations statewide. Watercraft registrations are renewed on a three-year cycle and expire on March 31 of the third year. All watercrafts must be registered, except for the following:  

• Watercrafts measuring 16 feet or less in length, propelled by oars or paddles, and that are used for personal use. 
• Nonmotorized canoes and kayaks for personal use.  
• Rafts, surfboards, sailboards and swim floats, regardless of length.  
• Watercrafts registered in another state and only used temporarily in Michigan.

Boating Safety Tips 

Boating offers a unique opportunity to explore our state’s greatest natural landscapes while creating lasting memories with friends and family. However, it’s essential to prioritize safety to ensure a fun and incident-free experience. Whether you’re a seasoned mariner or a novice boater, adhering to safety guidelines can significantly reduce risks and enhance your enjoyment on the water. Below is a list of crucial boating safety tips designed to keep you and your passengers safe on the waters: 

• Wear a life jacket: Accidents happen, be prepared. Life jackets float — you don’t. 
• Alway remain sober: Alcohol can impair a boater’s judgment, balance, vision, and reaction time. It can also increase fatigue and susceptibility to the effects of cold-water immersion. 
• Check your boat before going out on the water: Make sure the boat is properly equipped and equipment is in good working condition. 
• Have a float plan: Inform someone who is not boating with you about the details of your trip, including — where you will be boating, the route you plan to travel, how long you will be gone, when you plan to return, and schedule check-in times.  
• Stay alert: Watch for other boats, swimmers, skiers and objects in the water. This is especially true when operating in crowded waterways, at night and when visibility is restricted.  
• Carry a cell phone or marine radio: Be prepared to call for help if you are involved in or witness an accident, your boat or the boat of another becomes disabled, or if you are in need of medical assistance.  

For additional details and safety information, please click here.  

2024 Fishing License 

Fishing is one of Michigan’s premier outdoor activities, and it’s fun for kids and adults alike. Whether you’ve been fishing your whole life or it’s your first time out, there’s much fun to be had with a rod and reel. You may not always catch a fish — but you will catch a new hobby and maybe even make it a regular recreational activity.  

Fishing licenses are affordable and can be bought at many stores or online at Michigan.gov/Fishing or Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses. Licenses can be purchased for the whole year for residents, nonresidents, seniors and even for daily fishing. These can even be combined with a hunting license to save money.  

When out on the water, it’s important that you carry your license and the state ID that you used to buy the license in case it’s requested by a Michigan Conservation Officer, a Tribal Conservation Officer or any law enforcement officer. If you have an electronic license, make sure you have access to it via a smartphone, tablet, or other device.  

There are several rules and regulations from the Michigan DNR to keep you, the animals and our beautiful environment safe. They are available in the yearly fishing guide, which you can pick up at many stores around Michigan, or you can find the guide online at Michigan.gov/Fishing. The fishing guide includes all the types of fish you can catch in Michigan, their seasonal schedule, how to spot some diseases in fish, how to fight back against invasive species, and unlawful activities, dozens of definitions, and terminology, and so much more. 

DNR Free Fishing Weekend 

Two days twice a year, you can enjoy one of Michigan’s premier outdoor activities — fishing — for free courtesy of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR). This year, the DNR’s Summer Free Fishing Weekend falls on June 8 and 9. 

During these days, fishing license fees will be waived, and all residents and out-of-state visitors may enjoy fishing on both inland and Great Lakes waters for all species of fish. Additionally, individuals will not be required to show a recreation passport for entry into state parks or boating access sites during the Free Fishing Weekend. Please note that all fishing regulations will still apply.  

If you’re wanting to plan ahead for future Free Fishing Weekends — the winter weekend is always the Saturday and Sunday of President’s Day weekend and the summer weekend is always the Saturday and Sunday following the first full week of June. 

Upcoming Events 

It is one of my top goals as your State Senator to have myself and my office be as accessible to you as possible. To share your thoughts on legislation or seek assistance with an issue, please join me at one of our upcoming district events: 

Coffee and Conversation 

WHEN: Monday, June 17, from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. 
WHERE: Harrison Township Public Library, 38255 Lanse Creuse Street, Suite A, Harrison Township, MI 48045 

WHEN: Friday, June 21, from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 
WHERE: District Office, 28800 Harper, Saint Clair Shores, MI 48081 

District Office Hours with Staff 
WHEN: Every Thursday from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and by appointment. 
WHERE: District Office, 28800 Harper, Saint Clair Shores, MI 48081 

Contact Us 

If You Need Help: If you have a problem dealing with any department of state government, such as accessing unemployment benefits, my office is available to help resolve it. While we usually cannot assist with local or federal issues, we will always do our best to help direct you to the appropriate person or organization for help. 

You may always feel free to call my office at (517) 373-7315 or email me at SenKHertel@senate.michigan.gov.  

Keep Up to Date: Our bi-weekly newsletters are full of updates on what Team Hertel has been working on both in Lansing and District 12 to deliver results for Michiganders. To keep up to date with what we’ve been up to — sign up here to receive my bi-weekly newsletter, or access previous editions online here.  

For more frequent updates, I also encourage you to follow our team on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.