MUSKEGON, Mich — From industrial cesspool to a revitalization success, Muskegon Lake is finally making a comeback.
Back in 1987, Muskegon Lake was designated as an Area of Concern by the Environmental Protection Agency because of years of industrial pollution. After millions of dollars and a whole lot of help, the lake is nearly ready to remove itself from the list.
"The projects that are already planned that will be completed by the end of 2020 are enough for that [removal from the list]," said Kathy Evans, the Environmental Program Manager with West Michigan Shoreline Regional Development Commission.
There is one more major contaminate clean-up project as well as several fish and wildlife habitat restoration projects scheduled before the end of 2020. After that, the revitalization efforts shift to increasing recreational opportunities, like boat launches and fishing docks for the public.
The story of Muskegon Lake was shown to the public with the documentary, Back from the Brink earlier this week.
Future positive impacts from the restoration of the lake include increased property values, economic benefits, and an increase in tourism.
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