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The public is always welcome at meetings of the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission. View agendas, materials, and minutes for upcoming and past meetings here. MEETING MATERIALS, AGENDAS, & MINUTES Have Questions? Contact our commission clerk for assistance with documents. Archived meeting minutes and agendas are available upon request. BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS Learn more about the Board Exec Minutes BOC Minutes Navigate to a Committee Board of Commissioners Executive Committee CARTS (Transportation) Regional Economic Collaborative GLRC on Stormwater Management Groundwater Management Board Mid-Michigan Water Authority Rural Task Force Archive EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Learn more about our leadership Meetings Calendar Tri-County is committed to open and accessible events. Requests for interpretation, accommodations for persons with disabilities, and assistance with additional needs should be made five business days in advance of the meeting date. Pueden hacerse arreglos para personas con discapacidades y para aquellos con dominio limitado del idioma inglés. Envíe un correo electrónico o llame al 517-393-0342 para indicar sus necesidades. CAPITAL AREA REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION STUDY Learn more about CARTS CARTS Minutes Archive 2015 2014 2019 2018 2023 2022 2013 2012 2017 2016 2021 2020 2024 2025 RURAL TASK FORCE Learn more about RTF RTF Minutes REC Minutes REGIONAL ECONOMIC COLLABORATIVE Learn more about REC GROUNDWATER MANAGEMENT BOARD Learn more about the GMB GMB Minutes GROUNDWATER MANAGEMENT BOARD EXECUTIVE SUBCOMMITTEE Learn more about the GMB MMWA Minutes MID-MICHIGAN WATER AUTHORITY Learn more about the MMWA

Leading innovative public planning for Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham counties to foster prosperity in Mid-Michigan's communities, the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission believes in developing a sustainable future for our region's economy, natural resources, and transportation system for the Greater Lansing area. | | | | IIJA INFORMATION EMPLOYMENT NEWS CONTRACT OPPORTUNITIES DATA DASHBOARD Visits to Tri-County's office are available by appointment only, unless attending a meeting open to the public. Our team is working a hybrid schedule and email communication is encouraged. For general inquiries and assistance, or to make an appointment, contact us . ABOUT PROGRAMS & SERVICES PROJECTS & DOCUMENTS GET INVOLVED More... MEETINGS & EVENTS MINUTES & AGENDAS CONTACT US Tri-County Seeking Economic Development Planner The Tri-County Regional Planning Commission (Tri-County) is seeking a driven, innovative, and dynamic individual to join our team as our Economic Development Planner! Tri-County is centrally located in Lansing, the state capital of Michigan, around the corner from Michigan State University and home to a variety of recreational amenities, entertainment options, and diverse urban and rural living choices. Tri-County offers generous benefits, including medical and dental insur NEWS Feb 24 Tri-County Seeking Finance Manager The Tri-County Regional Planning Commission (Tri-County) is seeking a driven, innovative, and dynamic individual to join our team as our Finance Manager! Tri-County is centrally located in Lansing, the state capital of Michigan, around the corner from Michigan State University and home to a variety of recreational amenities, entertainment options, and diverse urban and rural living choices. Tri-County offers generous benefits, including medical and dental insurance coverage NEWS Feb 5 Join Us! Public Invited to Virtual Town Hall for the Draft 2050 MTP The Tri-County Regional Planning Commission (Tri-County) is hosting a virtual town hall to gather community feedback on the draft 2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP), Moving-Mid Michigan . All individuals in Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham counties are encouraged to comment on the draft document, which includes planning programs and services that enhance mobility, as well as investments targeting regional infrastructure priorities over the next 25 years. Join us virtual EVENT Nov 25, 2025 WHAT'S HAPPENING AT TRI-COUNTY? View News & Announcements View Current Projects View Contract Opportunities WHAT WE DO TRANSPORTATION Planning for the movement of our people & goods. Allocating funds to improve our roads. Collecting data to analyze regional trends. Read More > ECONOMY Connecting organizations to funding for projects that grow our communities. Leading the conversation on economic prosperity. Read More > ENVIRONMENT Providing technical assistance to local governments. Educating the public in protecting our air & water resources. Read More > Programs WHO IS TRI-COUNTY? The Tri-County Regional Planning Commission is a public planning agency and data resource for Mid-Michigan's communities. We believe in developing a sustainable future for our region's economy, natural resources, and transportation system and infrastructure. We collaborate with local organizations and governments to plan for the growth and preservation of our urban and rural communities, developing regional blueprints that make the Greater Lansing area a great place to live, work, and play. LEARN MORE PUBLIC MEETING NOTICES View Meetings Calendar View Agendas & Minutes View Events & Opportunities

The Groundwater Management Board (GMB) is composed of representatives from Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham counties who work together to educate the public about groundwater protection, exchange knowledge about best practices, and assist local governments to keep our water resources clean. Events | Meeting Materials | Resources for Residents & Public Officials | News Updates Groundwater Management Board ABOUT RESOURCES HOT TOPICS GET INVOLVED What is Groundwater? What is Groundwater? Every day we turn on our faucets, showers, dishwashers, laundry machines, and countless other water-dependent conveniences without stopping to consider: where does all that water come from? For the tri-county region of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham counties, 100% of our water comes from below ground. Through a private well or a public utility, we all rely heavily on groundwater. This is the water that soaks into the ground as rain, melting snow, sprinkler spray, or from any other outlet. Thanks to gravity, water seeps through the different layers of soil and rock until it reaches a layer it can no longer pass through. From there, it will begin to pool and grow in size until it becomes an aquifer. An aquifer is an underground layer where all space between rocks and soil is filled by water. The top of the aquifer, where the water only fills some space between rocks and soil, is referred to as the water table. The water table level can change throughout the year, or over the course of many years, depending on a variety of things like the demand for water pumped from wells, droughts, heavy rainfall, flooding events, or warm winters, just to name a few. If all this water is underground, how do we access it? In nature, cracks in rocks can cause water to rise to the surface due to variances in pressure, which may then result in the formation of a natural spring. In other cases, the water table can reach a high enough level so that it feeds into streams, rivers, or lakes. Luckily for us, we have designed technology to drill wells into these underground resources so that we can access them directly in our homes. Many homeowners have at least one or two wells that pump groundwater automatically – all they have to do is turn on the faucet. LEARN MORE How Do You Get Your Water? Urban Drinking Water People live closer together in urban environments, which means they require a unique design to ensure enough resources, like water, can be shared amongst all who live there. In most urban communities, public water utilities and municipalities are created to help clean and supply drinking water to households and businesses throughout a specific area. In the tri-county region, these public utility companies use their wells to pump groundwater through an intense filtration and treatment process that complies with federal regulations. Then, they send the newly filtered water back underground via a pipe network that connects directly to the water pipes in your home or place of business. The water you receive from your faucet goes through many steps to reach the clean, drinkable quality it has when you turn on the t ap. If you have any concerns about the water you’re receiving, check out the annual Consumer Co nfidence Report for your utility or municipality. If you have any further questions, always reach out to them directly. Public water utilities and municipalities work hard to give you clean water and want you to feel as confident about its quality as they do. FIND YOUR WATER PROVIDER Rural Drinking Water In less densely populated and more rural areas, most communities use a combination of approaches to supply residents with drinking water. Some towns and villages supply treated drinking water for the majority of their population, while some may still rely on private well water. Because of this split, homeowners might not know where their water actually comes from. A property may have originally gotten its water from a private well but could have transitioned to a public water supply as it changed hands from owner to owner. Over time and throughout the growth of a community, this heightens the risk of groundwater pollution as a result of improper care for forgotten or otherwise unprotected wells. Even if you are certain your water comes from a public utility company, there is a chance your property could be home to an improperly abandoned well. Wells that are not properly sealed when abandoned pose a high risk of pollution by giving contaminants direct access to groundwater reserves and, in turn, the drinking water you bring into your home. Common household chemicals such as fertilizers, oil, and road salt are among the most likely pollutants to enter groundwater through improperly abandoned wells. To find out if there are any abandoned wells on your property, check any historical property documents you may own, search your property on Michigan Wellogic, or reach out to your local Health and Human Services Department for additional information and assistance. LEARN MORE About The GMB: Protecting our Resources With Michigan leading the country in number of private household wells, it’s important to know how you get your water so you can properly protect the groundwater we all depend on. Though the different layers of rock and soil help to filter the water entering our aquifers, there are many things that can pollute this resource. Landfills, septic tanks, overuse of fertilizers and pesticides, and large quantities of salt can all contaminate