Drain Code Reform
Problems and answers
December 1, 1999 | By Patty Cantrell
Great Lakes Bulletin News Service
Problem
Answer
- Provide public with details of project cost, scope, and route before making drain decisions.
- Base "determination of necessity" on cost-benefit analyses, environmental effects, and public comments.
Problem
Answer
- Require consideration of upstream and downstream consequences.
- Require major drain work comply with the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act.
Problem
Answer
- Provide for meaningful citizen appeals.
- Require consideration of less expensive or less damaging alternatives.
Problem
Answer
- Require clear definition and rationale of "benefit."
- Require verification of drain establishment and easements.
Problem
Answer
- Apportion highest cost to source of greatest land use changes.
- Require substantiation of "public health, convenience, and welfare" purposes.