EGLE urged to address shore erosion from sandbags and oppose House Bill 4385

The Michigan Legislature's recent meeting on June 4, 2025, focused on critical discussions surrounding natural resources and tourism, particularly the management of Michigan's water resources and the impact of beach hardening structures on the environment.

A significant point raised was the role of the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) in overseeing water management and ensuring public safety. The department has established a robust permitting system aimed at protecting both landowners and the lake ecosystem. However, concerns were voiced regarding the use of beach hardening structures, such as sandbags, which have been shown to cause more harm than good to surrounding shorelines. Evidence presented during the meeting indicated that these structures, initially intended as temporary solutions during high water events, are now contributing to ongoing erosion and ecological damage.

Participants urged lawmakers to oppose House Bill 4385, which could potentially circumvent existing permitting processes, thereby putting shared resources and landowner interests at risk. The discussion highlighted the need for collaboration between landowners and environmental agencies to ensure the protection of valuable ecosystems while also addressing property owners' concerns about shoreline erosion.

Representative Preston emphasized the legislative responsibility in managing these issues, reminding attendees that the ultimate accountability lies with lawmakers rather than state agencies. The meeting underscored the delicate balance between property protection and environmental conservation, with participants advocating for future solutions that prioritize both landowner rights and ecological health.

As the meeting concluded, the importance of ongoing dialogue and cooperation among stakeholders was clear, with a focus on finding sustainable approaches to shoreline management that benefit both the environment and local communities.