our water – because groundwater is hard to access, it’s also hard to clean if it becomes polluted. That's where we come in! Founded in 1982, the Groundwater Management Board (GMB) is composed of representatives from Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham counties who work together to educate the public about the importance of groundwater protection, exchange knowledge about best practices, and assist local governments to keep our water resources clean. We are managed by the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission and designated by the State of Michigan as the regional Large Water Users Group for the coordination of groundwater management and related water disputes. Get Involved Learn more about our meetings, events, and how you can get involved with the Groundwater Management Board! GET INVOLVED Past Projects Read more about the history, past projects, and creation of the Groundwater Management Board. LEARN MORE Bylaws & Delegates Visit the GMB Committee page to learn more about our guiding documents and delegates from our member communities! VIEW HERE Hot Topics Hot Topics & Announcements Bring a Water Expert to Your Classroom! Latest on Groundwater Surveying in Michigan's Capital Region Protecting Homeowners and Our Waters: Septic Systems of Mid-Michigan Updated Wellhead Protection Viewer Offers Access to Regionwide Groundwater Data The Michigan PFAS Action Response Team (MPART) The Groundwater Management Board is supported and managed by the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission CONTACT INFORMATION 3135 Pine Tree Rd. | Suite 2C | Lansing, MI 48911 | Directions P: (517) 999-8912 | Email Us CONNECT WITH US STAY IN TOUCH SUBSCRIBE © 2020 by the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission. All rights reserved. Disclaimer | Accessibility | FOIA | Sitemap

The Wellhead Protection Viewer is an interactive online mapping application that provides a variety of data – including well locations, time of travel areas, brownfields, potential contamination source locations, and more – to help protect our region's groundwater resources. HOME > PROGRAMS & SERVICES > DATA & MAPPING > WELLHEAD PROTECTION VIEWER The Wellhead Protection Viewer is an interactive online mapping application that provides a variety of data – including well locations, time of travel areas, brownfields, potential contamination source locations, and more – so communities and organizations can be better informed when making development decisions that may affect our groundwater throughout Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham counties. This tool is a useful resource for planners looking to identify locations at greatest risk for groundwater contamination when preparing site plan reviews, emergency response plans, and risk and resilience assessments, all of which help protect our drinking water at its source! Since its creation in 1999, the Viewer has undergone numerous updates to provide this data and continues to be made available for public use thanks to a combined effort of grant funding, cost sharing, and regional collaboration between Tri-County and member communities of the Groundwater Management Board (GMB) . To utilize the full application, click here . Training Videos Check out the gallery below to view the full collection of training videos about the various features of the Viewer. Please note that these materials were created as part of the latest update to the Viewer in August 2025 and may not reflect changes to layers or capabilities added after that date. If you have further questions or require technical assistance, contact Lauren Schnoebelen, our Environmental Planner, at lschnoebelen@mitcrpc.org . WPV History History of Regional Groundwater Protection & The Wellhead Protection Viewer As a region that relies primarily on groundwater for our drinking water supply, wellhead protection plans play a vital role in our communities’ efforts to ensure our water is safe and clean. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) (https://www.michigan.gov/egle/)assists local municipalities through their Wellhead Protection Program (https://www.michigan.gov/egle/0,9429,7-135-3313_3675_3695---,00.html)by helping them to identify and protect areas that contribute to their water supply and prevent or minimize groundwater contamination to avoid costly cleanup efforts. One of the major focuses of these plans are Potential Contaminant Source Inventories (PCSI): a detailed list of locations that pose a high risk of pollution for our groundwater resources, such as leaking storage tanks, oil and gas spills, septic systems, or abandoned wells, just to name a few. By providing a database for these PCSI locations like the Wellhead Protection Viewer, Tri-County and the GMB are able to offer communities access to this information so they may appropriately plan for projects to reduce the risk of groundwater pollution. To assist with funding for a wide range of these wellhead protection projects – including the maintenance of PSCI data, wellhead delineation studies, outreach and education materials, training opportunities, and more – EGLE’s Wellhead Protection Program provides communities with the opportunity to apply for the Source Water Protection Grant (https://www.michigan.gov/egle/0,9429,7-135-3313_3675_3695-31531--,00.html)each year. The Wellhead Protection Viewer was created thanks to this grant opportunity in 1999 and has continued to utilize its funding for updates in subsequent years. The latest improvements (https://www.mitcrpc.org/post/wpv-project-annoucement)to the Wellhead Protection Viewer were completed in August 2025, funded in part by the Source Water Protection Grant awarded to the East Lansing Meridian Water Sewer Authority. Thanks to an opportunity presented to Tri-County through our consultants at OHM Advisors, the Wellhead Protection Viewer was updated to include data for the entire tri-county region in addition to the originally included communities of Meridian Township and the City of East Lansing. Distinguishing Between Delineation Layers & When To Use Them There are two categories of groundwater delineation layers included in the Wellhead Protection Viewer: the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission Wellhead Protection Areas (TCRPC WHPA), and the Time of Travel (TOT) Areas. Each of these layers represent slightly different methods of modeling our region’s groundwater systems and it is important to understand the background of their creation when determining which layer will provide you and your community with the most relevant delineations. The first type of delineation layer, the TCRPC WHPA, was created using the Michigan Groundwater Management Tool (MGMT). This tool, developed by faculty at the Michigan State University Civil and Environmental Engineering Department and staff at Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (now the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy [EGLE]), analyzed groundwater flow using available well record data for delineating wellhead protection areas, contaminant migration, and groundwater flow direction from the statewide Wellogic database and inputting it into a 2D groundwater modeling software program. Given a few parameters, such as current groundwater levels, hydraulic conductivity of the pumped aquifer, well locations, and pumping rate, the tool was able to demarcate provisional delineations of the public groundwater supply. Providing this data to local communities offered those without the resources to produce delineations themselves a place to start when creating wellhead protection plans or developing other groundwater protection initiatives. The second type of delineation layer, the TOT Areas, was created using a United States Geologic Survey (USGS) model that utilized MODFLOW-2000 to create a 10-layer, grid-based, 3D model (composed of 3 layers in the glacial package; 6 layers in the Saginaw Formation [of which there are 3 aquifer units and 3 confining units]; and 1 layer to represent the bedrock beneath the Saginaw Formation). The data in these layers covers a select portion of the tri-county region and has undergone various updates over the years. As of August 2020, the TOT data for Michigan State University and Delta Township is from 2007, and the TOT data for Lansing Board of Water and Light and East Lansing Meridian Water Sewer Authority is from 2017. https://static.wixstatic.com/media/undefined It is important to note that in almost all cases, the MGMT/TCRPC WHPA layers matched the traditional USGS/TOT layers very closely when compared by an EGLE modeler. However, because of the more in-depth modeling method used to create the USGS/TOT delineations, it is recommended that USGS/TOT layers are used wherever they do exist. Where they are not available, the MGMT/TCRPC WHPA layers should be used to provide a baseline delineation to work from. The photo on the left illustrates the two types of layers, with the TOT layers in orange, yellow, and green transparent shapes; and the WHPA layers in red and blue-dotted shapes. Report an Error in the Wellogic Well Records Because individual well records are maintained by the state and not Tri-County, we ask that any identified errors in your well records are reported directly to Wellogic.(https://www.egle.state.mi.us/wellogic/Login.aspx?ReturnUrl=%2fwellogic%2fdefault.aspx) To report an error in the well log on the Viewer's Wellogic layer, please email Wellogic Help at wellogic@michigan.gov (mailto:wellogic@michigan.gov?subject=Well Record Error - Well ID:)with the Well ID and the reason for the change. For more information about the Wellogic system, check out their FAQ page here.(https://www.michigan.gov/egle/faqs/drinking-water/wellogic)

