2025 Senate Resolution 23

Whereas, Since 1993, the United Nations has designated March 22 as World Water Day; and

Whereas, The theme of World Water Day 2025 is glacier preservation, emphasizing the need for global action to manage meltwater sustainably and reduce emissions, securing vital water resources for the future; and

Whereas, The Great Lakes State was shaped by glaciers, and the Great Lakes themselves contain 20 percent of the world’s surface freshwater that is not locked up in glaciers; and

Whereas, Freshwater supplies drinking water, water to grow crops and support industry, water to support recreation, and water essential to fish, wildlife, and healthy ecosystems; and

Whereas, In the past, the failure to protect water caused extensive surface water and groundwater contamination in Michigan, leading to cleanup costs that could have been prevented; and

Whereas, Even in water-rich Michigan, there are residents without access to clean, safe, and affordable water, underscoring the need for continued state and federal investment in our water infrastructure systems; and

Whereas, The abundance of water that characterizes Michigan confers a duty on all residents of the state to conserve and protect freshwater as guardians of this legacy for future generations; and

Whereas, Michigan’s boundaries include approximately 38,000 square miles of Great Lakes surface water and bottomlands, an endowment that state government is charged with protecting on behalf of the public according to the public trust doctrine; and

Whereas, Water is a human right, intrinsic to every aspect of life; and

Whereas, Indigenous communities in Michigan and across North America have long held water as sacred and integral to life, emphasizing the importance of sustainability and respect for natural resources; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by Senate, That the members of this legislative body recognize March 22, 2025, as Michigan Water Day; and be it further

Resolved, That we commit ourselves to the promotion of public awareness to prevent our precious water from pollution and depletion. On this day, we will celebrate and honor the pure water in our state, country, and our world; and be it further

Resolved, Michigan must be vigilant about threats to Great Lakes water that come from arid regions of the United States and must take actions to prevent the artificial loss of water, including strict enforcement of the Great Lakes Compact of 2008 and continued investment in groundwater data collection, monitoring, and long-term conservation measures; and be it further

Resolved, While we recognize the interconnectedness of humanity and appreciate global challenges, we also recognize our duty as Michiganders in protecting our natural resources and instilling a sense of pride in ourselves and our children for the Great Lakes; and be it further

Resolved, That we cherish and acknowledge the special responsibility of protecting Michigan’s waters for current and future generations and of assuring access to clean water and sanitation for all Michigan residents; and be it further

Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be transmitted to For Love of Water with our highest esteem.