KEWEENAW BAY, MI— The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has begun meeting with the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community to discuss a project regarding the Lake Superior shoreline.
They’re talking about risks to human health and the environment from contaminated waste and coastal erosion in specific areas along Keweenaw Bay.
Portions of the KBIC’s land are contaminated with mining waste. Some areas also face significant challenges from coastal erosion, which could threaten drinking water intakes and other critical infrastructure.
The EPA and the KBIC's Natural Resources Department will develop design options for five green infrastructure projects. Officials say they will help protect shoreline habitats that are critical places for culturally-important species, foods, medicines, and gathering.
The technical assistance project is funded by the American Rescue Plan.