Visit our resources page for a deeper dive into the importance of groundwater, or check out our educational resources section for activities (and printable fact sheets) designed to educate groundwater guardians of all ages!​ Learn More About Groundwater Visit the following websites for a deeper dive into the importance of groundwater, or check out our educational resources section for activities (and printable fact sheets) designed to educate groundwater guardians of all ages! American Groundwater Trust Definitions and Explanations An Important Rural Resource, Understanding Groundwater Groundwater Foundation – What is Groundwater? NGWA - Groundwater Fundamentals Well & Septic Maintenance Because drinking wells are a direct link to our groundwater, it’s important to keep in mind what materials and objects we bring into close proximity to them. Many common and necessary household chemicals can impact the safety of your well water, and it’s especially important to consider the location of your septic system if you have one. Refer to this helpful well-siting diagram based on the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s recommendations and check out our resources section for more information! Anchor 1 WATER QUALITY TESTING This is a great place to tell your story and give people more insight into who you are, what you do, and why it’s all about you. WATER QUALITY TESTING WELL INSPECTION This is a great place to tell your story and give people more insight into who you are, what you do, and why it’s all about you. WELL INSPECTION SEPTIC SYSTEM INSPECTION This is a great place to tell your story and give people more insight into who you are, what you do, and why it’s all about you. SEPTIC SYSTEM INSPECTION SEPTIC SYSTEM PUMPING This is a great place to tell your story and give people more insight into who you are, what you do, and why it’s all about you. SEPTIC SYSTEM PUMPING More Resources for... Events | Meeting Materials | Resources for Residents & Public Officials | News Updates Learn More About Groundwater Groundwater Management Board ABOUT RESOURCES HOT TOPICS GET INVOLVED Learn More About Groundwater Visit the following websites for a deeper dive into the importance of groundwater, or check out our educational resources section for activities (and printable fact sheets) designed to educate groundwater guardians of all ages! American Groundwater Trust Definitions and Explanations An Important Rural Resource, Understanding Groundwater The Groundwater Foundation USGS : What is Groundwater? Groundwater Glossary National Ground Water Association - Groundwater Fundamentals American Water Works Association American Water Works Association Michigan Section Michigan Groundwater: The Basics Well & Septic Maintenance Well & Septic Maintenance Because drinking wells are a direct link to our groundwater, it’s important to keep in mind what materials and objects we bring into close proximity to them. Many common and necessary household chemicals can impact the safety of your well water, and it’s especially important to consider the location of your septic system if you have one. Refer to this helpful well-siting diagram based on the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s recommendations and check out our resources section for more information! WATER QUALITY TESTING Test your water quality once every spring! LEARN MORE WELL INSPECTION Have your well inspected annually! LEARN MORE SEPTIC SYSTEM INSPECTION Inspect your septic system every 3 years! LEARN MORE Have your septic tank pumped every 3-5 years! LEARN MORE SEPTIC SYSTEM PUMPING Resources More Resources for... Rural Communities & Private Well Owners Like many other household appliances, owning a private drinking well on your property requires regular maintenance and care. Though government standards regulate public water suppliers, a homeowner with a private well is responsible for their water and the upkeep of the infrastructure that goes along with it. This means keeping up with regular maintenance of your drinking well components and monitoring your water quality. Check out this video to learn more about how wells work, and navigate the links below for helpful information and assistance in maintaining your well year-round. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JSM4FlPys8w What to Know About Private Wells • Michigan Well Records System: Wellogic(https://www.egle.state.mi.us/wellogic/Login.aspx?ReturnUrl=%2fwellogic%2fdefault.aspx) • NGWA Well Owners Guide(https://wellowner.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2021-WellOwners-Guide.pdf) • Water Systems Council – Well Diagram(https://www.watersystemscouncil.org/water-well-help/well-diagram/) • Enroll in a Private Well Class(https://privatewellclass.org/enroll) • CDC Drinking Water – Private Wells(https://www.cdc.gov/environmental-health-services/php/water/private-water-public-health.html) Wellhead Protection Viewer(https://www.mitcrpc.org/wellhead-protection-viewer) Testing Private Wells and Water Quality • Be Well Informed Tool: Understanding Your Water Testing Results(https://www.bewellinformed.info/workbench) • NebGuide Drinking Water – Testing for Quality(http://extensionpublications.unl.edu/assets/pdf/g907.pdf) • EGLE Drinking Water Testing(https://www.michigan.gov/egle/0,9429,7-135-3307_4131_4155---,00.html) • Water Research Center – Private Well Owner Online Water Quality & Drinking Water Problems(http://private-well-owner.org/) • EGLE Drinking Water Concern System(https://www.michigan.gov/egle/about/organization/clean-water-public-advocate/report) • Eaton County Conservation District Testing Form (https://eatoncd.org/well-water-testing) Private Well Financing and Construction • Well Financing(https://www.watersystemscouncil.org/water-well-help/well-financing/) • Private Well Assistance & Low Interest Loans(https://www.glcap.org/programs/home-repair-needs/private-well-assistance/) • EGLE Well Construction Contractors Directory(https://app.powerbigov.us/view?r=eyJrIjoiNDAxMDlhMDgtMzUxNC00M2UzLWEyOWEtY2E0ZTM0YmIzNDg3IiwidCI6ImQ1ZmI3MDg3LTM3NzctNDJhZC05NjZhLTg5MmVmNDcyMjVkMSJ9) Abandoned Wells • EGLE Abandoned Well FAQ(https://www.michigan.gov/egle/about/organization/drinking-water-and-environmental-health/water-well-construction/abandoned-water-wells) • Michigan Abandoned Water Well Plugging Manual(https://www.michigan.gov/documents/deq/Plugging_Manual_411893_7.pdf) Caring for Your Septic System Septic systems are an important part of your household water system and require specific maintenance and consideration. Ensuring your septic system is well-maintained allows the used or soiled water from your home to be filtered and returned to its original groundwater source, maintaining the quality of drinking water for the entire community. Follow the links below for quick tips, county-specific guidance, and helpful maintenance information on homeowner septic systems. • Clinton County – Mid Michigan DHD Well and Septic(https://www.mmdhd.org/environmental-services/septic/) • Eaton County DHHS Environmental Health(https://www.barryeatonhealth.org/site-sewage-systems) • Ingham County ARPA Well and Septic Program(https://health.ingham.org/health/environmental_health/arpa.php) • Ingham County DHHS Well and Septic(https://health.ingham.org/health/environmental_health/well_and_septic.php) • Michigan Saves - Find Your Contractor(https://michigansaves.org/find-a-contractor/) • Michigan Septic Replacement Loan Program(https://michigansaves.org/Septic/) • Rural Septic System Checklist(https://www.publications.gov.on.ca/store/20170501121/Free_Download_Files/300061.pdf) • Septic Care(https://www.clintonconservation.org/septic-system-info) • Explore the Do's and Don'ts of Septic Systems(https://www.gbra.org/presentations/septic/index.html) Urban Communities: Find Your Local Provider Major Public Water Providers • Lansing Board of Water and Light(https://www.lbwl.com/customers/water-resource-center/water-supply-treatment-distribution) • East Lansing Meridian Township Water and Sewer Authority(https://www.cityofeastlansing.com/587/EL-Meridian-Water-Sewer-Authority) • Michigan State University Infrastructure Planning & Facilities (https://ipf.msu.edu/environment/water) • West Side Water(http://westsidewater.com/) • City of Williamston(http://www.williamston-mi.us/Departments/WaterSewer.aspx) • Delta Township(https://www.deltami.gov/departments/utility/index.php) • Village of Webberville(https://webbervillemi.com/department-of-public-works/) GMB Water Quality Report(https://mitcrpc.box.com/v/GMBWaterQualityReports) Public Water Recommendations & Information • EGLE Drinking Water Concern System(https://www.michigan.gov/egle/about/organization/clean-water-public-advocate/report) • CDC Community Water Treatment(https://www.cdc.gov/drinking-water/about/how-water-treatment-works.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/drinking/public/water_treatment.html) • Understanding Your Water Quality Report(https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2018-02/documents/epa-ogwdw-ccr-infographic-v5_508.pdf) • Michigan Water Infrastructure Funding and Finance Dashboard(https://egle.maps.arcgis.com/apps/dashboards/7145fc6109174768963e55b76c86e85c) Public Officials & Community Leaders The following resources offer specific information regarding several groundwater-related topics that may be relevant for local leaders and policymakers to consider when making choices or recommendations for their communities. Contact us with any questions, concerns, or inquires about additional topics that may be of interest to our regional municipalities. • Managing Water for Health in a Changing Climate(https://bria2.maps.arcgis.com/apps/Cascade/index.html?appid=6bf09cdf07b94eceba91f8af638754dd) • Michigan PFAS Action Response Team(https://www.michigan.gov/pfasresponse/about) • MI Water Navigator – Water Infrastructure Helpdesk(https://miwaternavigator.org/) • MPART Sampling Guidance(https://www.michigan.gov/pfasresponse/0,9038,7-365-88059_91297---,00.html) • Smart Salting for Property Management Manual(https://www.pca.state.mn.us/sites/default/files/p-tr1-11.pdf) • Statewide chloride resources | Minnesota Pollution Control Agency(https://www.pca.state.mn.us/business-with-us/statewide-chloride-resources#model) • Sampling Zoning Amendments and Program for Groundwater Protection (https://www.canr.msu.edu/planning/uploads/files/groundwaterzoneamend.pdf) Community Members Be Well Informed (https://bewellinformed.info/workbench) Clean Sweep Program: Old Pesticides and Herbicides Drop-Off(https://health.ingham.org/health/environmental_health/household_hazardous_waste.php) Cleaning Your Aerators (https://mitcrpc.box.com/s/g907asrubd5ui34zsndk5uc0kn2rn394) Department of Health & Human Services Resources(https://mitcrpc.box.com/s/kerhf07bcnv63w4obkqadwxpakuv9d5s) GMB Branded Materials Sign Out Sheet (https://mitcrpc.box.com/v/GMBBrandedMaterialsSignOut) Groundwater Surveying in Michigan Capital Region (https://www.mitcrpc.org/groundwater-survey) Home Water Treatment (https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/water/docs/factsheet/hometreatment.pdf) Ingham County Point of Sale Brochure(https://docs.ingham.org/Department/Health%20Department/environmental%20health/POS_Brochure_update.pdf?t=202311221018550&t=202311221018550) What is an Abandoned Well?(https://www.michigan.gov/egle/about/organization/drinking-water-and-environmental-health/water-well-construction/abandoned-water-wells) Rural & Private Well Owner Resources Caring for Your Septic System Urban Water: Find Your Provider Resources for Public Officials Resources for Community Members Educational Resources Educational Resources Educating residents, community leaders, and future groundwater guardians means that we can ALL enjoy clean drinking water for years to come. Check out these resources for fun and engaging activities, lesson plans, and fact sheets. Aquifer in a Cup Build a Three-Pump Shared Aquifer Model EGLE Classroom: Community Water Supply EGLE Classroom: Resource Lending Station Lansing Wellhead Protection StoryMap Memory Mayhem: A Groundwater Puzzle Game The Aquifer Game The Groundwater Game Wellhead Wonders The Groundwater Management Board has a wide variety of display items and outreach materials for communities to use for community events or everyday use. Please fill out a GMB Branded Materials Sign Out Sheet and email it to migroundwater@mitcrpc.org . The Groundwater Management Board is supported and managed by the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission CONTACT INFORMATION 3135 Pine Tree Rd. | Suite 2C | Lansing, MI 48911 | Directions P: (517) 999-8912 | Email Us CONNECT WITH US STAY IN TOUCH SUBSCRIBE © 2020 by the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission. All rights reserved. Disclaimer | Accessibility | FOIA | Sitemap

