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		HEADING INTO THE '90s Dec. 4, 1986 Gov. James Blanchard signs into law the Clean Michigan Fund, which provides $150 million for community and business recycling programs. Nov. 3, 1988 The Fox River in the Upper Peninsula is designated as a state natural river, the last to be so protected. Nov. 8, 1988 Voters approve an $800 million Protect Michigan's Future bond for parks, toxic waste cleanups, recycling, and establishment of the Great Lakes Protection Fund. July 5, 1989 The Sand Dune Protection Act is strengthened to protect steep dunes from erosion caused by development. Oct. 8, 1990 Gov. Blanchard signs the "Polluter Pay" law giving state regulators the authority to order polluters to pay for cleanup of contaminated sites and fine them if they refuse. THE ENGLER YEARS Nov. 6, 1990 John Engler is elected governor. During the campaign he promised to "lead our crusade for cleaner air, water, and land." Nov. 8, 1991 Gov. Engler abolishes all citizen-oversight environmental boards, and weakens the Natural Resources Com- mission's ability to oversee the DNR. July 30, 1992 A panel appointed by Gov. Engler releases Michigan's Environment and Relative Risk, which finds the absence of statewide land use planning is one of the greatest threats to the environment. Aug. 6, 1992 Gov. Engler establishes the Michigan Environmental Science Board, a panel of scientists to advise state agencies on technical issues. Dec. 31, 1992 The federal "unconventional fuels" tax credit, which spurred Antrim Shale gas development, expires. In 1992 Michigan's energy companies had applied for and received more than 2,000 drilling permits, a record. Nov. 10, 1993 State regulators allow energy companies to deduct nearly all costs for drilling on public lands before paying royalties. The deal cost the Natural Resources Trust Fund $20 million, and accelerated haphazard drilling. April 1994 The House Republican Policy Committee recommends changing state law to require regional planning for "more orderly development" to protect farmland and the environment. Aug. 2, 1994 Voters in Peninsula Township (Grand Traverse Co.) approve a property tax increase to purchase the development rights to farms and open space. The program is considered a national model. Summer 1994 Fecal coliform pollution from sewage closes beaches along Lake St. Clair. The problem is caused by inadequate storm water treatment and the loss of rainwater-absorbing wetlands. Dec. 1994 The Dept. of Agriculture announces that Michigan is losing more than 85,000 acres of farmland annually to suburban sprawl. The agency recommends strengthening the Subdivision Control Act, and establishing a fund to pay farmers for development rights. (continued on next page)