The state is making it easier to get a permit to use sandbags to combat erosion along Great Lakes beaches.
High water levels and fall storms have caused significant losses. Some houses have had to be abandoned, and others will need to be moved.
While most of the damage has occurred along the Lower Peninsula Lake Michigan shoreline, Lakes Superior and Huron have also been affected. T
he Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy has created a new minor project category for sandbag installations, with a reduced permit fee of $100. Public notices will not be required for approved plans.
EGLE notes that sandbag installations should not be considered permanent, and will eventually need to be removed. Owners of affected property are encouraged to work with contractors to find long-term solutions.