Check out our upcoming meetings and events, and learn more about current events in the groundwater world! Upcoming Events Meeting Calendar GMB Meetings Community Events Groundwater in the News Events | Meeting Materials | Resources for Residents & Public Officials | News Updates Groundwater Management Board ABOUT RESOURCES HOT TOPICS GET INVOLVED Events Upcoming Events Community Events February 28: Quiet Adventures Symposium April 11-12: MSU Science Festival GMB Meetings Unless otherwise specified, all meetings are held at the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission in the Large Conference Room at 8:30 a.m. View meeting packets and minutes here . Past meeting materials and minutes are available in our archive . February 11, 2026 (Annual Breakfast) April 8, 2026 June 10, 2026 August 12, 2026 October 7, 2026 December 9, 2026 Hot Topics & Announcments Hot Topics & Announcements Meeting Materials Bring a Water Expert to Your Classroom! Latest on Groundwater Surveying in Michigan's Capital Region Protecting Homeowners and Our Waters: Septic Systems of Mid-Michigan Updated Wellhead Protection Viewer Offers Access to Regionwide Groundwater Data The Michigan PFAS Action Response Team (MPART) The Groundwater Management Board is supported and managed by the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission CONTACT INFORMATION 3135 Pine Tree Rd. | Suite 2C | Lansing, MI 48911 | Directions P: (517) 999-8912 | Email Us CONNECT WITH US STAY IN TOUCH SUBSCRIBE © 2020 by the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission. All rights reserved. Disclaimer | Accessibility | FOIA | Sitemap

HOME > PROGRAMS & SERVICES > ENVIRONMENT > PLANNING AREAS > WATER QUALITY > GROUNDWATER MANAGEMENT Groundwater Management & Wellhead Protection With only 1% of the water on Earth being useable, the majority is groundwater, making it one of our most valuable but under-appreciated natural resources. Groundwater is used for drinking water by more than half of the people in the U.S. and is especially essential in the Greater Lansing area, where it makes up 99% of our drinking water resources. We recognize the importance of groundwater quality and lead a variety of efforts to address its management and protection in our region. The Groundwater Management Board Since 1982, Tri-County has hosted the Groundwater Management Board (GMB) to discuss policy matters, land use, and/or water development projects that may have a potential impact on groundwater resources and management in the region. The GMB's mission is to provide a multi-jurisdictional forum for coordination and cooperation to help assure adequate quantities and qualities of groundwater are available to meet regional needs. Wellhead Protection Viewer In partnership with the GMB, Tri-County also maintains a Wellhead Protection Viewer (WPV) . This interactive online mapping application provides a variety of data – including well locations, time of travel areas, potential contamination source locations, brownfields, and more – to municipalities so they can be better informed when making development decisions that may affect our region's groundwater resources. For additional information or technical support, please contact us . GMB Past Projects Past Projects Throughout our agencies' history, Tri-County and the GMB have been recognized as a Groundwater Guardian by the Groundwater Foundation for our efforts in groundwater protection. Throughout our agencies’ history, Tri-County and the GMB have coordinated to provide in-kind support, staff resources, and/or funding for a variety of projects, events, and outreach activities to promote groundwater research, stewardship, and informed decision-making, and educate residents and community leaders about their role in protecting this valuable resource. Read on to learn more about our project history, or visit the GMB webpage to get involved with our current efforts! Fiscal Year Work Plan https://static.wixstatic.com/media/7b8b7d_51231c2b83f64875bab115d844d68ab9~mv2.jpg The budget for fiscal year 2026 helps to fund the objectives of the work plan, which focus on four main tasks: technical projects, research and development, outreach and education, and program administration. There is a total of 18 objectives to account for the 1414 hours of dedicated staff time by the Tri-County Environmental Planner. These objectives reflect the technical and outreach priorities of members while providing a representation of the administrative needs and support needed to run the Groundwater Management Board. A new work plan and budget will be created each year, leading up to the new fiscal year, to provide a guiding document on what activities will be accomplished for the Board and for members to bring back to their communities to use in their continued efforts to protect and manage groundwater resources. To learn more about the activities and initiatives currently focused on by GMB, refer to this year’s work plan: FY 2026 Work Plan (https://mitcrpc.box.com/v/GMBFY2026WorkPlan) FY 2025 Work Plan (https://mitcrpc.box.com/v/GMBFY2025WorkPlan)FY 2024 Work Plan (https://mitcrpc.box.com/v/GMBFY2024WorkPlan) FY 2023 Work Plan (https://mitcrpc.box.com/v/GMBFY2023WorkPlan) FY 2022 Work Plan(https://mitcrpc.box.com/v/GMBFY2022WorkPlan) Lansing Metropolitan Area Groundwater Management Plan Published in 1982, the Lansing Metropolitan Area Groundwater Management Plan (https://mitcrpc.app.box.com/v/GroundwaterManagementPlan)was created after groundwater drawdown concerns with both municipal and private wells occurred across the region. This plan studied the geographic area of Watertown, DeWitt, Bath, Delta, Lansing, Meridian, Windsor, Delhi, and Alaiedon townships to define what the nature and extent of the drawdown impacts were and what they would be in the future, assess future community water supplies, and protect the region’s groundwater aquifer from contamination. Since publication, this plan has been used as the guiding document for the Groundwater Management Board to coordinate and optimizing management of the groundwater resources in the metropolitan area. It consists of six main recommendations which include: https://static.wixstatic.com/media/7b8b7d_e863aeb7c9d04ae89f4aab280dc05a9a~mv2.jpg • Coordination with other agency groundwater programs • Assess groundwater quality in the Lansing Metropolitan Area • Perform an on-going assessment of groundwater supply • Identify future sources of water • Coordinate groundwater management activities with other management programs • Implement a water conservation/education program designed to instruct GMB members, community officials, and citizens on the basic concepts of groundwater management Groundwater Surveying in Michigan Capital Region https://static.wixstatic.com/media/undefined To better understand our groundwater system, the Ingham County Health Department participated in the Southwest Michigan Groundwater and Monitoring Program, better known as the Michigan Groundwater Survey (MGS). This was a project started in 1983 by Western Michigan University with financial support from the W. K. Kellogg Foundation. As one of 18 communities in Michigan to participate in MGS, the county sampled over 300 wells and analyzed the groundwater quality of all 16 of its townships. This original survey, published as the "Report on the Aquifer of Ingham County," identified local concerns associated with activities - such as road salting - and levels of arsenic, nitrate, boron, and fluoride above drinking water standards and recommendations. The identification of these issues has been used by Ingham County to initiate programs to help protect our groundwater resources. At the time the MGS was conducted, the plan was to survey groundwater quality every 10 to 20 years to monitor any general changes; however, the original wells included in the MGS program have not been resampled since the 1983 study was completed in 1987. Recently, there has been interest in resampling these wells to compare current results with past analysis and to monitor overall groundwater quality across the entire tri-county region of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham counties through a groundwater surveying initiative.(https://www.mitcrpc.org/groundwater-survey) Photo courtesy of Garry Rowe. Environmental Permits Checklist Since the early 2000s, Michigan’s Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy’s Environmental Permits Checklist has been tailored to accommodate the specific needs of GMB communities and local stakeholders. This Environmental Permits Checklist customized for the tri-county region integrates contact information for representatives of relevant State of Michigan departments and each division serving jurisdictions within Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham counties. As of early 2023, the latest version of the Checklist has been released for use by staff of GMB members and regional partners for incorporation into their day-to-day activities, such as site plan reviews and wellhead protection planning. This tool is targeted toward community planners, local sustainability staff, environmental compliance specialists, emergency coordinators, and many more. To help users further understand the application of the checklist, an appendix has been developed to provide background on the different types of permits discussed in the checklist and additional contact information. Environmental Permits Checklist (https://mitcrpc.box.com/v/EnviroChecklist) Environmental Permits Checklist Appendix (https://mitcrpc.box.com/v/EnviroChecklistAppendix) Tri-County Water Policies and Programs Guide https://static.wixstatic.com/media/undefined Created in 2015, the Tri-County Water Policies and Programs Guide (https://www.mitcrpc.org/waterguide)serves as an informational tool and guidance document for decision makers and residents of Clinton, Eaton and Ingham counties. Developed by bringing together experts within the community, this document provides information, program initiatives, and regulatory actions on groundwater, drinking water, land use, surface water, and wastewater for the urban and rural areas of the tri-county region. It identifies local water protection activities, policy and programming gaps, best management practices, opportunities for complementary activities, and recommendations and plans for long term sustainability that were established and agreed to by the organizations involved at the time of its creation. Letter of Recommendation: Michigan State Capitol Geothermal Infrastructure With the passing of the 2017-2018 state budget, the Michigan State Capitol Commission began a project to upgrade the capitol building's infrastructure with a geothermal heating and cooling system. Due to the increased risks to groundwater resources, the members of the Groundwater Management Board (GMB) worked together to pen a letter of recommendations (https://mitcrpc.box.com/s/edl9zmpgpby5r4o2w26f191uscdd9oz5)to the Michigan State Capitol Commission. As a result, many of the recommendations made by the GMB were taken into consideration for the project and the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (now known as the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, or EGLE) appointed the GMB’s Geothermal Working Group as a stakeholder team to draft legislation on the matter. Wellhead and Groundwater Protection Audit Tool Created in 2011, the Wellhead and Groundwater Protection Audit Tool (https://mitcrpc.box.com/v/GroundwaterAuditTool) was developed to provide any community seeking guidance on their wellhead and groundwater protection strategies with a specific tool for evaluation. The auditing tool first examines a community's existing wellhead protection planning and implementation activities through an analysis of community documents, such as master plans, zoning ordinances, site plan review processes, and any other relevant plans or reports. This allows auditors to evaluate four important aspects of wellhead protection planning: 1. the identification of goals and objectives for improving or maintaining groundwater quality; 2. the identification of specific strategies that will allow the community to meet their stated goals and objectives; 3. an examination of ordinances/policy pertaining to groundwater protections; and 4. an analysis of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats to aid in the identification of barriers and to gauge room for improvement. Wellhead Protection Programs Michigan’s Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) (https://www.michigan.gov/egle/0,9429,7-135-3313_3675_3695---,00.html)Wellhead Protection Program assists local communities that depend on groundwater for their municipal drinking water supply systems by offering information and funding to help protect their water at its source. Through their Source Water Protection Grants,(https://www.michigan.gov/egle/0,9429,7-135-3307_3515-314515--,00.html) any element of a community's wellhead protection plan or activities may be eligible for funding. Both Tri-County and GMB have an important role in the application process for communities seeking this funding. Each year a portion of dues paid by GMB members is put toward the required project funding match, the GMB works with Tri-County as a clearinghouse to help administer the grant, and GMB assists in the completion or oversight of the grant project. Some projects created under this grant include: • Groundwater protection training series for local planners, engineers, and decision makers • Gap analysis studies on best management practices and long-term sustainability • Developing sources of readily-available water and environmental data for community access • Social media campaigns on groundwater education • A series of groundwater education presentations for policy and decision makers • Movie advertisements for local education on the value of groundwater • A permanent local groundwater display for children’s education at Impression 5 • The creation and maintenance of the Wellhead Protection Viewer(https://www.mitcrpc.org/wellhead-protection-viewer) • Potential Contamination Source Inventory updates for Wellhead Protection Plans https://static.wixstatic.com/media/undefined Capital Area Groundwater Alliance https://static.wixstatic.com/media/undefined Established in 2000, the Capital Area Groundwater Alliance (CAGA) was comprised of Greater Lansing communities involved in wellhead protection and worked toward coordinating efforts on their wellhead protection programs, outreach, and projects. One of CAGA's primary goals was to establish a recognizable entity for wellhead protection efforts across multiple communities and to formalize their relationships and activities. CAGA served as a great educational resource for communities by creating programs like Tap into Groundwater Protection: A Training Opportunity for Lansing Area Business (https://mitcrpc.box.com/v/CAGATAPtraining)and the Abandoned Well Program, which focused on creating materials to educate homeowners about properly abandoning a well (https://mitcrpc.box.com/v/AbandonedWellBrochure)on their property. CAGA was awarded the Innovation Award by the Michigan Association of Regions for their approach to educating the public on groundwater issues. Children's Water Festival https://static.wixstatic.com/media/undefined Created in 1995 with the goal of teaching children the value and vulnerability of water, the Children’s Water Festival (https://mitcrpc.box.com/v/ChildrensWaterFestivalHistory)was a regular event and feature of groundwater education in the region for over 20 years. The first festival saw over 1,000 children from schools around the tri-county area, offering attendees free entry and an interactive field trip for students to learn about the importance of our environment, water resources, and their role in protecting and conserving them. Following water festivals targeted 4th and 5th graders to better align with curriculm standards and help recruit future groundwater stewards. Though successful, the Children's Water Festival was an immense undertaking in fundraising, planning, and coordination with schools across the state, ultimately leading to a transition toward providing children's groundwater education activities as part of the MSU Science Festival and other local water education events. Regional Aquifer Study https://static.wixstatic.com/media/undefined Conducted over two phases (as of 2020) the Regional Aquifer Study was led by GMB and Tri-County to determine the quality and quantity of water in the region’s aquifer system. Conducted by the United States Geologic Survey (USGS) across nine townships, the first phase (https://pubs.usgs.gov/wsp/2480/report.pdf)began in 1991, when USGS created a detailed computer model of the aquifer system serving the tri-county region of Clinton, Eaton, and Igham counties, and used the model to delineate wellhead protection areas. In 2002, phase two (https://pubs.usgs.gov/sir/2009/5244/pdf/sir2009-5244.pdf)of the study used improved technology to update and refine the computer model to provide a better representation of the regional aquifer systems. Water Regionalization Study https://static.wixstatic.com/media/undefined In 1990, a study led by the GMB and Tri-County investigated the feasibility of developing a regional water system. Supported by 20 communities in the region, this study examined existing water infrastructure, predicted future needs into the year 2020, and projected five scenarios under which various communities could create shared water systems, resulting in significant monetary savings and system protections. After its completion in 1993, the study received an award from the Michigan Association of Regions for outstanding intergovernmental programs and ultimately lead to the formation of the Mid-Michigan Water Authority (https://www.mitcrpc.org/mmwa)in December 1995. By-Product Synergy https://static.wixstatic.com/media/b1dc76_39b85dfdb37c4e66aaeeff4af47ce09f~mv2.png Started by an EPA Pollution Prevention Grant in 2011, the By-Product Synergy (https://mitcrpc.app.box.com/v/ByProductSynergy)project focused on turning waste output from one company into a product stream for another company generating revenue while reducing or eliminating pollution at the source. The state-wide project included participants within a 75-mile radius around Lansing and focused on industries, such as Dow Chemical and General Motors, academic, and local governmental bodies. Through this project, connections were made to reduce the amount of aluminum chloride, chemical waste, copper waste, foil, food waste, non-chlorinated waste, and steel slag entering landfills across the region and reducing overall carbon dioxide and hazardous waste production. As an agency wide program at Tri-County Regional Planning Commission, By-Product Synergy focused on connecting the needs of one participant with the resources of another by: • Stakeholders providing expertise, support, and marketing. • Innovators looking at new ways to use, change, and repurpose waste products. • Participants bringing their waste streams to the table and looking for additional inputs into the system. Groundwater Education in Michigan (GEM) https://static.wixstatic.com/media/b1dc76_5601ba9e1cb245b2a9c6bfebb5cd68fb~mv2.png Established by W.K. Kellogg in 1897, the Groundwater Education in Michigan program focused on educating citizens and community leaders on groundwater and drinking water issues and the need to protect the quality of these resources. With the development of geographic information systems (GIS), the GMB became involved in the project in the early 1990s to educate local officials on groundwater and to highlight how GIS equipment could improve decision making processes. This coincided with the development of GEMNET, which was a computer network that allowed for the exchange of ideas and technology pertaining to groundwater in Michigan. Housed through the Groundwater Resource Center, GIS information was available on base maps, soils, zoning, toxic sites, census tracts, and land use, in addition to, an extensive physical library on periodicals, reports, brochures, guidebooks, pertinent legislation, and videos all targeted toward groundwater education and resources. Community Presentations & Knowledge Sharing The GMB convenes many regional stakeholders who play an important role in the management and conservation of our groundwater. With the opportunity to host so many key organizations, communities, and agencies together in one place, Tri-County's meeting space serves as an excellent venue to share information and host presentations on the latest research, hot topics, and changes to regulations and procedures. The following is a list of the many knowledge sharing activities, working groups, and presentations facilitated by the GMB over the years: • Hosted Wayne Jernberg from City of Grant Rapids to talk about Michigan’s Water and Wastewater Response Network • Hosted Stephen Gasteyer from Michigan State University to present on assessing attitudes and perceptions concerning risks to drinking water in Michigan. • Hosted Eric Oswald of Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy on regionalization of community water supplies. • Hosted Sandra M. Eberts of the United States Geological Survey, on the development of a Great Lakes groundwater and surface water conceptual framework. • Hosted Kaitlyn Kiessling of Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to present on the MiWell program • Hosted Tim Faas to give an overview of the MI WARN Program • Formed a working group on reviewing well abandonment, started by reviewing sanitary codes • Hosted the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) to speak to GMB members about the Source Water Protection Grant and its future status due to increased attention on PFAS in groundwater • Hosted Dr. Susan Masten of Michigan State University to give a presentation on lead and other groundwater contamination in Ingham County • Hosted Dr. Kurt Guter and his two high school students, Hudson Yiu and Luke Schafer, to present the results of a Williamston High School microplastics study • Formed the GMB Geothermal Working Group to advise on the drafting of EGLE’s statewide geothermal legislation • Hosted Lois E. Graham, R.S., M.S.A. of the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality to present on Michigan’s Statewide PFAS Sampling Effort • Hosted Mr. Tim Bowlin, Chief Financial Officer and Project Manager of the Michigan State Capitol Commission, to speak on his background and the geothermal project happening at the Michigan Capital Building • Hosted Jared Harmon, Executive Director of Mid-Michigan Land Conservancy on Michigan’s Forests to Mi Faucets program • Hosted Anthony Kendall, Research Assistant Professor at Michigan State University on create a new now-cast Great Lakes groundwater level product with state-of-the-art models and satellite observations • Hosted Murat Ulasir, Asset Management Practice Leader at OHM Advisors on clickable asset management plans • Co-signed Pariana Groundwater Discharge Permit Letter with Tri-County to EGLE • Hosted Christe Alwin from Michigan Department of Environmental, Great Lakes, and Energy on the department’s chloride implementation plan • Hosted Brian Steglitz of City of Ann Arbor on their efforts of optimizing PFAS removal. Groundwater Guardian https://static.wixstatic.com/media/91afcf_978a3d102bc44f63a7d8a9e1ff1d01e5~mv2.png For over 27 years, Tri-County and the GMB participated and were recognized as a Groundwater Guardian by the Groundwater Foundation for our efforts in groundwater protection. This was a program focused on supporting and encouraging communities and organizations to promote groundwater awareness activities and education efforts through creating a network of participants acting locally while having a global impact. WPV

We are seeking dynamic, innovative, and passionate individuals to join our team! Tri-County is an equal employment opportunity employer. Employment decisions are based on merit and business needs, and not on race, color, citizenship status, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, or any other protected factor CAREERS AT TRI-COUNTY Job Postings Internship Program How to Apply Job Opportunities The Tri-County Regional Planning Commission is located in Lansing, the state capital of Michigan, around the corner from Michigan State University and home to a variety of recreational amenities, entertainment options, and diverse urban and rural living options. Tri-County offers a competitive benefits package that includes a retirement plan and medical, dental, vision, life, and long- and short-term disability insurance. We are seeking dynamic, innovative, and driven individuals to join our team! View open positions below to see if you could be a fit for us. Tri-County is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are based on merit and business needs, and not on race, color, citizenship status, national origin, ancestry, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, weight, religion, creed, physical or mental disability, marital status, veteran status, political affiliation, or any other factor protected by law. To apply for a position with Tri-County, please submit a completed application, resume, cover letter, and any other documents requested in the individual job posting. An application is considered incomplete if required documentation is not provided. Applications are due by 4:30 p.m. of the apply-by date. To apply, you may do one of the following: Email your completed application and requested documents to jobs@mitcrpc.org Mail your completed application and requested documents to: Attn: Jim Snell, Executive Director 3135 Pine Tree Road, Suite 2C Lansing, MI 48911 Download Application How to Apply Economic Development Planner DATE POSTED 2/24/2026 APPLY BY: 3/13/2026 POSITION SUMMARY The Economic Development Planner is a full-time, salaried position with traditional weekday office hours and some evening meetings, travel, and events outside of regular office hours. Primary duties include developing, coordinating, and implementing programming and planning initiatives – including studies, grants, and committees – that support the economic vitality and community vibrancy of the region and its communities. This position is responsible for providing technical assistance to regional entities, local governments, and agency staff; connecting communities and organizations to funding resources; and establishing cross-sector regional partnerships to support community initiatives. This position reports to the Deputy Director. View the full position description, including areas of responsibility and principal duties, HERE.(https://mitcrpc.box.com/v/EconomicPlanner2026) POSITION QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS Education A bachelor’s degree is required; public or business administration, economics, urban or regional planning, public policy, marketing, or related discipline is desired. Experience This position requires a minimum of four years’ professional experience directly related to community and/or economic development; municipal, urban, or regional planning; or related fields. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. • Strong understanding of the regional economic landscape, political and social climates, and community partnerships; awareness of region’s workforce and business development challenges and opportunities • Familiarity with basic economic planning principles; ability to apply principles to identify strategies that diversify local economies, generate and retain private sector jobs and investment, and attract and retain talent • Working knowledge of local, state, and federal funding mechanisms, grant opportunities, and community development programs • Outstanding relationship-building and interpersonal skills and experience working with local, state, or federal governments; passion for building community support and demonstrated ability to bring people together to accomplish a common goal • Excellent written and verbal communication skills; thorough knowledge of proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation for the preparation of professional written reports, projects, and plans • Adept at gauging audience dynamics and communicating complicated topics to diverse audiences with varying levels of subject matter expertise; ability to tailor and make effective presentations at meetings of governmental groups and at public events • Exceptionally well organized and able to plan, prioritize, and adjust work tasks to meet and coordinate deadlines; ability to manage multiple projects and issues simultaneously and complete them on time with minimal supervision • Maintains a professional, non-partisan public profile consistent with organizational values and the agency’s role as a neutral facilitator; ability to represent the agency in a courteous, pleasant, helpful, and professional manner within various informal/formal and virtual/in-person settings with office staff, elected officials, community partners, and the public • Strong background in research and data analysis, report development, and/or project management • Experience with Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping technology, associated data visualization software and online applications, and database management • Ability and willingness to provide, accept, and apply constructive feedback and respond positively and with an open mind • Experience administering municipal, state, and federal funding programs • Creative and effective problem-solving skills; ability to gather and interpret data and information to solve practical problems and produce innovative solutions • Proactive and self-motivated; willingness and desire to improve and learn new processes • Collaborative, flexible team player • Detail oriented and passionate about quality • Comfort with modern technology, computer systems, and file management software; proficient in Adobe products and Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook • Ability to perform on-site field work and willingness to travel on business as needed Job Postings Job Openings Internship Program Internship Program Are you a student currently enrolled in a degree program or a recent graduate looking to gain work experience, integrate and apply academic studies to real-life situations, and establish a professional network for your career? Tri-County is seeking smart, dedicated, personable, energetic, skilled young professionals from a variety of backgrounds to join our internship program! Areas of Interest We offer a variety of internships for undergraduate and graduate students to work on special projects and collaborate with our different programs, including: GIS and data analysis Transportation planning/engineering Communications (social media, events, graphic design, content development) Urban planning and trending community issues Don’t see an area of interest or study that you would like to pursue? Email us with your proposal, resume, and cover letter, and we will see what we can create! Details & Requirements Our internships are a great option for those needing a flexible schedule and seeking careers in government, nonprofit, and private organizations. Tri-County’s internship program gives you the opportunity to get hands-on experience and learn about issues impacting communities across the country, all while you’re networking in the state’s capital city with industry professionals and key community leaders. Internships typically occur during the summer (May – August), fall (September – December), or spring semester (January – April), but may be extended on a case-by-case basis. To participate in the internship program, individuals must: Be able to commit to a minimum of 10 hours per week (maximum 30 hours) Have earned a minimum of 24 semester credits or 36 term credits before program entry Demonstrate a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher Possess a valid driver’s license Apply for an Internship Email your resume, cover letter, proposal, and any additional details we should know to jobs@mitcrpc.org . In your email, please note the type of internship you are applying for, provide your days/hours of availability, and include any examples of your work.

Tri-County has pursued a variety of grant opportunities for special projects that have been since been completed. View our successes here! PAST PROJECTS MI Capital Region Data Dashboard https://static.wixstatic.com/media/1840e9_889367ec61714966bab32175204f09d7~mv2.png The Regional Prosperity Initiative (https://www.mitcrpc.org/glrpi)for the State of Michigan's prosperity regions was initiated in FY 2014 and required the management of a performance dashboard of data, detailing the economic progress and status of our region. Snapshots of our region's key indicators were captured throughout the dashboard, titled MI Capital Region,(http://www.micapitalregion.com/) providing stakeholders a foundational map that measured success, opportunities, and assets. https://static.wixstatic.com/media/1840e9_a9b8af0b82254ecfa146f2426aa6e953~mv2.png This coordinated measurement tool tracked critical economic, educational, workforce, health, environmental, and social data metrics, to helped empower communities and regional stakeholders in our region to pursue strategic change, together. Following the sunset of the state's Regional Prosperity Initiative, Tri-County continued to maintain the data dashboard. In 2024, Tri-County worked with Headlight Data to develop a new dashboard under the same name for the latest economic, workforce, and demographic data for the region. View the dashboard at mitcapitalregion.org.(https://micapitalregion.org/) Imagine Mid-Michigan https://static.wixstatic.com/media/undefined The Imagine Mid-Michigan (IMM) program was an outcome of Tri-County Regional Planning Commission’s partnership with Portland State University’s Urban Sustainability Accelerator program. This 12-month program included the development of updated growth trends in Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham counties out to 2040; a taxpayer impact analysis of said growth trends compared to compact growth; a feasibility study of the transfer of development rights in Mid-Michigan; a case study for diverse housing in Mid-Michigan; visits by Michele Reeves and Robert Liberty to provide insight and data concerning the success of our downtowns; tours of successful housing and farmland preservation programs in the state; and regular social convenings, which served as a peer-exchange of regional leaders from Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham counties learning best practices for land use. At the core of IMM activities were the objectives of Tri-County's 2005 Regional Growth: Choices for our Future (https://mitcrpc.box.com/v/2005RegionalGrowth)policy document. A key element of the Long Range Transportation Plan (mitcrpc.org/mtp )and a mission of the agency, the objectives of said document were meant to implement a sustainable growth pattern and transportation network in Mid-Michigan. They included: • Intergovernmental Cooperation • Public Participation • Equitable Growth and Redevelopment • Environmental Protection • Housing for All Community Residents • Enhancing and Preserving the Existing Road Network • Emphasize Transit & Non-Motorized Modes Rather than Further Expansion of the Road Network in Rural Areas • Urban and Rural Service Areas • Farmland, Open Space and other Natural Resource Protection • Greenways and Walkability • Park and Recreation Expansion and Linkages • Historic Preservation & Cultural Facilities • Compact Settlement • Clustered Development Areas • Phased Growth • Strengthening Urban Cores • Viable Neighborhoods, and • High Density Mixed Uses These Regional Growth policy objectives have been implemented by Tri-County staff throughout their respective program areas. For the former Land Use program, which is now integrated into the new Community Development program, this included the ongoing study and promotion planning policies such as urban service boundary and various tax-revenue sharing programming. The IMM program was an implementation activity of Tri-County and its Urban and Rural Service Management (URSM) Committee, which discussed regional cooperation in designating an urban service (water and sewer) boundary and the efficient sharing of services between jurisdictions The URSM Committee was awarded a Partnerships for Change: Sustainable Communities research grant through the Land Information Access Association (LIAA). LIAA is a non-profit planning firm based on northern Michigan with staff who work across the state to facilitate regional cooperation and other local service partnerships. LIAA staff facilitated the development of a Tri-County Urban Services Management Study.(https://mitcrpc.box.com/v/2011UrbanServiceStudy) The Study outlined a feasible strategy for implementing an urban service boundary within the committee memberships' jurisdictional boundaries. The committee members included Lansing, East Lansing, the nine urbanized townships surrounding the two cities, Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham counties, and a few outlying county jurisdictions such as Williamstown Township and the City of Mason. Prior to the commencement of the Study, the committee members completed a Community Collaboration Survey, reporting that almost every member felt that the time was right for the development of an urban service boundary. With this understanding, committee attendance was incredibly engaging and conversations related to the development of a boundary were notably positive between members. Pollution Isn't Pretty https://static.wixstatic.com/media/undefined The Tri-County Regional Planning Commission partnered with the Middle Grand River Organization of Watersheds (https://www.mgrow.org/)and several Mid-Michigan watershed groups and agencies to rollout a water resources brand, Pollution Isn’t Pretty.(https://www.mywatersheds.org/) The campaign streamlines multiple organizations' educational efforts to create clear, consistent messages that educate area residents about water quality concerns and what they can do to reduce pollution and protect our region’s water resources. This campaign received the 2013 Gold ADDY Award. The ADDYs are considered the world's largest advertising competition that recognizes creative excellence in all forms of media and design. Greater Lansing Area Clean Cities From 2017-2019, Tri-County housed and coordinated the Greater Lansing Area Clean Cities (GLACC),(http://michigancleancities.org/) a coalition of stakeholders working locally to implement alternative and renewable fuels, idle reduction measures, fuel economy improvements, and emerging transportation technologies. https://static.wixstatic.com/media/undefined GLACC's projects, led by Tri-County staff and guided by their Board of Directors, worked to achieve cleaner air, reduced emissions, and energy security in Mid-Michigan through alternative fuel and vehicle usage, and fuel economy practices. Members and stakeholders have included fleets, corporations, nonprofit organizations, utilities, local governments, and individuals – anyone interested in ways cleaner fuels, vehicles, and practices can improve our air quality and reduce petroleum dependence through local activities that grow the market for alternative fuels and advanced vehicles. Projects included: • Information sharing and public education of best practices, technological advancements, and grant opportunities for businesses and private fleets • Events like Alternative Fuel Vehicle Odyssey Day and Ride & Drives, which featured educational sessions and offered the opportunity to test drive all-electric and hybrid vehicles • Partnerships and initiatives with Midwest EVOLVE, the Michigan Agency for Energy, Lansing Community College, Dean Transportation and local schools, Michigan to Montana (M2M) Alternative Fuels Corridor (https://www.michigancleancities.org/michigan-to-montana-m2m-alternative-fuels-corridor/#:~:text=The%20M2M%20project%20covers%20a,and%20compressed%20natural%20gas%20vehicles.)along I-94, and more! Clean Cities dates back to the Alternative Motor Fuels Act of 1988 and the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990. These laws, which encouraged the production and use of alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs) and the reduction of vehicle emissions, led to the creation of the Alternative Fuels Data Center (https://afdc.energy.gov/)(AFDC) in 1991. The AFDC's mission was to collect, analyze, and distribute data used to evaluate alternative fuels and vehicles. In 1992, the enactment of the Energy Policy Act of 1992 (https://epact.energy.gov/)(EPAct) required certain vehicle fleets to acquire AFVs. Subsequently, the U.S. Department of Energy created Clean Cities in 1993 to provide informational, technical, and financial resources to EPAct-regulated fleets and voluntary adopters of alternative fuels and vehicles. Learn more about GLACC and its initiatives at michigancleancities.org.(http://michigancleancities.org/) Mid-Michigan Program for Greater Sustainability https://static.wixstatic.com/media/undefined The Mid-Michigan Program for Greater Sustainability (MMPGS) was funded over the course of three years from 2012-2014 by a $3 million U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) S(https://www.hud.gov/)ustainable Communities Regional Planning Program grant awarded to the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission. Tri-County, our local partners, and the Michigan State Housing Development Authority offered more than $5,200,000 in local matching contributions of services, expertise, participation, and funds to make this program worth over $8.3 million. Tri-County partnered with the Greater Lansing Housing Coalition, Mid-Michigan Environmental Action Council, Michigan State University,(https://www.canr.msu.edu/spdc/research-outreach/mid_mi_program_for_greater_sustainability) Michigan Energy Options, local municipalities (Ingham County, Clinton County, Eaton County, Cities of Lansing and East Lansing, Williamston, Village of Webberville, Townships of Leroy and Williamstown, Charter Townships of Meridian and Lansing) to lead the implementation of the program. Other organizations and agencies from housing, community development, economic development and business, land use, infrastructure, environmental, and equality and diversity industries also participated. The primary planning products or projects of this grant funded sustainability planning effort included: • Develop a 5-year Comprehensive Regional Fair & Affordable Housing Plan(https://mitcrpc.box.com/v/AffordableHousingPlan) • Develop a Regional Affordable Housing Study(https://mitcrpc.box.com/v/2013HousingStudy) • Build capacity in the region through a Community Reinvestment Fund(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2rpuYE4H1aA&t=8s) • Develop an Energy Audit Study of Built Structures(https://mitcrpc.box.com/v/MMPGSEnergyAudit) • Build capacity for a Regional Urban Service Management Area(https://mitcrpc.box.com/v/2011UrbanServiceStudy) • Promote a prioritized green infrastructure system: Greening Mid-Michigan(https://migreencommunities.com/) • Development of a Sustainable Design Portfolio for the Michigan Avenue Corridor(https://mitcrpc.box.com/v/CapitolCorridor) • Build capacity for Complete Streets (https://mitcrpc.box.com/v/CompleteStreetsSubProjects)planning and implementation • Evaluate and promote sustainability efforts: An Online Portal (https://mitcrpc.box.com/v/MMPGSProjects)for information sharing https://static.wixstatic.com/media/undefined Children's Water Festival In 1995, the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission and the Groundwater Management Board (GMB) (https://www.mitcrpc.org/gmb)hosted the first Children’s Water Festival in Michigan at Michigan State University. In total, seventeen festivals were held over 20 years. The festival was always well received and considered a great success serving over 35,000 elementary students from area schools. The free festival provided an interactive field trip for students to learn about the importance of our environment, water resources, and their role in protecting and conserving it. The students participated in hands on activities led by local water management professionals. Over the years, hundreds of professional volunteers provided presentations to students, emphasizing the importance of water-related careers. From the beginning, the GMB strived to provide an excellent event experience. Unfortunately over time, the logistics of the festival become more and more challenging. In 2015, the GMB staff was approached by the Michigan State University (MSU) Science Festival coordinators looking to learn from our festival experiences. The MSU Science Festival reaches over 30,000 people per year, and was seeking water focused presentations for elementary students. The result was a partnership that led to the Children’s Water Festival being permanently incorporated into the MSU event. This opportunity allowed the GMB to redirect its efforts while still achieving the goal of water education for youth. GMB volunteers and Tri-County staff continue to present and participate at the MSU Science Festival; it has merged into a beneficial partnership. Aerial Photography Since 2010, Tri-County has historically served as a liaison for coordinating aerial imagery flyovers of the Greater Lansing area every five years in partnership with our regional municipalities, the state, and various local and county agencies. In early March 2020, all aerial data was collected in Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham counties by airplane. Early spring "leaf-off" conditions allowed for a higher quality of ground-level detail without the interference of leaves on trees. The aerial flyover provides Mid-Michigan with 3-inch resolution photographs of our landscape in our urbanized areas and 4-inch and 6-inch resolution in suburban and rural areas, respectively. Fortunately, snow in Spring 2020 allowed for earlier than usual aerial imagery collection. However, due to the coronavirus, the processing and delivery of collected data were delayed until late 2020 and early 2021. The project was completed in May 2021, and aerial data has been distributed to all the participating municipalities. Starting in 2024, Tri-County initiated organizing vendor selection and negotiations to prepare for the flyover. In 2025, Tri-County will again facilitate the aerial imagery flyover for our regional partners during this multi-month project. The 2025 flyover will be part of a region-wide effort coordinated with and funded by local, county, public utility, and state agencies. If you have questions, please contact GIS Coordinator Laura Tschirhart at LTschirhart@mitcrpc.org.(mailto:LTschirhart@mitcrpc.org) If you are interested in obtaining images from the regional flyovers, please contact the appropriate municipality. ByProduct Synergy https://static.wixstatic.com/media/undefined Achieving Pollution Prevention Success - Funded by a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Pollution Prevention (P2) grant, the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ), in partnership with the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission (TCRPC), piloted a Byproduct Synergy (BPS) program (https://mitcrpc.box.com/v/ByProductSynergy)to reuse manufacturing byproducts. https://static.wixstatic.com/media/undefined The pilot’s goal was to help manufacturers match byproduct streams to other facilities’ needs for raw materials, reducing quantities destined for disposal, and lowering the costs associated with purchasing raw materials. The BPS program identified, inventoried, and established public and private members - several businesses, townships, power companies, and water and sewer departments - and attempted to create specific synergistic relationships between its members. The Michigan ByProduct Synergy (BPS) program ran from October 2011 through September 2014, holding "Meet your Match" speed dating events, where businesses, agencies, producers and suppliers came together to see if they could find their match. Organizations from manufacturing, agriculture/food production, mineral recovery, transportation, processing/distribution, construction, and professional offices participated to improve efficiencies, save money, and re-think waste by-products. BPS aimed to: • repurpose what what has been traditionally considered waste. • reduce emissions • reduce energy, raw material, and disposal costs • improve productivity, profitability, regulatory compliance, and community relations • develop new products and markets • protect the environment and our natural resources • recude costs and waste Health Impact Assessment Tool Using funds from the Mid-Michigan Program for Greater Sustainability (MMPGS) HUD grant, the Mid-Michigan Health In All Program, MMPGS partners, Tri-County Regional Planning Commission, and Michigan State University partnered together to create the Health Impact Assessment (HIA) Toolkit (https://hiatoolkit.weebly.com/)in 2015. The HIA tool was created to assist developers and other users with understanding the feasibility of a development and the impact it may have on the health of a population in our region. While decision makers in public and private sectors often have direct or indirect impact on individual and community health, health considerations are not commonly included in the planning and decision making process. This free, online Mapping and Impact Assessment Tool supports local leaders, community planners, landowners, developers, and the public in assessing the potential health, environmental, and social effects of policies and changes to the built environment. With this tool a user can locate a project on an online base map, select and visualize mapped information about that location and surrounding areas, and evaluate the project using an impact assessment checklist approach. Greening Mid-Michigan https://static.wixstatic.com/media/undefined Greening Mid-Michigan evolved from the Tri-County Regional Growth Study released in 2005, which built consensus on a preferred vision for land use growth in our communities over the next 25 years. The report recommended that “Open Space and Resource Protection” be promoted through region-wide planning efforts based on four main principles. • Farmland and other natural resources should be protected in an equitable, fiscally responsible manner to preserve the heritage, environment, quality of life and long-term sustainability of the region. • Pathways, sidewalks, trails and on-street bicycle facilities should be developed and enhanced to provide alternatives to motorized transportation, improve linkages to recreational opportunities for regional residents, and provide public health benefits by offering opportunities for physical activity. • Parks and recreation development and expansions should emphasize linkage of facilities through greenways based on the regional vision and the adopted Regional Non-Motorized Systems Plan. • The region’s significant built and living heritage, historic sites, cultural facilities and neighborhoods should be protected, preserved, and enhanced. With support from the Mid-Michigan Program for Greater Sustainability HUD grant funding, Tri-County led Greening Mid-Michigan and collaborated with regional groups over a three-year period, including the Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance, The Greater Lansing Regional Committee for Stormwater Management, Clinton and Eaton Conservation Districts, the Land Use and Health Resource Team, local and county park and recreation departments, Ingham and Clinton Agricultural and Open Space Preservation Programs, and others, to develop a regional vision for green infrastructure planning for Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham counties. The final vision can be viewed here (https://mitcrpc.app.box.com/v/GreeningMidMichigan)or in our Projects & Documents Library. MMPGS GLACC Aerial Photogaphy

Under state law, you may follow formal procedures to request information through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). In compliance with FOIA, all requests must be in writing. HOME > FOIA REQUESTS Freedom of Information Act The Tri-County Regional Planning Commission website houses a vast amount of information and documents. If you are unable to find the information you seek, please contact our office so we can assist you. Under state law, you may also follow formal procedures to request information through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) . In compliance with FOIA, all requests must be in writing. The below FOIA Request Form may be used to submit your request, but it is not required. All written requests and/or forms should be emailed to FOIA@mitcrpc.org with a subject line containing the term "FOIA" or "FOIA Request." Materials being delivered in person or mailed should be addressed as follows: Attn: FOIA Coordinator Tri-County Regional Planning Commission 3135 Pine Tree Road, Suite 2C Lansing, MI 48911 Documents and forms regarding FOIA may be found below: Public Summary of FOIA Procedures and Guidelines Freedom of Information Act Procedures and Guidelines FOIA Request for Public Records Form FOIA Request Detailed Cost Itemization Form Commission Resolution

HOME > PROGRAMS & SERVICES > ENVIRONMENT > PLANNING AREAS > ENERGY All Program Planning Areas Environment & Natural Resources Water Resources Water Trails Infrastructure Resilience Air Quality Green Infrastructure Energy Energy As the region prepares for emerging transportation technologies and increased demands of our energy infrastructure, Tri-County recognizes the need to plan for reliable and efficient energy systems, including effectively managing local assets and addressing gaps in our transportation infrastructure. From 2017-2019, Tri-County housed and coordinated the Greater Lansing Area Clean Cities , a coalition of stakeholders working locally to implement alternative and renewable fuels, idle reduction measures, fuel economy improvements, and emerging transportation technologies. GLACC's projects aim to diversify the clean transportation energy market, increase independence, and increase energy security through promoting and implementing alternative and renewable fuels, idle reduction measures, and fuel economy improvements. Learn more about their initiatives at www.michigancleancities.org .

We're creating a plan for an interconnected, accessible, and cohesive trails network that safely connects communities and points of interest throughout the region, capitalizes on existing assets and infrastructure, and encourages strategic investment to enhance vibrant communities. HOME > PROJECTS & DOCUMENTS > COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT & QUALITY OF LIFE > TRAILS PLAN Document Library Greater Lansing Trails Plan Tri-County has partnered with the U.S. National Park Service to create a plan for our regional trails system - one that works to enhance the quality of life for our region's residents and take advantage of our region's central geographic location to bolster Mid-Michigan as a hub for recreational tourism. Building off our non-motorized transportation planning efforts, the plan aims to make connections between community spaces and recreational assets, like parks, regional points of interest, and local businesses; encourage economic prosperity; and bolster experiences for residents and visitors who walk and bike in our region. Learn more about the project, our vision, and how to get involved at mitcrpc.org/trails .